With so many diaper options available, deciding what’s best for our newborns can be tough. While disposable diapers may seem the easiest option, they can be costly. That’s where cloth diapers come in as a great alternative.
Cloth diapering a newborn may seem intimidating, but it’s a budget-friendly, eco-friendly, and baby-friendly choice. This blog post will explore everything you need about cloth diapering a newborn, including some of our favorite products that get the job done.
Is Cloth Diapering a Newborn Worth It?
When considering cloth diapering for your newborn, weighing the pros and cons is important. While cloth diapers require more work than disposable diapers, they offer several benefits, such as being better for the environment and saving money in the long run.
Cloth diapers are also gentle on your baby’s skin, reducing the risk of diaper rash and irritation. Overall, cloth diapering a newborn can be a great choice for parents who want to provide a natural, healthy option for their little one.
When Should I Start Cloth Diapering My Newborn?
Many parents wonder when is the right time to start cloth diapering their newborn. Generally, cloth diapers can be used right from birth, but you’ll want to make sure you have the right size and type for your little one. Newborns can go through up to 12 diapers daily, so having a good supply is essential.
Consider investing in cloth diapering accessories like liners, covers, and wet bags to make the process easier. Overall, the sooner you start cloth diapering your newborn, the sooner you can reap the benefits of this eco-friendly and budget-friendly choice.
How Long Can a Baby Wear Newborn Cloth Diapers?
Newborn cloth diapers are typically designed to fit babies up to around 12 pounds, usually around 3 months old. Afterward, you’ll need to switch to larger sizes to ensure a proper fit. However, the exact length of time your baby can wear newborn cloth diapers will depend on their growth rate and weight gain.
Some babies may outgrow newborn cloth diapers within a few weeks, while others may be able to wear them for several months. It’s important to monitor your baby’s growth and adjust the diaper size to ensure a comfortable and secure fit.
Types of Newborn Cloth Diapers
Prefold Cloth Diaper: These are rectangular pieces of cloth folded into thirds and secured to the baby using diaper fasteners or snappies. They require a waterproof cover to prevent leaks and are a popular choice for newborns because they are affordable and versatile.
All-in-One Cloth Diaper: These diapers come with an absorbent insert sewn into the waterproof cover, so there’s no need for additional inserts or covers. They are easy to use and convenient but can be more expensive than other types of cloth diapers.
Pocket Diaper: These diapers have a pocket opening for an absorbent insert. They come with a waterproof cover and are adjustable to fit your baby’s size. They are popular because they allow you to customize the absorbency level.
Fitted Cloth Diaper: These diapers are similar to pre folds but are shaped to fit the baby’s body. They come with elastic around the legs and waist to prevent leaks and require a waterproof cover. They are a good choice for overnight use because of their absorbency.
Maintaining Newborn Cloth Diapers
Washing Routine
Proper washing is essential for maintaining the cleanliness and longevity of cloth diapers. Before washing, it’s important to rinse any solid waste off the diaper and store them in a dry pail. When it’s time to wash, start with a cold rinse to remove any remaining waste and then follow with a hot wash with detergent.
It’s important to use the recommended amount of detergent and avoid fabric softeners or dryer sheets, which can coat the fibers of the diaper and reduce their absorbency. Finally, dry the diapers on low heat or hang them to dry in the sun for optimal freshness. Here’s everything you need to know about how to wash cloth diapers.
Detergents and Additives
Choosing the right detergent for your newborn’s cloth diapers is important to avoid irritation and maintain their absorbency. It’s best to avoid detergents with fragrances, dyes, or brighteners, as these can irritate sensitive skin. Instead, opt for a gentle, fragrance-free detergent formulated for cloth diapers.
Some parents add natural additives like vinegar or baking soda to their wash routine to help with odor or stains. However, following the manufacturer’s recommendations and avoiding using too much is important, as this can affect the diaper’s absorbency. With the right detergent and additives, you can keep your newborn’s cloth diapers clean and fresh for long-term use.
Tips and Tricks for Successful Newborn Cloth Diapering
Stock Up on Supplies
When cloth diapering a newborn, it’s important to have a sufficient supply of diapers to avoid running out. Newborns can go through up to 12 diapers a day, so having at least 24-36 diapers in your stash is recommended. Having extra inserts or boosters for overnight use or heavy wetters is also important.
Use Liners
Using liners can make cloth diapering a newborn easier and less messy. Liners are thin, disposable sheets placed on top of the diaper to catch solid waste, making it easier to dispose of and preventing stains. They can also help prevent diaper cream from sticking to the diaper and reduce the need for excessive washing.
Invest in a Diaper Sprayer
A diaper sprayer is a handheld device that attaches to your toilet and allows you to spray off any solid waste from the diaper before storing or washing it. This can make cleaning dirty diapers easier and more hygienic, reducing the risk of bacterial growth and unpleasant odors. While not essential, a diaper sprayer can be a helpful addition to your cloth diapering routine, especially if you plan to continue cloth diapering as your baby grows. Here’s some great Cloth diaper sprayers.
Cloth Diapering Newborn FAQ
How often should I change my newborn’s cloth diaper?
Newborns may need to be changed every 1-2 hours or when the diaper is wet or soiled.
Can I use cloth diapers overnight?
Yes, but it may be necessary to use extra inserts or boosters to prevent leaks. Here’s some great overnight cloth diapers to choose from.
How do I store dirty cloth diapers?
Dirty cloth diapers should be stored in a dry pail with a lid to prevent odors and bacterial growth. Here’s everything you need to know about how to store dirty cloth diapers.
How do I prevent leaks with newborn cloth diapers?
Proper fit, frequent changes, and using enough absorbency can help prevent leaks. Here’s everything you need to know about cloth diaper leaks.
Cloth diapering a newborn can be a great way to provide a soft and comfortable option for your little one. It may seem a little overwhelming initially, but with the right supplies and techniques, cloth diapering can be rewarding for you and your baby.