Eco-Mommy

I finally grew an eco-mommy (environmentally conscious and economically conscious) brain. I don’t mind admitting that it was only after doing the math that I switched from disposable to cloth. Those who know me know that I abhor germs and even worse I hate having to touch them.   All my frommies (mommy friends) encouraged me – to forget about going cloth.

Diaper Genie (As in Genius)

So here I am almost 2 months into using cloth diapers. Naturally, I now consider myself an expert.  I spent an average of $60.00 on diapers per month for 2 children.   That is 1500.00 dollars for 2 years worth of diapers.   It doesn’t take a genius to realize that cloth is the way to go.

Choosing a Cloth Diaper Company

Prices range from company to company.  It is important to me that the diapers were made locally to ensure accountability.  I also enjoy supporting other SAHM businesses.  Some companies even allow you to buy discontinued diapers at a discounted price.

Cloth Diapers Do’s and Don’ts

1. You don’t have to use the wet pail method.  You can get “wet bags” that store the diapers for up to 2 days.  You should buy two of these so you have an extra while the other is being washed.

2. If you do laundry every day you don’t have to buy as many diapers.

3.  You will use 1/4 of the soap you would normally use to wash your diapers.

4.  You should air-dry the covers to prolong their life.

The Cheer(ful) Bit:

1. The diapers come in a multitude of colors and prints.  You can buy one size and organic diapers but they are more expensive.

2. The diapers usually have enough snaps to adjust to your child’s changing waistline.

3.  The price is made lower by ordering some of the diapers from the on-line outlet stores.  I purchased 18 diapers, diaper covers, and 2 wet bags for about $400.00 dollars!  That could save me almost $1100.00 over 2 years for 2 children!

The Tear(ful) Bit:

1.  When you are using the cloth diapers on an older baby or toddler you do have to deal with a little bit more of a mess.  The poop should be placed in the toilet and the cloth inserts rinsed.

2. If you plan on ordering the amount of diapers I ordered you would need to do laundry every day.

3.  The diapers need to be washed in hot water and will need an extra rinse. The extra rinse is needed to insure all the soap residue is out of your diapers.

Photo property of the author and used with permission.