Cloth Diapering Basics
Most parents do not rinse poop off cloth diapers before washing them. Simply put the soiled diapers directly into a wet bag or diaper pail. The washing machine will clean the diapers.
Cost Comparison
Using cloth diapers can save over $2,000 compared to disposables. You need an initial investment though. Used cloth diapers provide the best value.
Environmental Impact
Are cloth diapers more environmentally friendly if you use a service? Services tend to use less water and eco-friendly detergents than home washing. Less waste also ends up in landfills compared to disposables.
Cloth Diaper Considerations
- Disadvantages of cloth diapers: More laundry, not accepted at daycares, need changing more often, must carry soiled diapers when out.
- How much detergent do cloth diapers use? Most parents spend under $5 a month on detergent. At the high end, $180 total from birth through potty training. Still far less than disposable costs.
- How many cloth diaper inserts are needed? For newborns, 24-36 inserts. For older infants, 14-24. Based on changing every 2 hours.
- Can babies get UTIs from cloth diapers? No evidence shows UTIs are more likely with cloth diapers.
- How many cloth diapers are recommended? 24 cloth diapers is the minimum recommended for full-time use. Newborns may go through 8-10 per day.
- What saves more money, cloth diapers or wipes? Homemade wipes save money but not as much as cloth diapers can. Diapers cost more overall.
- Which is better, TPU or PUL for diapers? TPU adheres polyurethane to fabric with heat, avoiding chemicals. It may have a better feel compared to PUL.
Additional Insights
Do you need to rinse newborn breastfed poop? Yes. Must be cleaned off diapers before going into the pail, despite runny consistency.
Do cloth diapers help potty train? Yes. Cloth diapers develop awareness because babies feel wetness. Disposables wick moisture away longer.