According to Kelly from View Along The Way, it costs about $2,460 per child for diapers and wipes for a child up until the point they are potty trained. WHOOOOA!
Real Diapers calculates that cloth diapers washed at home for one child can cost as little as $300 a year. Dividing those costs by two children, the total cost of cloth diapering one child is about $450 over two years.
Picture credit- BabyKicks Hemparoo Fleece Prefolds
Often times people don’t care what they throw away because they never see it actually go into the ground. My husband and I take our garbage right to the landfill. We see the trucks in the distance throw garbage into the soil, and I often wonder to myself if people were to see their garbage buried into the ground, maybe they would think twice what they throw out. No one knows how long it takes for a disposable diaper to decompose, but it is estimated to be about 250-500 years. Cotton diapers on the other hand are reused 50 to 200 times before being turned into rags.
We are also expecting a major down turn in the economy, worse than what we saw in 2008. If you are interested in reading why we think that is going to happen, here are 100 of my favorite articles which overwhelmingly show we are in for major correction. We don’t think, we know this is heading our way, so I for one want to be sure that the money we spend doesn’t go right into the garbage. Our kids, and family are worth investing in, and I feel our families money is going to have to stretch as far as it can go. Diapers are one thing you cannot go without, and I would hate to think what kids would have to endure when their parents don’t have enough for diapers in those trying years ahead. I don’t want to wait until the last moment to understand how to cloth diaper.
If you have small children, and are considering making the switch like I am, here are a few tips I have gathered to educate myself through this post to buying the right products, and what is needed to make this a successful transition.
I am a new mom, just trying to avoid the mistakes, and wanting to protect her investment….. I do use affiliate links in this post, but also point to the very best info I have discovered along the way. I hope you enjoy this article.
Here we go……………………..
Here are a couple did you knows:
- Diaper rash was almost unheard of before the use of rubber or plastic pants in the 1940s. Up to our generation, moms used cloth. We need to learn these techniques again.
- Older babies need to be changed every 3 hours, no matter what kind of diaper they are wearing. Disposables will no longer be affordable in the years ahead… With the amount of diapers we go through, most families won’t be able to afford to just throw away diapers when they have to afford rising food costs. It is great time to start learning how to do this now.
- Disposable diapers contain traces of Dioxin, a by-product of the paper-bleaching process, listed by the EPA as the most toxic of all cancer-linked chemicals. Do you really want that on your babies bum? Disposable diapers contain Tributyl-tin a pollutant known to cause hormonal problems in humans and animals. Disposable diapers also contain sodium polyacrylate, a type of super absorbent polymer (SAP), which becomes a gel-like substance when wet –Real Diapers
Vintage Baby Standing on Head Cross Stitch Pattern | eBay
Do You Know What Cloth Diapers Look Like?
Cloth diapers have come a long way over the years. I have linked to google images to give you a visual of the 4 kinds of diapers that are available to purchase.
1. The Pre-fold Cloth Diaper: These diapers are the most basic of diapers. These diapers look like diapers your great grandmother used, but many moms say it is the best way to go. Not only are they easy, they are the most affordable! Rectangular shaped fabric is divided lengthwise in three sections and can be secured with safety pins. If you go this route, consider getting the Snappi Cloth Diaper Fasteners instead of using safety pins. Investigate the “Cloth-eez by Green Mountain Diapers” – as their fabric has been known to hold more liquid than your typical pre-fold cloths. If you are interested in using the prefolds, you will want to purchase waterproof diaper cover which acts as a waterproof barrier.
2. Pocket Cloth Diapers: These diapers consist of a water proof outer layer, a inner layer, and a pocket opening in the diaper to insert a soaker pad. This type of diaper just fastens on and does not need a diaper cover over it.
3. The Fitted Cloth Diapers: Fitted cloth diapers resemble disposable diapers, but are fastened with either Velcro or snaps. You can insert soaker pads or “inserts” in any of these diapers. Wool soakers are popular, and works well as a diaper cover. Wool also can hold up to forty percent of its weight in moisture and can be used with fitted or prefold cloth diapers. They are becoming very popular with cloth diapering mommas.
4. All-in-One Cloth Diapers: Some of the all in one diapers have everything sewn together, so you cannot take the soakers apart, where as the other kinds allow you to disassemble the diaper.
Out of all the articles I viewed for this post, the article featured on Baby Love, from kidalog.com from Camrose, Alberta was one of the best I have read. Being the largest pinless pre-folded cloth diaper business in Canada, they make it very simple. Many websites make cloth diapering very complicated, but if you read just one link,…..I feel this is the article to read. They talk about the TOP 10 mistakes people make when using cloth diapers.
- Why synthetic materials make for smelly diapers
- Why your washing machine bec0mes a septic tank for odors when you don’t rinse your diapers after every change….
- Why using tea tree oil, grapefruit seed extract, or aromatherapy oils is a HUGE no no for disinfecting cloth diapers.
The Best Cloth Diaper Tips From Around The Net:
– It Is Never To Late To Try Cloth Diapers – Don’t be afraid to give cloth diapering a try even if your child has been wearing diapers for a year or more. Many people have discovered cloth diapering when their child turned one or two. Once you establish your routines as a parent, cloth diapers can be easier to try and experiment with.
– Don’t Complicate Things – Keep It Simple – A comment from Cameron Mae “I was so nervous to begin almost four years ago. While pregnant I researched so much that it overwhelmed me to the point where I just had to take a step back. A little while later I found a great deal on prefolds and small thirsties covers. I decided I would just start there and get my toes wet. I am so glad I did! It was enough to cloth diaper full time and slowly start buying other kinds if diapers to try (one here, one there. Etc) I was in a super tight budget at the time. So that’s my little not if advice. I say, don’t research to the point if getting frightened away. It’s easy. You put a diaper on and wash it, the internet has a way of complicating everything. A nice thing about cloth is that it holds it’s value well. If you buy a diaper that you don’t like, you can sell or trade it so that aspect makes it easier to try a bit of everything”
– Wash New Materials So They Absorb – “Diapers made of hemp, need to be washed as many as 8 to 10 times before becoming absorbent; cotton, which needs to be washed 4 to 5 times; and bamboo, which should be washed 2 to 3 times” parents.com
“Wash and dry new prefold cloth diapers 5 to 10 times to remove chemicals. This will also increase the absorbency of your cloth diapers. Do not worry if you notice that your cloth diapers “quilt up” during this process. This is normal. To extend the life of our cloth diapers and covers, we hang them dry. ” diaperpin.com
Budgeting For Diapers
– Work Up To Being A Full Time Cloth Diapering Momma IN TIME – Cloth diapers can be costly, so work up to a full time schedule, by incorporating cloth with disposables. Gro-via suggests building up enough diapers to last you through two days, (washing every day, or two days).
“With a one size diapering system we recommend enough diapers for at least 24-36 CHANGES. Even a system like GroVia’s Hybrid requires at least 12-18 Shells and 24-36 Soaker Pads for full time diapering. If you choose to diaper with a smaller stash, plan on replacing your diapers every 6-9 months. Don’t expect one-size diapers (or sized diapers!) to last 2 years if you only have 10-15 in rotation.” Gro-via
“The surest way to ruin a diaper is to leave it soiled in a closed, dark, warm pail for several days before washing it” Gro-via
“If you have stains, hang them in the sun. The sun naturally bleaches out stains, and kills bacteria and yeast” Gro-via
“If you diaper full time with a one size system and want them to last until potty learning, buy enough diapers (24-36 minimum)” Gro-via
How Many Diapers?
“24 diapers is the usual recommended minimum number, but I like a few more with a newborn (they pee and poop A LOT!)” thiswestcoastmommy.com
“We picked up 12 and have never needed more than that thus far but we wouldn’t mind 18, which seems to be the magic number for many other cloth diapering parents. We might grab six more someday, but we’re definitely getting by with 12 so far” younghouselove.com
“Enough cloth diapers to last you 2-3 days. If you have a child in disposables already, average out the number they use each day and use that to calculate. If you’re planning to use a hybrid system like the Flips, you probably want a 1:3 to 1:2 ratio of covers to inserts” (Meaning by more inserts than diapers) jornie.com
“I don’t recommend buying your first cloth diapers used. Once you’re in the cloth groove, have a good idea of what you’re looking for, what’s normal/what’s not and what fair prices are,” change-diapers.com
“Not buying enough cloth diapers is a mistake. If you don’t have at least 36 diapers, you won’t be able to change baby after each wetting. You need at least 20 dry diapers while the others are going through laundering. If you get less than 36, they will wear out before baby is potty trained, because with fewer diapers, they will be laundered more frequently.” kidalog.com
– Try Cloth Diapers Risk Free, Retailers With Trials – Maria Moser put together a great list of 15 retailers who offer a cloth diaper trial. Check it out at kellywels.com
-Great Websites For Second Hand Diapers Consider picking up diapers for between $5 and $10 each on diaperswappers.com
– Buying All Your Diapers At Once Is A Big Mistake “Buying an entire cloth diaper stash before your baby is born is a big mistake says Olivia From This West Coast Mommy. Enjoy the hunt and discovery of your best diaper ever. Once you’ve found it, by all means go nuts, but don’t blow all your stash cash on diapers that you may end up cursing two months later and trying to resell. She explains what works for one mommy, may be a diaper your baby doesn’t like. Try a number of different brands.
What Kind Of Cloth Diaper Should I Buy?
-Invest In Snap On, Or Hook and Loop Diapers– The snap-on, or hook and loop cloth diapers been said to be the best compared to all other cloth diapers. Many moms complain that the velcro sticks to all the other diapers and snags in the wash.
-One Size, Or By Size? You have two options when it comes to cloth diapers, – the sized diapers, or the one or two sized kind. Many moms consider the sized diapers to be better as they fit more snug against your babies bottom, and they are less bulky.
– Consider Avoiding The “all in one diapers“, as they take too long to dry. The pocket diapers have the insert feature, which allows you to take the cloth pad out and sanitize them individually.
– Avoid Buying Overseas Diapers “It can be tempting to buy a huge stash of cheap, imported pocket diapers because of price and quantity, but buyers should be aware of potential drawbacks. Some of these diapers are illegal knock-offs. Others are re-brands without good customer service to back them up. Many will take weeks to ship. If you want to go the pocket diaper route, there are many stateside options to choose from without paying an arm and a leg.” zephyrhillblog.com
– Cloth Diapering Materials At Walmart – Check out Julies trip to walmart, where she found Mainstays Flour Sacks in the kitchen towel isle. She found them there in 2 packs for $1.97, or 5 packs for $5.48. Check out her post
– Great Momma Websites “I also like to buy diapers and covers from Mom’s Milk Boutique. She’s a great lady and very easy to deal with. She offers free shipping, so that’s a plus! You can buy almost any supplies that you would ever need from her. I use her site almost exclusively now.” stacymakescents.com
– Other Seconds Best Diaper Websites – DiaperSwappers.com, DS is a community of cloth diapering moms sharing tips, experiences, and support in all aspects of parenting, Cloth Diaper Trader, Cloth Diaper Trader is a place to buy, sell, and trade new and used cloth diapers and cloth diaper accessories.
BabyKicks Hemparoo® Fleece Prefolds are made with the softest, thirstiest hemp fleece available
– PreFolds Can Be Great! “I didn’t try prefolds until my oldest daughter was about five or six months old, but once I did, I was hooked. They really are easy to use (no pins required!), they are so versatile, and best of all, they are just about the most inexpensive option out there! I buy my prefold diapers from Green Mountain Diapers (I have no affiliation with them, I just love their diapers!) because they have prefold sizes that are the best fit for babies.” liverenewed.com
– Use Wipeable Liners Which Can Be Discarded– Kelly from View Along The Way, suggests lining your diapers “From 6 months and up, or when they start on solids, wet diapers can go right into the garbage can, larger stools can be dumped into the toilet. Wipeable liners can be used inside the diapers, and stools can be put right into the toilet and flushed”
– Stick To 100% Natural Soakers or “Inserts” Only! “Synthetic fabrics build up residue, eventually losing their absorbency–that’s why you hear about people “stripping” their diapers” kidalog.com
– How To Avoid Synthetic Diapers “All synthetic cloth diapers are made from polyester. Polyester is made from the same material that is used to make plastic (PET). Polyester is petroleum-based. Petroleum is a non-renewable material. The bottom line is this: if it’s not made from 100% cotton, 100% hemp, or 100% wool, then it is made from a synthetic, man-made fiber. Some examples of synthetic diaper materials are suedecloth, microfiber, microterry, and polyester fleece” They suggest natural materials like hemp which is absorbent, thick, and durable. Bamboo is soft and very absorbent. Wool contains leaks and allowing air to circulate. Cotton is the number one choice. littlespruce.wordpress.com
Cloth Diaper Stains And Washing Tips
– Use The Sun For Stains “Luckily we learned if you lay them out in the sun while they’re still moist from the washer it bleaches them white again- it’s like magic! Seriously, you might want to cross your fingers for that tinge every once in a while just for the fun of seeing the sun undo it in a few hours. younghouselove.com
– Really Simple Effective Wash “Instead, use only natural products: 1/2 cup washing soda and 1/2 cup borax per load, easy and inexpensive, 1/2 cup white vinegar in the final rinse is a natural fabric softener and pH adjuster.” She also says NOT to use fabric softener, or bleach. Fabric softener leaves a residue making your diapers water-repellent. (She has changed and washed over 10,000 cloth diapers) kidalog.com
– Homemade All-natural Cloth Diaper Detergent -” 1/2 to 1 c. epsom salt (the harder the water, the more salt) 1/2 c. washing soda 1/2 c. baking soda 1/2 c. baby OxiClean Use 1 TBS.” measuringflower.com
– Wet AND Dry Diaper Pail – “Instead of having an actual pail full of water, you rinse the diapers off after changing your baby, then throw them into the dry pail. This way your diapers are still getting the benefit of getting rinsed and a mini soak” parents.com
– Julie from My Diaper Stash uses a dry/wet pail method- “I use a dry pail, however, I also rinse all my poopy diapers out with a diaper sprayer and then squeeze out the excess water and throw them in the dry pail. This works great! I rarely have stink issues.”…. “But currently I use (2) Kissaluvs Antibacterial Pail Liners and a Safety First Diaper Pail. I love the pail liners, they work great!” Read more about the wet /dry diaper debate in this post on her blog
– Use A Dedicated Spatula For Poop And Keep Your Pail In The Bathroom “The Diaper Pin preferred method is the dry pail method. We used to use the wet pail system (for dirty diapers only), but it was messy and unwieldy. Now we simply shake (or scrape with a dedicated spatula) soiled diapers in the toilet bowl before tossing in the dry pail. We keep our diaper pail in the bathroom. Much easier! ” diaperpin.com
– DIY Diaper Wash Formula Mixed All At Once “I am making all my own laundry soap after having allergic reactions to several store brands. My recipe is pretty simple. I mix a box of borax, washing soda, a small thing of oxiclean, a large box of baking soda and half a bar of laundry soap. I use the scoop from the container of oxiclean and it takes one scoop to wash my diapers. I always run my diapers through an extra rinse as well” diaperswappers.com
Jen H’s Cloth Diaper Tricks– “If your toilet is near your shower and you have the removable shower head, just buy a longer hose for like $7 at home depot! I’ve never had an actual diaper sprayer–this works way better and stays out of the way!”
– Toilet Diaper Sprayers- Consider investing in a diaper sprayer that attaches to your toilet which handles any type of poop –from sticky poop to easy to wash pop, which then goes right into the toilet.
– Use Baking Soda With Liquid Detergent To Brighten Whites And Remove Bad Smells-“If you use baking soda in the wash or soak, make sure to use vinegar in the rinse, this will help restore the pH of the cloth diapers. Otherwise your baby may end up with diaper rash. According to Vicki Lansky author of Baking Soda : Over 500 Fabulous, Fun and Frugal Uses You’ve Probably Never Thought of, baking soda works with liquid detergents to whiten and brighten laundry. It does not boost powder detergents” diaperpin.com
– Dawn Dishsoap For Oily Residue Stains “For removing diaper creams, fabric softeners, or other stubborn stains/oils you can gently rub the problem areas with a dish soap (like Blue Dawn) and rinse prior to washing. Please do not add dish soap to your washing machine“ kellyscloset.com
-Spray All Soiled Diapers “If any formula or solids is introduced, the diaper needs to be sprayed. I started not spraying dirty diapers and quickly changed our routine. I was having to sun my diapers after almost every wash to get out tiny little stains and spraying takes just a few extra seconds. I plan on using my diaper stash for all of our children and want to keep them stain free and great condition” Ruthie Hart from momquery.com
-How can I tell if I have hard water and why it is a big deal? “Hard water has an excess of minerals that makes the water have to work harder to get things clean. Try adding a drop of dish soap to a jar of water, close the lid, and shake vigorously. If the water has a heavy amount of suds you have regular or soft water. If there are few suds you likely have hard water. Another way to tell is to remove the cap on your faucet; if you can see white crust or small pebbles in the aerator you likely have hard water. You might need to use extra detergent to get your diapers clean if you have hard water.” mollyssuds.com
– How many diapers should I wash in one load? “A typical load of diapers should be no less than 8 diapers and no more than 12. You want enough diapers so that they have enough to agitate against one another to help get them clean. Diapers soak up the water in your washer. If you have a Front Loader HE machine you may need to add additional water for the most effective wash possible” mollyssuds.com
– Using Hot Water Is Essential To Washing Diapers (A question about smelly diapers) “This smell is caused by an excess build-up of ammonia. Urine contains ammonia salts and if not washed correctly, they build-up over time and the smell will get progressively worse. In the worst cases, the ammonia will cause a “burn” that causes a bright red and flat rash that can be painful. You need to strip your diapers of the ammonia. Try soaking your diapers overnight in a product like RLR and then do several hot washes with no detergent. If you are comfortable, use a 1/4-cup of chlorine bleach while stripping*. For future washes to avoid more build-up try using more hot water and not letting diapers sit for long periods of time before washing. If you are using diapers with a microfiber insert be aware that ammonia is most likely to occur is this material. Ammonia will naturally occur when diapers sit for a while, only be concerned with the smell is extremely strong, occurs immediately after your child wets the diaper, or smells of ammonia when clean.” mollyssuds.com
– Vinegar May Make Your Diapers Stinky ” If you have hard water, the vinegar may bind with the minerals in the hard water to produce a really, really bad smell!! You may then have to strip the diapers! Should not be used on diaper covers, as the vinegar may bind to the covers leaving them stinky and decreasing the usability ” myclothdiaperstash.com
-The First Rinse Cycle Should Have No Soap “General diaper laundering involves a cold rinse/no soap cycle prior to washing. After this rinse, add the required amount of cloth diaper friendly detergent and wash with hot water” bumkins.com
-Two Wash Cycle For Cloth Diapers- The Diaper Jungle suggests sending your diapers through a two cycle wash– There are two methods to washing your diapers. In the wet pail method, soiled diapers are stored in pail filled with water. Baking soda added to the water has been found to prevent stains from setting. When wash day comes, the water is drained and then the diapers go into the wash. The dry method, diapers are merely placed within a covered pail with no pre-soaking.
Clip and Drip Hanger with 26 Clips $9
Breathing Mobile Washer – Emergency Hand Operated Washing Machine –$16
Vktech Stainless Steel Clothes Socks Shorts Underwear Drying Rack Hanger 20 Clips $6
– Line Dry Your Diapers – Many moms have suggested to line-dry your diapers to get the maximum use out of your cloth diapers. Drying your cloth diapers on HOT can wear out the elastic, and damage the waterproof lining of your diapers, so hang them in the sun.
– Oil Based Detergents Will Cause Problems With Absorption “It turns out that choice of detergent is very important in cloth diaper washing. Most “big box” detergents, even the Free and Clear options, are made with plant cleaning agents – often oils of some sort. While these detergents will indeed get your cloth diapers clean, they will also leave behind an oily residue. You cannot feel this residue, you cannot see it, but gradually it will cause your cloth diapers to wick moisture away, instead of absorbing it.” whattoexpect.com
-Cloth Diaper Friendly Detergents: bumGenius, Rockin’ Green, EcoSprout, Molly’s Suds, EcoNuts
– Maria from Change Diapers put together a cloth diaper detergent survey, asked cloth diapering mommas to rate their detergents. With over 5 years experience, she discovered that the most successfully used standard detergent was Tide. Overwhelming numbers of families with all water & washer types had great results with it. Tide powder ingredients include water softeners while Tide liquid ingredients do not. Check out her findings at change-diapers.com
– Julie from My Diaper Stash suggests doing a Heavy/Cold/Wash ( NO DETERGENT) first, followed with a Heavy/Hot/Wash with 1/2 the amount of recommended detergent. She says at times she also follows that with a third Extra Light/Warm/Rinse. She never puts her diapers in the dryer, but lays them out in the sun. In the winter she suggests hanging the covers and pockets and throwing the inserts into the dryer on low with some dryer balls.
Info On Stripping Diapers
– A Heavy Duty Hot Wash Is Needed Every 3 Months– Work with detergent designed for cloth diapers. An oil based detergent will only make your diapers stink. According to Megan from The Healthy Honeys, your diapers should be stripped of diaper cream, mineral, and fabric softener, otherwise they start smelling. Set your washing machine on a heavy duty cycle with a hot wash and don’t add any detergent.
“Five to six washes with hot water and no detergent (you must dry the diapers between each wash) will remove the oily residue and restore your diapers’ absorbency.” whattoexpect.com
“Extended soaking of diapers is hard on fabric, especially when soaking in such a caustic solution. That’s why we don’t recommend stripping diapers regularly or even frequently. Stripping is not the way you get clean diapers. You get clean diapers with a good wash routine. Stripping is an extreme process used to correct months or years of improper washing, not something you do just for fun. If your diapers are clean out of the wash, there is no need to strip. Keep in mind that properly cleaned diapers should never need to be stripped. If you find yourself needing to strip your diapers, it’s time to adjust something in your wash routine (detergent amount or type, water level, etc.)” fluffloveuniversity.com
Fluff University suggests 3 methods to strip diapers, 1. Grovia Mighty Bubbles, 2, RLR, DIY Mix consisting of Washing Soda, Borax, and Calgon, read more here
“Stripping diapers are only necessary when you are having problems- such as stink, ammonia build-up, repelling, or have encountered yeast rashes. Unless you have any problems you can continue washing your diapers as you always do” mollyssuds.com
Bleaching Cloth Diaper Tips
“Splash-less and scented bleaches DO NOT work for disinfecting.” fluffloveuniversity.com
“wash in HOT water so that the bleach is broken down by the end of the wash cycle” fluffloveuniversity.com
“Bleach will whiten and disinfect diapers, but it will also cause them to wear out faster. Chlorine bleach eats your diapers away! Alternative means of whitening/disinfecting include using borax, or occasionally using chlorine-free bleach such as oxygen bleach or hydrogen peroxide bleach. Minor stains will not harm baby and will usually wash out eventually, but if you wish to hasten stain removal, just hang the diaper in the sun (the UV rays will also sanitize the diaper).” kidalog.com
Other Tips And Tricks
Do Not Use Regular Diaper Cream – ” Step away from the cream! Desitin, A&D ointment, etc. are not made for cloth diapers. They cause buildup. They also cause stink. Bad stink. Fishy stink. Pass out stink. You need to use cream made specifically for cloth diapers” stacymakescents.com
Diaper Safe Ointments-Eco Sprout Bottom Balm Twist Up Stick, Eco Sprout Bottom Balm, Grandma El’s Diaper Rash Cream, Thirsties Booty Love Diaper Ointment, CJs BUTTer
– Tuck Or Fold Over Your Insert For Your Baby Boy “Baby boys often require extra absorbency at the front of the diaper. Almost all inserts or the absorbent portions of an AIO diaper can be folded in order to double the absorbency where needed” bumkins.com
Fantastic Cloth Diaper Articles
Tips for Using Cloth Diapers in Daycare – realdiapers.org
10 Things You Should Never Ever Do to a Cloth Diaper- theecochic.com
Cloth Diapers Sizing Info By Brand- kellyscloset.com
How To Cloth Diaper When You Cannot Afford To Cloth Diaper–kellyscloset.com
The Search for the Best Cloth Diapers – babygearlab.com
Hand Washing Diapers- Emergency Tips myclothdiaperstash.com
Cloth Diapering a Newborn – Prefolds, Fitteds and Covers liverenewed.com
Julie Murphy on Pinterest
Hard Water Tips myclothdiaperstash.com
Sewing your own cloth diapers- a mega tutorial sewmamasew.com
DIY: Diaper Sprayer Shield aslightlybetterwife.blogspot.com
Facebook Cloth Diapering Groups
There are a ton of cloth diaper groups on Facebook. Join one! If you find yourself not connecting in a particular group, move on to another until you find the perfect fit.
The Canadian Cloth Diaper Movement
View all groups listed under “cloth diapering” here
Not too long ago, I discovered an amazing stain remover product. Really, I have tried almost everything on the market! I have whitened countless dingy tops, pillow cases, and brought back a number of my faded tops back to their vibrant color using Oxi Clean. I LOVE this product! Every mom needs to know about this stain remover. There are so many of my daughters tops stained from food, and countless poop stains that I have removed with little to no effort on my part.
I stumbled across a really old bonnet in a antique mall, which I originally bought for my daughter, but discovered it was way too small for her head. It works nicely on a doll that I had restored from my childhood. The fabric was so thin and delicate, and really yellow when I purchased it. I took a chance and let it soak in oxy clean for a couple of hours. With bleach, this cap would have been ruined for sure! It came out bright white, and the fabric condition is untouched.
I have learned over the years that bleach just damages clothing. On occasion it will brighten clothes, but you need a lot of bleach to make a difference. It often doesn’t do anything about stains, especially oil based stains. If you have tea shirts with pit stains, bleach does nothing, but I have had a chance to throw in a load of tee shirts, and all the stains came out with Oxi Clean!
I purchased the “The Original Versatile Stain Remover” What I did was filled up a bucket and followed the directions and let many of my items soak in the pail. I honestly didn’t watch the time, and for a couple items, they sat in the pail all weekend long, and it didn’t effect the fabric. The box’s directions suggest a soak of 1-6 hours, and for best results soak 6 hours. For more questions – see a list of questions and answers on their website
One thing I have learned with this product, is it works right away, but isn’t that effective after you have it sitting in the pail for a week or longer. Below, I copied some questions and answers in, so you can also learn about this product. It says below that the solution will remain active for 6 hours after mixing. I have found this is the case. It won’t work on stains after you have kept the solution in the bucket for several days.
I have never tried this on cloth diapers, but you could use this on the occasional clothing stain. Below is a baby version of the OXI clean…
One mom mentioned this in a comment : “Be careful with using oxiclean…it may be alright or even recommended for some diapers (synthetics) but it will destroy natural fibers, especially bamboo. The damage won’t show up right away…usually a month or so down the road though the diapers will begin to develop holes and they will just keep spreading. Bleach has the same consequences.”
After looking on Amazon, I found they have an Oxi Clean for Babies. I haven’t tried this product yet. ( I don’t represent Oxi, or get paid to endorse their product. I am just passing on a product that has worked for me)
Here is information I found on Amazon:
Is this safe for cloth diapers? Anyone have any issues with using this with cloth diapers?
- Yes, it’s totally safe for cloth diapers. We used it for 2 years on a range of cloth diapers — Bum Genius, Fuzzibunz, Clovers, Good Mamas, gCloth, and prefolds. If you’re using an HE washer, however, an extra rinse cycle can be helpful, as HE’s use so little water that the diapers don’t always get rinsed well, especially if you’re washing a lot of them at once.
- I have never used it on cloth diapers. We cloth diaper but I was always told and read not to use this. You can check out cloth diapering websites and most will list what is safe to use.
- I use cloth diapers as burp cloths and I use this stuff in every load of laundry for my daughter. It has never caused any irritation anywhere that it’s been used ( mostly the face and neck area).
- I use it with equal parts borax, washing soda, baby oxi. My cloth diapers are always clean no odor or staining been using for 5 months.
- Yes Melissa, this is actually made specifically for baby cloth diapers. I have been making home made laundry detergent for a year now and donate it to the local pregnancy resource center. I made one large batch with this brand of oxi clean and had no complaints. My son has sensitive skin and I used some of it on his clothes as well and he did fine. If you are extra cautious, you can use the oxi-clean with the green lid that is guaranteed hypo allergenic.
A couple facts about Oxi Clean BABY taken from their website:
- Once mixed, solution should NOT be left in a sealed container. It will continue to give off oxygen and the container may rupture and cause injury. Dispose of all unused solution after 6 hours by pouring into a drain or toilet.
How long will OxiClean™ Versatile Stain Remover continue working after I mix it with water?
- The cleaning strength of OxiClean™ will remain active for 6 hours after mixing. Dispose of unused solution after 6 hours by pouring into a drain or toilet.
Does this product contain any detergents?
- OxiClean™ Baby Stain Soaker is 100% fragrance, chlorine, and dye free. It contains non-ionic surfactant.
Is the product safe for colors?
- OxiClean™ Baby Stain Soaker is color safe. However, not all clothing is colorfast. OxiClean™ Baby Stain Soaker is much less harsh on colored fabrics than other laundry additives like chlorine bleach. Always remember to test for colorfastness in an inconspicuous area before using the product.
Is OxiClean™ Baby Stain Soaker Septic System Safe?
- Yes
Can I use it on my carpets and other stains in my home?
- OxiClean™ Laundry Detergent is only intended for washing laundry. We do not recommend using it for carpet cleaning. Instead, try OxiClean™ Versatile Stain Remover for tough stains on carpets or other surfaces around your home.
Here is a shot of the corner of our laundry room. What I hope to do with our diaper cleaning, and spot removal is to have two buckets set up. I bought two buckets from Home Depot for 14 dollars for 3. One bucket is filled with Oxi Clean and water, and the other one is left empty.
I figure the one can be stationed with water, where dirty diapers (cleaned first) can sit and soak, and the second bucket can be for those diapers wringed out, waiting to be put into the laundry. My process might change as I go along. The beauty of these buckets, is they can be cleaned out regularly because they are plastic.
One idea I have been considering is giving my diapers a quick wash in the sink, and let them dry on the top of the washing machine…then when they are dry, putting them into the bucket. When I have a load, then they can go into the washing machine. I think this may avoid the stains, the mold and smelly diapers by just putting them in dirty. Its all an experiment….
Here is our beautiful baby Atarah smiling for mommy* (Picture removed) When she was a newborn we experimented with a warmer for wipes. It is such a nice invention for moms today. Later, I found cleaning her bottom with simple face cloths a more effective approach. I like warm cloths, and I am sure my baby does as well. I purchased a set of black face cloths which I use for her bottom when number 2 happens, and for just urine clean up, I use a set of pretty colored face cloths you see to her left.
Our bathroom is just feet away from her bedroom, so I warm up the cloths in the sink before she gets changed. Even after wiping away any poop, they get washed in the sink right away and hung up to dry in our bathroom, or on her plastic changing table, then later put in the wash. I am able to clean them on the spot with soap and water until the water runs clear.
If you are like me, I don’t like to see stains on your towels. When you are a cloth diapering momma, you have to give and take with some things. Though, I found with black face cloths, I can stick them in the laundry, and they come out clean…and best of all, I don’t have to look at any stains which I know will eventually come out in the wash.
I don’t want to spend HOURS soaking every cloth to remove the stains when the garment is clean anyway. I have been reading that “all natural materials” don’t smell like synthetic materials, so I might end up making my own soaker inserts out of black towels. For now, her changing routine has worked fantastic using face cloths, and my towels designated for her always look great. Of course, I am not afraid of washing out poop either*
GroVia Bioliners Diaper Liners 200 Count $10.88 On Amazon
GroVia Bioliners Diaper Liners are made from renewable ingeo fibers and free of harsh synthetic chemicals and preservatives. They easily allow moisture to pass through, while keeping your baby’s skin dry for a long time. You can simply remove these liners and discard without the need to clean the mess. 200 liners.
- Unscented liners
- Fragrance- and dye-free
- Flushable and breathable
- Chlorine-free
- Made from 100% natural and renewable fibers
- Free of synthetic chemicals and preservatives
Wool Cloth Covers From Kelly’s Closet
Thirsties Duo Wrap Diaper Cover with Hook and Loop – 21 Color Options $13 On Amazon
Similar in feel and function to their best-selling Diaper Cover, Thirsties Duo Wraps are completely waterproof yet remain breathable. Leg gussets provide advanced leak-proof protection and bindings are super-soft against your baby’s skin. Pairing the adjustability in size with their signature leg gussets, makes this wrap the most versatile on the market.
A review from By Emily J. Morris on January 11, 2014
I know that Velco can be considered a dirty word when it comes to diaper covers and those snaps are considered king, but I’m among the bunch who, while loving the security of the snaps, hated the bulk of the snap wraps and loved the sleek look of the regular Thirsties Diaper Cover in spite of worrying the Velco would pop off. I heard good things about the Hook and Loop, but wasn’t sure just how it differed from regular Velco.Seems the Thirsties people really upped their standards for the Velco. No, I haven’t been using this cover for months, but I can definitely see a difference in quality and design on the closure. While I’ve been perfectly happy with my other snap-less Thirsties, I can see some wearing down. I’d expect this closure to last even longer. In keeping with the wonder of the duo wrap, this still has some snaps in order to help with sizing.If you’re altogether new to Thirsties Duo Wraps, they, in general, rock. When I started cloth diapering I was told to use Thirsties and nothing else. This advice has proved marvelous and I pass on the same advice. These are trusty, breathable covers that last and work. The leg gussets are the crowning glory. Very pleased with this alternate to the other closures!
Snap Converting Cloth Diapers
View these pre-folds at Green Mountain Diapers
Just to give you an idea of pricing, for a baby between 4-20 months old, (14-29 lbs,14-29 lbs), they charge for a medium pre-fold $39 for a dozen. This could be a very inexpensive way to start cloth diapering.
Snappi Cloth Diaper Fasteners- $11
How to Sew your Own Cloth Diapers + Free Pattern – Found on adreamcrafter.com
Make Your Own Diapers From A Prefold– Found on doodlela.com
DIY Cloth Diaper Insert Tutorial– Found on seekatesew.com
Dinosaur Monster Bunz | Cloth Diaper Pants | Maxaloone Style Pants
See more of her products at Cinderkitten
Cloth For Diaper Inserts – ProECO Bamboo Fleece, Certified Organic Cotton – Natural –$16.99 + $2.85 shipping Amazon
Heavy Bamboo Fleece, Certified Organic Cotton – Natural – 400 GSM $17.99 + $3.15 shipping Amazon
- 70% Bamboo 30% Organic Cotton. ProECO Organic fabrics use the best bamboo & organic cotton fibers
- Superior premium quality heavyweight fleece is ideal for use in cloth diapers
- High quality fibers give it superior absorbency that absorbs moisture quickly & a softer hand with no toxic finishes that are common with all imported fleeces
- Be sure to wash your fabric on hot before making your inserts, as bamboo shrinks.
DIY Baby Diapers
100 White KAM Plastic Resin Snaps – Strong Enough For Cloth Diapers Amazon
KAM Snap Press Plier Hand Setter Tool $16 Amazon
Starter Pack of 250 Complete KAM Snaps/Plastic Snap Sets for Cloth Diaper $14 Amazon
Diaper Insert Fabric 100% cotton Flannel $7 A Yard Amazon
55% Hemp / 45% Organic Cotton Jersey Fabric – Black – By the Yard $12.20 + $4.98 shipping On Amazon
Lovely Hemp Organic Cotton Diaper Inserts By Buttons
Make your own pretty diaper inserts!
Learn to add snaps to your prefold cloth diapers with this easy tutorial! Found on diaperjunction.com
Wall mounted drying rack for your laundry room! PERFECT use for an old drop side crib, and wall-mounted plant hooks! Found on nwedible.com
DIY Tutorial: Make Your Own Diaper Sprayer – Nicole V Bennett’s all time most popular post was a post written by her husband showing all of us how a kitchen sink sprayer on a hose which attaches to the toilet’s water line can be just as good as the expensive toilet cloth diaper sprayers. Way to go! Huge thank you’s to Nicole’s husband! nicolevbennett.com
40 Pretty Reusable CLOTH WIPES – Found on etsy.com
Merino Wool Covers – $20 ResponsibleMother Etsy
Love love love! Cloth Wipes, and diaper inserts from Family Cloth Wipes on Etsy
Wool soaker, cloth diaper wool cover, MADE TO ORDER, choose your size and color range $11 sosimplenatural
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