So many people ask how to start cloth diapering.
We all know Nike’s tagline, right?
“Just Do It”
This can absolutely be applied to cloth diapers, but then what would I write about?
You can see my problem, huh?
I’m trying to re-train my brain to remember what’s it like to be a complete newbie.
That cloth-curious person.
That person that is on the fence about this decision.
The person that is spending way too much time researching a billion things all cloth diaper related and then being overwhelmed.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed keep reading.
I've broken down how to start cloth diapering into five easy steps!
How to Start Cloth Diapering Step 1
Determine WHY you are wanting to switch.
You probably already know the why if you’re reading this, but really think about the reasons.
Are you wanting to switch to cloth diapers for financial reasons? Environmental reasons? Cuteness factor? Sensitive Skin or allergies?
Determining WHY you want to switch to cloth diapers will help you with the HOW to start cloth diapering.
For example, if you’re on a strict budget it’s worth spending some time and effort checking to see if you qualify for cloth diaper assistance.
Or if you’re switching to cloth diapers for skin sensitivities you may need to opt for all natural materials-including wool.
These scenarios and more impact what you should spend time researching on and what you could forego.
Why is that important?
We can research out poor little souls out, but that may leave us feeling too overwhelmed to actually make decisions and when that happens it’s all too easy to quit before we start.
How to Start Cloth Diapering Step 2
Don’t settle on a system I know, you’ve researched your heart out and just KNOW that the cloth diapering system you picked out WILL work for you, your family, and your child.
I was confident too.
So were many, many other families before you.
While it’s true you can almost make any system or brand work for you in one way or another, but that may end up costing you a lot of leaks or even money to make them work for you.
It’s a pricey mistake that so many of us have made.
It’s easier to try out a few types of cloth before building your entire stash when starting you journey figuring out how to start cloth diapering.
I know you’re eager to start.
I know you just want to buy everything in one go, but just don’t do it.
How to Start Cloth Diapering Step 3
Remember the handy extras!
So you want to cloth diapering and you’ve managed to cart or purchase all of your cloth diapers.
First, congratulations! Fluff mail is the best mail.
Not so fast though. There are some extras which I probably should call essentials.
Extras such as diaper pail liners, wet bags, cloth wipes, cloth safe rash cream, and fasteners if you’re using flats/muslin diapers or prefolds.
While these things aren't ride or die necessary, they will definitely make your journey learning how to start cloth diapering much, much, much easier.
How to Start Cloth Diapering Step 4
Don’t overcomplicate it.
If you haven’t already read the blog on wash routines be sure to check that one out.
In the meantime, you should know that if the wash routine that you’ve researched sounds complicated or expensive back away.
It’s just going to lead to frustration, rashes, wasted money, and a host of other issues.
I know that everyone has their own way and the so-called “science experts” has convinced you of this, that, and the other.
It’s really important to listen to the cloth diaper manufacturers and retailers.
They’ve been washing cloth diapers since, well forever, and really know their stuff.
How to Start Cloth Diapering Step 5
Ask for Help!
Be confident, absolutely, but there is always something new to learn.
I mean that. I think when I was about 3 years into the cloth life I was really perplexed by this.
Cloth diapering is simple. How can you possibly take more than a few years to learn everything?
Welp, like most things, this knowledge is fluid and as new brands, materials, techniques, and whatnot come out we’re learning, evolving.
There isn’t one person who knows it all. Not even me! Don’t be afraid to ask any questions.
I mean that. Anything.
We all started somewhere.
It’s not a lack of intelligence or weakness to ask for help, a fit check, a wash routine evaluation, or why one cloth diaper worked for your friend, but not for you.
ASK!
I can't tell you the number of times I've been emailed by a veteran cloth user who held off asking for help for months and months.
We're always here to help newbies and veterans alike.
Conclusion - How to Switch from Disposable Diapers to Cloth Diapers
I hope these five steps helped to break it down and hopefully, took some of the pressure off how to start cloth diapering!
It’s literally, trial and error, or baptism by fire if you will.
You need to get your hands on some fluff and practice on stuffed animals if you must.
You got this. You really do.
Keep reading our blogs for tips and tricks! Most cloth diapering families who made the switch from disposable diapers are hoping to save money.
Some of the most economical cloth diapers on the market are made by Nicki’s Diapers!
The Nicki’s Diapers Brand has cute prints and solids and also offers the Buy One Give One Program!
Shop your mom-designed cloth diaper from Nicki's Diapers!
