Why should I use cloth nappies?

[MammaMia]

Okay .. I'm asking the question and will listen with open ears.

Tell me the pros and the cons.

Until I saw this website, I thought cloth nappies were the towel squares folded up etc. Frankly, not my thing.

But the passion in you cloth obsessed women makes me at least ask the question...

Can I point out that time is limited for me and the idea of endless washing doesn't appeal to me? And the thought of scrubbing out poo doesn't do it either.

So, I may not be an easy sell.

But fire away!

I'm interested!

[veve]

hmm ok .. there is a really long list - I just say a few things now and comment again throughout the thread :D

- cloth looks better.. (bums in all different colours and textures :D)

- cloth feels better (for mum and bub- sooo soft :) )

- cloth DOESN"T involve endless washing... I wash maybe every second day?? and the modern fitted nappies dont require fiddley folding - so really there is little effort?

- use of a microfleece insert keeps bubs bottom dry and helps with poo cleaning (you only have to rinse the fleece- not the whole nappy)

hmmm thats all I have for now... I'm sure more will occur to me as I go!!

:hugs:

xx

[the_queen]

(I'm awaiting bubs' arrival so I can become a full-fledged cloth user....)

For me it's mostly about COST. Disposable nappies can cost approx $1000 per year. For each child. So far I've spent maybe $100 on cloth and I will buy a bulk pack once bubs is here at a cost of about $600. And that will be it, for the whole time my little prince is in nappies. And if I can look after them well enough, they may even do for child #3 !!! No more soaking means no Napisan every week. I might have to start buying a 2kg washing powder every fortnight, instead of 1kg - so that means a few extra dollars a fortnight, but pfft that's nothing. Compared to $40 for a box of Huggies each fortnight??

And it's not just monetary cost. It's the environmental cost too. I'm doing my part by not contributing to the mountains and mountains of rubbish that humans produce every day.

As for the washing aspect - well, I don't know about everyone else, but in order for me to keep up-to-date with our washing, I have to wash at least one load every day anyway. And, in the words of my wise old Granny, "You have an AUTOMATIC washing machine, don't you?? And an ELECTRIC CLOTHES DRYER??" It's not like I'm dragging these nappies to the river and beating them against a rock.... It's a case of chuck 'em in, add the powder, pull the button, walk away. :thumbsup:

[aardvark]

I'm using old fashioned flat nappies which need folding, with a disposable (biodegradable) liner. The folding doesn't bother me (or DH, who folds them while he watches TV mostly).

I simply put them in a sealed bucket, and wash when the nappy pile is running lowish - about every 3-4 days, as I have heaps of nappies. I bought an extra dozen because I was running low before my washing machine was completely full.

I'm not using napisan, and I just use a very hot wash in my machine - no stains, and no nappy rash, and hardly any cost, either.

[sopolicha]

Like most things in my life I started using them out of sheer curiosity.

I wondered what all these people were going on about. Surely cloth nappies can not be that exciting. Well I was surprised. For some unexplainable reason they are exciting (maybe that says more about my life than anything else) and I don't know why.

Now I prefer them over disposables. For me the pros are,

Your baby has a bigger bum so is easier to hang onto.
Another reason to spend money over the internet.
Something else to look at on the internet.
Mother/daughter bonding. My big girl helps to fold them and put the liners in.
No stinky bin. Even if you flush poo disposable still stink.
Makes you feel smug.
Nice to look at when they are all hanging on the washing line.
No nappy rash.

The only bad things are,

Must remember to take the wet ones out of the nappy bag when I get home, not at a later time.
My husband struggles with them, but I think that is only because of his sausaged fingers.

[lukaelmo]

Makes you feel smug.


Mammiamia, in my humble opinion, this reason alone is good enough for you to switch :laughing: .

[H&B'sMum]

I think the question you could ask youself is "Why should I use disposibles?"

Disposibles are awful for the environment we all know that yet they are still used and used and people think they are great.

Look at modern cloth nappies:

They are environmentally sound. They do not pollute our waterways or landfill. They will not take 500 year to decompose and people at the garbage places will not have to sort through all your child's pooy nappies.

They are cost effective. Although the set up may seem high, you have to remember it's only a one off costings. You will not be spending all that money over a period of time that your child will be in nappies. Once you have you stach set up you may only buy a nappy that you really like may be once a month or not even that. You won't have to remember to buy nappies every week and won't have to make a late night run to the store to get more.

They come in a varitey of styles. We have all heard of mums having to change brands of nappies and wasting a full packet of disgustables just because they leaked. Well with cloth nappies you only have to buy one nappy and work out if it suits your bub or not. If it does then you can buy more, if not you can sell it (most have good resale value) re-coop your money and buy a different type until you find the one you like.

No more running out. If you do run out you'll only have to walk to your laundry to get some more not have to get in teh car, drive down to the shops spend MORE money and buy some.

They just look cute, have a search through the other threads and you will find some sites that have the most cutesrts nappies ever. They look so good on a baby's bottom and certainly get people talking. Try not to be put off by the price as you are paying for something that will last years and has been hand made by WAHP (Work At Home Parents) alot of these parents just love making nappies and the customer service is second to none. Most WAHP have bulk or trail packeages that you can get to see if you like there product and then buy in bulk, very easy.

Have a look through the other threads on here as there is some great advice given about differing nappies and what works.

Good luck and welcome to the addication of modern cloth nappies!!!!!

[Mor]

You have all made me smile! :D I have had a stressful weekend, but you have all reminded me why I am so passionate about cloth and why we want to share the love of them!

Cloth nappies are so much fun. They are easy, they don't make me feel guilty, they are so cute, so soft, I never have to run down to the shops to buy any because i have run out, I am in control of the choices i have made, I have saved a fortune (though possibly spent more than necessary, being an addiction and all!), I love being able to make parts of the system we use (I knit the covers - great sense of satisfaction!); I know that they will mostly biodegrade, that I am using healthy and eco-sensitive fabrics, that I am supporting local businesses and mums, that we are part of a revolution in nappying! I love that I feel empowered to walk past all the packets of disposable nappies, that I can turn away from disposable commercials, that I'm not just doing what I think is the only option...

I apprecaite that it's not for everyone, but I want everyone to be able to make a well informed choice... which is one of the motivating factors for Real Nappy Week... to get the word out there in a non commercial, non baised manner! We want to share the love!

Cloth nappies make me feel good - maybe i am being selfish, but I know that they aren't doing my family, community or the environment any bad.

Please come to a Real Nappy Week event (follow the link in my sig for more info) and talk to more people like me. there are some wonderful, supportive, fun cloth nappy using communities around, and the people in them are so normal (ie. not just tree huggers! LOL) that you will feel right at home.

Lucy

[Spewiesmum]

I grew up in cloth as did my brothers (and I'm sure most of Bub Hub members did as well). It seems a nice 'traditional' thing for a baby to experience.

We use mainly hemp fitted nappies and the flat terry squares. We do use Huggies if we are out shopping for a day or maybe go to dinner. We are going to try the Nature Boy nappies next time . Short expeditions out of the house are generally cloth ones. We purchased a box of 90 Huggies about 1.5 months ago and still aren't halfway through them.

Cost is a major factor. The initial outlay seems enormous because it was all at once, but all our nappies will be able to be used from NB to toddler.

The Little Squirt is fantastic - I'm a little unco using the old flushing method!

Washing involves emptying the nappy bucket into the machine every second night, starting the machine and doing something else for 30 or 40 minutes. Five minutes to hang them out at night and they come inside at some stage the next day.

We did initially use disposables, but always had the intention of using cloth when DS was a little bigger (the nappies swamped him until we discovered the fitted ones). I remember looking into the nappy bin one day and being appaled at the amount of disposables. From then on the disposables were for outings only. Even on a recent weekend away we took the nappy bucket and had nappies drying on our unit balcony. Probably not something holiday makers would see too often!

Cons - clothing manufacturers designing clothes for disposable-clad kids. But DS makes a cute "Oompa Loompa" regardless.

[reAllytee]

Im so excited that we are converting more & more !!!!
YAYAYAYAYYAYAYAYAYAYA !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1 :smiliedance:

Man this is so great !

Anyways i sooooo have to agree with sopolicha !
I too gave them a go out of curiosity & because i thought well all our mums used to do it so it cant be that hard right but mainly due to the money side of things !
Seriously if it was hard to cope with the poos i wouldnt still be using them LOL im a basket case i hate mess dirt & the likes let alone cleaning of poo.

Ok see im getting so excited here now i failed to remember i actually had a child & he is currently calling numbers on our phone while playing with my sunglasses LOL !!! Ok child now on lap so bear with me here !

The initial outlay was a killer for us as we chose to go for the modern nappies & bought Greens Kids. I only got a couple to begin with to see how we went but i now have enough for 2 days ! I wash them either of a morning or a nite & they are dry in a few hours no problems ! I dont soak i use the dry pailing system which basically means dirty nappies go into empty bucket poo is emptied into toilet when changed it rolls straight off ( bf babies are a little different though ) then once bucket is full they are thrown in for a wash we had an explosive poo the other week as bubs is teething again & it meant i changed him went straight to the laundry tub once i got the main poo off into the toilet & rinsed it off. The other option is to do a rinse cycle before you do your full wash to make sure all remenants are gone ive done this also with no probs !
Seriously its not that hard for me i stressed about this especially as i figured there was no way id be able to do it if i had another full on newborn baby but all it means is that im doing an extra load of washing when i do clothes etc every second day anyways so its no big deal !
Even bubs loves them more ! Not only does he like playing with them LOL but he whinges if i go to put a disposable on now ( i forgot to wash my hemp for nite LOL :cool: ) he loves his cloth duds & so does his dad !!!!!!
Daddy now even scouts ebay for bargains !!!!! Its hilarious heheheh :yelclap:
We have just recently invested in some eenees off ebay & they are also great only one accident so far & thats cause bubs slept longer than i expected after a bottle.
Anyways i could go on & on & on etc LOL but i wont hehehe.
Especially as i let bubs down & he has now found his favourite thing ..... the tissue box & i dont think we need redecorating just yet :p

[vespertine]

What everyone else has said! Honestly, I'd feel sick using disposables, they take many many years to break down, create so much landfill, and to me- plastic on a beautiful baby's bottom just looks wrong.

Nappies don't need to be soaked. You can get a little jet hose that you attach to your toilet and use that to pressure-spray the poo off the liner into the loo. It's called a 'Little Squirt'- look on ebay. Then chuck em in a bucket. You only need to wash every 2-3 days, no biggie.

Modern cloth naps are gorgeous- lots of prints and colours. They're soft, and don't contain chemical gels. They save heaps of money- you can get naps that grow with your baby. You can use them for future children too. If you want to re-sell them 2nd hand, you'll usually get at least 1/2 your money back. They look so bright and cheerful hanging on the line. Just get some polar fleece from Spotlight and cut up some rectangles to make liners. Poo comes off polar fleece easily, and keeps baby's bottom comfy and dry.

I don't get why everyone doesn't use cloth. They're great!

[MammaMia]

But I am still confused?

What would I need to buy?

Are the all in ones a good idea? Or do I buy the nappy & a cover?

And what about these inserts?

Can someone please explain the very basics to me....

is there an insert in every nappy that I pull out to wash and then put a new insert back on with the same cover? Or does the whole thing get changed with every nappy change?

And what is this pocket deal?

And is there a one size option?

And how many should I get?

And does anyone recommend a particular supplier?

And how much is a reasonable price?

Please help me become smug like Sopolicha!:D

[cosmic]

Mammamia, it can be confusing when you get started.. I'll try to give a little rundown but it might be easier for you to have a look at some actual nappies so I'll put in some links.

Pockets have a fleece inner and usually a PUL outer with a 'pocket' in between for you to stuff in your absorbent material. So they are quick drying and very versatile (just stuff more for more absorbency or overnight etc). You can use hemp or microfibre boosters or just a terry flat folded up. And because of how they are made, you don't need an extra liner or cover. :thumbsup:

Fitteds are simply that - fitted nappies made from several layers of absorbent material and usually include a snap in booster. They are a bit slower drying and you might like to use a fleece liner (cut up from spotlight as someone else said) and you'll need a cover (PUL, fleece or wool are all options - no yucky PVC pilchers though!).

All-in-ones (AIOs) are fitteds with a waterproof outer - so you need no cover on them.

Many are designed to be one size fits all and some you have to buy different sizes as they grow. There are LOADS of brands to choose from so this list is by no means definitive but it certainly gives a good idea of the range of what is out there.

www.babybeehinds.com.au (very popular!)
www.cleverpants.com.au
www.theweewuns.au.com (particularly check out the pockets)
www.cherubskiss.com (Work at Home mum.. there are many others)

Have fun. My reasons are the same as everyone else's. My baby isn't even here yet and I'm already an addict! :p

[cosmic]

oh.. and to answer a few of your questions that I missed: You can get cheap ones on EBay but around $20-$25 is fairly standard for a nappy.

You can get away with just a couple of covers, but with pockets and fitteds, you need to change the whole thing (nappy and inserts etc) at each nappy change.

Without having actually used them yet, I tend to think pockets are probably a bit better for drying and for getting all the bits clean. I worry about fitteds taking a while to dry and getting stinky with all the inner layers of fabric soaking up wee (but that's my imagination.. I haven't used them!). Having said that, I LOVE the look of Tots Bots.. and they are sooo soft. I can't wait to use them! (www.cleverpants.com.au) I haven't heard good things about AIO's. I think they take too long to dry.

And I think if you want to wash every second day, you probably need about 20 nappies..?? Someone more experienced will tell you for sure, but I'm counting on 10 nappies per day for a newbie. I guess it might be less as they get older.

[veve]

awww I love passionate people :D - oh.. and sopolicha,. you are right about feeling smug (it comes from inner pride I think??).. AND the big bum thing.. soooo cute!!! :smiliedance:

the only other link I would add is www.greennappies.com they have BRILLIANT pocket nappies... that are available in plain and printed - they have a diagram and description too for newbies :)

xx

[MammaMia]

Appreciate the feedback.

I'm looking at the different sites, have spoken to DH and am trying to make decisions re what to purchase.....

too many to choose from!

[MammaMia]

I've purchased 10 initially - from the Green people and the Bee people.

Have no idea of how many I will need but figured I would need to start somewhere.

I really loved the designs of Cherubs Kiss - but was confused about whether the really cute ones needed covers as well. Had the same confusion with the Erica ones (I'm in love with them) on the WeeWuns site. Seems a shame to cover them!

And I also wanted some one size ones rather than different sizes.

One more pesky question: is it the case that some of them are a single wee nappy whilst some will take a few wees between changes more like the disposable idea?

[reAllytee]

With my Greens they last me about 3 to 4hrs with just a microfibre insert & bubs is a heavy wetter for overnite i use a microfibre insert wrapped in a hemp insert unless im using my prefold that is 8 layers.
So they can take a little & every bub is different but you will get more out of them using say a hemp insert as they loooove to suck up all the moisture !
It will be a case of trial & error to begin with but you will soon work it out & whats best & you will be up & running !

[veve]

I've purchased 10 initially - from the Green people and the Bee people.
:laughing: - ok ... the next question is do you have things to stuff them with ?? washers will do initially.. but we now will need to talk hemp and microfibre!!!


I really loved the designs of Cherubs Kiss - but was confused about whether the really cute ones needed covers as well.

ok - cherubs kiss.. the honey boys aios obviously dont need a cover (they are plain fleece on the outside) - but they are a really good nappy .. Jack has fully tested their wee capacity and it passed with flying colours.. the cuter ones (printed) do need a cover (I haven't bought one for that reason.. I hate covering cute patterns!!! ) although when we are home we use terries without a cover... lets the air circulate a bit better around his skin...

And I also wanted some one size ones rather than different sizes.

me too... which is why I mainly have greens... cherubs... and bees.. (I have been told that the medium honeyboy - from cherubs kiss - will last until Jack is about 2!!)

One more pesky question: is it the case that some of them are a single wee nappy whilst some will take a few wees between changes more like the disposable idea?

really depends on how picky you are about changing the baby - if they are PUL (like the greens are) they will definately last more than one wee.. if properly stuffed.. I have let Jack sleep in a greens - with no leaks..

if you line the nappy with a piece of microfleece it keeps bubs dry (I find I dont have to line my green pockets though) - Jacks skin is rarely damp - even if left for a long sleep..

xx
Jen

[kacey]

Hey!
Just wanted to drop in and say thanks for this thread. 20 weeks pg and really want to do the cloth thing. I'm thinking of going disposables if we're going out for longer than one nappy change. The thought of carrying about more than one stinky wet nappy is a bit yuk. What are your experiences?

My DH is fully supportive if I want to do cloth as we have both been grossed out by a male friend who has dirty disposables sitting all over his house. I figure if he was using cloth he'd have to pick them up and wash them or there'd be a bare bum soon enough. And, gosh, I have little enough room in my tiny green bin at the end of the week anyway, how would I fit more in?!?

A friend has offered to pay for one month of nappy service as a gift, worth about $120, but I'm thinking of asking her to buy cloth nappies instead to help towards the big initial outlay, instead of the short-term help of the nappy service. What do you think?

I'm thinking of finding a type of nappy I'm happy with and buying it in small lots, like I'm doing with all the baby stuff. Are there physical shops which sell these? I want to touch and look, not just look on websites (although they are helpful) to figure out the huge variety.

Ladies, tell me more about hemp liners! (What, where, when, how). And what are these 'pockets'? More specifically, what do you stuff them with? Do you have to stuff them all the time, or only for sleep? Or do you stuff them with different amounts of 'stuffing' depending on circumstances?

Does anyone still use big old terry squares anymore? Pros and cons compared to fitted? Only thing I know is they dry faster.

Sorry for posting an essay. I just really want to know.

I can't wait to see my baby with a great big green or orange bum! CUTE!

[veve]

The thought of carrying about more than one stinky wet nappy is a bit yuk. What are your experiences?
when clothies go out they take a wet bag ... it is usually made of PUL fabric.. with a cord or zip - it keeps the smells in (especially if a few drops of essential oil has been added)- and keeps the wetness contained... (I use to use sposies when I went out - but I just hate the feel too much now)

And, gosh, I have little enough room in my tiny green bin at the end of the week anyway, how would I fit more in?!?
ROFL - a very valid point...

A friend has offered to pay for one month of nappy service as a gift, worth about $120, but I'm thinking of asking her to buy cloth nappies instead to help towards the big initial outlay, instead of the short-term help of the nappy service. What do you think?

:smiliedance: oh my gosh oh my gosh!!!!! spending someone ELSEs money on nappies... oh hold me BACK... such a dream come true!!!! :smiliedance: how exciting... yes... use her money to buy some cool modern fitted nappies!!!!!!

Are there physical shops which sell these? I want to touch and look, not just look on websites (although they are helpful) to figure out the huge variety.

I was the same - check out the 'real nappy week' coming up in April - there will be gatherings of nappy lovers and you should be able to check out the range available - at least in your state. They are mainly made by WAHMs - who use the internet to sell nappies as fast as they can sew them!!!

Ladies, tell me more about hemp liners! (What, where, when, how). And what are these 'pockets'? More specifically, what do you stuff them with? Do you have to stuff them all the time, or only for sleep? Or do you stuff them with different amounts of 'stuffing' depending on circumstances?

yes - you stuff differently depending on the circumstances - I definately stuff more for nighttime sleeps.. I use microfibre (very absorbant... cant be against bub's skin due to its drying powers... but awesome in a nappy) - microfibre is a FAST absorber... hemp is a slow absorber - so together they work well .

Hemp inserts can pretty much be bought from anywhere you buy pocket nappies- check out the websites (click on inserts or stuffers) - for a simple picture of a pocket go to www.greennappies.com it is a nice simple diagram.

Does anyone still use big old terry squares anymore? Pros and cons compared to fitted? Only thing I know is they dry faster.

hmm no ... green pockets actually dry faster than terries - but the hemp is the slow dryer (mine usually ends up spending 10 final minutes in the dryer- I'm not known for my patience!!) I use terries around the house - with a very funky bummis cover.. (it has frogs on it :D)

xxx

[reAllytee]

Ooh Oooh !
Another convert :smiliedance:

Could you imagine spending someone elses money on nappies :eek:
OMG !!!! Oh how i would looooooooooooooove that :D

Anyways i think veve has answered all your question because she is the answer master LOL !
A lot use a terry flat through the day with a cover then use the pockets to go out look at the websites already talked about for some great options !
I bought one of the Bummis cover with the froggies the other day got so excited i didnt realise it was for a size small HAHAHAHAHAH ! Oh wells im starting my collection for the next bubba ;)

[veve]

Anyways i think veve has answered all your question because she is the answer master LOL !

(ROFL) I dont think so allyoo!!! I'm still learning - it's a new addiction for me :) I'm just glad I discovered them before the birth of my first child - now I can buy more and more as I have more kids :laughing:


I bought one of the Bummis cover with the froggies the other day got so excited i didnt realise it was for a size small HAHAHAHAHAH ! Oh wells im starting my collection for the next bubba ;)

oh DEAR :( - have you used the bummis??? if you contact the site you got it from they might swap it????

xxx

[Mor]

Just wanted to drop in and say thanks for this thread. 20 weeks pg and really want to do the cloth thing.
YAY!!!
The thought of carrying about more than one stinky wet nappy is a bit yuk. What are your experiences?
I have no issuse with it. I often go out all day with several nappies in my car or bag and because I don't have the dirty nappies sitting on my head, I can't smell them! LOL! Seriously, if you do have a poo-ey nappy, you can flush like you might with disposables anyway, and just take home the nappy shell.
I'm thinking of asking her to buy cloth nappies instead to help towards the big initial outlay, instead of the short-term help of the nappy service. What do you think?
Different to Veve on this. we used the nappy wash service to start with and really appreciated it. I can't put my finger on exactly why, maybe the soft nappies, using as many as we needed without needing to wash - at such a high traffic time (LOL)... It was just great to have access to, and I had plenty of fitteds and terries on hand and a big boy to fit into them... I just liked having the service and will one day use it again for the first 6 weeks.
Are there physical shops which sell these? I want to touch and look, not just look on websites (although they are helpful) to figure out the huge variety.
Feel free to PM me and I might be able to link you up with someone who uses cloth in your area. Otherwise www.modernclothnappies.org (http://www.modernclothnappies.org) lists some of the Real Nappy Week events on in April that might help, and more will be listed sooner or later...

I don't have the time right at this minute to reply to your other Qs, but will see how you are going on getting answers later today! Good on you for going cloth though!

Lucy

[reAllytee]

veve - Your still quick & helpful with your answers & thats all that matters :D
Nah i got it off ebay LOL was trying to win the few the lady had up but due to a capped ADSL we only won the one ! :( But its ok at least i have that & a couple of newborn sized eenees for the next bubba :D Now i can at least use the " but we have pretty much everything for another cant we start trying yet " :devil6:

[cosmic]

I really loved the designs of Cherubs Kiss - but was confused about whether the really cute ones needed covers as well. Had the same confusion with the Erica ones (I'm in love with them) on the WeeWuns site. Seems a shame to cover them!

And I also wanted some one size ones rather than different sizes.

I totally agree about the not wanting to cover them! That's why I have tended to go for pockets with a lovely printed PUL outer (a WAHM makes them for me :)). I have one Ericas hemp blend which is adorable and I figure she can wear it around the house with no cover. It would be a shame to cover it!

I'm also with you on the one size thing - most of mine are OSFA (Baby Beehinds or those pockets I mentioned that the WAHM does for me.. unfortunately she's not selling them publicly yet but I will let you know when she is!).

By the way, I have found that pockets are really not very hard to make at all. Just a piece of PUL and a piece of fleece sewn together around the edges, with some elastic in the legs and velcro at the top and a wide enough opening for stuffing (easy peasy). There are patterns you can get online for FREE (www.nappycino.com) and I would highly recommend the gorgeous range of fleeces and PULs at www.nappiescovered.com.au. Check them out! Maybe you have a mum or MIL who is handy with the machine??...

[H&B'sMum]

You girls are all doing a great job answering the question. Now for my 2c worth.

YOu can buy microfibre cloths from Big W. They are in the cleaning section and are "Home Essentials microfibre cleaning cloths" you get 3 (yellow, white and green) in a packet for about $3.60ish. I started using these first while I slowly built up my hemp prefold stash. Every time I bought a nappy I would buy a hemp prefold as well. I then bought hemp material at Bubba Earth (http://www.bubbaearth.com.au/)

Gab has all different materials as well if you are interested in sewing your own.

It can be really confusing when you first start off, so my advice is go slow visit as many sites as you need to, search Google for any other sites and then really research what you want. Only buy a few to start off with until you find the ones that you like.

Good Luck

[cosmic]

oh great website, K! Another one to bookmark. :thumbsup:

[H&B'sMum]

I've got heaps more just Pm me if you want anymore sites C :thumbsup:

[kacey]

My head is spinning! (In a good way)
I have just spent the last 3 hours checking out those sites and more, writing my own notes about them so I can decide.

You girls crack me up! I AM thrilled to have somone else's money to spend! Hmmm, I'll think about which way to go with that... you all make good points.

I checked out the Real Nappy Week, will have to go see.

After all that reading I'm thinking along the lines of one-size pockets, with velcro tabs, which don't need a cover. Maybe some terry flats done with a jo fold for when bubs is tiny. With PUL covers. And use the terries for at home even when they're older. What do you think about the flats with a hemp panel on babybeehinds?

I don't think we need disposables after all your responses. And what about cloth wipes! What a good idea, saves buying millions of disposable wipes. I didn't even know half this stuff existed 3 hours ago, I thought it was still all terry flats and plastic pilchers. (I like terries, hate pilchers). Now I'm addicted! Aaaaargh! Someone run and warn my hubby! Lock down the bank account! Panic stations! :laughing:

You can make your own!?!? Oh my goodness! I'm in heaven!

I'm converted, there's no denying it! :p

[veve]

ROFL :laughing: welcome to the new addiction :D

if you are interested in nice covers. (more spensive then the cheap pilchers... but brilliant... and they not only look good but are comfy and fit WAY better) . check out the whispers at babybeehinds.. and the bummis at weewuns ...

I'll just check the sites and get the links for you ..

here are bbhinds covers - they are only in plain white now (used to be in colours) - but are soo soft www.babybeehinds.com.au/shop/products.php?cat=30

and here is the weewuns link www.theweewuns.au.com/store/

xxx
Jen

[sopolicha]

I have five of the small pink baby beehinds covers on ebay now!!!

[Oscar's mum]

I have five of the small pink baby beehinds covers on ebay now!!!


lol I didn't recognise the name! Duh I am bidding on them!

[the_queen]

oh sopolicha i THOUGHT that was you!!! :D

[sopolicha]

Original with my user names aren't I?

Ebay started before Charlotte.

[veve]

lol and I have the other one!:laughing:

OM... is yours white.. or another colour?? (I cant be bothered opening ebay to look...)

xxx

[H&B'sMum]

We all told you it was addictive. It's even worse when you have internet banking as you think "mmmm money in my account all I have to do it type in the numbers and I can buy it" Sooooooo many nappies that are sooooooo tempting.

If you think those covers are good check out these Baa Bums (http://baabum.com/)
Go to the gallery or the in action section. They are so good. She opened for 8 customs slots on Sunday night and got 30 people in 1 min wanting one.

I've got a custom slot with Rach at Wild Womabt woolies (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wildwombatwoolies/)
Of course I'm getting a wombat one. We are mad wombat lovers in this house and couldn't resist.

These are all wool covers that go over nappies. Have a look as wool is so good, cool in summer, warm in winter and allows the mositure to evaporate and doesn' smell. You only have to wash teh cover every few weeks or if it gets poo on it. So good for us lazy ones. So have a look and find something else to drool over and spend money one. You could also make your own to as I've been doing.

Have fun

[the_queen]

Karena - question about the wool covers. Are they waterproof? I mean, if bubs has a wet nappy, and sits on my lap/the couch/the carpet, will there be a wet patch? Obviously I try to change wet nappies straight away - but I'm not perfect!

I assume that it would be kinda waterproof, being that they're recommended for night-time usage. And that you said they don't need to be washed every day. I'm just a little confused. :D Thanks!

[BiNdI86]

Hi guys...sorry to barge in and ask a Q that isn't apart of this thread but seeing that you are all cloth experts.....

I tried cloth with DD and lasted three days!!:o One wee and she'd be soaked!! Then i'd change her and she'd wee again!!:eek:
Did I do something wrong i used flat towelling nappies and fluffy velcro pilchers:confused: but now reading this i want to try again when it's time to have no. 2 Thanks ladies!!

[H&B'sMum]

Queenie,
YOu need ot lanolise that cover. It's easy just get some of the lanosilo (sp?? the stuff for your boobs when breastfeeding) dissolve a pea size amount in some hot water, add cold water until luke warm, the leave the cover in it to soak. I usually leave it over night but for 1/2 hr or an hour is fine. Run it in a towel to get the excess water off and dry. It's now water proof for a good 4 weeks. You can also get spray lanolin but the lady has sold out of it and is waiting for a new order.

It's not recommended to use a wool cover for car trips or when in the pram as you can get compression leaks but just having bub on you lap you'll be fine. I use wool mainly at night as it's breathable and although the nappy is soaked underneath, Harry's PJ's and sheets are dry. It also allows the moisture to evaporate.

I really like wool and will slowly be replacing most of my PUL and fleece covers with wool. I will still use my other covers as we travel in the car alot and will need them for that but apart from those times I'm hoping to use wool majority of the time.

Hope you understand all this and if you have any other questions just ask!!!!!:)

Bindi to answer you question you need to get better covers that the fluffy's. I found that too, that after one wee it was going straight through. Change over to PUL, fleece or Wool covers and you'll be fine. You might want to also change your fold
For different folds try this site Nappy folds (http://www.thenappylady.co.uk/Advice/Instructions.asp?InstructionID=2)

Good luck

[kacey]

Hehehe! Just had a friend over who is due in October. Showed her all the stuff I've been looking at, she's hooked! :p

I saw some great woollen knitted covers on a couple of sites. Does anyone know where to get a pattern for these? I'd like to try my hand at knitting them.

Thanks for all the great info. :thumbsup:

[M O P]

I saw some great woollen knitted covers on a couple of sites. Does anyone know where to get a pattern for these? I'd like to try my hand at knitting them.

Thanks for all the great info. :thumbsup:

I was thinking exactly the same thing.
Tried to ring my mother before to get her to have a look so she could tell me if she had a pattern for something similar and if she could please knit me some.
I do have a gorgeous white knitted woolen cover I got from www.darlingsdownunder.com.au too.

[H&B'sMum]

There are free patterns. I don't have time at the moment to find them but if you go to nappycino.com.au and do a seach there will be heaps of info for you. I have bought a knitting pattern and it's so easy to do.
Have fun looking.

[kacey]

Cool bananas! Thanks Kazza and Harry's mum, I'll have a look.
Just showed DH all this stuff and he's keen on it too! Yay!
I feel like such a hippie! I'm totally not a left-wing, tree-hugging greenie, but I'm acting like one with this impending bundle of joy. :D

[BiNdI86]

I know this sounds silly...but what are PUL covers:confused:

[H&B'sMum]

PUL - Polyurethane Laminate. It's makes material waterproof.

[cosmic]

I feel like such a hippie! I'm totally not a left-wing, tree-hugging greenie, but I'm acting like one with this impending bundle of joy. :D
Kacey, I'm as mainstream as they come (oh, if you don't count my fascination with tarot, astrology, clairvoyance etc :rolleyes: ) but I know exactly what you mean. This baby is really bringing out the Earth-mother in me. :D

[reAllytee]

Karena !!!!
Do you realise what your doing to me ??????
Or should i say what your doing to Baz's bank balance LOL :eek:
Everytime i head near the computer he runs & hides his wallet im sure LOL !
We love wombats in this house too !
OMG I WANT ONE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ok im calm now .... Im so going to have to start knitting & get these ideas i have into action !

[H&B'sMum]

Ally, my wombat shorties are being knitted as I type. Will post a pic when I get them......My saving grace is that getting custom slots on some of the knitting sites are rarer than hens teeth. I was really lucky to get Rach's just happen to be on when they were realise. Aren't they beautiful works of art though.
Don't you know you don't need DH's wallet....that's what internet banking is for :laughing:

[MammaMia]

Can I just say that I am not the earth mother type either.... although I have discovered a love of beads, cheesecloth and wild curls... maybe I am becoming an earth mother goddess!

Since having baby # 2, maybe it's age, maybe it's her allergy .... but suddenly, I am much more conscious of what I am putting into our bodies and what is going on to them.

And I tend to read many of your posts...and saw that seemingly rational, modern women were using clothies (got the lingo down pat now;) ) and thought there must be something worth considering ...

so, Veve, can I ask in my most smug tone courtesy of Sopolicha, are you going to talk to me now about hemp and microfibre boosters etc??

I sit here, an open vessel, waiting to be annointed with the oil of clothie wisdom!:D

[veve]

so, Veve, can I ask in my most smug tone courtesy of Sopolicha, are you going to talk to me now about hemp and microfibre boosters etc??


ROFL :laughing: sure .. what ever you want to know :)

I guess I just wanted to say that if you want to use pockets (or boost any other nappy's absorbancy) you need hemp..

hmm ok .. microfibre is a FAST absorber... hemp is SLOW.. BUT microfibre doesn't always hang onto the moisture (it can be squeezed out e.g by sitting) - which is why we tend to combine the two.

Microfibre GRABS the wee.. and ensures that it doesn't run anywhere else... the hemp SLOWLY absorbs anything that runs out of the hemp..

gee I hope that is right :) that is my belief anyway. ..

I have 1 piece of hemp and 1 piece of microfibre per pocket nappy... I fold the hemp up..(he is a boy... he needs more absorbancy at the front) and then fold it INSIDE the microfibre.. which I fold into three... *really hard to describe... need pictures!!!*

does that make sense?? do any clothies do it any differently?? I would love to know ...

hmmm we need a smug smilie!!!!!
xxx

[H&B'sMum]

I also a combo of hemp and microfibre. I fold my microfibres into 3rds and the same with the hemp. When I stuff the pocket I put the microfibre closest to the top, ie from baby skin going down you have :baby's bottom, nappy layer, then inside nappy microfibre then hemp. Does that make sense. Like Jenny said the microfibre grabs the wee and the hemp soaks it up. Less leaks and more absorbant.

HTH

[reAllytee]

When i use the hemp & microfibre combo i have the inserts from Greens so i wrap the hemp around the microfibre.
I have also just bought some new hemp inserts which are quite small they fit into the eenees perfectly so are only about half the size of the microfibre. If we are going out & im unsure of making it to a change room in time i put one of these inserts ontop of the microfibre & last nite i did it this way with 2 of the hemp & it worked really well ! :smiliedance:
Otherwise if im just using the microfibre i keep one flat & then fold the second in half at the front as ive also got a heavy wetting boy ! This works well but it means bubs is really bulky at the front LOL.

[kacey]

Hey, just found some patterns for knitting covers. :smiliedance: Scroll down to where it says knitting patterns...

http://www.underthegooseberrybush.co.uk/index.php?act=viewDoc&docId=7

Hmmm, I think I'll get the old manual knitting machine off mum again and have a go... Nah, I'll do it with needles! :laughing:

Well, they look good, hope it helps some of you others.

[SJE]

From 0-10weeks old, I reakon just use disposables especially for the first bubs.

From then on maybe consider cloth?

I have moved to cloth.

I use fitted diaper covers that do up with velcro. (there is probably a better name for them but I am new to this)

Under this I use terry flats in a particular fold done up with a snapi and then the nappy liner.

The reason for the change is mainly cost.
I did the costings including things such as electricity and water.
The cheapest I could get my disposables is 23 cents

It came out as follows

Disposables per week $11.27
Cloth per week $2.75

I also got sick of the bin over flowing.

If you want any more info I am more than happy to assist. PM me if you like.:)

[Rainbowbrite]

Question for the clothies who use/knit knitted covers - what ply of wool & type would you recommend? I found a pattern here (http://community.livejournal.com/punk_knitters/110889.html) but it doest mention ply :confused:

Thanks

[H&B'sMum]

That looks like a good one RB have book marked it. When you go looking ofr wool you need to use 100% wool not acrylic. Have a look on the wrapping and it will give you gauge sizing. The pattern says 5 stitches to the inch so look for that. If not I would start with 8ply and see how that goes.

Remember always use 100%wool.

Check out this site for great wool, yes it's NZ but cheap postage and really GOOD quality
NZ wool (http://www.thewoolcompany.com/products/?c=5&pc=1&catname=Knitting%20Yarn)

Have fun knitting.

[M O P]

Thanks heaps everyone. Emailed the knitting patterns to my Mum.

Sorry this is really off topic but:

Harry's Mum I had a look at the NZ wool site, it's great like you said, and as an Aussie wool grower it's so embarrassing that we don't have anything that simple! I found a big display in the old Adel airport selling NZ wool to Australian and overseas tourists alike! How embarrassing is that, in the mean time the AWI, the people we pay a levy to to develop our wool, are busy trying to satisfy Italian designers with wool for $4000 suits! And there is nothing as simple as selling yarns on line!!

Once again I apologise for taking this thread way off track but it really annoys me and I just had to vent!

[jarrahsmumma]

The punk knitters pattern is great :thumbsup: Easy and fits well. The wool Company is great too. Nice wool, good service. When knitting wool covers normally the ply will be 8 or 10, but make sure you have at least 80% pure wool. If you use arcrylic it will leak like a seive and stink!:laughing: