Many new users spend a good deal of time determining how to use cloth diapers. There are several dozen prominent brands and each has their own system of care and use. However, some things do remain the same. It’s possible for parents to educate themselves in the basic use of cloth diapers and be immediately familiar with the many different aspects that go into using these environmentally-friendly products. It’s not hard to learn how to use cloth diapers.
What Type of Diaper?
The first things that a parent needs to recognize is the type of cloth diapers they are dealing with. How to use cloth diapers will vary a bit depending on what components and styles are being assessed. For example, prefold diapers take a lot more work and preparation than an all-in-one, or AIO, type does. This is because an AIO works much like a disposable diaper with no separate pieces needed. Both prefold and fitted diapers will need a waterproof cover that fits over the actual cloth diaper. Pocket diapers, which take up an increasingly large part of the market share, are considered a type of all-in-one; no cover is necessary.
Parts and Pieces
The diaper cover has already been discussed. The diaper cover is usually a single layer of waterproof fabric, most likely PUL, that is placed over the diaper to hold in wetness. Parents can also expect to see products like liners both for increased absorbency and wicking moisture. Liners that are meant to add absorbency to the diaper are generally referred to as doublers. In addition, fasteners such as diaper pins or Snappis are necessary for some types of diapers.
How to Use Cloth Diapers
In order to get a feel for how to use cloth diapers, parents should be open to experimentation. This discussion will focus on the proper way to diaper with the three most popular styles. This will give a quick overview of how to use cloth diapers, regardless of which style is ultimately chosen.
Prefolds
Prefold diapers must be placed on the baby by folding and arranging the diaper. When parents know how to use cloth diapers in this manner, all other types become extremely simple. The prefold diaper should be arranged under the baby so that the most absorbency sits between the legs. The wings are left open, pulled over the baby's hips and fastened securely. This is accomplished using diaper pins or a special fastener known as a Snappi. Extra layers can also be added to the diaper before fastening is accomplished. After the diaper is secure, a waterproof cover is placed over the prefold diaper to provide protection from leakage. Most parents favor a wrap-style cover for this type of diaper.
Fitted Diapers
Fitted diapers look and act like disposables in that they are shaped to the baby’s natural shape. Both waist and leg elastic are present and closures are generally Velcro or plastic snaps. Many parents who are just beginning to understand how to use cloth diapers tend to look at this category. The diaper is placed under the baby. Doublers may be added at this point. Once fastened, a waterproof cover is fitted over the diaper. Either a wrap or a side-snap style is suitable.
All-in-one Styles
When it comes to how to use cloth diapers, this category gets the most fans. They are by far the easiest to use. AIO diapers are ready to go - even pocket styles are usually pre-stuffed. Place the diaper under the baby and fasten securely. That is all it takes to learn how to use cloth diapers of this type.
It is easy to figure out how to use cloth diapers. All it takes is a bit of practice. More information on how to use cloth diapers can be found at the online shop Kelly’s Closet.
