Cloth Diaper Newbie: The Decision

A few weeks ago I started to contemplate cloth diapering. I briefly considered it while I was pregnant, but had the image of the old fashioned way my parents did it:

• Bulky cloths
• Nasty wet pails
• Dunking in the toilet
• Rubber pants
• Pokey diaper pins

That was yucky and unpleasant.

But, as I discovered, cloth diapering has come a long way and doesn’t have to be so unpleasant.

Now, I’m learning about the different systems, sizes, and styles. I’ve also read up on laundering & caring for them.

I even received some helpful advice from Laura of 29 Diapers, who took the time to answer my newbie emails!

And I want in.

The first several weeks, Aerissa easily went through 12 diapers a day, sometimes more because she would poop after (or during, or during AND after) each nursing session.

After looking at a few comparison charts and doing some calculations of my own, I figured we could save around $1500 by switching (including initial investment!)

Plus, her bottom gets irritated looking…and there are lots of chemicals in disposables…

Hopefully I can increase our savings by keeping the investment low cost… I’m aiming to build a respectable size stash for less than $300. I’m entering a TON of giveaways in hopes of winning some. That would provide a nice variety without impacting my bank account. I’m also keeping an eye out for deals on used ones through Craigslist & eBay. So far no luck. What I’ve seen has failed on one of 3 accounts so far: too pricey for used, too worn/need repairs, or used bad detergent such as Tide. (Bad for cloth diapers! Very bad!)

Cloth Diaper Newbie: Day 1 >>

Darcy Zalewski

Darcy is the founder of “Life With Darcy and Brian,” where she combines her love for education, board games, and crafting to create engaging learning experiences for kids. Her creative projects and writing have been featured in outlets like The Toy Insider, CafeMom, Mom.com, Parents.com, Country Living, and The Pioneer Woman.