Best Bamboo Cloth Diaper, PFAS, and Phthalate Free | Lighthouse Kids Co.

Cloth Diapers

Lighthouse Kids Co. modern cloth diapers are made to keep baby cool and dry.  Whether you are looking to save money by using reusable diapers, or to be more environmentally friendly, our cloth diapers feature beautiful design and prints made by our founder or by artists we love!  

If you're a new or expecting parent, consider this eco-friendly alternative to disposable diapers.

Cloth diapers have become more popular recently due to their environmental benefits and cost savings.

But starting with cloth diapers can feel overwhelming. Different types include prefolds, flats, fitteds, pocket diapers, and all-in-ones. Each diaper type has its own advantages. For example, parents know All-In-One diapers for their convenience and ease.

Understanding the basics of reusable diapering is crucial, including choosing the right size and fit for your baby.

Why Choose Cloth Diapers?

Choosing cloth diapers over disposables is a decision that impacts more than just your baby. This choice that affects your wallet, lifestyle, and the environment.

Here are some reasons why you might consider making the switch:

• Environmental Impact: Disposable diapers contribute significantly to landfill waste. Reusable diapers significantly reduce the waste your family produces.
• Cost Savings: While the upfront cost of cloth diapers can be higher, they can save you money in the long run. Especially if you plan to have more than one child.
• Cloth diapers are healthier than disposables because they are made from natural materials without harmful chemicals. This is helpful for babies with sensitive skin.  This is why Lighthouse Kids Co. diapers are OEKO-Tex certified and PFAS free.
• Resale Value: Cloth diapers hold their value well, and there's a thriving secondhand market. You can recoup some of your initial investment when you're done with them.

When picking a diaper, think about your family's lifestyle, budget, and values.

Types of Cloth Diapers Explained

Washable baby diapers come in various styles, each with pros and cons.

Understanding the different types can help you choose the best fit for your baby and lifestyle.

Here are the main types of cloth diapers:

• Prefolds and Flats
• Fitted Diapers
• Pocket Diapers
• All-in-One Diapers

Each type has its unique features and uses. Let's delve into each one.

Prefolds and Flats

Prefolds and flats are the most traditional type of cloth diaper. They are simple, versatile, and often the most affordable option. Prefolds are rectangular pieces of cloth with a thicker, absorbent layer in the middle that folds to make an insert. Flats, on the other hand, are large, single-layer cloths that you fold to fit your baby.

Fitted Diapers

Fitted diapers resemble disposable diapers and feature elastic around the legs and waist. They are highly absorbent, making them a great choice for nighttime or heavy wetters. However, fitted diapers require a waterproof cover, as they do not have a waterproof layer.

Pocket Diapers

Pocket diapers have a waterproof cover with a "pocket" sewn inside. You stuff the pocket with absorbent inserts that you can customize to your baby's needs. Pocket diapers are popular because they are easy to use and dry quickly.

All-in-One Diapers

All-in-one diapers are the most convenient type of cloth diaper. The outer shell and inserts attach to make the AIO cloth diaper one piece. The Lighthouse Kids Co. AIOs dry 5 times faster than regular All-In-One cloth diapers. However, they are more expensive than other types because they have everything you need to diaper in one package.

Choosing the Right Diaper for Your Baby

Picking the best cloth diaper for your baby means thinking about things like your baby's size and what you like.

Here are some things to consider when choosing a cloth diaper:

• Size and Fit: All diapers come in different sizes; some are adjustable to grow with your baby. Ensure the diaper fits snugly around your baby's waist and thighs to prevent leaks.
• Ease of Use: If you're new to reusables, you might prefer all-in-one or pocket diapers for their convenience. Prefolds and flats can be more versatile but require more practice to use effectively.
• Absorbency: Consider your baby's wetting patterns. Heavy wetters, especially for nighttime use, might need more absorbent materials or extra inserts. Each type of insert has its own absorbency level, drying time, and feel against the baby's skin.
• Budget: Cloth diapers can be expensive initially, but they save money in the long run. Consider your budget, and remember, you don't need to buy your entire stash at once.

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all solution for choosing the right diaper. Finding what works best for you and your baby might take some trial and error.

Cloth Diaper Accessories

Cloth diapering involves more than just the diapers themselves. Several accessories can make the process easier and more efficient.

Here are some of the most common cloth diaper accessories:

• Diaper Liners: Parents place these inside the diaper to catch solids, making cleanup easier. They can be disposable or washable.
• Diaper Covers: Parents use them over prefolds, flats, or fitted diapers to provide a waterproof barrier.
• Wet Bags: Parents use them to store dirty diapers on the go.
• The diaper sprayer:  Attaches to your toilet, and you can use it to spray off solids before washing the diapers.
• Cloth Wipes: You can wash and reuse cloth wipes just like cloth diapers.

Diaper Covers/AI2 Cloth Diapers

Diaper covers provide a waterproof barrier over prefolds, flats, or fitted diapers. Covers can be made of various materials, such as PUL (polyurethane laminate) and wool.

Washing and Caring for Your Modern Cloth Diapers

Proper care is crucial to maintaining the lifespan of your washable diapers. This includes washing them correctly and dealing with stains and odors.

Here are some general tips for washing and caring for cloth diapers:

• Pre-wash: Rinse off any solids and do a quick pre-wash to remove the bulk of the waste.
• Main wash: Use a cloth diaper-safe detergent and do a heavy-duty wash.
• Extra rinse:  To ensure you remove all detergent.
• Dry: Line dry or tumble dry on low heat.

Establishing a Wash Routine

Establishing a regular wash routine is key to cloth diapering success. This routine will depend on how many diapers you have and how often your baby needs changing.

Most parents find that washing every 2-3 days works best.

Dealing with Stains and Odors

Stains and odors are a common concern with cloth diapers. Sunning the diapers after washing can help naturally bleach out any stains.

For odors, a proper wash routine and a cloth diaper-safe detergent should keep smells at bay.

Storing and Handling Used Cloth Diapers

Proper storage and handling of used cloth diapers are essential to prevent odors and stains. A diaper pail or wet bag can store dirty diapers until laundry day. It's best to rinse off any solids before storing the diapers.

Remember, never leave soiled diapers for more than 2-3 days before washing.

Cloth Diapering on the Go and at Night

Cloth diapering doesn't have to stop when you're out and about or during the night. A wet bag helps when you're out and need some on-the-go changes. A Wet bag's job is to keep wet and dirty diapers separate from the rest of your items.

You might need to use a different strategy at night. Some parents find that using a fitted diaper with a cover or a pocket diaper with extra inserts best prevents leaks.

Here are some tips for cloth diapering on the go and at night:

• Always carry a wet bag and extra cloth diapers when going out.
• Consider using diaper liners for easy cleanup during outings.
• For nighttime, use diapers with higher absorbency or add extra inserts.
• Experiment with different types of diapers to see what works best for your baby at night.

Overcoming Common Cloth Diapering Challenges

Leaks and diaper rash are two common issues. Ensure the diaper fits well around your baby's legs and waist for leaks.

Diaper rash can happen if you don't change diapers frequently. It can also occur if the baby is allergic to the diaper material, like microfiber. This is why Lighthouse Kids Co.'s diapers are OEKO-Tex Certified and tested against hundreds of toxic chemicals.

Here are some tips to overcome common cloth diapering challenges:

• Ensure a good fit to prevent leaks. The diaper should be snug but not too tight.
• Change the diaper frequently to prevent rashes. Aim for every 2-3 hours during the day.
• If your baby has a rash, consider changing the diaper material or using a liner.
• Sunning the diapers can be an effective and eco-friendly solution for stubborn stains.

Remember, every baby is different. What works for one might not work for another.

The Financials: Cost Savings and Resale Value

Cloth diapering is not only eco-friendly but also economical.

Cloth diapers may be more expensive at first, but they can save you money in the long run. This is because they are a one-time investment compared to the continuous cost of disposable diapers.

Here are some financial aspects to consider:

• Initial investment: Depending on the type and brand, a cloth diaper can cost anywhere from $5 to $25. Note: A good, CPSC tested cloth diaper should cost more than $10 for the cover (not including inserts!). Anything that falls below that cost can be missing key safety features and testing.

You'll need around 20-30 diapers to start.

• Long-term savings: Over two years, cloth diapering can save you over $1000 compared to disposable diapers.
• Resale value: Well-maintained cloth diapers can retain up to 50% of their value, adding to your savings.

Remember, you can also use cloth diapers for subsequent children, increasing your savings. Plus, by choosing cloth, you're investing in our planet's future, and that's priceless.

Building a Community: Support and Resources for Cloth Diapering

Cloth diapering is more than just a parenting choice. Support groups are there to help you with cloth diapering. They can give you advice, tips, and encouragement.

Here are some resources to get you started:

• Online forums: Websites like Lighthouse Kids Co. have active cloth diapering communities.
• Social media: A Facebook cloth diapering groups can help with a lot of questions you may have! Join them here.
• Local workshops: Some cities offer cloth diapering workshops for new parents.

Remember, every cloth diapering journey is unique. Don't hesitate to seek advice and share your experiences. You're not alone in this journey; the cloth diapering community is here to support you.

Embracing the Cloth Diapering Journey

Embarking on the cloth diapering journey is a rewarding experience. A choice that benefits your baby, wallet, and planet.

Having questions and facing challenges along the way is okay. The key is to stay patient, flexible, and open to learning. With time, you'll find a rhythm that works for you and your baby.

Remember that every time you change a cloth diaper, you are helping create a more sustainable future.