Cloth Diapers

We have been exclusively using cloth diapers since S was 5 weeks old, and I am really happy that it has worked out as well as it has. Mr.A was never completely sold on the idea, but reluctantly agreed once I told him that I wouldn’t expect his help with the washing/drying/stuffing, and the change from disposables should be nearly transparent.

The majority of our CD stash are one size Bum Genius 4.0s (pockets), with a handful of sized 3.0s in small and medium. I also have a couple of Alva one size pockets which I use regularly and really like considering how cheap they were.

The majority of my CD stash are “Seconds” with minor cosmetic flaws, so I was able to buy the new diapers for about 50% off. I’ve come to learn that I love bamboo inserts, and have purchased both bamboo and microfiber/bamboo hybrid inserts from Alva for a very reasonable price. Some other items I’ve purchased are small, medium and large wetbags, a diaper sprayer (unused currently, will likely need to begin using when we start S on solid foods), as well as the diapers and inserts. I am unsure of the exact cost of all of my diapers and supplies, but am guessing that I’ve spent roughly $400 on everything.

Considering that a large box of Pamper diapers is around $45, and would last us approximately 2-3 weeks, we should break even with the cost of CDing when S is around 6 months old. I am hopeful that these diapers will last her through potty training, and that we will also use them for subsequent children therefore saving money and helping preserve the environment by not producing extra waste.

Some people argue that CDs aren’t any better for the environment because of the extra water and energy needed to wash them every 2-3 days. I completely disagree with this since we have a high efficiency washer which only uses a couple of gallons of water per load and we line dry.

Everyone thought I was crazy when I told them I wanted to do cloth diapers. I will admit that it has been a little more difficult keeping up with everything now that I am back to work, but I intend to keep it up and am thrilled so far with them.