| 
Cloth Diapers
By Erika Froese
Cloth diapering today is not what it used to be. New choices of materials
and high tech fabrics cause an increasing number of parents to reconsider
whether disposable diapers are the best choice for themselves, their
infants and the environment.
Cloth diapers fall into three basic categories:
- Flat, Prefolded or Contoured – These are the traditional
diapers that have been available for the past 40+ years. These diapers
are still on the market and have traditionally been the least expensive
way to diaper your child.
Flat diapers are simple square or rectangular pieces of fabric usually
made of birdseye or gauze cotton which is folded to suit the size.
These are then pinned or clipped to keep them in place. Prefolded
diapers have a few extra layers of fabric sewn into the center, making
them more absorbent where it's most needed. Contoured diapers also
have extra layers of fabric sewn to the center but are shaped like
an hourglass. This diapering style requires the use of a waterproof
cover over top of the cotton diaper to make the system waterproof.
- Fitted Diapers – These expand on the contoured style of diapers
by adding elastic to the leg and waist openings. This virtually eliminates
any chance of bowel movement leakage. Fitted diapers are usually made
of flannelette, but some use stretch knit cotton terry for added comfort
and absorbency. These diapers close using snaps or hook and loop closures
(Velcro) which eliminate the need for pins.
- All-In-One Diapers – These diapers combine the fitted cotton
diaper with the outer waterproof cover into one product. These are
the most convenient to use because the waterproof cover is attached
to the diaper, making cloth diapering a one step process.
This seems like the ideal alternative to disposable diapers. This
style of diaper is perfect for supplementing other cloth diapers when
convenience is a factor, such as a quick diaper change at the mall.
Outer Waterproof Covers
The first two styles of cloth diapers require a waterproof cover to
keep the baby's clothing and bedding dry. Diaper covers are available
in a number of different fabrics depending on your budget and preferences.
The covers found in department or drug stores are usually made of plastic,
are lower priced, and don't last as long as the new high tech fabrics.
Some parents prefer wool covers, which have a natural water resistance.
These are very breathable and can be good for children with very sensitive
skin, but moisture does penetrate because they are only water "resistant".
Both of these styles pull up over top of the cloth diaper. Wool covers
are available with hook and loop (Velcro) closures.
Most common in modern diaper covers are fabrics such as polyester or
cotton bonded to a urethane laminate. This creates a waterproof barrier
while giving the baby the feel of a cotton diaper cover. Knit polyester
covers are the most durable and easiest to maintain of the high tech
styles on the market. Modern covers usually wrap around the diaper and
close using hook and loop (Velcro) or snap closures.
Absorbent Liners
Absorbent liners are made of many layers of cotton and can be added
to a diaper to lend additional absorbency. They would typically be used
during naps, overnight, or when going out for a few hours.
Flushable Liners
Flushable liners are an optional accessory in cloth diapering. They
are placed on the cloth diaper and allow for a quick clean-up when the
diaper is soiled. These liners are lightweight and can be flushed down
the toilet. Please note that they may not be appropriate for use with
all septic systems.
Soft Cloth Wipes
Soft cloth wipes are available from most manufacturers. These usually
come in a very handy size made of flannelette or knit terry and are
chemical free. A thermos with warm water at the changing station is
a very handy idea for moistening the cloth during cleanups.
Why Do Parents Choose Cloth
1. Parents wanting to use cloth diapers have a genuine concern for
the health of their children. They no longer trust the chemical laden
disposable with their absorbents and perfumes.
2. Environmental issues which are always making the headlines, motivate
some parents to absolutely refuse to use disposables. Some even cart
their trusty cloth diapers with them onto airplanes and into hotel rooms.
3. Cloth diapers are far less expensive than the weekly purchase of
disposables over a two to three year period.
Erika Froese, co-owner of Mother-ease Cotton Diapers,
is the designer of the Mother-ease style of elasticized, knit cotton
terry diapers and diaper covers. |
