Cloth Diapers for Beginners

[mountainsun]

I am pretty set on CDing the new babe - and I was wondering if anyone would like to put in their 2 cents about good sites, good deals, etc.

Right now, I am thinking to start:

36 CPF - newborn size
6 covers
some snappis
some doublers for night time??

I did a bunch of research when ds was like 10 mos - but never forged ahead with it.

I am on a pretty tight budget and am looking for economical choices, although would love to know your favorites!

Also, I want to do cloth wipes, too :D Any advice on that?

Amy1st - I have heard alot of recommendations for naturalbabies.com - they have a pretty good newborn package for like $85.00. They have LOTS of other great stuff, too!

:blah Sorry, ramble.....let's talk CD!

[Twilight]

I started with CPF's too and they are great all purpose diapers. :) The light-green stitched ones make a trimmer fit on a small baby, but the dark-green stitched ones will last you a longer time.

For nighttime the CPF's worked fine for us for a while, and then eventually I went to pocket diapers for nighttime because I could stuff them with however much I needed, they fit better and were more versatile. But I never did find a doubler that I liked so I'm no help picking those :)

For a pail I just have the generic diaper pail from Safety 1st that you can get at Target. I took out the little hinged insert though - it kept breaking and wasn't doing anything. I like that this pail has a place on top to hold a deodorizer disk and it really keeps odors from seeping out, very well. I have large Bummis tote bags that I put inside and I throw those in the wash with the diapers.

I use regular Tide to wash the diapers... lately I have been doing two rinses the 2nd one with some baking soda in there) then a hot wash with Tide and cold rinse. If it's sunny outside, I can put the diapers in the sun for just a couple hours before I put them in the dryer to fluff them. The sun disinfects and even removes stains.

uhh, let's see. I have heard good things about the "minishower" for rinsing off the poopy diapers in the toilet, but I don't have one. I use a cheap rubber spatula and just scrape them off. FWIW with breastfed newborn poop you don't need to rinse off the poo - it is easy enough to just wash off in the washing machine.

I guess that's all I have and yes I love naturalbabies.com :) they have been wonderful to work with.

[lillake]

If you don't mind it sometimes buying used is the cheapest option. Look around cloth diapering groups, there's always mom selling off stuff that doesn't fit anymore.

For cloth wipes, I used the children's washclothes that everyone gave me at the baby shower. :wink

[mommy2boys]

I cloth diapered my last from 4 months on to potty training and my first from 2 until potty training. It was quite an adventure and I plan on cloth diapering this time around. Last time I got caught up in a lot of the trendy diapers and ended up hating all of that part of it. This time I am going for a simple system, prefolds and wool wraps and probably some other covers as well like motherease bumpy soft cover. Then fuzzi bunz at night. prefolds definatly simple and there is just something about them, I can't explain, I just love prefolds. :love . If you are looking for inexpensive then definatly prefolds.

Also if you can sew you can inexpensivly make your own. Which is a lot of fun as well.

[Amys1st]

:twothumbs :notes: :lurk: not really lurking but taking notes.

I will try that website right now.

[seekermage]

yes you must come over to the dark side! Cloth diapers are very addictive, glad to see you are keeping it simple! I didnt cd from the start but the one thing I can definitely tell you is that you need to get some infant sized prefolds. I dont think the newborn ones will last very long, you can use them as inserts for pockets later on, but size wise I dont think they have a long life. You would be better off getting a few dozen infant sized ones and some of the premium ones (though those are huge and unless you dont mind the fold over bulk I would avoid them until baby is older) I would also ask over in the diapering forum, they would know a little better about the whole sizing issue. Also, if you get a little daring, you can always dye them prefolds or add some fabric to them to brighten them up! Id be more then happy to help ya if you are interested. I LOVE a bright happy stash! You need atleast one fun diaper. Good luck!

[mountainsun]

Thanks for all of the replies!For cloth wipes, I used the children's washclothes that everyone gave me at the baby shower.

Love it, that is ingenious, IMO :LOL About the wipes, do you get 'em moist at the point of changing? I know, prob. a not-so-bright question! I have been pondering it all night!
Or do you keep some moist in a tub or something? Just water - I think I would like to make a little solution maybe with some lavendar or something.

Also, if you get a little daring, you can always dye them prefolds or add some fabric to them to brighten them up! Id be more then happy to help ya if you are interested. :Thanks Ya know, I have been itchin' for the past, like 6 months to make some baby tie-dye onsies....it would be too fun to make some baby tie dye cloth dipes! I may be getting in touch :D

You guys rock!

[babybugmama]

I am in the same boat. I began CD'ing dd when she was about 2mos old. I had been given so many sposie's it took that long to switch. At that time I pinned and everything :shake :LOL I have a ton of huge prefolds so I think I'm just going to cut about 20-30 of them down to infant size. But then I still need good covers. Any reccomendations out there for good covers? I am not a hyena type, but I do want a really cute dipe to bring baby X home in.

Wipes. I bought about a yard of fabric and then hemmed them. My sewing machine at the time only did straight stitch. Now I can something a little more advanced, like zigzag. Serging would be nice, but I don't have that. I plan on making some more, the ones I have seem to have disappeared. Also I think I want them a little larger than what I have. As far as solutions. I got a container from the grocery store that was similar in size to a regular wipe box. My solution: water, a little dr. bronners lavender soap, a little olive oil, tea tree oil and lavendar oil. Smells good, wipes poops off easily, limited diaper rash.

[Amys1st]

yes you must come over to the dark side! Good luck!

I am already on the dark side with these sposies I spent 36 mos buying!! I feel that I was suduced by the dark side of the force and I am trying to come back- so Luke save me from the evil galtic empire of those sposies!!

[coco4cloth]

Oh don't get me started about cloth diapers :LOL My dh thinks I planned this pregnancy so I could buy more diapers :D With my dd, I had soooo many diapers. I already have a few newborn diapers. I love window shopping. I have a few newborn diapers from here http://www.muttaqinbaby.com/store/
I plan on doing fitteds,prefolds, pul covers, and wool to begin with. You can get prefolds really cheap here plus free shipping. http://www.babiesinthesun.com/
I plan on having some preemie prefolds for the first couple of weeks! I watch the trading post to for diapers. I have gotten 3 wool soakers off of there for really cheap. You are going to be sorry you ever got me started talking about cloth :p


I have a ton of wipes that I have bought from wahms. Nothing feels better then velour wipes!
Oh and tie dying prefolds is a lot of fun!

[MyLittleWonders]

We've cd'd ds#1 for the last night only at night (he still "leaks" as he puts it at night) - he wears pockets from Green Acre Designs and/or flats snappi'd on covered in an Aristocrat. Ds#2 has been cd'd since birth (though not until the day we left the hospital). This babe will be in cloth the first thing he or she makes his/her appearance and gets bathed. My absolute favorite are prefolds ... chinese or indian. I love to get things from DiaperWare (http://www.diaperware.com) because she has such a great selection.

If by newborn prefolds you mean premies, I too would recommend only get a couple dozen of them (they make great washclothes, doublers, spit-up wipers from the couch, ect), and get 2-3 dozen of the infant prefolds. Also, you may want more than 6 covers to begin with - though I wouldn't get only newborn size (well, if your babe is like mine - ds#2 was almost 10 lbs at birth and barely fit the newborn proraps). Newborn poopies often explode, so you'll probably need to change covers more frequently than you would, with say, a 6 month old or older. Proraps usually have 2nds for sale; if you ask in the diapering forum, someone probably has the 800 number for them. I love a prefold and wool a night (we've been using that system since the day he came home and it still holds strong, even with all night nursings). My favorite wool covers are the Sugarpeas wool flannel. A bit more money, but well worth it!

You have enough posts and time here, you should venture down to the diapers trading post ... there are usually nb/small stuff popping up frequently and you can get some good deals.

Fitteds are always fun too, but until you know what's going to fit and everything, I'd probably start with a good supply of prefolds, some pins and/or snappi's, and some good covers (proraps, bummis, a couple wool covers for night). Then, you can look at fitteds, pockets, and all-in-ones as you get some more money or a better idea of your babe's build.

[Gray's Mommy]

We didn't cloth diaper our first :blush, but will this one! There was a diaper service going out of business in Dallas & they sold all their diapers dirt cheap. I bought way too many CPF's & just need to get the covers now. That is where I am having such a problem. There are so many to choice from-I had no idea where to start.
Thanks for all the great information in the previous posts...I will be checking everything out :thumb

mary

[Simplicity]

I'm so taking notes also! :)

[akmeg]

Aren't cloth diapers sooooo fun! But I didn't really spend hardly anything diapering my dd, I made most of them or bought them used or for cheap! We use prefolds and some wool that I knitted and an aristocrat for night, and fitteds that I had made out of receiving blankets.

For this baby, I plan some new prefolds (maybe indian, I'd like to try those), and I'm going to make some fitteds and knit some wool. I also want to buy a few nb fitteds with snaps since I usually use pins. And I'd like some wool wraps!

Last night I actually dug out some flannel I'd bought for baby dipes awhile ago and cut it up to start a few nb fitteds! My dh kinda laughed at me! He said, "oh, is the diaper making machine starting up again?" I guess I'm kind of excited to make cute, soft little dipes!

[chiromama]

Well, i guess it's time for me to listen in on this conversation also. :D

[StacyL]

Well, you can all get your stuff from a fellow June 2006 mama, beansmom (Marcy). She gives a discount to MDC mamas too.

She has a great store at

www.diaperco.com (http://www.diaperco.com)

[MyLittleWonders]

Well, you can all get your stuff from a fellow June 2006 mama, beansmom (Marcy). She gives a discount to MDC mamas too.

She has a great store at

www.diaperco.com (http://www.diaperco.com)

Very cool information!!! :thumb

[Beansmom]

:) I started out with infant CPFs and Proraps/BSWWs with DD #1, but this time around I am going with mostly Kissaluvs sz 0 with BSWWs, Bumpy covers and some wool and fleece covers too. I can't wait to diaper a newborn again. I just hope dd PLs by then.

[mountainsun]

I just hope dd PLs by then
I am hoping for that. too! It's crazy because the past week or so he will have nothing to do with his potty :down Where before that it seemed like he was well on his way.............I guess he will learn when he is ready!

Diaperco looks great - thanks!

[KnittingKara]

So, um, say you met someone who had no experience with cloth diapers. Like, um, I have this "friend" (who may or may not be myself) :innocent

Say "this person" :innocent was really interested in using cloth this time around, but had *no clue* where to start, what cloth diapering entails, what the purpose of a "soaker" is (though she can guess :D ) but she was willing to learn and had, oh, say around 8 more months to learn.

Say this person's husband was reaaaaaaaaaalllly skeptical about using cloth because "disposables worked just fine for the first one" and thinks it is a scheme to buy more cute baby things by me, erhm, I mean my friend.

My friend didn't use cloth the first time around because she gets overwhelmed easily and thought it would be too complicated with a new baby to learn a brand new skill like cloth diapering, not to mention she didn't have her own washer and dryer at the time (does now, tho) Is it really as easy as everyone says?

Could I, erhm, my friend :innocent ... could she be taught? And where would you suggest she go first for her cd education? Remember, she's totally new at this, so be gentle and don't use initials unless you spell out for her what they stand for :wink

Thanks!

[MyLittleWonders]

Your "friend" could totally catch on! :D We used disposibles with ds#1 and switched to cloth with ds#2. Dh was VERY skeptical and said if ds was a girl, he really didn't want to switch because he'd have to learn new body parts and a new diapering system. :LOL

What we did, though, was start with a diaper service. It worked out to be about the same price as disposibles, but it let us get our feet wet with cloth (which I loved, and dh got used to quickly). I only used the service for 2 months, in which time I started buying my own prefolds, a few fitteds, and some covers (well, I had to buy the covers anyways).

I would probably start out with prefolds (mostly infant sized, but you can recommend some premie too if you think your "friend's" babe will be really little; they make great doublers and washcloths too), and some good covers - I liked proraps, bummis, and sugarpeas wool covers for the beginning. Your "friend" could probably learn to snappi a prefold on a teddy bear very quickly, and you'd be all set.

Your "friend" could also get some fitteds to try (I didn't use them but a lot of people love the Kissaluv's size 0 for newborns! I might try some this time). But really, I wouldn't go too fancy, especially in the beginning. You want to keep it simple and reliable - which to me, prefolds are. Your "friend" can use them afterwards for anything, so they are a great investment.

Does that help at all? :)

[Amys1st]

Ok- the cats out of the bag- I'm the friend :innocent :o
So thankfully she came forward for me. So can you guys help me?? I did sposies w the first and now I want to cd the next one and I have 8 months to figure out what I need!!

[MyLittleWonders]

Hey Amy,

Don't worry ... we'll get you all set up before this baby is born!!! First you have to decide what you want: service (if that's even an option) at least for the beginning or to just jump in with your own. (Definitely pros and cons ... see my post above.)

It sounds like you want simple ... are you needing something for possible babysitters (even just grandparents or aunts/uncles)? Or will it be more or less just you and dh changing the babe?

As I said before, prefolds (usually Chinese - CPF - or Indian - IPF) are very simple, grow well with baby (typically buy infant for the first 4 months, then premiums for the next year and a half or so, and sometimes graduate into toddlers just before potty learning), and are VERY easy to get. In the bigger picture of cd's, they are also relatively cheap.

Another cool option (or something you could get alongside of prefolds) would be fitted prefolds or prefitteds (same thing, different names). They are basically a prefold that has had the legs trimmed in, elastic added, and sometimes a little "extension" on the wings. You get the simplicity of a prefold and the extra poopy protection of a fitted. (I love making fitted prefolds for ds, and my plan with this baby is to have half prefolds and have fitted prefolds.)

Then there are the fitteds ... there are a myriad of types and styles, but basically fall under the following: front snap, front aplix (velcro), side snap and side aplix. Side and front have slightly different fits and advantages; sometimes it takes a few different types before you find one that fits. They are great at keeping poopies in, but also can be expensive, depending on what kind you get. One fitted that gets a lot of use for newborns, or so it seems, is Kissaluv's size 0. Kissaluvs are unbelievably soft and squishy and really do work well at holding in bf poopies.

Finally, there are the pocket diapers (which are usually a waterproof outer and a microfleece inner, with an opening where you can stuff them for absorbancy). The more well-known ones are Fuzzi Bunz and Wonderoos, though there are also some wonderful WAHM ones out there too (I love Green Acre Designs ... we use them overnight for ds#1). And there are All-In-Ones (AIOs), which are an entire diaper (waterproof outer and absorbant inner) all in one. :wink Out of the two, I prefer pockets as I can stuff them with how little or how much I need, and it all gets clean. Other moms swear by AIOs and use them exclusively. They are both more expensive than fitteds, but when you factor in the cost of covers, you can usually spend about as much in a full "stash" of pockets and/or AIOs as you would for fitteds and covers.

Oh and for covers, you basically have PUL (polyurethane laminate - a waterproofed poly/synthetic material), fleece, and wool. I use and like all three for different reasons. PUL is nice and trim, and works well especially under things like jeans. Fleece is squishy soft and typically gives you great protection but allows more air to circulate than you get with PUL. Wool is an awesome natural cover - breathes and protects from leaks, though has a more special wash routine (though I can wash mine in the washer on the wool setting and hang to dry). When we began cd'ing, I used proraps (a super industrial, standup to anything PUL cover; they have "gussets" and really help hold in any poopies that escaped the diaper), bummis (another really good PUL cover, and wool covers (I LOVE Sugarpeas wool flannel covers ... I've used those overnight since ds#2 came home from the hospital.

A couple cool sites to browse with a bunch of different products are:
Soft Cloth Bunz (http://www.softclothbunz.com)
DiaperWare (http://www.diaperware.com)
DiaperCo (http://www.diaperco.com) *a fellow June '06 Mama :D
Natural Babies (http://www.naturalbabies.com)

All those sites have a bunch of diapers and covers on them. I love window shopping at them all. :D (When we have a little extra money, I'm going to have to get some more stuff at at least one of them as I managed to loan out all our nb/small covers.)

Whatcha think of all that information? :wink

[Amys1st]

Hey Amy,
Whatcha think of all that information? :wink

I think its awesome! Thanks- this will help!!

[loudmama]

Thanks for the help as well, all! We failed miserably with cloth diapering DD. I had an c-section, nursing wasn't going well, & when the cloth diapers we were using from a service weren't working well on my skinny kid, we threw in the towel! I know so much more now! But, the cloth diapering forum has been scaring me! It just seems so much to go through. I'll brave it bit by bit, but appreciate everyone's help here. I just get overwhelmed sometimes!

L

[KnittingKara]

Amy - :LOL So glad to have friends to learn new skills with :wink (and thankful to not be the only wanna-be-cd'ing mama who used disposables with her first)

Brit - THANK YOU! I even took notes and will be looking into this much more! "keep it simple and reliable" - you hit it! That's exactly what my buzz words are going to have to be with this whole cloth diapering thing, especially if I'm going to convince dh that cloth and the family bed can go hand in hand. I'm going to look into prefolds ... and maybe into seeing if I can knit my own wool covers. I do like the idea of the pocket diapers, too and being able to put as much or as little layering in as needed, especially for night time. I know nothing will be 100% accident free, but then again neither were dispoables.

SO glad I have months and months to learn and get ready for this! I'm still a little intimidated about adding a new skill and a new baby, but I'm confident I can at least give it a good try with all this time to prepare beforehand.

Thanks so much!!!!

(will probably be bugging you for months now with ? after ?)

[mountainsun]

Wow, Mylittlewonders, :Thanks
and thankful to not be the only wanna-be-cd'ing mama who used disposables with her first

Same Here :LOL

[willemsmamma]

Jumping over from the Nov thread... we CD'd ds from birth and he's now 20 months.

Best advice ever... honestly... spend a couple months (you have the time if you're due in June) browsing the ebay cloth diaper listings and the diaper trading post here on MDC. Just read the descriptions and look at the pictures. Make note of what you think you might want. You'll become pretty well versed in CD's and will know what's a good price when you see it. Also the moms selling/trading dipes here on MDC are pretty darn honest (at least all the ones I've dealt with) and will answer any questions in detail if you ask them to. I've found that some ebay moms just want to sell so they may not be as... forthcoming :o . I've only been taken advantage of on ebay like 3 times and it wasn't for much $... but that's my own fault anyway.

Also, try buying just a couple dipes of each kind you like. You never know what kind of dipes will be best for your baby and you don't want to be stuck with 3 dozen of a particular kind or brand that just don't work for you.

Best of Luck... once you get the hang of it you'll be glad you decided to CD!!!!

Oh, and buy INSURANCE when you pay for shipping your dipes... there is nothing like spending a hundred dollars on diapers that you never get :irked: (experience talking here).

[mimid]

I'm planning on CDing my group. I need to re-research my purchases becaus eI need a lot more dipes and smaller ones, too. I'll probably stock up on CPFs and covers with a few pockets for nights. I also want to get some contour or fitteds to use when my mom, my MIL, DH or whoever is helping. I figure they will be easy to do and have a lower learning curve so I won't need to watch. My main thing now is sizing. I'm figuring 4-5 pound babies to start so I need some small things!

With the research I did before, Diaperco has really good prices and on the homepage of the diapering forum is the code of 10% off. She also has a registry. I am so itching to shop!

[KnittingKara]

okay, Miriam, if YOU aren't intimidated by cloth than I *so* have no reason to be :wink

Willemsmama - thanks for the advice about looking at ebay. I didn't even think of that (duh)

[Amys1st]

:topic

I'm planning on CDing my group. . I'm figuring 4-5 pound babies to start so I need some small things!
!

OK did I miss something? What is up with "group" please talk!

Oh and sorry about the Angels- well not really :wink Thanks to them my hometown finally has a team going to the World Series!!!!!! :bouncy

[Amys1st]

I'm going to check the Trading Post too. I try to avoid Ebay since it could get to be a habit and then its more of a game with bidding.

[luckymama]

OK did I miss something? What is up with "group" please talk!
amys1st - see this thread:
http://www.mothering.com/discussions/showthread.php?p=3971424#post3971424 ;)

just piping in to say that we started off with sposies with my son and were finally all cloth around his 1st birthday ... my dh is still most comfortable with pockets, but i'm totally addicted to the cute fitteds, and i'm also now converted to flats. prefolds and i, well, we're still working out an arrangement, but i'm hoping to feel the love someday. :D

i got a great gift a while back from a friend who knew we were ttc: a whole bunch of new kissaluv 0s, infant prefolds & covers. also, some random fitteds.

i've been trying to figure out what would be best for a newborn, and i'm thinking fitteds for us, because i just don't think my dh will be happy about prefolds and snappis. i *might* be able to convince him he can just lay the prefold in a cover and snap it, but i don't think he'll take to snappis or pins.

my best advice to anyone new to cloth diapering would be to see what you can pick up used ... you can get some great deals and try stuff out without spending too much $$$ ... some people will then settle on a system they like, whereas others (like me :o ) will like one thing one day and something else the next. okay, i'll admit it, i'm a cloth diaper addict.

as for wipes, they just seemed to show up around here. from shower gifts (those little washcloths) to other washcloths i had hanging around that i cut up ... and i got some cheap terry wipes from somewhere ... i'll see if i can figure out where and post it.

good luck, mama! welcome to the cd world. :love:

[mimid]

okay, Miriam, if YOU aren't intimidated by cloth than I *so* have no reason to be :wink

:LOL I figure that and bfing are the 2 things I can do my way no matter what! Plus I use cloth and also cloth tp so why not for the kids? Also, as I tell everyone, they have great resale value and I cna always switch to sposies!

I picked up some kissaluvs, prowraps and wipes on ebay tonight for about 1/3 of the lowest online price I could find elsewhere. I would figure out what you want, hunt down good prices at stores and then search ebay and remember to add in shipping.

And Amy, I had an u/s at 7 weeks and have :heartbeat :heartbeat :heartbeat coming! The doc said all had good strong cardiac activity so he's pretty sure they'll all make it.

[mountainsun]

And Amy, I had an u/s at 7 weeks and have coming! The doc said all had good strong cardiac activity so he's pretty sure they'll all make it.

Wow - congratulations!

And thanks again for all of the CD info. I guess my next step is to just take the plunge and actually buy a few things - Can't wait :love It sounds like ebay is a great place to start (as well as here on the tP)

[Amys1st]

Miram- again congrats. I was trying to avoid your thread not thinking what it meant until after my first appt. Now I understand duhhh.

This thread is going to be my lifesave. When I go to order, you ladies can hold my hand. My dh is all for it. He is also PO at the $$ we gave to Proctr/Gamble for 36 plus months. Of course now the $ we are not spending is going in the gas tank anyway.

[seekermage]

Amy,
Just let me know if you want some cding lessons...I would be happy to have some show and tell with you one day! I have a pretty good variety from fitteds to pockets to aios....I have one prefold and a snappi around here somewhere as well. :) It will just suck you in even more to cding....it really is addictive! :wink

[MyLittleWonders]

Miriam ... I would get premie prefolds and some premie prorap covers ... they should fit your little ones at about 5lbs or so.

Amy ... I'm in Angel land (and fans here too); it's cool the Sox won, what with not having won since 1917. But, if the Angels had actually been playing how they should have, it would've been a different ballgame!!! :wink (They stunk and didn't deserve to go ... :irked: ) It should be a good series between the Sox and the Astros.

And now back to your regularly scheduled program! :D

[Amys1st]

We might have to have a show & tell. Thankfully we have a few months.

[TryingMommas]

Anybody know what a "good" price would be for used but good condition fitted CD?

I am totally new to CD (first baby), although I spent a lot of time diapering my youngest brother in cloth when I was 11 and 12 years old! Back then, my mom just had the plain white rectangular diapers we folded to size and wool covers with velcro to keep them on (I think they were called "biobottoms") ... so the whole universe of "fitteds" "prefolds" etc etc variations I am just now hearing about is overwhelming! I'm right there at square one with you, Amy!

Anyway, a friend has some she wants to sell me, but I have no idea how many of which sizes I'd need to start off, and what is a good price. I will go back an re-read what all has been posted already and see what I can glean, but any pricing tips would be much-appreciated.

I think I should assign diaper-research to DP, she would probably make a spreadsheet of all the options ... I love that she's a geek like that.

**edited to add - I just googled and found this guide site: http://http://www.diaperbeagle.com/fin/c_options.asp , it helped explain the different options well, with pictures and sample brands for each**

[chiromama]

My mom is going to sew a bunch of dipes for me :D I think I might sew some too since I just got a serger! I'd like to make some pre-fitteds and covers... any ideas?

[MyLittleWonders]

I sew a bunch for ds#2 (and am going to start soon for new bean) - prefitteds are really easy, imo - i can email you pics of one from start to finish if you'd like. I've also used the cuddlebuns pattern, which is pretty good, but does need some modifications, imo. (The wings are too short I think, and I also use the "bikini cut".) I've heard really good things about the Darling Diapers patterns (I have the potty dance pants pattern), plus Amber (the owner) is a sweetheart when it comes to answering questions. I've also wanted to try the Very Baby patterns (fitteds, covers, and aio's). Maybe something like an all-emcompassing pattern like the VB, and then making prefitteds would have you set? Oh, and I love buying my diaper fabrics from Sewzanne's Fabrics (http://www.sewzannesfabrics.com). She's a wee bit more expensive than One Stop Diaper Shop (http://www.diapershop.com), who is also really good, but ships faster. :thumb Both shops have great selections though.

If you'd like some pic's making a prefited, feel free to pm, and I'll send you my email or you can give me your email in a PM, and I'll send you pics. :)

[chiromama]

I have a local friend who is in LOVE with motherease. I have seen her stuff, and love how they size up. She started using them when her babes were about 10 lbs, and kept them up to pull-up size. Any patterns like that? I have looked through the patter resources and can't find anything.

[MyLittleWonders]

The cuddlebuns is a one-size pattern ... so that might be a good one to go with. The Sew Shoppe (http://www.sewshoppe.com/) carries it. It's also on sale, but it says for "this month" so I'm going to assume it's only on sale through Monday. PooPockets (http://www.newconceptions.com/babypat/patterns.htm) is also a one-size diaper and seems to work as a semi-fitted if you want (no closure, or if you use the right material on the outside, can probably use a snappi or pins).

[chiromama]

I was just looking at cuddlebuns....

[Amys1st]

OK I am still way learning here. But I am starting to get an idea. I am going to start ordering in March to spread out the love/expense. I have an idea what I want and saw some on ebay so I might get some early ones there to save a few bucks.

[chiromama]

I just ordered some Bummis from the TP :D It seems scary to buy so soon.. but I really want to get good deals and spread the money over several months. :) yippie!!

[mimid]

I asked on the diapering forum for some advice on what to get so now I'm hunting down the best deals. I've got a box of 22 Kissuluvs, 4 Prowraps, 6 AIOs and 3 Fuzzi Bunz all itty bitty. They are so cute! I got them all off ebay and have a bunch more on my watch list.

[Amys1st]

Mimid- :scratch how the heck did you do that that fast?

I better get moving!!

[mimid]

Mimid- :scratch how the heck did you do that that fast?

I better get moving!!

:o I just lucked out and all the auctions ended right when I looked and then I Paypaled and they sent them really fast. :lol

I asked on the diapering forum for suggested quantities and brands and I still need a lot more...dh is going to love that!

[Amys1st]

Miriam- remind Ron that I paid a little over a $1000 last year for Pampers/wipes for DD and she was a 2 yr old at the time. That means it cost me about $3500 give or take for 36 mos to diaper my child. So bsically I pooped on that money and threw it out. Mulitiply that times 3 and you got your bill. I know its worth it to CD your beautiful 3 babies due to arrive sooner than later. Remember this # for breastfeeding too- $3500 a year is what it costs for formula. Take this number and multiply by 3. That money would do better growing in the bank don't you think??

I'm going to start looking at ebay and I also click on all these pop ups that different mdcers have on this website.

[chiromama]

I already started! i bought some used newborn proraps, some small bummis, a couple of fuzzibuns, and some prefolds! All great deals, all used from either ebay or the tp. :D yippie! here we go!!

[mimid]

Miriam- remind Ron that I paid a little over a $1000 last year for Pampers/wipes for DD and she was a 2 yr old at the time. That means it cost me about $3500 give or take for 36 mos to diaper my child. So bsically I pooped on that money and threw it out. Mulitiply that times 3 and you got your bill. I know its worth it to CD your beautiful 3 babies due to arrive sooner than later. Remember this # for breastfeeding too- $3500 a year is what it costs for formula. Take this number and multiply by 3. That money would do better growing in the bank don't you think??

I went to Costco today and jotted down the prices for wipes and dipes so that I could do the math and be ready. I didn't even think about getting the formula prices.

[Amys1st]

I went to Costco today and jotted down the prices for wipes and dipes so that I could do the math and be ready. I didn't even think about getting the formula prices.

:twothumbs :nod :clap
You're our kind of girl. Keep thinking that way and you will have a beautiful

breastfeeding experience.

[happeeevraftr]

Okay, I haven't read everything cuz my eyes are getting blurry, but I wanted to mention this site (http://www.diapershop.com/index.php/action/faq/) since I haven't seen it on this thread yet. It is a bunch of articles written by Jessica of One Stop Diaper Shop (and also Very Baby diapers) and I've just been going over it tonight. It's very informative and answers a lot of the questions some of you were asking.

I'm a novice at cd too. I started using them with dd when she was about 18 months old, and bought a whole stash of mediums, which she promptly outgrew in no more than 3 weeks. And she was very interested in the potty, so I didn't want to buy a whole stash of larges, so I just went back to pampers. But she took longer to PL than I expected, and we're still in the process. So now I'm looking in to just getting a few things for night, since I'm pretty sure she'll still be in soaking through the night for sometime and I'm sick of buying disposables.

I really want to use cloth only with this baby. Dh delt with it when I did it for a month with Sariah, but he said he still liked sposies better. But, I think he'll get to liking cloth eventually. If I just don't have any other options in the house.

Anyway, that site, if the link doesn't work, can be found on the diapershop.com website, under Cloth Diapering FAQ.

[Amys1st]

Thanks for the site! I might just sew up some diapers. I remember looking at a cloth diaper a friend of mine had and thinking- I could make this!!

[Smithie]

I CD'd my son from the beginning, using newborn Kushies for the first month (loved' em, bought more used and now have 15 for this baby). I didn't find the next size up in Kushies to be absorbant enough for my supersoaker though, and I have tried a bunch of different dipes.

I loved wool longies and a mama-made thick fitted for nights and hemp stuffed FBs for days. Now we have 8 FBs and use a sposie at night, since he outgrew the beloved longies and it was too warm to use longies at night anyhow.

I am really a fan of consistency in whatever kind of dipes you use. Nothing confuses a dh like having several different kinds of dipes. :D I also found that the kind of dipes that work well in one size might not be the best choice for the next size up.

[Bach4Babies]

First time prospective Mom here who is interested in CD, but many questions.

I guess the first thing I ought to ask is whether my child care provider will consent to use them. It's one thing to clean one's own baby's caca, but I'm not sure I can ask someone else to do it.

Then, how often do you change them? Whenever they wet? Is that what the "inserts" are for? And what about those "soakers"????

As you can see, I need the basics here.

[MyLittleWonders]

Definitely check with the child care provider - some are fine with it and LOVE aio's or pre-stuffed pocket diapers. Those both go on just like a disposible, and then instead of putting them in the trash, they can just put them in a wetbag for you instead. :thumb

[coco4cloth]

My stash is already crazy :o I will have to take pictures. I am mostly going to do fitteds and wool!

[Lynski]

First time prospective Mom here who is interested in CD, but many questions.

I guess the first thing I ought to ask is whether my child care provider will consent to use them. It's one thing to clean one's own baby's caca, but I'm not sure I can ask someone else to do it.

Then, how often do you change them? Whenever they wet? Is that what the "inserts" are for? And what about those "soakers"????

As you can see, I need the basics here.

Our day care provider never blinked an eye to our cloth diapers. She started to show us that she knows how to fold them until I showed her a pocket diaper. We also looked at a few centers and they all said fine. My advice is to bring an actual diaper with you. Otherwise they think pins and rubber pants and you can't even get through to them that it's not like that anymore. Our daycare just takes them off and puts them in a bag for us. We dump the poop ourselves at night.

You change them when they are wet, especially when they are newborn. They pee a LOT. The inserts go inside a pocket diaper, but you change the whole thing. People like pocket diapers and inserts because you can put 2 inserts in there if your baby pees like a flood. :lol Plus they dry faster in the dryer than all in ones.

Soakers are usually wool covers to go over the "old fashioned" prefold diapers or fitteds.

I know it's confusing as heck. My advice is to get a sample of a couple of different systems and see what works. It's hard to figure out from reading, but once you have the diaper in your hand it's clear as can be!

[Smithie]

Can't wait to see the pics!

B4B, I think it's reasonable to expect a caregiver to put an AIO or pocket dipe in the wetbag instead of a sposie in the trash. It's not necessary for them to scrape the poop off, you can do that at home. I'd make that one of my criteria for selecting a caregiver. When ds has been babysat, I just point them to the FBs and say "these snap on and off, just toss the dirty one in the pail." Then I scrape the poop and take the insert out later.

We should really post a link to a Diapering FAQ that explains all the kinds of dipes and the acronyms. Anybody have a favorite one?

I'll answer the "how often do you change them" question: the less often, the better! I'm not satisfied with a dipe that lasts less than 3 hours. So ds has an average of 4 changes during the day, and wears a sposie for the 12 hours he spends asleep. Obviously, when he was smaller and pooped more often, he got more changes. This is the main reason I don't use prefolds - minimal changes are important to me.

[MyLittleWonders]

Diaper Pages by Karen (http://diaperpages.com/) is an awesome site! It has everything you'd need to know on it. There's another really good one, but I don't have the link handy, by Juliacat here on MDC (if you go to the diaper forum and see one of her posts, the link should be in her siggy). Both are quite informative! :thumb

[Amys1st]

OK- trying to revive this thread again.

I went to a LLL meeting this morning. I want to get dd used to seeing nursing babes all the time since that will be whats its like this summer. I saw a friend there that I actaully met online here and we did a meetup a few summers ago. She cds so she gave me a quick tutorial so to speak.

She uses the prefolds at home. She carries with her pocket diapers. The ones that you put the hemp inside to absorb. Also they come in cute colors and the fabric is sooooo soft. They also have several snaps so the diaper can grow w the baby. Also she washes them in Tide (very little I might add) and also rinses them with some vinagar. Then she hang drys or lays them out to dry. So I might have her do a consulting with me a few more times and then I think after the 1st of the year, I will start shopping the websites, ebay, trading post etc.

[mimid]

My advice is to get a sample of a couple of different systems and see what works. It's hard to figure out from reading, but once you have the diaper in your hand it's clear as can be!

This is what I'm doing. I found out which dipes run small and work on skinny legs since that is most likely what I'll be dealing with. Then I found the best prices at stores and made an Excel worksheet with it so that when I run accross stuff on the TP, ebay, etc I know what new would cost and I generally subtract 20% for gently used/excellent quality.

I know it sounds pretty anal :o , but it really helps prevent the "impulse bid" because I put in my max and that is it.

[MyLittleWonders]

Pockets and aio's are both great for out and about because they allow for quick and easy changes (and are also more likely, imo, to attrack a non-cd'er because they function much like a disposible). I wonder if she was using Fuzzi Bunz (pretty easy to attain)? They are also really good (pockets that is) because you can vary how much stuffing you need. :thumb

In terms of washing, you will probably have to play around with it a bit to find what works for you in terms of water (hard or soft) and your new bean's skin (for instance, we can't used Tide because the enzymes in it which makes it clean so nicely irritate both ds's skin when they pee on the diaper). That's so cool though that you found someone irl that cd's ... it's so much easier when you have real-life help! :D

[Amys1st]

They were the fuzzi bunz and now I want them!

I don't think its anal at all to track diaper prices, esp when you are going to buying more than normal! In fact, if you want to copy anyone on your spreadsheet feel free to spread the love!

[cymbeline]

Sorry if this has already been asked!

Ok, so I CD'ed with my first two. I had a top-loading washer. In the mornings, I would fill the washer with the dipes, soak all day with the lid open, spin cycle at night to get out the yukky stuff, and then run a full wash cycle.

Now I have a front-loading washer. And I'm wondering how to soak the dipes? I have heard some people use buckets, but, ew! Am I being a wienie???

[mountainsun]

I have heard mant many mamas suggest Tide! I don't use it yet, but it gets such rave reviews, we may have to try.
Also, I wanted to announce that I officially bought my first 2 covers from the TP - I bought 2 Litewraps, size newborn! I am so excited and already addicted, I swear :D
Then I found the best prices at stores and made an Excel worksheet
I think that is a brilliant idea! Esp. because I really have to make the best $$ choices I can (not alot of extra cash right now).

And I am adding the FB to my list - I have also heard good reviews of kissaluvs....

[Amys1st]

Sorry if this has already been asked!

Ok, so I CD'ed with my first two. I had a top-loading washer. In the mornings, I would fill the washer with the dipes, soak all day with the lid open, spin cycle at night to get out the yukky stuff, and then run a full wash cycle.

Now I have a front-loading washer. And I'm wondering how to soak the dipes? I have heard some people use buckets, but, ew! Am I being a wienie???

No you're not a wienie or a winey since I was also thinking ewww! But now that you mention it, I have a top loader and I will do that! :lol

Also- I do not use Tide, but I have heard that it works well too. So I will most likely just use Tide for the dipes when I get there!

[mimid]

And I am adding the FB to my list - I have also heard good reviews of kissaluvs....

I have a few FB's on my list to get and have gotten a bunch of the Kissaluvs fitteds. Over in the diapering forum, the multiples forum and at Diaper Pin they were the most recommended for newborns. Next was prefolds and wraps.

[MyLittleWonders]

I've been able to get 12 KL size O's from the TP here ... they are so cute and little. The funny part for me, though, is that my 23 lb., 2 yo, twig of a ds can fit in them too! :lol I've also bought one Bumby Wool NB cover and 2 Proraps size small (expecting a big baby - the twig that can fit in the size 0 KL's was 9 lbs, 12 oz. at birth!). I'm going to get another of the Bumby Wool covers, and probably a couple Sugar Pea size small wool covers, and a few bummis. That, with a couple dozen infant sized prefolds will make up this bean's stash.

[seekermage]

For those of you who would like a cute little fitted for your stash I just noticed that tykie diapers ( www.tykiediapers.com) has for a limited time size small (other sizes as well) hemp "surprise" diapers. You pick girl, boy or gender nuetral and she surprises you with the outer print! They are only $9.00 (thats less then a kissaluv and hemp is LOTS more absorbant) and she is currently offering "santa bucks" for each dollar spent you get a santa buck you can spend in the special section (she has toys, ornaments, wipes - which her wipes are yummy! - and also doublers and nursing pads etc.) The price is cheaper then her normal diapers and just to mix things up a little its a neat offer. Just thought I would pass it along incase anyone wants a nice holiday surprise! Her diapers also tend to run small so they should fit a newborn no problem. :)

Also, these do require a cover like the kissaluvs etc. :)

[SoCaliMommy]

I like ordering from KellysCloset (http://www.kellyscloset.com)

they have free shipping ALL the time

[seekermage]

www.lilbunz also has free shipping all the time and frequently have 5%off your order or more. Kellyscloset has a different selection then they do so both really have nice stuff to offer.

There are several places that have good deals, you just have to know what you are looking for!

[Beansmom]

Sorry if this has already been asked!

Ok, so I CD'ed with my first two. I had a top-loading washer. In the mornings, I would fill the washer with the dipes, soak all day with the lid open, spin cycle at night to get out the yukky stuff, and then run a full wash cycle.

Now I have a front-loading washer. And I'm wondering how to soak the dipes? I have heard some people use buckets, but, ew! Am I being a wienie???

I don't soak mine. I do a cold wash to get the yucky stuff rinsed out, then I do a hot wash to actually wash them. Then an extra rinse to make sure all the detergent is rinsed out. I had problems with buildup with Tide. Anything with a fragrance and I get buildup which causes a horrible ammonia smell. I love Cheer Free. That's what I have been using for the last 6 months or so with no problems. A lot depends on your water type.

[Amys1st]

I have notcied that most laundry detergents cause a buildup for our clothes. Then a friend was telling me one day she had a nasty load to do and as she added her powder detergent, she noticed she only had about a tablespoon left. She added what was there and the clothes came out the same clean as always.

So now we add very little detergent compared to what I used to do and the buildup is gone. Also if you use fabric sheets cut them into 3s or 4s. I had no idea what a big deal it was until we were at my parents home in Florida and Mom did our laundry. DH and dd had rashes all over their backs from the "right"amount of soap my mom uses and the fabric sheets in the dryer. She also uses the same stuff I do. I think that couples with water softeners they did not react well with our skin.

We used Dreft when dd was born but now honestly its a bit out of our budget and how much better is it?
Any other ideas for diaper washing?

[seekermage]

Diaper washing is really easy! Some people dont even use detergent but vinegar and baking soda. The amount of detergent you use I think totally depends upon your water. We seem to have really hard water so I have to use a whole cup to make my diapers clean.....vs other people with soft water who just need a tablespoon or so. What you basically have to do is play around with your wash and see what works for you. you also have to be careful the detergent you use. some are not recommended (like soap/glycerine based soaps, it will cause build up and not rinse away!)

Here is my basic wash routine, which is pretty similar to most others.

cold rinse, full cycle hot wash with soap, extra full cycle hot wash. (sometimes I even add an additional cold rinse) I then mostly stick everything in the dryer on low...once a month I do it on hot because it helps seal the pul in my fuzzi bunz and other pul diapers.

I know a lot of people just do the cold rinse, full cycle hot wash and and extra rinse. I do an extra full wash because my washer isnt the greatest and for better peice of mind, especially since I do add a lot of soap!

When the diapers seem to be extra stinky I will add some baking soda and vinegar to either the first wash cycle or at the end. In addition tea tree oil helps kill off the germies and give it a fresh scent. Personally I dont like tea tree oil and I add lavendar (it does the same thing and smells much better!) you can either add it with your wash, or do as I do and add it to the last rinse cycle. Just a few drops does a BIG difference in smell! nothing like some fresh lavendar scented diapers.

Also, adding tea tree oil or lavendar oil (or any essential oil within reason) to your diaper bag kills off the smell and keeps the nastys out of the bag. both the tt and lavendar oil kill off germs and bacteria. THe mother of eden/fuzzi bunz hanging diaper bag even has a little tab thingy that you can add your oil to. Otherwise a little peice of fleece or washrag thrown in there has the same effect.

I know some people have front loaders and I guess they work just as well, but many people make sure to add the extra wash due to the less amount of water used in the cycle etc.

Otherwise.....everything can be tossed in the dryer on low, but many people recommend hanging to dry. I did at first but the time it took to dry and my lack of space became a problem. My fb pilled a bit more in the dryer, but they are still just as soft and leak free. I do hang most of my covers and dry them only on occasion, but pretty much all my inserts and fitteds are dryed. Among other things hemp and sherpa take FOREVER to dry!

Oh...and for stain removal.....zout is safe to use...or in sunny days, hang it out in the sun, it bleaches out most any stain and kills off the germs at the same time! Yeah sun!

Well thats my routine. I know there was a post in the diapering forum about peoples wash routine, if you do a search you can find it. Everybody varies some but this is pretty basic. Its really not that much work, and totally worth it. I love a cute little bubble butt!

[Amys1st]

All right mimid!! I caught your diaper bug. I am on ebay, the tp, and checking all the sites here to stock up.

So far I have pocket stuffer inserts (ebay)
cloth wipes (the kissaluv sale)
One fuzzi bunz (diaper junction sale)
wet bag (same)

plus I'm on a few other auctions. I am also in the midst of the tp so lets get a friendly competition eventually to see who has the cutest stash and the least expensive.

[mimid]

Great job, Amy! :lol Although my stash won't be as cute because there seems to be a real lack of preemie-sized cute dipes out there! Most of mine are white, but I'm hoping to find some great covers.

[Snowdrift]

Jumping over from the May DDC (hey, it's a first babe, it might end up June...) Spent all evening planning my stash. I'm trying to start with an initial stash that will last at least a year. The whole try a few of each kind *will not work* for me, cuz even though I'm all disorganized anyway, I think a half dozen different kinds of diapers would drive me insane.

My plan is 2 doz. each of infant and regular size CPF's, a half dozen hemp flat diapers, 10 kissaluvs contours, 6 kissaluvs fitted--half size 0, half size 1, 4 newborn size bummis covers and 10 in the small size.

We're gonna try EC-ing, so especially for newborn hanging 'round the house time we will probably use prefolds and kissaluvs without covers--the covers will be mostly for on the go.

Also some cloth wipes, a couple snappis, a couple of pins, and some spray lotion stuff (just can't imagine myself keeping up with mixing my own and setting up wipe warmers and such).

I'd love to try wool, but it's too expensive and I'm too lazy!

I bid on some kissaluvs contours on ebay tonight but dropped out when it reached break even point with the package deal on a WAHM site; the ending bid was $61 bucks plus shipping for ten. They retail for about 6 bucks a piece, and every website I've checked has discounts for buying more than a half dozen or so and/or free shipping, so I'm not too excited by ebay. All the other kissaluvs auction were also inching towards retail price.

Anyway, sorry to gate-crash yer DDC, but it seems I'll be putting faith in kissaluvs and CPF's. I know I can handle CPF's, but if anyone has experience with the kissaluvs, esp. the contours, I'd love to know about it. Seems they're a good trim fit and with a snappi would be easy to get on and off fast for EC-ing, and they're not too pricy. I'm figuring the fitted ones for nights and maybe car rides.

[mountainsun]

Is the difference between Chinese prefolds and Indian prefolds just where the fabric originates? :scratch

[Amys1st]

Jumping over from the May DDC (hey, it's a first babe, it might end up June...) Spent all evening planning my stash. I'm trying to start with an initial stash that will last at least a year. The whole try a few of each kind *will not work* for me, cuz even though I'm all disorganized anyway, I think a half dozen different kinds of diapers would drive me insane.

My plan is 2 doz. each of infant and regular size CPF's, a half dozen hemp flat diapers, 10 kissaluvs contours, 6 kissaluvs fitted--half size 0, half size 1, 4 newborn size bummis covers and 10 in the small size.

We're gonna try EC-ing, so especially for newborn hanging 'round the house time we will probably use prefolds and kissaluvs without covers--the covers will be mostly for on the go.

Also some cloth wipes, a couple snappis, a couple of pins, and some spray lotion stuff (just can't imagine myself keeping up with mixing my own and setting up wipe warmers and such).

I'd love to try wool, but it's too expensive and I'm too lazy!

I bid on some kissaluvs contours on ebay tonight but dropped out when it reached break even point with the package deal on a WAHM site; the ending bid was $61 bucks plus shipping for ten. They retail for about 6 bucks a piece, and every website I've checked has discounts for buying more than a half dozen or so and/or free shipping, so I'm not too excited by ebay. All the other kissaluvs auction were also inching towards retail price.

Anyway, sorry to gate-crash yer DDC, but it seems I'll be putting faith in kissaluvs and CPF's. I know I can handle CPF's, but if anyone has experience with the kissaluvs, esp. the contours, I'd love to know about it. Seems they're a good trim fit and with a snappi would be easy to get on and off fast for EC-ing, and they're not too pricy. I'm figuring the fitted ones for nights and maybe car rides.

Welcome!
I also bid on those as well and dropped out when it broke even. I did get some pocket inserts and some organic seconds. I am putting my budget in the fuzzi bunz. A friend IRL from LLL gave me a "consultation" :wink and she had the fuzzi bunz for on the go. She uses the prefolds and a wool cover at home for her 2 year old and 3 mo old.

[Amys1st]

What does anyone know about the spray lotion??

[Snowdrift]

I think for fuzzibunz I'm gonna do the ten pack from www.thanksmama.com. Slight package discount and a free cover and free shipping.

I wonder who ended up winning that fuzzibunz auction for *over retail*?! And why?! Seems like once you add shipping, they paid a $.50 surcharge for getting used!

er, um, kissaluvs. I keep getting them confused.

[MyLittleWonders]

Is the difference between Chinese prefolds and Indian prefolds just where the fabric originates? :scratch

A slight difference ... chinese prefolds are wider in each size and tend to fit a bit longer because of that. But, indian prefolds are thicker and softer (though they are the same number of layers). Right now at almost 25 lbs., my 2 year old can wear premium chinese prefolds (the ones with the blue stitching) and toddler sized indian prefolds. I do love the softness and thickness of the indian ... though I like the size range of the chinese better, so it's a toss.

[Amys1st]

tie dye- I was thinking the same thing. When I do an initial bid, I calculate what a savings would be and what the highest I would go at. I guess not everyone does that like we do which sellers love.

I will check that other site out as well.

[mimid]

On ebay, I determine what I'll pay my multiplying the lowest price I've found times the quantity of dipes minus shipping and then minus 20%. Then I go into "my ebay" and add a note with my max price if I'm watching the listing or I put it in as my max bid. I refuse to pay more used.

[Amys1st]

I still have a few bids on ebay but they have a few days left.
I snagged some good things off the tp. Once I have everything, I will list my stash.

Do I need a pail also or just a wet bag? I might make a portable wet bag as well.
Mimid- whats your grand total in $$?

Mine is just over $100 at this point.

[coco4cloth]

Someone take away my debit card please :lol I love getting fluffymail. Holding in my hands. It is so little!

[mimid]

I've got all my dipes, most of my wipes and some pins. I need to figure out how many covers I need since my stash combines fitteds, prefolds, pockets and AIO's. I also need to ask on the diapering board about Snappis and the Indian prefolds. (They said don't use them with the cpf because they will go right through the preemie size.) Now I'm pretty much done and am working on my shower wish list. :love

$736.32

48 Indian Prefolds
35 Kissaluvs Fitteds
13 Fuzzi Bunz
6 Poochies
15 Kushies AIO
15 Lil' Lambs AIO
6 ProRap AIO
12 Kissaluvs soakers
30 Lil' Lambs Soakers
10 Micro inserts
16 Dritz Pins
6 Bummis SWW
8 ProRap Covers
50 Terry Wipes
50 Flannel Wipes

[Amys1st]

I'm at about $200 or so.
My stash includes

Wet bag(diaperco)
6 organic fitted in newborn (ebay)
1 brand new butter fzz bunz (diaperco)
10 gently used in white/yellow (off the tp)
4 inserts joeynunz (ebay)
50 wipes (kissaluv sale)
wool diaper cover for fitteds (ebay)

So so far about 16 diapers. I will add to it as the months go on. My mil is so excited about this. Keep in mind I'm only diapering 1 and you have 3 so I think the cost is about ok so far.

[mcimom]

I'm at about $200 or so.
My stash includes

Wet bag(diaperco)
6 organic fitted in newborn (ebay)
1 brand new butter fzz bunz (diaperco)
10 gently used in white/yellow (off the tp)
4 inserts joeynunz (ebay)
50 wipes (kissaluv sale)
wool diaper cover for fitteds (ebay)

So so far about 16 diapers. I will add to it as the months go on. My mil is so excited about this. Keep in mind I'm only diapering 1 and you have 3 so I think the cost is about ok so far.

Amy, IME the joeybunz are the best for stuffing the fuzzibunz with (trimmest, most absorbant, etc) but you can get stuffers much cheaper from other sources (many wahms carry them) - you might want to try Little Lambs auctions on e-bay. I notice she sells hemp stuffers in packets of six and I've seen them go for as little as $1-2/each which is a great deal and knowing Jennifer, I'm sure they are the same quality as joeybunz. Here's a link - this is what I plan on doing to stuff my pockets with this babe and have done in the past with dd2 and dd3 (both potty trained now).

http://tinyurl.com/bscfj (you can get prints or plain)

[mcimom]

I've never CDed a newborn before, so I'm looking forward to this one. My planned stash:

12-24 small fuzzibunz with joeybunz or little lambs inserts
(free - getting at least 1 dozen from a friend and will likely get the rest as a shower gift)

6 small angelluvz pocket prints with joeybunz or little lambs inserts
($12/each = $72.00 for diapers and ??? on inserts)

18 petite toddler fuzzibunz with joeybunz inserts
(already purchased and packed away - if all goes well this will be all I need. The PT fuzzibunz fit my last two girls from infancy until potty training)

I may also get a few fun fitteds and a cover or AIO here or there just for fun - but I think 2 dozen small FB and the dozen and half PT FB that I have will be just fine.

Confidence is key, right? If anyone wants a great link for beginning to CD, I have a link in my homepage. It'll take you to my page on CDing (with my thoughts) but it also has a link to engineermama's page (Karen of Kool Sheep Soakers) and she has the *BEST* site I've ever read on starting to CD. In fact I was about to give up before I started before I read her page. She's got great advice and info there if anyone wants to check it out. I think it's the first link on the Cloth Diapering link from my homepage link in my sig.

[MyLittleWonders]

Your lists all look so good! :thumb With ds#1, we used sposies. Ds#2 has been cd'd since birth, but we used a service the first two months, so it was only prefolds and our own covers (bummis and wool). So, this babe is the first I've been able to buy my own things for from the get-go. I still have a bunch of infant prefolds from when I started buying my own for ds#2, plus my friend has a dozen or two, so I'm covered there. For "new" purchases, so far all from the TP, I have:

1 dozen Kissaluv's size 0 (they still fit my ultra-petite 2 y.o.!!!)
2 small Proraps
1 nb Bumpy wool (also still fit my 2 y.o.)

I've spent I think about $80-90 (can't remember exactly). I think my friend still has two of my small Sugarpea wool covers. I want to get one more Bumpy NB wool cover, and a couple more pul covers (probably will stick with the proraps until the babe gets bigger - I liked how easy the bf poop came off them with ds#2). I also just ordered 2 Motherease AIO's to try on ds#2. If I like them, I'm going to get him a couple more and also about 4 for the baby - then I can just carry those in the diaper bag.

I'm thinking that's all: a mix between prefolds and KL's at home covered in either pul or wool; a few AIO's for the diaper bag. Once the baby gets out of infant sized dipes, I have him/her covered until potty learning with everything from ds#2 (prefolds - though I need a few more in the premium size, me-made fitteds & semi-fitteds, flats, and a few AIO's).

I'm looking forward to cd'ing a newborn in the summer - ds#2 was born at Thanksgiving and so was always covered up over his diaper. I'm thinking this babe will spend most of the early months is a diaper/cover and a cute T-shirt, so I'm thinking a few tie-dyed, advocacy t-shirts are in order! :D Hmm ... that sounds like a good project to begin! :thumb

[Amys1st]

Leighann- Thanks for the links, I added them to my diapering favs list.

I also added to my stash 7 more sm fuzzibunz I just got on ebay. I now need stuffers. I might also investigate the links to get some ideas.

Loved your blog btw. :thumb

[Amys1st]

Ok- I totally suggest checking out ebay or th tp here. I ordered a new FB (love it!!) and I also got some gently used small ones. Not bad since the smalls are used the most infrequent. I plan on putting them on the tp again in the fall/winter once this babe grows out. Or- mimid, if you still need them then we can do a swap or something.

[MyLittleWonders]

I just bought 2 small bummis from the TP - froggy and space baby! (I love both prints.) Now I have 4 pul covers. :thumb

I'm really impatient to get the Motherease AIO's I ordered, but they ship out of Canada, so it takes like 1 1/2 weeks or so. I'm trying them on my 2 y.o. first to see what I think. I'm debating a couple of Green Acre Designs pocket diapers too ... I'm looking for easy in the diaper bag (and so hoping ds#2 is p/l'd by then ... at least during the day).

[coco4cloth]

Anyone doing wool?

[Selesai]

Ok, I have to admit that after reading all of these planned diaper stashes I am questioning my simple plan.
I don't know how big my baby will be (maybe big) and I want to minimize the $ so right now I'm planning on an initial stash of 2-3 doz cpf or ipf (haven't decided) in infant size and 6-8 covers, a mix of proraps and bummi super whisper wraps. I also may get a wool cover, though I myself don't like wool so I'm wondering if my baby will. I'm thinking i'll spend about $100 or a little over for this initial stash, not including wipes, bag, and pail.
Now, everything else is very confusing to me. As a first-timer i don't know what i'm going to prefer, so i'm thinking if i start simple, i can add other, more interesting things later, like aios, fitteds, etc.
Thoughts?

[MyLittleWonders]

Anyone doing wool?

I love using wool. I use it almost every night on ds#2 - have since he left the hospital. With new babe, I plan on having 4 wool covers (same I had with ds#2), and a handful of pul covers. I also make homemade longies from wool sweaters - so baby might have a couple pair of those to wear with a cute tee. :)

[Amys1st]

Thats why we started the thread for beginners like me and you! It seems soo hard at first- believe me I know exactly what you mean!

[mimid]

I'm wondering about sizing of wool since so many seem to be bigger and I'm expecting small babes. I found a WAHM on ebay who is selling some and she says that her NB ones are small. But I'm still not sure because wool makes me itch and I don' know about the babes. I think I'll give it a try, though.

[mcimom]

Ok, I have to admit that after reading all of these planned diaper stashes I am questioning my simple plan.
I don't know how big my baby will be (maybe big) and I want to minimize the $ so right now I'm planning on an initial stash of 2-3 doz cpf or ipf (haven't decided) in infant size and 6-8 covers, a mix of proraps and bummi super whisper wraps. I also may get a wool cover, though I myself don't like wool so I'm wondering if my baby will. I'm thinking i'll spend about $100 or a little over for this initial stash, not including wipes, bag, and pail.
Now, everything else is very confusing to me. As a first-timer i don't know what i'm going to prefer, so i'm thinking if i start simple, i can add other, more interesting things later, like aios, fitteds, etc.
Thoughts?

I think that's a good plan. www.naturalbabies.com has a Basic Package under Diapering Packages that includes 24 regular prefolds (or premium) and 4 proraps for $69.00 + she only charges $3.95 flat rate shipping. Add a couple extra covers at $7-15 each and if I were you I'd add a bummis xlarge tote for $16 and that would put your total just over $100.

So all you have left that you *need* are wipes and pail (buy a cheap garbage can with lid at Target or some other box store, the bummis xlarge should fit in it no problem. And wipes I'd get on ebay auction from www.cutest-cloth-diapers.com - you can get boy, girl or GN prints in hemp or fleece. I just got 12 for only $6 including shipping!!

The only other advice I have for a first-timer is read as many diaper-info sites as you can (like the link in my sig) to get familiar with the terms, but truly, like with everything else, every baby and parent is different and there isn't "one sure thing" that will work for everyone that they will love. You're going to find your "best" system by trial and error if you're anything like me and the nice thing is cloth is re-sellable :thumb You can re-coup a lot of your costs if you don't like something, esp. if it is only slightly used.

[Amys1st]

I've read so many sights I'm half blind! But, I see the light at the end of the tunnel!

I just got my Fuzzis in the mail!! They are soooo soft, I almost put one on me! DH thought they were soft too.

[coco4cloth]

Wool is sooo yummy and soft. I use to think people were crazy for using wool then one day I orderd some for my dd and never looked back. I am slowly taking pictures of my fluff. I have wool soakers and covers for this babe!

[Amys1st]

OK, the lot is in and sitting here (w exception to one more fuzzi due this week of of ebay)
Total- 18 dipes, 50 wipes, 4 stuffers, 1 wet bag and a wool cover.

All pamplets and sites say to wash these several times before use to soften and get the absorbancy going.

So what is the best thing to do? (not washing the wool cover of course)
I have cheer free, vinagar, etc all waiting.

[coco4cloth]

I wash my dipes in Allena Natural. My wash routine is cold wash, hot wash, cold rinse. Make sure you dry your fb on hot to seal them!

[MyLittleWonders]

OK, the lot is in and sitting here (w exception to one more fuzzi due this week of of ebay)
Total- 18 dipes, 50 wipes, 4 stuffers, 1 wet bag and a wool cover.

All pamplets and sites say to wash these several times before use to soften and get the absorbancy going.

So what is the best thing to do? (not washing the wool cover of course)
I have cheer free, vinagar, etc all waiting.

Amy - before you use the vinegar, do you know if you have hard water or soft water? If it's hard, I would recommend not using vinegar - it can actually, at least once the baby is here, make the diapers even more acidic (I think that is it ... whatever the urine is, it makes the diapers more so) and cause issues. I know I can't use it, but I can use baking soda every other wash or so (we have hard water).

In terms of detergent, it's a toss too. For now I'd go with whatever you have. You may find that you can use anything with your new one, or you may find that he/she has sensitivities (for instance, we can't use Tide or detergents with enzymes because they react to it). Some places say free&clear detergents are a no-no, some say they are fine. The biggest thing, I think, is checking the rinse cycle to make sure there's no more suds in the water (I usually do 2 rinses unless I mess up and put too much detergent in).

For new diapers (what kind did you get), you should wash them at least 4 times in HOT and dry them (some say dry each cycle; I usually do two wash cycles and then one dry cycle - 2x - to break in new dipes). If you have FB's, you only need to wash them once to get them clean; no need to wash for absorbancy or anything. The inserts though would need to be wash 4x or so in HOT just like diapers (but only if these things are new).

Does that help?

[Amys1st]

Does that help?

Yes!! :thumb
I bought some organic aios w velcro
fuzzibunz
used kissaluvs

[MyLittleWonders]

It sounds like the aio's will be the only ones you'll need to really break in (and any inserts you bought/might buy for the FB's if new). The FB and the KL you can just wash once through to get them washed.

[Selesai]

I've heard people suggest that, along w/ a regular prefold/cover stash, one should also have a selection of inserts (doublers?) for added absorbency. Does anyone have any opinions about that?

[MyLittleWonders]

I have a bunch of light-weight doublers (2-3 layers), mostly that I've made, to add to ds's dipe, especially if we'll be out running errands or something. I don't like them too think, personally, because of the bulk. Maybe having a dozen or so that can be put in anything - prefold, aio, fitted - would be helpful.

ETA: I also plan on making another dozen or two in infant size (basically the same length as the sewn-in soaker in the KL's - that way when the babe starts pee'ing a bit more but still fits his/her little dipes, I can throw one of those in and add absorbancy.

[ds2003]

Just joining in. Our first is due June 21st.

DH told me over a year ago that he wanted to CD our children. I bought my first CDs on my birthday in October last year. It was a sampler from Cloth Diapers n more. Ever since I've been buying CD here and there.

So far I have (this is from memory, I do have a list on the other computer):

18 preemie indian prefolds
36 infant unbleached chinese prefolds
24 premium unbleached chinese prefolds
a few bleached chinese prefolds in different sizes
12 kissaluvs size 0
6 or so hemp prefolds
2 kissaluvs galore size 0
12 kissanots size 0ish - Kissaluvs that didn't make the cut
4 newborn proraps
a few small proraps and bummis whisper wraps
4 or 5 small Doodlebottoms fleece and PUL covers
3 or 4 medium Doodlebottoms fleece and PUL covers
3 or 5 Daisy doodle AIO
3 or 5 Fuzzibunz
1 medium bummis tote
1 xlarge bummis tote
like 3 dozen babykicks cloth wipes
some Joey Bunz, some Babykicks hemp inserts


I think I have some large covers but I can't think of them right now. I'll have to post the correct list once I get on the other computer.

Anyhow, I've just started washing my stash. The prefolds need to be washed like 4 or 5 times on hot so I'm getting started now.

[Amys1st]

My stash is getting bigger by the day- that is as soon as it all comes in!
I will start eventually washing them.

I need to get some prefolds- indian or chinese? which?

I got someones stash for a steal on the tp incl 5 snappis and 2 bumpkins so I figure I will do some prefolds.

Love the kissanots- very good! I have a few seconds and I cannot tell the difference.

[Amys1st]

bump lets talk ladies!!

[MyLittleWonders]

Well my pul I ordered from the TP came in just before the holidays, so I am going to get busy making a few more aio's for ds#2 as well as some aio's for new babe. :D I also need to make more doublers - mostly to stick inside the aio's (and especially right now for ds#2 as he's suddenly become a very heavy wetter the last few days), but also to use in the KL's once new babe starts wetting more heavily. Otherwise, I think I might be done ...

12 KL's size 0
who-knows how many infant prefolds (I have almost a dozen here and my best friend has more)
1 Bumpy Wool and a couple SugarPeas wool covers (might buy one more wool cover)
2 Proraps and 2 Bummis
how ever many aio's I make (I'm using the Very Baby pattern)

I will probably make a couple pair of recycled wool sweater shorts/soakers since it'll be summer while babe is still little ... and I want to get some cute advocacy t's to tie-dye.

[Amys1st]

I just got some wool soakers and a dozen prefolds. Plus some aios. I think I'm set for the first month or so- famous last words :lol hopefully the babe won't grow out tooo fast like some mamas I know. But I have been known to produce heavy cream for nursing I guess!

[mimid]

I'm all done with my collection until they get here and I see if some dipes or covers work better than others.

[Amys1st]

Mirium- If mine outgrows guickly- you're first on my list to unload these since 3 grow a bit (but not alot) slower than one!

How are btw??

[2boys4us]

here is my stash for the new babe
1 doz preemie ipf
2.5 doz infant cpf and ipf
4 fitteds made by me from vb pattern :D
3 swaddlebees pockets
2 wahm pockets
1 harleyz pocket
1 crat
1 wahm fleece cover
6 nb/sm prowrap pul covers
I will probably continue to make fitteds until june :lol
and I want to buy some more wool but I will wait until we know if the baby is a boy or girl :D

[mountainsun]

OK - you guys are SO far ahead of me I am getting all anxious reading this thread (again :) )
A few more ??s for the CD vets:

What about Motherease system? Anyone use those?

Are wool covers too warm for a hot humid summer climate?

Indian or Chinese prefolds? And would you buy preemie size or just stick to infant?

I think I am going to primarily be a prefold/ cover kinda girl......in that case, how many covers to start? I was thinking 6-8 size small.

Sorry for the ??, we are on a tight budget and I over-analyze everything :D

Thanks for all the great linds, and Leigh Ann, thanks for the link for the wipes!
And am searching for a nice wipe "solution."

[Amys1st]

Sarah- start watching the tp. I am getting 90% of my stash there. There is always a mama unloading stuff so check it out!! Everything has been really good so far.

Once I get everything in I can post my stash and maybe pics too.

[mcimom]

OK - you guys are SO far ahead of me I am getting all anxious reading this thread (again :) )
A few more ??s for the CD vets:

What about Motherease system? Anyone use those?

Are wool covers too warm for a hot humid summer climate?

Indian or Chinese prefolds? And would you buy preemie size or just stick to infant?

I think I am going to primarily be a prefold/ cover kinda girl......in that case, how many covers to start? I was thinking 6-8 size small.

Sorry for the ??, we are on a tight budget and I over-analyze everything :D

Thanks for all the great linds, and Leigh Ann, thanks for the link for the wipes!
And am searching for a nice wipe "solution."

My girlfriend uses motherease airflow snap covers and gave me 4 covers - she's used them since her 7yo was an infant and loves them. I'd be happy to loan you the covers she gave me (I'm sure she wouldn't mind) as I don't really plan to use them. There are 2 white, one paw print print and one light blue. They are in good condition (she hasn't had these since her 7yo was a babe, only for the last 1-2years - lol) and are size small. LMK if you'd like to have them and PM me your addy. You could just paypal me the $3.85 for shipping and I'll send you the 4 of them with an infant ubcpf and a premium cpf to try/use and you can just mail them back whenever you're done.

For prefolds, I used to only know about CPFs, but from what I've heard the manufacturer changed and now the latest CPFs are not as soft and absorbant so I might go with IPFs if I was buying new. And I'd just go with infant size, I don't the preemies will last very long. When I first started I only had premium (size up from infant, one size down from toddler) and those worked for me, but I started when my dd3 was 3 mo old.

I do think 6-8 covers would be "enough" but I'd probably try to get as many as 10 considering you'll want to wash every 2-3 days. You'll only need to change the covers if they get yucky somehow, but especially once you're getting the hang of it and with those newborn blowouts, you might want to be on the safe side :)

Finally, wool is another thing I've never used myself, but all my friends who CD swear by. As a system IMO it would not be too hot for any weather/climate, most wool jersey is pretty lightweight and the soaker-style really breathe well. I even used fleece through the summer and it wasn't a problem. The nice thing with summer babies is that we won't have to put bottoms on them - they can just hang out in their cute CDs and t-shirts :D

[2boys4us]

What about Motherease system? Anyone use those? I have not tried them but a girlfriend of mine has and she really likes them. I did hear the sandys are better then the motherease one size.

Are wool covers too warm for a hot humid summer climate? I used mostly wool on ds last summer and loved it way more breathablr then pul

Indian or Chinese prefolds? And would you buy preemie size or just stick to infant I got ipf fot the new baby on the way heard they were more absorbent then cpf. I got both preemie and infant. I can use the preemies for inserts/doublers later :)

how many covers to start? I was wondering the same thing. Right now I have 9 covers pul, wool, and fleece

[Amys1st]

The nice thing with summer babies is that we won't have to put bottoms on them - they can just hang out in their cute CDs and t-shirts :D

Thats why it would be fun to invest in some funky covers! Its true though- dd was born in late may and hung out in a tee and dipe or a onesie the entire summer. She later on hated to be bundled up. I really do not know what I would do w a winter baby come to think of it ;)

[Smithie]

Leslie, if those 9 covers will actually fit the babe from birth then I think you are all set. I wouldn't have less than 5 newborn-fitting covers for that first month. A cheaper way to stretch you cover situation might be to get some NB sized Kushies AIOs, they are less pricey than newborn covers and will get you through those hours when every cover that fits is hanging to dry. :lol I do not like Kushies in larger sizes, but I luuuuurve the NB ones. I have 15 of them. Now watch me a have a 10-lb. babe who only wears them for a week. :D

[mcimom]

My stash update
(not that anyone cares but me :lol still it's fun to type it out and look at it - what a geek!)

16 small fuzzibunz with joeybunz or little lambs hemp inserts (borrowed)
6 small wahm pocket with little lamb hemp inserts ($80)
6 assorted small fitteds: kissaluvs, skcoon, ecobaby (borrowed)
4 assorted sized fitteds: cuddlebuns, wahm, fcb (from dd3)
6 assorted small covers: diaperaps, bumkins (borrowed)
6 assorted AIOS (girly so I won't use if it's a boy): lukesdrawers, mudpie, other wahm (from dd3)
10 infant ubcpfs (borrowed)
12 little lambs wipes ($6)

And then for 4-6mo+ (depending on how big baby grows) I have:
15 PT fuzzibunz with joeybunz inserts (from dd3)

So - all I really *need* it would seem is 2 xl bummis totes for my diaper pail and another dozen wipes. I even bought a little cubby to store the dipes and my wipe warmer (I've found after the first two that I don't like the changing table and I prefer to just have the changing supplies near the floor and to change baby on the floor).

Sigh...y'all...this whole infant stash is laundered and sitting next to me in cute little piles...they're so darn cute, I just want to keep them out for the next 20 weeks to look at... :love

I think I need help - lol.

[Amys1st]

I have not washed them all yet but yes they are sooo darn cute.

I will post the stash this week- promise and not really anyone cares as much as its fun to see what everyone has.

Next we will do pics....

[ds2003]

I love looking at my stash. I just put a load of prefolds in the dryer and kissaluvs in the washer. I'm washing all the unbleached stuff 4 times alternating using detergents and will do one more cycle without detergent closer to June.

I can't not wait until the baby's room is set up so I can set up the diapers.

wool in the summer - I think it is fine...definitely more breathable than PUL

number of covers - I say some where between 6-8 based on what I've read. Decide how often you plan to wash and then work back from that.

[Smithie]

Mamas, I was bad :hide: I ordered 10 custom Very Baby Very Basic AIOs from Flutterby Baby. I got hemp! I got microfleece! I got FOUR EMBROIDERED DIPES - "Princess," "Sarah," "Angel" and a picture of a bunch of cherries.

So now I have 15 newborn Kushies AIOs that were used and quite a good value, and 10 small VBs that cost the same as two weeks of groceries. Good thing I like to wash my dipes every day, because there's no way I can get more smalls!

Oh, and for those who are breaking in new dipes, esp. unbleached and hemp: I just got two new Ducky Bunz hemp inserts for ds, and just started using them without stripping out the oils. Now ALL my diapers are leaking and need to be stripped. STRIP STRIP STRIP STRIP STRIP those new dipes!

[chiromama]

I am spending the evening sorting through boxes and boxes of baby clothes, and diapers. :) some hand me downs, and some new :) Then.. I know what I have,and what i need! :D

[coco4cloth]

I took pics of my stash as I put it into rubbermaid containers because it was taking over my dd's closet :lol I am going to have my dh get them online so I can share my sick obsession with you :p

I am moving on to ordering a few smalls and mediums now. I have way to many newborn diapers. Now in my defense, my sister cloth diapered her babes and is as crazy about it as I am and her children are all potty learned so she has been buying diapers for the new baby too.

Oh Very Baby diapers are awesome. I used them with my last. I have 2 xs very baby's now. They are so tiny.

[Amys1st]

maybe I should start calling it that- sick obsession. Hmmmnnn

[mommy2girlies]

Thanks for all the great linds, and Leigh Ann, thanks for the link for the wipes!
And am searching for a nice wipe "solution."

i can't remember where i read it, but it sounded like a good wipe solution. they used a little water, a little dr. bronners lav. soap, a touch of olive oil, tea tree oil, and a bit of lav. oil

she said it really helped get the bootie clean after a poopie diaper and she never had to deal with diaper rashes.

[mommy2girlies]

i love reading what you ladies have in your stashes!! that makes it easier for me to see what i need.

i've been looking at ebay and a few other links and i see so much i want to buy, but we don't get paid again till the 30th and money's tight from the holidays, so i have to wait!!! wwaaaahhh! i can't wait!!!

i plan on using mostly fitted, but is it best if i buy a dozen or so prefolds for just in case?

[MyLittleWonders]

i plan on using mostly fitted, but is it best if i buy a dozen or so prefolds for just in case?

I would. :D

[Amys1st]

store closing- some pretty good deals...

http://natures-friend.com/store/Default.asp

[MyLittleWonders]

store closing- some pretty good deals...

http://natures-friend.com/store/Default.asp

:thumb Thanks for the link - I just ordered 18 premie prefolds (for me ppd). :D

[Amys1st]

not a problem- I orders some prefolds as well. What was left of newborn and a few bigger ones. Plus the pail liner they had left.

OK, I think I am ready now w my stash. I now have to go thru and photo to share and inventory.

[chiromama]

Ok last night I inventoried everthing.. and made an excel spreadsheet of all the size clothes and dipes. yes.. I have problems ;)
so...
I have... drumroll please!!!
20 infant CPFs (none larger yet)
6 kissaluvs sz0
6 kissaluvs sz1
6 kissaluv contours (newborn)
6 wool covers either small or xs
2 fleece covers sm/xs
3-4 soakers (wrap/shorts/soakers - i'll be making more :D)
8 proraps/bummis (and I just bought a few more of the tp, but since they aren't here yet, they don't count)
4 fuzzibuns (2sm/2 xs)
2 random pocket dipes
4 random AIOs

And that's just the small/newborn stuff. I just got a HUGE box of things from a friend that are larger. Sigh. I'm pretty stoked here folks!
I think I am set for the newborn stage.. although i may buy a few more CPFs.. so I don't have to do laundry everyday!

[mcimom]

I think I am set for the newborn stage.. although i may buy a few more CPFs.. so I don't have to do laundry everyday!

I think with that stash you'll be able to get away with every other day even if you don't add more CPFS, after a bit you might even be able to do every third day. That's quite a stash! How exciting :thumb

[coco4cloth]

Anyone get any newborn mutts. I have about 6 of them and love them. They are so soft and cute. I think they will fit for a little bit.

[grisaleen]

I'm planning on getting two of the nb mutts. Haven't done it yet. I just had a friend look over my planned stash (mostly stuff I'd registered for) and she made a lot of changes, since she's got a 2mo in cd's right now. She knew which diapers run big/small, stuff I didn't know at all (first babe). So I'm basically just going to redo the whole plan. It's hard to leave this stuff for other people to buy because it's so fun to buy them myself! They're so adorable! Now, who can say that about plastic dipes?

[mommy2girlies]

what do you experienced ladies think about the kushies, both aio and fitted. good for a newborn, run small/big? a site i saw has a newborn 5pk of aio's for $39 and an 8pk of the fitted for $35. are those good prices?

about prefolds, which is better, chinese or indian? which lasts longer, etc? im going to get 2-3dz prefolds, 10 fitted's (kushies, kissaluvs), 10 covers, bummis and proraps (do i need more?), maybe around 5 aio's, and a few fuzzi bunz. i need to get a diaper pail and a washable liner. and im going to do cloth wipes too. im thinking just the gerber wash cloths you can get at the store...

how does that stash sound? do i need more? i want to do laundry every 2 days and i'd love it if i could do it every 3, wishful thinking huh!

[mountainsun]

ahhh - i have literally spent HOURS scouring around trying to find the best deal on prefolds.....i have found they range from about 1.40-1.50 (non-organic) each. Does that sound right? I think Im losing it :lol

Leigh Ann, thank you SO much for the awesome offer to lend me the motherease! That was really a very very nice thing to do :) I actually just got some bummis/ prowraps off the tp and i have some litewraps already, so i am alomst all set in that department - so I don't need to take you up on it, but I truley appreciate it :love

OK - SO - those Muttaquin dipes are so damn cute, I can barely stand it! And what are your recs on a good wet bag? Is a wet bag necessary? or would garbage bags suffice? I guess a wet bag is more earth friendly, hmmmmmm.....

One last thing! About the night-time.......loooking for your best reccomendations....doublers? best covers? best tips?

you mamas are the best!

OH YEAH! I saw this wipe solution on earthbaby.com

1 cup distilled water
1-2 drops tea tree oil (anti-bac)
1-2 drops lavendar (soothing, also anti-bac)

in a spray bottle or put in a container w/ wipes.

[mcimom]

Sarah-That sounds about right on prefolds. 1st, check out that site that was just listed as having a sale b/c I think theirs were $1/each!! If that doesn't pan out, I really recommend Colleen at www.naturalbabies.com b/c she has flat rate shipping ($3.95 and pfs are expensive to ship) and also b/c she is a great wahm :)

You can also get wet bags from her site - I really like the bummis - get a few mediums for when you are out and about and get 2 xl for your diaper pail. It may seem expensive, but it's worth it, it really helps with the stink to have a great wet bag/pail liner - a trash bag is gonna be yucky. And with the bummis totes, you can just wash them with the diapers. Dump it all in the washer :D

Finally, w/regards to wipe solution - baby bits are great. You just put them in with water in your wipe warmer and voila! Colleen also has these I believe at her site, and I'm not sure what the original wham is, but if you google "baby bits" and "wipe solution" I'm sure you'll find it.

Apparently I never had a heavy wetter at night b/c I always used the same as I did for day. I had great results with a fuzzibunz with hemp insert, a fleece cover with a hemp insert (fleece can wick when compressed, but my girls move all over in their sleep so no compression worries here!) - basically hemp is really absorbant and worked well for me!

[Amys1st]

Leighann- those organic prefolds on Colleen's website are so wonderful looking!! I emailed her to see if they are in the package deals.

[Smithie]

Kelly - I had 5 NB Kushie's AIOs for my first baby and loved them. Alas, I found the next size up Kushies to not be absorbant enough. But newborns pee such tiny amounts, thiose Kushies were perfect.

I bought two more packs used on eBay, now I have 15 tiny Kushies. NB dipes are used for such a brief period, buying used seems like a good idea to me. I paid maybe $40 for those 10 eBay dipes (2 packs). I got a month of use out of them with ds, hoping for the same with dd. I really, really loved the fit and not having to mess with a separate cover.

[mcimom]

I'm having a boy - anyone with a girl on the way but who CD'd prior boys want to trade some dipes? I have:

a lovely pastel tie-dye heart Luke's Drawers AIO-have to check size
a WAHM pastel fairy print fitted-says medium, I say small
a FCB tie-dye heart fitted-have to check size, I'm thinking size 1
a Hello Kitty mudpie baby (winter theme)-size medium
a Hot Pink Fuzzibunz with Joeybunz insert-size PT
two lilac Fuzzibunz with Joeybunz inserts-size PT

and...

the "car" diaper - a vintage Hello Kitty AIO that is in pretty good shape actually and works well, but looks so odd that I just kept in the car trunk for emergency situations :lol

Everything except the fairy print fitted and mudpie baby will probably have to wait until baby is 3-4mo or in size mediums. Even though both of these diapers (fairy print and mudpie hello kitty) say mediums - I think they are closer to smalls that would work from 12+ pounds.

I don't "need" any boy dipes, so I'd be happy to take funded paypal, but I thought it might be more fun to swap with a mama who had prior boy(s) and is now getting a girl. I'd swap for dipes or other boy paraphanlia - if you're interested, just try me!

[Amys1st]

LeighAnn- lets talk. Nothing to swap (we don't make boys here it seems :lol )
But I would love all you said. So I have paypal- don't know if its funded right now, but I will pay the fee. PM me, lets talk.... Or if you would like a ton of tupperware I have listed...

[Amys1st]

OK- just to update stashed, I have a ton and its so much fun. I figure what I do not use, I can turn around and put on the tp. Or send to mimid since she will be in heiny heaven soon.

[mimid]

Once I get my shelving up, I'm going to start washing my stash and then I'll do an inventory. I have an excel sheet, but I'm thinking it might be out of date.

Where's the best place to get wool? I need some cute girlie wool. :innocent

[MyLittleWonders]

First question is what kind of wool do you want? Knitted soakers or wool covers?


I started cutting out all the pieces for the 12 AIO's I'm making (I'm using the Very Baby pattern). I realized I need a bunch more diaper flannel. I really don't like doing all the cutting (I usually only make one or two diapers at a time), but I figured if I can get through it all now (12 pul outers, 24 flannel inners, 12 soakers and 12 doublers), then I can sit and sew as I feel. I am motivated to get them done because they look so darn cute! Once those are done, I should be done completely for the newborn/small stage. After that, I have pretty much all the prefolds, fitteds, and aio's I need (most of them me-made) as ds#2 hasn't really changed shape or size in the last 1 1/2 years! :lol

[coco4cloth]

First question is what kind of wool do you want? Knitted soakers or wool covers?


I started cutting out all the pieces for the 12 AIO's I'm making (I'm using the Very Baby pattern). I realized I need a bunch more diaper flannel. I really don't like doing all the cutting (I usually only make one or two diapers at a time), but I figured if I can get through it all now (12 pul outers, 24 flannel inners, 12 soakers and 12 doublers), then I can sit and sew as I feel. I am motivated to get them done because they look so darn cute! Once those are done, I should be done completely for the newborn/small stage. After that, I have pretty much all the prefolds, fitteds, and aio's I need (most of them me-made) as ds#2 hasn't really changed shape or size in the last 1 1/2 years! :lol


Oh I am so jealous that you can sew! I love very baby diapers and would love to be able to sew about 12 xs and 12 small. I have 2 xs ones I bought and they are so stinkin' cute.

[mimid]

I honestly don't know too much about wool. I just remember seeing all these cute embroidered and knitted things that were soooo tempting to buy. I'm going to be using prefolds and fitteds mostly so what do you use with those?

[coco4cloth]

I honestly don't know too much about wool. I just remember seeing all these cute embroidered and knitted things that were soooo tempting to buy. I'm going to be using prefolds and fitteds mostly so what do you use with those?


You can use wool soakers, wool covers or pul covers with your prefolds and fitteds. Here is a good site to start with to get an idea of soakers vs. covers.

http://www.diapersearch.bravehost.com/

[MyLittleWonders]

I honestly don't know too much about wool. I just remember seeing all these cute embroidered and knitted things that were soooo tempting to buy. I'm going to be using prefolds and fitteds mostly so what do you use with those?

Personally I prefer covers that snap/velcro on/off, and only because I hate pulling something off ds when he has a poopy diaper. But, soakers, shorts, and longies are so darn cute! I use mainly covers, but I do have one pair of shorts that I was given and a couple of soakers I made - they are super cute in the summer especially with a cute t-shirt. :D Maybe get each little girl a soaker and a cover and see which you like better.

[Smithie]

Wool over fitteds is my absolute favorite for night as soon as the nighttime pooping stage is over. My ds always poops in his fitted right after he wakes up, but poo leakage is not an issue with an older baby and som