Day 2 (April 17th): Real Simple Real Diapers Waste Reduction – Waste Reduction, Environmental benefits,

I have always been a bit of a tree hugger, so using cloth diapers just seemed like the natural choice. There are many people who argue that the water it takes to wash cloth diapers uses more energy than it does to make, dispose of and bury a disposable diaper. 

I am not a scientist, but I have found some very interesting articles on the subject. I will not go into all of the (boring) details, but will share some facts that we can all (hopefully) agree on.

First, I want to say that an item that can be worn hundreds of times is more time and cost efficient than something that can only be worn once and thrown away.  There's a reason why we don't wear disposable underwear.

Yes, this is actual disposable underwear. Google will help you find the weirdest things you never really wanted to know existed.

There is no wondering if you have a diaper for your baby to wear-you always have cloth at home. Hopefully, you wash it and it's ready, otherwise there will be naked buns to view until the laundry is done! You've already saved a trip to the store because you don't need to buy diapers. With gas prices these days, every mile counts!

When using cloth diapers, there isn't extra trash to take out so you are saving valuable time. You don't have to do extra cleaning because the diaper genie smells and you can't get rid of the lingering scent. I have never known anyone to use a diaper genie and it not have a smell, so you can argue, but that's my experience. Now, some people put every dirty diaper into a plastic bag and then throw it in the trash. I do notice this cuts down on stinkies in the house, but honestly, you must see why I would be against this. 

When using disposables, I find that you really have just as much laundry to do as if you used cloth diapers. How can this be?!? Well, it's simple. With a super pooper like Baby J, anytime she was in a disposable she would have a blowout and I would have to wash that outfit and whatever else poop might have escaped on and touched. Honestly, I probably did more laundry those two weeks of using disposables. Never again! 

Check out this blowout story! Poor mom!

Finally, once people become cloth diaper users and learn all about the CD safe detergents and the evils of the laundry world, they become more green in the rest of their clothes washing and usually in their homes as well. It's like the beginning of a beautiful relationship with the environment: taking one step at a time to preserve our planet and keep it green for our children and those that come after them.

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Cloth Choices: Cloth Diapering Systems

Prefolds/Flats

These are the traditional diapers that many people are familiar with. These are the most economical choice and require some type of fastener like a Snappi, Boingo or diaper pins and a diaper cover. With prefolds and flats, you can reuse the cover multiple times if it is still clean. Many people use two covers a day for pee diapers and just let the cover air dry after each change.

Diaper Covers

Diaper covers are made with a variety of materials. PUL diaper covers are made of the same type of material used as the waterproof layer in Pockets, AIOs and Hybrid Diapers. Covers can be used with prefolds, flats, fitteds and a variety of inserts.  

Fitted Diapers

These are similar to AIOs, but do not have a waterproof layer so they usually need some 

type of diaper cover. Fitteds are a popular choice for people looking for organic materials and more absorbent options for their children. With a fitted diaper, you can reuse the cover if it is still clean.

Pocket Diapers

These diapers are made of an inner layer and a waterproof outer layer. There is an opening in the front or back of the diaper to stuff an absorbent insert. Pocket diapers are extremely customizable when it comes to absorbancy and fit. Many people choose one size options, but most brands have sized available for those who want a trimmer fit or need a larger size for older children. Each time a pocket diaper is used, you change the entire diaper and wash it, insert and all. You should not re-stuff a pocket with a dry insert.

All-in-Ones (AIOs)

Everything is built together in an AIO diaper. The inner, outer and absorbent layers are all sewn together so there are no pockets to stuff or extra covers needed. All in Ones are the most similar to a disposable diaper. With an AIO, you take off and wash the entire diaper each time your baby uses it.

Hybrid Diapers or All-in-Twos (AI2s)

Very similar to AIOs, except the absorbent insert snaps or lays in the outer shell of the diaper. These are a great economical choice because the outer shell can be reused throughout the day by just changing the insert. They are quickly becoming one of the most popular choices for parents looking for an economical, yet convenient way to cloth diaper. 

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