[2M's Mom]

I have been thinking of switching to cloth diapers. (I actually bought my first one last night so we can try it out) I have a 1 year old and a 2 year old (so I use SO MANY diapers each day). Has anyone ever switched this late in the game? If so, I would love to hear about your experiences.

Also, I would also like to understand what effect if any cd has had on your utility bills. I understand there will be a little more washing and drying, but not sure if it makes a big difference in the bills. (cd being cheeper then sposies is the main way to convince my husband!)

Additionally, I am sure this is in other threads, but can I use my same detergent? (I use Tide) Can I wash both kids diapers together?

Thanks!!! And any additional advice would be greatly appreciated! I am totally a novice!

 

[alegna]

I didn't see any change in utility bills, I've used cloth with dd since birth. Some people have trouble with Tide. I use purex free and clear or sun free and clear.

-Angela

 

[LoveMyLil'B]

I do 2-3 extra loads per week, so it's not too much of a switch, but I only have 1 in diapers.

Make sure when you're washing them you use much less detergent than you would normally use.

What kind of diapers are you going to use?

 

[2M's Mom]

I am not sure which ones I will use yet. I ordered a fuzzy bunz last night, so I want to try it. Any recommendations on other to try? Especially ones that would fit both kids, they are 22 pounds and 27ish pounds.

 

[shoefairy3]

I do a load every day, but so far i have not noticed a change int he utility bill. Plus, IMO cloth is wy cheaper than sposies (and better for the world)

I use whatever detergent is on sale (1/2 the regular ammt) and never had a problem

 

[Laniemel]

I love using prefolds (don't be scared, doing the folds is really not that daunting) and Little Beetle Hemp fitteds. I have both the lites and the originals and I prefer the lites. There is plenty of room for stuffin. I also use Charlies Soap. I get it online, and the cost really works out because you use so little and with it you don't need to use a water softener. Here is a link for different "store brand" detergent choices http://www.pinstripesandpolkadots.co...entchoices.htm I promise if you give a real go, you will love cloth diapering. It is highly, highly addictive (too many cute dipes!!!) so consider yourself warned!

 

[cyncyn]

Lots of people switch at a later age; if anything it will help your kiddos potty learn. You might want to look into some one-size products since you have 2 in cloth. http://www.wonderworksbabystore.com carries one-size pocket diapers and one-size diaper covers. To save the most money, prefolds are the cheapest and most adjustable system, but many fitted diapers cover a wide size range as well.

You'll probably do about 3-4 extra loads per week but you can hang dry fuzzibunz and other pocket diapers and covers to save energy. Many people use their regular detergent, just use only a little bit.

 

[2M's Mom]

Thanks everyone! These are great tips! I am sure I will have many many more questions as I get started! I am excited!

 

[LoveMyLil'B]

We use prefolds during the day with a BSWW or prorap cover, and Fuzzi Bunz at night.

Have fun choosing your new diapers!

 

[Oonah]

go for it! it's never too late.

fwiw...I did notice an increase in my water bill...a few bucks a month..not much.

good luck!

 

[2M's Mom]

I lucked out! I have a friend who cd's and her boys aren't using the size that my kids wear, so she is letting me borrow some to check them out. I went to put one on my 2 year old and she FREAKED! The one I put on her seemed a little small, and it was a pocket one, so maybe I stuffed it too much for her liking. She wouldn't stop crying, took the diaper off and insisted on a disposable dieper.

So, I'll see if I can ease her into it. DS didn't object (he's 1), so we're trying it out on him!