The Do's and Don't of Cloth Diapers

1. Do try different diaper systems to find the right one to fit your lifestyle.

Explore different systems and try them out.You may find that you like different styles of diapers for different ages or one for outings and others for staying in.Remember everyone is different and just because something works for someone else doesn't mean it has to work for you.

2. Do ask other Moms what works for them.

Ask around and find out with works for others.What do other Moms feel is the most comfortable for their baby?What the easiest system to care for?Which diapers do Dad's or other caregivers find easy to use?

3. Do use a baby friendly detergent.

To get the best results in cloth diapering you'll want to have a detergent that will work with your diapers so you can get the best out of them.The rule is to find a detergent which is free from dyes, bleach, perfumes, enzymes, fabric softeners or other brighteners.

4. Do an extra rinse on your diapers to get any left over soap out of the diapers.

Build up from detergents with additives can effect the performance of your diapers and could even lead to diaper rash.Be sure to do an extra rinse when washing your diapers and make sure your rinse water runs completely clear of suds.

5. Do buy diapers to give you a least 6 diapers changes a day.

You'll want to have enough diapers on hand to be able to really make cloth diapering worth while.If you exclusively cloth diaper we recommend a minimum of 12 diapers to 24 diapers but don't feel overwhelmed that you have to decided everything you're going to use up front.Keep trying new systems and add diapers to your collections as you try different styles and types.There always fun new colors to try too.

6. Do feel good about your decision to cloth diaper.You are doing something great for your baby the environment and yourself.

Give yourself a pat on the back.You are making a difference that counts!

7. Don't believe when others tell you cloth diapers are unhygienic.

When cloth diapers are washed and rinsed properly in hot water they are the most hygienic system available for diapering.

8. Don't add too much detergent to your wash.

Cloth diapers wash clean with a surprisingly small amount of detergent.Use only 1/4th of the recommended detergent for a full load of cloth diapers.If you use too much detergent is could cause a residue on the diapers after washing would can lead to build up in the diapers which could cause diaper rashes, odors or leaky diapers.

9. Don't use diaper rash cream unless recommended by a doctor.

Choosing cloth diapers is already your first step in helping to eliminating diaper rash.We would encourage you to only use diaper ointment by your doctor recommendation.Be sure to have a barrier between your baby and the diaper to protect the diaper from the negative water repelling properties found in diaper rash ointments.

10. Don't use fabric softener.

Fabric softeners coat the diaper with a non-absorbent film that will repel moisture.