So I admit, I cheated last night. No I didn’t break the rules. I still am using flats, but I had to use my normal night routine diapers last night. Per the Rules of the flats challenge, made by Dirty Diaper Laundry: 1 night time diaper per night of your choice although you are asked to make flats work for you (this diaper must also be handwashed). Flats work for us, I used them before the challenge, but they are STILL drying. I have squeezed til no more water comes out. Even an iron will not help with how wet they still are.

But this is a challenge.

chal·lenge  (chlnj)

n.

1. a. A call to engage in a contest, fight, or competition: a challenge to a duel.

b. An act or statement of defiance; a call to confrontation: a challenge to the government’s authority.

2. A demand for explanation or justification; a calling into question: a challenge to a theory.

3. A sentry’s call to an unknown party for proper identification.

4. A test of one’s abilities or resources in a demanding but stimulating undertaking: a career that offers a challenge.

5. A claim that a vote is invalid or that a voter is unqualified.

6. Law A formal objection to the inclusion of a prospective juror in a jury.

7. Immunology The induction or evaluation of an immune response in an organism by administration of a specific antigen to which it has been sensitized.

Nowhere in there did I find the word easy.

I bet there is a mama somewhere who feels just like me, BUT this is her life EVERYDAY, not just a week. So here is my way of telling myself to get over it. Suck it up. Move on. Finish the challenge.

 I will not quit.

-Callie

• 24 Ozocozy unbleached flats ($19 a dozen)=$38

There are much cheaper options that I mentioned yesterday. I use the unbleached cotton for day use. For my oldest, I have to double up, but for my youngest I only have to use one flat at a time.

•  4 Hemp babies flats ($8.45 each)= $33.80

These are FANTASTIC for nights! I have been using them now for a while pad folded in a cover. I use 2 for each kiddo at night.

•  6 Blueberry seconds covers ($9 each + $7 shipping)= $61

Blueberry is an amazing quality cover. I chose to use Blueberry because not only are they are my favorite cover, but provide great coverage around a wrapped flat or just pad folded into the cover. Typically, at home we go coverless, but put covers on for sleeping and leaving the house.

•  Rumparooz seconds wetbag ($5+$3 shipping)=$8

I actually bought this a while back, but it can also be used as a pail bag if needed and holds a wash load of diapers. This wetbag is HUGE!

• Snappi $3.95

This was actually FREE in my goodie bag from the Great Cloth Diaper Change.

•  Bucket and plunger $5

I am using this to make a “camp style washer.” You do not have to use it, but it is also my “pail” for dirty diapers. I wash the previous days used diapers and night diapers in the morning, so the diapers have the day to dry (esp for my night hemp flats).  After I wash my diapers, I pour a little soap in the bucket, fill it up with water, and add diapers I use during the day into it. Basically, a wet pail. I have found letting them soak in the water makes them easier to clean. If you choose, you can opt out of this as well, I actually prefer my tub and using my hands.

• Flannel wipes (18) $2

I made my wipes from 3 old receiving blankets I found at a resale shop for $.50-$.75 each. I cut them out and serged the edges.

• Wipe solution $FREE

The wipe solution I am using is some samples I also received at the Great Cloth Diaper Change, but you can use baby shampoo, baby wash, or just plain water. I like to add some soap to get a good clean and make sure the urine and poo is off the bum. My ultimate favorite wipe solution is Ruby Moon wipe bits. I use them daily, plus make a great bath soap too!

• ALL Free & Clear detergent

I am not including it in the price because it is a detergent I have on hand. Likewise, you could use any detergent you use on a daily basis.

Grand Total: ~$148

-Callie

That’s right. Erin is giving away 15 (FIFTEEN!) new Quinn print Rumparooz wetbags starting TODAY! The contest will go on for 15 days, and at the end of those 15 days Erin will choose 15 winners of wet bags using Rafflecopter.

Diaper Parties would like to also send out a CONGRATULATIONS to Kanga Care and Rumparooz for being awarded their Patent on their double gussets! Double gussets are found in the whole line of Rumparooz products. Rumparooz comes in either snaps or aplix in 12 different colors or 8 prints. Don’t forget to get a matching Rumparooz One Size Cloth Pocket Diaper to go with your wetbag! The RaR pocket diaper is 4 diapers sizes in ONE diaper. Everything you will need from birth (6 lbs) to potty training (35+ lbs) in one set of diapers. Each diaper comes with a thirsty 6r microfiber soaker. The soaker has 6 different settings for maximum absorption for a boy or girl.

 Here is a picture of my youngest at about 7-8lbs and my oldest when he was 2 and about 30lbs, both in a One Size Rumparooz.

Good Luck!

-Callie

 
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Flats are such an affordable, durable, workhorse of a diaper. There are so many options to use flats as well. You can use receiving blankets (we all know you got 9384982398472 of them when you had a baby shower), flour sack towels (cost usually about $1 each), old t-shirts, etc. The list is almost endless! I bet you can find most of these around you house (FREE, well sort of ), esp if you are a t-shirt junkie like me!  You can go find 100% cotton t-shirts and receiving blankets for 50 cents or cheaper at resale shops. I just love this method Diaper Diaper Laundry has of how to make a t-shirt flat.

Diapering your child does not have to be fancy. It is something your child is going to poo and pee in. Am I saying All-in-ones are horrible? Absolutely not, I think they are wonderful and a very cool modern diaper! I am just saying they are not in everyone’s price range at about $20+ for one diaper.

Stay tuned for tomorrow. I am going to give you a low down on my supplies and how I spent less than $150 to cloth diaper two boys

-Callie

Many parents are turning to China Cheapies. Are they cheap? Yes. Are they a GOOD option? No. Let me explain. Diapers need to be certified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission just like every other item sold in the United States. China Cheapies are NOT certified. So they can contain many chemicals (which is a goal of using cloth to keep those nasty chemicals away from bum), elements (such as lead), have not passed flammability testing, and many other tests that you can find here. There are many other reasons china cheapies are not a good option, and Dirty Diaper Laundry summed it nicely in ‘What Every Consumer Needs to Know.’

Diaper Parties offers such a cool, and affordable, package, called the Mystery Flats package. You have the option of sized covers that fit certain weight ranges or an one-size option that fits about 8-35lbs. Additionally, you have the option of the number of flats and covers you would like, with a starting price of $27.99.

I like to see proof, and my form of proof is numbers. I am a nerd.

China Cheapies cost about $4 a diaper. You need at least 24, I like 36, but I will show both numbers. Twenty-four diapers at $4 is $96, for 36 diapers $144. If you read forums, facebook groups, etc you will see a trend. Most of those who use these diapers complain about something breaking, cracks, delaminating, etc. But hey, for $4 a diaper who cares right? So let say half of your 24 do not work. You have to purchase 12 more for $48. You have now paid a total of $144, IF they work this time. So you are pumping out more money that you do not need to. They are sometimes are hard to resale. Why? Why do you need to spend $6-10 (including postage) for a diaper that you can buy for $4. Plus, it is technically illegal to do this since they are not certified either.

For the Mystery package, to get fully started with 6 one-size covers and 24 flats is $129.99. What does that price also include? QUALITY. WARRANTY. CUSTOMER SERVICE. Find any Diaper Parties consultant and they would LOVE to help you with any questions you might have. If something happens to your diapers, snap broke, something comes undone, etc, no problem, contact the manufacture and get it fixed or replaced! When you are done with the diapers, pass them along or sell them. Get some of that money back that you spent. Usually you can get about 60% of your money back for really good condition, which would be about $78. So you spent about $52 to cloth diaper your baby (or more if use them on more than one baby).

Stayed tuned this next week. I am going to show you how easy it is to use flats. I will be writing and making videos using 24 flats and 6 covers for TWO kiddos! I am participating in Dirty Diaper Laundry’s Flats Challenge, advocating that flats is still very much a viable cloth diapering option.

-Callie

I have gone through and found the washing instructions for all brands offered by Diaper Parties. They are listed in alphabetical order. Some have the directions have been copied and pasted (those that needed to be searched to find), while others I posted the direct link to the site of the manufacturer’s directions. I also have no idea why some brands are showing black, while others are blue, but all will link to Diaper Parties for that brand

Bamboo Baby

Care: machine wash and tumble dry. Bamboo Baby will stay luxuriously soft wash after wash.

Best Bottoms

We recommend washing every 2-3 days. We have found that the Best Bottom system washes beautifully as it takes up less space in your washing machine allowing more room for agitation getting your diapers super clean.

1. Remove solids
2. Reuse the shell until soiled or wash day. Separate shell from insert before washing. Fasten laundry tabs (if applicable).
3. Do a cold rinse or cold quick wash (no detergent).
4. Warm or hot (not sanitary) full wash with 3/4 to full amount of additive-free detergent. Use the most amount of water possible.
**Tip! Throw a soaking wet towel into your washing machine to “trick” it into using more water**
5. Extra rinse.
6. Inserts can be tumble dried. Shells should be line dried.
***No fabric softeners, dryer sheets or additives such as vinegar, baking soda, washing soda, borax, oxyclean, etc. should be used. Rash creams can only be used with a barrier between baby and the diaper. We know that additive-free detergents work and are least likely to cause any problems with your diapers. However, we have done extensive testing with Tide Original and know that it works with our diapers.

Blueberry/ Swaddlebees

http://www.swaddlebees.com/Return-Policy

Before using the diapers:  wash and dry your diaper once in hot or warm water prior to first use.  This causes the fibers to shrink, fluff up and become more absorbent.  It is not necessary to wash more than once before using the diaper for the first time.  The inserts will shrink and get thicker with the first few washes.  This shrinkage has been allowed for when designing the inserts.

If you bought several diapers, you may want to pre-wash one first as we can only refund on unused/unwashed products.

General Wash & Care: Keep your wet and dirty diapers in a diaper pail.  If you’ve stuffed the inserts inside the diaper, shake out the insert into your pail and throw the diaper in after changing your baby.

Because natural, organic and 100% cotton fibers tend to wear slightly more than conventional or synthetic fibers, a little extra care can extend the life of the diaper.

Wash your diapers in warm water on regular cycle.  Follow the recommended amount of detergent as stated on the soap’s packaging based on your load size.  Too much will leave residue causing your diapers to possibly stink, leak, or leave baby with a rash.  Too little will not leave your diapers clean and cause it to stink and/or leave baby with a rash.

An additional rinse can be used for particularly soiled loads. Make sure that your diapers are rinsed clean. Any residue from poop, urine, or detergent can make your diapers smell.  Tumble dry on warm or line dry.

Do not use fabric softener.  It will coat the diapers making them water repellent and reduce the absorbency of the diaper. Be aware that if you use dryer sheets in your dryer for other laundry this can coat your dryer and transfer to your diapers.

Do not use bleach.  This will cause the fabric’s fibers to break down.  It will also cause the waterproof layer of the diaper to de-laminate. Do not use baking soda or vinegar in your wash. These are unnecessary and may cause problems in your diapers.

Do not stretch the diaper while it is still warm.  Allowing the diaper to cool after taking it out of the dryer will extend the life of its elastic.

Do not use diaper rash creams without using a protective liner between your baby’s skin and the diaper.  Creams will leave a waxy residue on the fabric making them less absorbent, water repellent and may potentially cause leaks.  If you need to use a rash cream, you should use a stay-dry liner or a piece of fleece between your baby’s bottom and the diaper to prevent the cream from transferring onto the diapers.

Stain removal.  If staining occurs, it is important that any products used on the diapers and covers to remove the stains are mild so as not to irritate the baby’s skin and/or cause the diapers to prematurely deteriorate.  In most cases, laying the stained diapers out in the sun is the safest and most effective way of removing stains.

Bumgenius/ Econobum/ Flip/ Hemp Babies

• How do I wash my new diapers?

1. If the diaper has hook & loop closures, secure the laundry tabs.
2. Pre-wash cold to remove waste and fight stains.
3. Wash hot (100F/40C) with bumGenius detergent to cleanse your diapers.
4. Follow with a second rinse.
5. Line-dry covers and diaper shells. Tumble dry inserts, fitteds and prefolds.

Do you have any other washing tips?

• Wash dirty diapers every other day.
• If your diapers still stink, wash again.
• Remove solid waste before storing in pail. (A bumGenius diaper sprayer is wonderful!)
• Use only detergent and water. Do not use other additives like vinegar or baking soda.
• Once per month, use up to 1/4 cup bleach in the hot wash cycle (step 3) to sanitize diapers and fight odors.
• To remove stains, lay clean, wet diapers in the sun.

IMPORTANT NOTE: To preserve your hook and loop closures, we suggest washing bumGenius products separately from heavy cotton or hemp diapers (like prefolds or cotton fitteds).

• What detergent can I use?
  Ingredients in certain detergents may ruin your cloth diapers or cause your baby to have a diaper rash. When washing cloth diapers, always use a detergent free of perfumes, dyes, whiteners, brighteners, softeners, enzymes, or other fabric enhancers. Using too much detergent may cause cloth diapers to leak. When using detergents not made for cloth diapers, use 1/2 the amount of detergent suggested by the detergent manufacturer for a load of 18-24 diapers. We recommend bumGenius™ Detergent. A list of alternative detergents can be found at www.cottonbabies.com/clothdiaperdetergents.pdf

• What should I avoid?

• Do not use extra additives in your wash (like baking soda or vinegar). These ingredients are unnecessary and will cause problems in your diapers.
• Do not use fabric softeners.
• Do not boil your diapers.
• Do not use rash creams without a barrier between your baby’s bottom and the diaper.
• If your cloth diapers are made with hook and loop closures, do not wash them with natural fibers. Natural fibers produce lint that will build up in the diaper’s closures. This will shorten the lifespan of your closures.

Bummis

http://www.bummis.com/us/en/washing-cloth-diapers.php

Fuzzibunz

Q. Do I need to pre-wash my FuzziBunz® diapers?

A.  Be sure to try your diapers on your baby before washing or using them. If they fit, you should wash the diapers before use on your baby.

Q: How do I wash and care for my FuzziBunz® diapers and inserts?

A: FuzziBunz® diapers and inserts should be washed after each use. When removing a wet diaper from your baby, shake the insert out of the pocket opening and store both in a dry diaper pail till wash time (wash every 1 to 3 days—any longer and bacteria can breed in the diapers and inserts). Do not soak the diapers or inserts. If soiled, simply knock solids into toilet and/ or remove with a diaper sprayer. Small solids stuck to the fleece will dissolve in the wash. For more detailed washing instructions, please visit our washing and care page.

Q. What detergents are recommend?

A.  Start your wash routine with the correct detergent. It is worth it to invest in a detergent that is safe for pocket diapers (not to be confused with cloth diapers – cotton acts differently than polyester).

Top recommended brands include FuzziBunz Detergent, Rockin Green or Allens Naturally. More mainstream store brands would be Seventh Generation and Ecover. If you cannot find the above mentioned detergents, we recommend Tide Free or Arm & Hammer Free.

But beware of store brands – use only ¼ of the recommended amounts of mainstream detergents as many of them include a lot of wax, additives, brighteners, dyes and perfumes/scents.  This may cause buildup on the diapers, repelling of the diapers and may interact with urine and cause a foul odor.

Q. How much detergent should I use?

A. If using a mainstream, store-bought detergent, we recommend that you use only 1/4 of the amount you would normally use. If using a cloth diaper-specific detergent as we recommend,  use the amount indicated on the bottle.

Q. I have a front loader or High Efficiency washer. What detergent should I use?

A. Any pocket diaper washing detergent recommended above should be adequate, however only use 1/4 of the recommended amount for a front loader or HE washing machine. If there are too many suds, reduce your amount of water. If the diapers are not getting clean enough, increase your water.

Q. Should I use hot water to wash FuzziBunz®?

A. Yes, it is okay to use hot water to wash your FuzziBunz. However, keep in mind that you should dry your diapers on a low setting in your dryer.

Q: Can I use diaper rash ointments and creams on my baby if s/he is wearing a FuzziBunz®?

A. Diaper rash ointments cause diapers to repel and not function properly and can possibly ruin your FuzziBunz. Diapers affected by diaper rash ointments are not covered by our warranty.

If your baby is suffering with a rash, we recommend a powder or talc with cornstarch and zinc oxide in it. You can make a paste with water if you need a little extra staying power on the affected area. Change diapers often if a rash occurs to ensure clean and dry skin.

Q. Will my colors run if I wash them on hot?

A. It is always a good idea to wash your FuzziBunz diapers on cold the first time you wash them if you are concerned about the colors running, however this should not be an issue with FuzziBunz.

Q. Can I use vinegar in the wash?

A. Vinegar was originally used in cloth diapers to “soften” them up and possibly as a disinfectant many years ago. However, FuzziBunz do not need any further softening. Using effective detergents along with hot water will not require additional disinfecting. Using vinegar could cause a stink problem if any vinegar is left on the diapers and can also weaken the elastic when used repeatedly.

Q. Can I use Baking Soda in my wash?

A. If you wish to add some baking soda to the wash it will not hurt anything. It will not likely enhance your washing if you are using good detergent. Do not use it as a cleaning agent alone. It is safe to use it in your diaper pail bag or in the rinse cycle if you wish to add some odor control.

Q. Can I use Bleach?

A. You can use bleach on the INSERTS only. This will not hurt the inserts but we discourage using bleach. It is bad for fibers and bad for the environment. But if you run into a smelly insert problem you can either sun them, or bleach them with about a capful of bleach. It does not take much.

Q. How do I get stains out of my FuzziBunz®?

A. Stains can be caused by different foods, illnesses and medications. The good news is that stains do not affect the utility of your FuzziBunz®. To remove stains (if desired), we suggest laying them out in the sun for several hours at a time (several times for tough stains). Stains are not covered by our warranty. You can also add Oxiclean to the wash on a regular basis. Bleach may be used on the inserts only—please do not use bleach on the diapers, this will damage the waterproof layer.

Grovia

http://www.gro-via.com/qa.html

Happy Heinys

http://www.happyheinys.com/care-and-sizing/caring-for-happy-heinys-diapers

Kissaluvs

http://www.kissaluvs.com/care-instructions.php

Knickernappies

http://www.knickernappies.com/care_instructions.html

MonkeyFootDesigns

http://www.monkeyfootdesigns.com/faqs.php

OsoCozy

http://www.osocozy.com/wp/?page_id=70

Pink Daisy

Wash your Pink Daisy pads prior to first use.

Rinse or soak in cold water.  Hand or machine wash cold or warm cycle.  Line or tumble dry.

Do NOT use fabric softener.  It will coat the pads and make them water repellent thus reducing their absorbency.

Do NOT use bleach.  Bleach causes the fabric’s fibers to break down and will cause the waterproof layer to delaminate.

Stains.  If you have stains, try laying wet pads out in the sun to dry.  Alternatively, you can try an oxygen-based bleach.

Planet Wise

 http://www.planetwiseinc.com/static.php?page=warranty

Rumparooz

http://www.kanga-care.com/Wash-Care_ep_42-1.html

http://www.kanga-care.com/Cloth-Diaper-FAQ_ep_42-1.html#rec

Soft bums

• Never soak your shells (or if you do only soak them in water), never use vinegar or bleach and dont use the sanitize cycle if you have one. These things can severely degrade every part of your diaper, from the elastic to the fabric itself.Gentle care will prolong their life, sometimes by more than double.

•  Line dry your shells.  If you do use the dryer, never turn it up past medium heat unless youre doing the 15 minute sealing recommended when you first get your shells.  High heat in the dryer is the main reason for degraded velcro, and will also harm your bamboo Pods over time.  For best results, take the shells out halfway through the dryer cycle and let them air dry the rest of the way.  Because they contain no absorbent material, air drying wont take long and it will prevent a lot of wear and tear.
• If line drying your shells outside, arrange them with the inside facing outwards to minimize sun bleaching.  This isnt harmful to the diaper but it can fade your fabric!

• Prewash
  Always PREWASH your diapers and inserts before use. Depending on the material, the inserts/Pods may not reach full absorbency until they’ve been washed 3–10 times.
• Dry Shells on Hot
  After you prewash, make sure you dry your shell on HOT for 10 min to seal all sewing holes.

SoftBums warranties every item we sell against material or workmanship defects for 365 days from the date of purchase.  This covers product stitching, seams, elastics, and any of the products components including snaps, hook & loop closures, toggles and fabric.

This warranty does not cover leaking, odor issues, fading, staining, repelling, pilling, fuzzy loop closures or other normal wear and tear, and is applicable only to the original purchaser of the products.  Proof of purchase is required.

You are solely responsible for understanding how to care for the items you purchase.  We are not responsible for damage to an item caused by improper care, abuse, misuse, normal fading or normal wear and tear of the product materials.

This warranty is void when washing instructions have not been followed; bleach, fabric softeners, vinegar, oxy-clean, or any other caustic substances and laundry additives have been used; and when the diapers have been subject to water or drying temperatures above 140F.

Though this warranty does not cover leaking, we at SoftBums are ready to help you to be successful with your diapers.  If youre having problems with leaking please contact us at info@softbums.com.  We have many helpful tips, and can usually pinpoint one or two simple things you can do to eliminate leaking.

 We recommend Purex Free & Clear. Anything with oxygenating additives or whiteners will slowly ruin your diapers. Borax, vineger, softeners and bleach should NEVER be used. Baking soda in the first wash will help to de-odorize them, but you shouldn’t need it often.  Every once in a while, or if your diapers are stinky after washing, you may need to strip them. Wash 3–5 times in hot without detergent to strip diapers, the hotter the water the better job it will do. Also you might try soaking in the washer for a few hours or overnight if your diapers are getting stinky.

Sloomb

http://www.sloomb.com/questions/care/how-do-i-care-for-sustainablebabyish-cloth-diapers.html

 http://www.sloomb.com/questions/care/how-do-i-care-for-sustainablebabyish-wool.html

Thirsties

http://www.thirstiesbaby.com/customer-center/cloth-diaper-care/

Tots Bots

 Care and Washing Instructions

• Stretch Bamboozles are made of rayon from bamboo and will become fully absorbent after 10 hot water washes. That being said, they will be functional after 3 hot water washes.

• Easy Fits and Tini Fits can be pre-washed 3 times in hot water before the first use, but will be functional after 1 hot water wash.
• Dark colours (especially red) should be washed separately the first 3 times to prevent colour bleeding.
• When fastening a Tini Fit or Easy Fit diaper on your baby, be sure to get a snug fit. Compression helps minky fabric to absorb liquid more quickly.
• The Easy Fit and Tini Fit liners will agitate out of the pocket in the wash – it’s not necessary to unstuff them manually.
• Where applicable, use fold-back tabs to secure hook & loop fasteners before laundering; this will protect your diapers and other laundry from rogue attacks!
• For your regular routine, wash Easy Fits, Tini Fits and Stretch Bamboozles as you would any other cloth diaper. Check the tag on the diaper for care instructions. The recommended method: 60 degrees centigrade wash with a cloth-diaper-friendly detergent, tumble dry low heat or hang to dry.
• Do not soak.
• Do not use: chlorine bleach, whiteners or brighteners, fabric softeners, or baking soda.

The Tots Bots Guarantee

Tots Bots guarantees their products against defects in materials and manufacturing faults for a period of twelve months from the original date of purchase.

Definition of a fault: an unexpected deterioration in the product that will shorten the lifespan or performance of the product. Goods that are deemed to be faulty and that fall within the twelve month warranty period are eligible for replacement.

Please note that the warranty will only be honored if:

• The product has been washed and cared for according to the above guidelines and;
• The product is part of a rotation of products and has undergone reasonable use.

Products will not be replaced after twelve months or without a proper proof of purchase from an authorized retailer. The warranty is valid on original purchases only.

Please note that the warranty does not apply to products that are not functioning properly because of a build-up of detergent or urine residue, although we will do our utmost to co-operate with our customers in the resolution of this problem.

If products are returned for evaluation, the customer is responsible for postage costs.

-Callie

When my first born, Kaiden, was born, it was kinda crazy. I was a full time student, working 30+ hours, while my husband was working 40 hours a week and working on his MBA and a Master’s in management. Plus, I had to have an emergency, unplanned C-section. Baby wearing saved my sanity. With Kaiden I used a Moby wrap. The plus of a moby is that it is a “one size fits all” type of wrap. I had toxemia and gained 100+lbs when I was pregnant with him. I also gained some while I was in labor with him because my kidneys had started to shut down output. So over the 8 weeks after having him, my weight changed a lot. By the end of 8 weeks after post partum I weighed 10lbs more than my pre-pregnancy weight. The down side is I was a first time mama and wrapping. It can be kind of intimating. With lots of videos, I was determined to use it. I would tie it off on my back, because the knot from tying it off was not pushing on my scar, or if I knew I was going to be sitting, I would tie it to my side.

Here is my youngest, Kylor, wrapped up in a Moby. I could not find one.single.picture. of me wearing Kaiden as a newborn!

The next three, my friend let me borrow her newbie, Wyatt, to help model because my boys were too big for it )

Here is how I have the wrapped tied to the side if I needed to sit down. The knot is not near my scar and the wrap is not tight around it either.

With my second son, Kylor, was also a section. This time I wanted to try out the K’tan. This time, life was not as crazy, but now I was chasing after a 22 month old, so babywearing again saves the day . With the K’tan it is a sized baby carrier, and I personally think it is a better carrier for mamas who are new to babywearing. If purchasing a K’tan, the carrier needs to be sized down from your recommended size. With the K’tan, you just put the loops over your head, separate the loops and put your arms through. When the K’tan is wrapped around you neck, the bottom of the loop should be at belly button level. So there is no carrier near you section line. Also, you do not need the strap (actually the bag used to carry the carrier, turned sash) to wrap around until really the baby gets a little bigger.

This is me carrying both boys at the same time, Kaiden is in a Boba and Kylor in the K’tan.

Overall, I find stretchy wraps are best after sections than other carriers, but after 15lbs I recommend a woven wrap like the Wrapsody wraps or a soft structured carrier like the Boba. Diaper Parties also carries Boba wraps that are similar to the Moby. Up until 15lbs as well, it still gives your body time to heal before you have to “confine” the area.

Happy Babywearing!

**Sometimes C-sections happen. They just do. Please know they do NOT make you any less than a mother. I battled this for a LONG time. I had to have two medically necessary sections due to the safety of my babies and me.**

-Callie

First off, fuzzibunz come in two different varieties….”perfect size” and “one size”.

Perfect size has no adjusting that needs to be made to the diaper.  Depending on your baby’s weight you would choose the size diaper right for you.  So if you have a newborn itty bitty you might choose the “xs” or extra small.  If you have a toddler like me you might need the medium size or the large size.  With perfect sized diapers you will need to buy a set of diapers in your baby’s current size, then when you’re baby grows, you would need to upgrade and buy a set of the next size up.  This diaper is also going to give you the trimmest fit since it’s almost exactly sized to fit your baby, no extra material bunched up anywhere.

Fuzzibunz also has a second choice in diaper sizes…that is called the “one size”.  With this diaper you will only ever need to buy one set.  It could fit your baby from newborn (depending on size of baby) to potty training.  With the one size diaper there is a button hole sizing option.  You can size this diaper through the internal elastic found on both sides of the front of the leg and the back of the leg.  You can also adjust the elastics in the back of the waist.  Locate the elastics inside the diaper, remove the button from the elastic, either pull or let out the elastics to make the diaper larger or smaller and then replace the button through the slotted hole at your desired size.  This elastic button hole sizing gives you more than 30 different sizing option, so you’ll be able to find a fit that’s right for your baby.

If you’re using the One Size Fuzzibunz Elite you’ve probably been hearing that there have been some exciting new changes to the design and there have!

The original Elites were smaller. They were more narrow between the legs and the front of the diaper was not very wide.  Inside the diaper the PUL (or the waterproof part of the diaper) was “sticky” feeling and made it tedious to stuff the inserts into.  The original elite came with two minky white inserts.  These were luxuriously soft, almost stain proof, and VERY trim. The minky inserts, while trim, didn’t provide as much absorbency as microfiber making it necessary for me to change my son a little sooner. The elastics inside the original elite were numbered making it easier to adjust the opposite side to match.  At it’s smallest setting I would say the original elites would be hard pressed to find a newborn that couldn’t get a good fit.  Alternatively it didn’t fit chunkier babies or older toddlers as long.  I noticed my two year old’s bottom sticking out of the sides sometimes.

The new and improved Fuzzibunz Elites are now wider between the legs.  I would say they are more comparable to the Perfect sized Medium diaper, though you do have the option to make it fit a smaller or larger baby with the elastics.  The biggest improvement (in my opinion) has to be the non sticky PUL.  It is so soft and smooth now that stuffing the diaper is quick and easy!  The new Elite includes two microfiber inserts, one newborn size and one medium/large size.  For an older toddler or heavy wetter use both the medium/large insert and the newborn insert as a doubler.  The new microfiber inserts are much more absorbent but also not so trim.  They are quite fluffy and leave the diaper quite a bit more bulky than the original Elite.  Inside the diaper you will find that the elastics are no longer numbered.  This means that to get an exact fit on both sides you will need to count out the slotted holes, which is a little tedious.  While the new elite fits my toddler beautifully I would imagine that it would be quite bulky on it’s smallest setting for a smaller newborn.

New style Elite on left (Crushed Berries) and old style Elite on right (Spearmint).  You will notice that the new style Elite is wider between the legs.  Also that while both diapers are on the same elastic setting, old style Elite seems “stretched” to fit the same button settings.

Back View: New style Elite on left (Crushed Berries) and old style Elite on right (Spearmint). The new style Elite is wider and sits higher in the back.

Side View: New style Elite on left (Crushed Berries) and old style Elite on right (Spearmint).  As you can see the old style Elite is trimmer on the butt.

New style Elite on left (Crushed Berries) and old style Elite on right (Apple Green).

New style Elite on left (Crushed Berries) and old style Elite on right (Apple Green).

Old style laying on top of new style…you can see that the new style (Crushed Berries) is wider.

Inside the diapers…the new style on the left (Crushed Berries) has a larger pocket opening.

The elastics on the old style (left, Apple Green) are numbered while the elastics on the new style (right, Crushed Berries) have no numbers.

The tags on the inserts.  (Left, old style, minky inserts) (Right, new style, microfiber inserts)

The new style microfiber inserts on the left and as you can see are bulkier.  The old style, minky inserts, are on the right and are trimmer.

The new style with bulkier microfiber inserts on the left (Crushed Berries) and the old style with trimmer minky inserts on the right (Apple Green)

The waist band on the new style Elites looks to be wider than the waist band on the old style.

The “sticky” PUL of the old style (Apple Green) Vs. the “smooth” PUL of the new style (Crushed Berries)

The new style Elites (bottom) have slightly different tags than the old style (top).

All in all I must say that I love the new Elite.  It fits more chunky babies who previously couldn’t fit into the Elite and it gives toddlers the coverage they need.  I no longer dread stuffing my diapers and the larger leg opening means that my husband doesn’t mind helping stuff diapers either.  If you haven’t tried a Fuzzibunz yet you absolutely MUST! Still not quite convinced…well hear this: Fuzzibunz has a Lifetime Warranty! They fully cover your snaps and PUL. They will also send you brand new elastics to replace your old ones if they ever get worn breathing new life into your diapers!

Written by: Victoria Loaiza

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your family.

My husband Neil is a Marine Corps band musician, he plays the Saxaphone. Currently he’s training for his dream job of Instrument Repair Tech. We live in southern California with our 2 year old, Ian. It was a long, rough road to growing our family so we are understandably and admittedly smitten by our little guy and we LOVE spoiling him. Spoiled though he might be, he is incredibly well behaved, kind and loving. Sit by him for two seconds and you’re guaranteed to get a hug and some nose kisses.

Why did you originally choose cloth?

I was (and still am) part of the “youtube community” of mommies and soon-to-be mommies. One of my favorite youtubers fell pregnant right before I did and began making lots of videos about cloth diapering. It was the name “Fuzzibunz” that caught my attention initially and then the cuteness of cloth diapers is what got me hooked. The cost savings is what hooked my husband.

How long have you been a consultant?

I have been working with Diaper Parties since February 2012

Why did you want to become a Diaper Parties consultant?

I attended a diaper party thrown by one of my best friends and thought it would be a lot of fun to do what that consultant was doing. Getting to talk to other moms about something I love and am passionate about.

What do you like most about being a Diaper Parties consultant?

I love being able to change people’s minds about cloth diapers. The first time I saw a baby in cloth I wasn’t impressed. I wouldn’t give the idea a second chance. I am so glad that I did when I was pregnant b/c I can’t imagine not cloth diapering. It’s so much fun to pick out cute prints/colors…it’s almost a shame to have to cover them with pants!

What is your favorite diaper/diaper combo and why?

My favorite diaper is always changing but currently my favorite would have to be BumGenius Elemental. I’ve really been getting into natural fibers against baby’s skin so I love that they are certified organic cotton. I love the stretchy tabs that adorn all BumGenius diapers and the colors and prints are too cute!

What is your wash routine?

I have an h/e front loader (Whirlpool Duet). I do one “Quick Wash” with cold water and no detergent. When that’s done I do a cycle on “Whitest Whites” with hot water and I add a full tablespoon of Tide Original (powder) or EcoSprout (Vanilla) detergent (I switch twice a year just for a change). When that’s done I do one additional “Quick Wash” without detergent to ensure all the detergent was rinsed out.

What are some other Diaper Parties products/accessories that you love and why?

I love my diaper sprayer. It is my one MUST have diapering accessory. I also love my Cj’s butter. My son rarely ever gets a diaper rash with cloth diapers and when he does it’s very light…but Cj’s is really easy to apply (like butter, honestly!) and it smells AMAZING!

If someone reading this is considering cloth, what would you say to encourage them to try cloth?

When you’re new to cloth it’s overwhelming. It might even seem impossible, but I promise you it’s not. Just like riding a bike, you will get the hang of it and be so glad you did. Besides, that’s what Diaper Parties consultants are for, they are your “training wheels”. We will be there every step of the way. Don’t miss out on all the fun, try cloth diapering!

Fast forward a couple of months, and your baby learns to roll over. Then crawl. Then pull up. Then walk. All of a sudden diaper time has turned into a full-body workout for you! Your changing table has become obsolete (please, for safety reasons, stop using a changing table once your baby becomes mobile) and you start looking for something, anything that will occupy your child for a few seconds so you can wipe their bum and put on a clean diaper. Here are some of the more common moves that mobile babies pull during diaper changes to help you counteract the hijinks!

The Death Roll

Anyone who has watched alligator wrestling knows this move and the disastrous consequences that can ensue! You have the child’s feet in one hand, a wipe in the other, and all of a sudden, without warning, the alligator, I mean child, begins rolling their upper body with astonishing speed. This maneuver is most commonly performed while the bum is covered with a very messy poo. Once the first 360 has been completed, the legs must let be released before damage to the diaper changer’s hand occurs, and the child’s bum (with associated poo) hits the ground, where the rolling will continue, oftentimes leaving the safe perimeter of the changing pad. The best defense against a death roll is a double-team defense, with one person holding the shoulders in a steady position while the wiping is completed. In the event a teammate is not available, the diaper changer should, upon discovery of the poo in the diaper, position on leg over the chest of the child (not in a forceful manner, you just want to steady the child’s upper body to ensure rolling is not able to be commenced) while wiping is performed.

The Octopus

You have the clean diaper ready to go next to you, you remove the dirty diaper and put it next to you also, you reach for the wipe, and your child has turned into an octopus with 8 usable appendages and has both diapers, the wipe, their pants, and anything else within reach in their hands and heading towards their mouth. The only defense against the octopus is to ensure all diapers are out of reach, preferably out of their sight. Placing a toy in their hands and a couple next to them is another good way to keep all those arms busy grabbing something else while you quickly change the diaper.

Houdini

You pull off the dirty diaper, turn around to put it out of sight of the child and grab the clean one (see The Octopus), turn back around, and the child has disappeared! Keeping ahold of a foot with one hand is not guaranteed to counteract the advanced Houdini; they are able to slip out of your grip without you even noticing! Just grab the clean diaper, hunt down that little Houdini, and put it on before they disappear again.

The Drama Queen/King

This is the child that makes a dramatic production of diaper time. They cry, scream, lunge from side to side, bringing anyone else in the house (or the neighborhood) running into the room expecting to see blood! The more response they get to their production, the better the performance. Distraction toys rarely help with a committed Drama Queen/King, they become props used to express their displeasure at the indignity of the whole process. Speed is the key to ending the performance, so just ignore the wails and get that diaper changed as quick as possible!

The Fire Hose

This one is reserved for boy children. You get a surprise shower upon taking off the dirty diaper, causing you to recoil. The boy child delights in your reaction and wiggles back and forth, hosing down the area. You can try not to react, but the boy child will probably proceed into Fire Hose mode anyhow. Use the clean diaper as a shield, wait for the supply to run out, then get another clean diaper and some rags to clean up the mess.

The Jokester

You get the dirty diaper off, you’re reaching for the clean diaper when your child starts grunting and straining. You rush to get the clean diaper on before the explosion occurs, only to hear a giggle. The child has just played their first practical joke. Laugh with the child, it was kinda funny!

Is your child a master of one of these hijinks, or do they have a different one? Let us know!

Written By: Melissa Ardnt