This is not a paid endorsement. I was not given a Flip to review.
As you may recall, on September 14th I posted about Cotton babies new products: Flip and Econobums. I went ahead and pre-ordered a Flip Day Pack: Stay-Dry with 2 packs of disposable inserts.
I received my Flip pack about 2 weeks ago and I loved it right away. I’m just going to list out the reasons that I think Flip is awesome!
- You’ll remember the millions of times I have touted Bum Genius Organics AIO as my favorite cloth diaper. The reason (besides being super absorbent) for my affection is the wonderful fit of the shell.The BG butterfly closure allows for a perfect fit on any baby. Paisley wore them and she had fat thighs and quite the tummy. Sterling has stick legs and a skinny waist. On both, the BG fit was the way all cloth diapers should fit.I have never had problems with the snap down rise on the BG shell coming undone during application or by movement of the child. All the things I love about the Bum Genius Organics AIO fit and ease of use are present in the Flip cover as it is the same!
- Cover is PUL lined not fleece or other fabric. This allows for many uses before a urine odor sticks and you can wipe out any messes that might get on the wipe-able area.
- The stay-dry inserts are absorbent, easy to use, nighttime worthy (by doubling) and one-sized. Cottonbabies even embroidered on the Flip inserts where to fold insert for which size: labeled Small, Medium and Large. The insert slides under the flap in the back and there is one in the front as well. I don’t tuck the insert in the front flap since I have a boy and I didn’t want moisture going on the cover.
- As mentioned above, the system is nighttime worthy. The first day I got them in the mail, I quickly washed and dried them and used it at night. I put two of the inserts together as recommended. As my husband and I went to bed I told him that I was nervous about changing the routine I’ve had for 6 months. He thought I was crazy for not going with a system I knew worked without fail.But, Sterling woke up the next morning not only with dry sheets but dry skin! We typically use an sbish bamboo fitted which does not wick moisture away from the skin. Although organic and natural is preferred, I liked the fact that Sterling’s skin was not visibly wet.
- Trim and absorbent- what more could you ask for? Years ago I remember the big dilemma in the cloth diaper world was how to achieve trimness and absorbency in one diaper. Fabrics like microfiber, bamboo and zorb have made this more common today. Flip gives you both all combined with a proven closure system, great colors and …
- AFFORDABLE! In a Flip Day Pack you receive 2 covers and 6 inserts. At $49.95 that comes to less than $8.50 a diaper!! Ladies, this leaves no excuse for moms wanting to cloth diaper but financially too strapped for the initial investment.For most children (newborns not included) I would recommend 2 day packs + 12 stay-dry inserts. This comes to less than $150 for 4 covers and 24 stay-dry inserts. For a limited time Cottonbabies is making the cover available by itself for $13.95. I have used the cover over an sbish fitted easily.
A couple of problems I foresee: the colors available are not gender neutral, big poopies may not stay on the insert (not found a system like this that did contain messes just to the insert), no snap for the insert could result in bunching.
As I mentioned, I also purchased 2 packs of the disposable inserts. I have used one for test purposes (the rest will be used when I travel for Thanksgiving) and was happy with the absorbency. I does create an almost too trim cloth diaper. I know, sounds weird. But, since Sterling is so skinny it was barely enough substance for the cover to fit. I just put it on the tightest settings and we were okay. I will update you in December how the disposables worked for us at Thanksgiving.
Jenn recently blogged about the contents of the disposable Flip insert. Here is an excerpt detailing the contents of the liner:
Flip One-Size Disposable Inserts are easy to use, dye free, fragrance free and the only disposable insert that has achieved Oeko-Tex certification. Perfect for travel, daycare and those moments when practical life demands something disposable. Each package contains 18 inserts, perfect for a weekend away.Each Flip disposable insert contains the following ingredients:
- Non-woven bamboo viscose, 5g
- Filler
- Wood pulp, 14-15g
- SAP, 3g
- Starch-based glue, 1g
Flip disposable inserts are very simple and very basic. No plastic, no latex, no adhesives, nothing extra. Just an absorbent pad that meets the ultra high standards demanded by Oeko-Tex. Flip disposable pads can be used in Flip, bumGenius (even in the pocket!) or Econobum.
Here’s my favorite part: “Created for when life just demands an alternative…”
I appreciate that Jenn and team see that there are always going to be times when life doesn’t accommodate a 100% cloth system. I have many emails come in that say they want to cloth diaper but aren’t ready to fully dive in. This is a great entry point for parents on the fence about cloth diapering.
Autumn is a wife, mother, homeschool teacher, friend and most important a follower of Christ.
Segolene Chauvelot says
Hi. I am the first one in my family to use cloth diapers and I really want to stick with it for environmental reasons but I am loosing hope and patience. My baby is fully wet several times a day :( even when she wears the diaper for one hour.
I am grateful for any tip to make it easier for me and my little one
I am using the flip covers with the stay dry inserts which are unfortunately a lot more pricy in Europe
Thanks in advance
Nicole S says
I use my flip cover when I run out of Bum Genius 4.0 pockets. I thought since the flip was made by the same manufacturer as the BumGenius, that it would be the same fit, which is mostly true. But the added padding of the inner liner really makes a difference in fit. I usually snap one setting tighter on the waist, or one tighter on the rise, and it ends up okay. If my little dude poops (he is 2, and his poop is usually relatively soft), the cover is toast. It is virtually never contained to the insert (as mentioned in the post). That said, a quick wipe of the cover when it’s just wet, and alternating with another cover or a pocket before the next use, and I use it 2-4 times before washing (unless the leg seams have been super soaked, which rarely happens).
Britt says
Just got my flip cover and night time inserts in the mail. I LOVE them! I started with pockets but found the micro fleece way too temperamental for me so I have been using those pocket diapers as shells! So glad I got the Flips so that I can actually reuse and cut my laundry down! And at cottonbabies I snagged them up during a seconds sale. GREAT deal!
Gwen says
Hi I have been using the Flip and Bum Genius diapers for two months now and I love them. However the inserts have wicked my little guys butt so dry he developed a dry rash. I was wondering what do I do about the insert, cover it? It just doesnt seem like that should happen, should I switch to cotton? This is my first go with cloth diapers and I’m feeling like I missed something. Thanks :)
Autumn Beck says
Hi, Gwen. Are you laying the microfiber insert against your son’s skin? If so this will cause problems. If you are saying that the stay-dry fabric (suede cloth) is against his skin then he most likely is allergic to that fabric. I had a child with this sensitivity. The skin clears right up when you switch to another fiber against his skin.
Jennifer Barker says
This is great to know! (About the suede cloth)I noticed my son was getting a rash after I tried a suede cloth lined pocket for night time. So glad I hadn’t stocked up on that brand…
rhienz says
hi, autumn,,
im from egypt n found ur web when i was searching for Flip’s reviews ^^
im a mother with a boy and one still in my tummy due in June ,,
the 1st one was cloth diapered but the traditional one, coz couldnt find the modern CD at that time…
about the Flip, which one u recommend the most, the Snap or the aplix one?
i’m still choosing which one is the best…
really appreciate ur answer autumn,,
n thanks so much *hug*
Autumn Beck says
I like both but snaps last longer.
Alysha Clee says
Can you use prefolds or cloth inserts in the flip as well and us the disposable inserts just for traveling? When using the disposable inserts you can just throw them away and then can you keep the same cover if it hasn’t been soiled on?
Autumn Beck says
yes and yes :)
Brittany says
How did you prep your Flips and Econobums, can I handwash the covers versus putting them in the washer? Thank you! :D
Autumn Beck says
yes you can handwash the covers.
Hannah says
Hi Autumn,
I started using Flip diapers on my baby about three weeks ago…she is 7 weeks old and they work great! They didn’t leak at all for the first two weeks, but now they do seem to be leaking a little every once in a while. I’m not sure what the problem could be! I washed them in All Free and Clear for the first week, but have since switched to Charlie’s Soap. Could I already have build up, or could it be that they’re fitting her differently now? I’m loving cloth diapering, but I don’t want leaks. )-: Any ideas?
Autumn Beck says
Check and see if water absorbs in them or balls up and rolls off. If you have an aspirator you can forcefully spray water onto an insert and see if at a high force it rolls off. Sometimes babies can either start peeing a lot more or peeing much faster causing the insert to function poorly. Camden is 7 wks and we’ve been dealing with this. I “try” to change more often but it’s hard to prevent leaks when they store up a full bladder and then let it go quickly. Fitteds are much better at dealing with this.
annasmomtobe says
I haven’t started diapering yet, so I’m still trying to figure out the options and how maintenance works. To avoid rinsing poo (for some/most changes), do you think it would be workable to use flushable/disposable liners inside the absorbant Flips liners?
Autumn Beck says
I’ve not had success with the disposable liners but I have read that the Motherease liners are the best. Definitely don’t go with Bummis. They were terrible.
Isabel says
What was the problem with the Bummis?
Kerri says
I am about the purchase the Flip diapers and from peoples reviews it seems like these are not a good diaper to start off with newborns?
1. What do you recommend using? I don’t want to buy a lot of fitted newborn sized cloth diapers either. I am looking for an inexpensive way until I can use the Flips, BumGenius, and Kawaii cloth diapers I am going to purchase for the baby on the way!
2. Is there a way to use the Flip covers for a newborn?
Autumn Beck says
You could use the Flip cover once the baby hits about 10lbs or so. It won’t have the gusset coverage though that a Prorap or Thirsties would.
Kathy says
My baby was 9 lbs at birth and I started using Flip when I got home from the hospital. This was my 1st time with cloth diapers. I loved them! Newborns urinate frequently after the first week or two. I just made sure I changed him every time I nursed. If you get Flips I would suggest at least 2 packs. I’d put them on my registry.
BTW Autumn, I’m homeschooling too.
Hannah says
Hi Autumn,
Thanks for your blog…it has helped me a lot in my decision to cloth diaper our firstborn, coming in January! (-:
I was wondering how many Flips you would recommend for a newborn…or would you not recommend them for a newborn at all? We were planning to go through the disposables we’ve been given and then start her on them, but I have a feeling I’m going to want to start earlier and return/give away the disposables…Right now we have your recommended stash of Flips, and that’s it. We’re poor seminary students, so finances is a big concern.
Thanks!
Hannah
Autumn Beck says
My main concern with Flip on newborns is the lack of gussets on the covers which will lead to lots of leakage. If you are going to breastfeed you’ll quickly discover how prolific and runny their poop will be :) Proraps are my favorite covers for newborns but with a tight budget you may not be able to buy a beginning stash then upsize. Econobums is another of Cottonbabies lines and they have overall great reviews. Check out their site http://cottonbabies.com for those reviews. Also, don’t forget that you can register for cloth diapers! Search the blog for information on doing that.
Cheryl Perry says
I’m curious about the disposable liners…are they flushable? We used cloth diapers with my daughter 5 years ago through a diaper service…it was great, no rinsing, no laundry. But we are considering something different with this child to save some money but my hesitancy is all the laundry. With the quantities you recommend, how often do you have to do diaper laundry?
Autumn Beck says
They are not flushable but they are compostable. I do diaper laundry about 1x/ wk. Most cloth diaper moms go about 2-3 days b/w washings.
Ibby says
My son is 8 wks old and approximately 12 lbs. We bought a big selection of flip diapers after reading all the wonderful reviews about them. Since my husband and I are very eco conscious, we bought 16 organic inserts and 8 stay dry inserts plus 8 covers. Overall, I am disappointed in the organic inserts. They are way too bulky for the cover and they bunch up lot. The stay dry insert is fantastic for keeping my son dry and it isn’t as bulky. My only problem is that poo leaks all over the cover. The inserts is way to small for the cover. My son is EBF and he has runny poo. I haven’t had any issues with the diapers smelling. I rinse them out before putting them into a bummis wet bag. I even forgot about them for almost a week and they washed beautifully without any smell. I use babyganics products to wash and remove any poo stains. Does anyone know if there is another cover that the flip inserts can be used with? I love the inserts but am not too crazy about the cover.
Autumn Beck says
I would try a one-sized cover with gussets, like Weehuggers, Blueberry, Kissaluvs, or *Thirsties (not one sized but 2 sizes).
Amanda G says
I am thinking about getting some Flips, but just wondering how people find the microfiber inserts? I hear microfiber can build up a smell easier than the cotton prefolds I currently am using. Can I wash them with my prefolds, or is there a different way to launder them? Are they as absorbent and sturdy as prefolds? Feed back would be appreciated!
Autumn Beck says
I’ve found flip inserts to be easy to care for. Wash them the same way as prefolds.
Kristen says
I LOVE Flips. Granted, I am not at all a cd’ing expert. My first child is only 7 weeks old. I have used disposables in a pinch, and I have trouble with them leaking every time I use them. It makes me so angry, and I am loving cd’ing more and more. I bought the Flips after I read this review, and they never leak. I EBF, and although the breastfed poo does wander onto the cover sometimes, I’d much rather deal with changing the covers more often than having to work out stains in my son’s swaddle blankets and onesies. The covers also can get a quick wipe down if there isn’t much poo on them, and they’re good to go. I like these so much that I’m afraid to try a different brand. Why waste my money on a brand that might not work as well? I’d have to be really convinced. I do double the stay dry inserts with prefolds at night, and that saves the cover better.
I agree with using prefolds with the Flip cover for a nb. The prowraps were much more difficult to manage than the Flip covers.
Harmony says
I love your reviews. I have been trying the Jillian’s drawers newborn trial set in hopes of finding the diapers I like best. I tried the bumkins aio (given to me by a cd’ing friend) today for the first time and it leaked right away. Maybe she needs to grow some. This prompted another search for diapers as she is reaching the 12-13# mark. I love the kissaloves organic btw.
Getting to the point…(0: You said you would not use flips for newborns next time around, but what do you consider a newborn? Is it the skinny legs that create a difficult fit or is it the runny breastfed diapers? I’m just thinking that i will be EBF until at least 6 mos, (because of starting solids) so does that mean I should not use the flip? I don’t think she leaks much, not like my last daughter!
I am really close to ordering the day pack! I love that they are so versatile, Thanks!!
Autumn Beck says
Harmony, the little legs are what have me doubtful that a Flip cover will work. I will certainly give it a try when our new one arrives at the end of the year. I prefer something that is really snug on the thighs to keep the runny poop in. Sterling has always had really skinny legs but I can’t recall how old his was when I began using Flip (I know it was less than 6m).
Laura says
I had to add some of my experience. I haven’t had them leak yet! (either through the leg or up the back or front) My peanut started in Flips at 8lbs. She’s got skinny thighs too. It’s all in how you fit the diaper. We EBF too. I had leaks constantly with the NB swaddlers we used in the beginning. I nanny for a 5 month old who has really thick runny formula poo, which leaks 80% of the time out of her Huggies. Yesterday it made it all the way up between her shoulder blades! I’m tempted to stick a Flip on her, I’m that confident in them.
I wouldn’t count Flip out because of thin thighs. Or EBF’ing. We’re doing great. It’s all in how the diaper is closed.
Briana says
Just wondering if you have the snap or hook and loop? I have a friend trying to convert me to cloth diapering and was thinking that the Flips with the disposable inserts might be a good compromise. My son is 3 months old but on the smaller side since he was 5 weeks early…
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Hi Briana, Hook and loop vs snaps is really a personal choice. Hook and loop is usually easier for caregivers to put on. But you can usually get a better fit with snaps. Also, the hook and loop varies from brand to brand. Some is much stronger and stickier than others. My suggestion would be to get one of each to try them out. Keep the one you like and sell the other. Good luck!
Jennifer says
I don’t have Autumn’s expertise, but here is our experience with the Flips in case it helps: I am using cloth for the first time with our fifth child right now, and she is 5 months. I bought the Flip day pack and though we didn’t use them immediately, we did start using them soon after her cord fell off. (I should add that she is a good-sized baby) My experience is that we had very few leaks onto her clothing, but the breastfed poo didn’t stay on the insert very well, and wandered onto the covers. So, we ended up having to change out the covers frequently, which kind of defeated the purpose of the Flips, in my opinion. I kept thinking that if I had to do it over again (and money grew on trees, lol) I would have loved to try the kissaluvs newborn or the bumgenius AIO’s in the newborn size. Since money doesn’t grow on trees here, I think next time I would use the Flip covers with the smallest size diaper rite prefolds and snappis – I think it would have contained the poo better!
Michelle says
I wanted to love the Flip diaper system too but when I got them they were way to bulky for my slender little guy! I’m new to cloth diapering and I ordered an array of diapers. All the ones I wanted to love didn’t fit my son. So now I’m eying the Grasshopper and Best Bottoms after watching the video you posted. Wish me luck.
Autumn Beck says
i’d go with grasshopper :)
Laura says
I have a 7 week old girl and have been using the Flip system for a couple weeks now. I’ve never CD’d before. And she’s my first. She’s breast fed and her poops are frequent and runny. I must say that I’m pleased with how the Flip diaper handles it! About 25% of the time the cover gets some poo on it, but not too often is it more than a little spray of water and a quick wipe can’t manage. So I generally have an second cover that i alternate with if the first one needs more than a quick wipe. I use a the bottle sprayer the hospital gave me (to spray my stitched area after I gave birth) to spray the poo off the inserts into the toilet. I handwash my inserts, since I do a better job than a front loader. But I use the washer to do the rinsing (since it does that better). I have had minimal smell issues. Usually it’s because I didn’t use enough soap or rinse well enough. After researching Flips to no end, we started with 2 stay-dry day packs and just purchased a third after I decided that “I can do it!” I wash every other day, and still use disposables at night.. But not for much longer!! Purchased 3 used bumgenious and 6 inserts and plan to use those at night (she sleeps at least 6 hours without being changed). My husband will change her CD now (didn’t at first). He will also get the water for washing ready and dump the inserts in. I’m thrilled with Flips and can’t express my thoughts any better :)
Laura says
I used to be a Flip fan, however after following the instructions on Rockin’ Green detergent to soak the diapers, the PUL basically disintegrated! Now we have leaky diapers – and Cotton Babies won’t honor their one year warranty. I’ve had these since April 2010 and it’s only September. They said they don’t recommend soaking and that was the culprit, however they don’t specifically say not to. Not cool! Now I’m searching for new diapering covering options for twin 18 month old boys. Grrrr.
Autumn Beck says
That stinks :( In the future, you don’t need to soak covers. They don’t get issues that can’t be solved by a quick sunning and even that is rarely necessary. I found a website that may be of great help to you http://www.re-diaper.com Lots of cheap covers :)
Vicki says
Thank you for all of this wonderful information! I am expecting baby #2 in November and always wanted to try cloth with #1 but never did for various reasons. I work at home and nervous about the extra work in addition to initial cost and I am so excited I just discovered the Flip system, which is how I came across your post. Thank you for laying it out to make it more understandable and simple – it can be quite confusing! I definitely wanted something where I have the option of disposable inserts but did not want to use gDiapers.
Lillia says
Thank you for your recommendations, I will look in to Kissaluvs.
I believed you can rent them on that website. I really appreciate your advice.
Lillia says
I was looking at your recommendations. Thanks for all your work. I am interested in cloth diapers I will deliver my first baby in November 2010. I have been reading other reviews on other websites. The Bum Genius, SoftBums and Flips are on my list. For a brand new mom which would you recommend to start with.
Autumn Beck says
are you planning on using cloth diapers from birth?
Lillia says
Yes if that is advisable
Autumn Beck says
I definitely advise it ;) I ask b/c of the umbilical cord. While all the diapers you’ve listed are great none make room for the umbilical cord. I used SoftBums at a couple of weeks on Sterling. I love how they shrink up so small!
If you’re not interested in buying newborn specific cloth diapers then I’d go with Softbums. While I love Flip the most I just think it would be too bulky on a newborn and infant. I’ll know for sure in Dec when I try it out on our new one.
Not buying newborn diapers means you’ll have to use disposables until the cord falls off. I of course recommend buying a stash of something cloth. Kissaluvs size 0 are being sold like crazy on diaperswappers.com right now. (if you aren’t familiar with diaperswappers…register- go to the forum- scroll down to the category called fitteds- then search the threads for kissaluvs 0/ klo)
http://www.diaperswappers.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1021538
Sarah says
I have a 10 month old and am thinking of CDing….would the flip be good for me and how many of what do I need? What do you recommend for cloth wipes?
Autumn Beck says
I’d start with a day pack (2 covers + 6 inserts). If you like the system you’ll need to have enough inserts for 1 1/2 days– which is about 15. I’m experimenting with different cloth wipes currently. Baby wash cloths work great I hear (and their cheap).
Mandy says
I am planning on buying 3 day packs of flips with a combo of organic and stay dry liners. Can I also do a flat fold prefold in it too? I don’t want to mess with snappis and my son is really wiggly so he won’t tollerate that at a change. Have you had any problems with the inserts bunching?
Autumn Beck says
I adjust the rise accordingly to the size of the insert. If you are using a prefold you may need to snap the rise smaller to hold it tight. When I put a disposable insert in the cover is on the tightest settings all around.
Jessica says
Hi Autumn,
I am very interested in cloth diapering. I went to a cloth diaper class and it was very overwhelming, there were so many to choose from and the lady that put the class on was all over the place on using so many different types of cloth diapers and disposable diapers.
I have been using disposable diapers on my son since day one, he is now almost 2. We have another one on the way and my husband and I are trying to find ways to save money. I am very nervous to transition to them with this new little guy and possibly for my 2 year old as well, from what i have read i am very interested in the flips and want to make the switch.
Can you give me any advice? What do you use for the newborn? When do you start using the cloth diapers? What is a good supply amount? I keep hearing about prefolds? What are they and can you buy them on the same website or in store?
I really appreciate your time and look forward to hearing from you.
Jessica
Thanks you
Autumn Beck says
The “My Recommendations” tab will give you a place to start. I start using cloth diapers on day 1. I suggest having around 20 cloth diapers for a newborn at least.
Prefolds are the simplest, most cost effective way to cloth diaper but they are not the easiest. I personally do not like prefolds, I prefer a closure diaper. Check out the stores in the upper left of my blog for cloth diapers and accessories. Also, Banana Peels diapers is an excellent store.
Teresa says
Hi Autumn! First off, I love your site. :)
I am new to cd and I have a 8 month old and a (just turned) 2 year old.
I am pretty much sold on the Flip diapers. From my research there seem to be much less negatives.
My biggest question is this: How many should I buy? I figure my 2 year old will be in diapers for maybe 6 more months. I’m really hoping cd will help to potty train. I don’t want to have to wash every single day but I don’t want to buy too many since I’ll only have one in diapers soon.
What do you suggest?
Also, do you recommend using prefolds in the Flips at all? I just know that the prefolds are cheaper to buy than the inserts. So for extra protection what do you suggest? My 8 month old is a very heavy wetter.
Thanks!
Autumn Beck says
Let’s just say you bought 3 day-packs. That’s $150 and you get 6 covers + 18 inserts. For day 1: You’d probably change the 2yo 5-6 times that’s 6 inserts. The 8m old let’s bump it to 8. You’d need 2 inserts at night for the 8m old and depending on the 2yo’s nighttime wetness 1 or 2. That totals 18 inserts. And leaves you with nothing for the next day unless you washed nightly…which would be an easy load. Buying some prefolds would be nice to have for daytime use. If you stay under $200 for a cloth diaper start-up for 2 kids that’s excellent. You would certainly spend that in no time on disposables.
Pamela says
Thanks for all the great info! I have never used CD before and I’m having my 3rd baby. I’m looking at the BG and the flip. I’m concerned with the diapers holding odor, which one would be the best? I’m also concerned with BG’s pocket inserts, will that be a pain to take in and out? How do you clean them other than dropping the poop in the toilet if it’s a really messy diaper…my son always has messy ones? My husband is worried of washing poopy diapers in the washer and then washing our colthes. How do you clean the washer after? Thanks so much for your help!
Autumn Beck says
1) Bum Genius has different products. I highly recommend the organic aio. Never holds smells. The other ones I’ve heard do.
2) Flip is great and easy to clean. If the inserts do get an odor they are easy to soak in a pail if necessary.
3) Pockets can be a pain to stuff, especially when your baby poops and you have to pull the insert out.
4) If your child threw up on the sheets or had an accident in his/her pants how would your husband like the soiled items to be washed? Your washing machine is cleaned out with the detergent and rinse cycles but you can certainly periodically wash your washer. (run an empty cycle with bleach) In a FL I wipe out any debris that collects in the rubber ring.
holly says
can you use prefolds in the flips? I am using prefolds and thirsties now, but not sure if I like them.
Autumn Beck says
you can. thirsties have an inner gusset that holds in messes better.
Lindsay says
I love your site. I recently bought the Flip system for my now 4 month old. I have been using them about a month now. I ordered the organic inserts because they were all out of the stay dry at the time. I am not very impressed with them. I am hoping I will like the system more as my daughter gets bigger, but I can’t see them getting any better once she starts moving around. I do however, LOVE the Flip cover. I just don’t like the inserts. They are very soft, but they are big and very bulky. They bunch up and the poo just runs all over the inside of the cover. I have six inserts and 2 covers. Having 6 inserts doesn’t do my any good since I can only use the cover once before needing to wash it. It’s the same with any of the systems that say you can just change the insert, but at least the Grobaby and Gdiaper are much trimmer. I think I will just buy some prefolds to use with a Snappi and my Flip covers. As far as covers go, the Flip is the best so far.
Virginia says
I just recently came acrossed the flip diaper
and am very interested in them. I have twin boys
and have recently gone cloth. I don’t mind using
pins and plastic covers, but my husband bless
him can not figure out them. So we bought gdiapers
and love them I even fold prefolds in them both boys
have had major poops but it has all stayed contained.
Does anyone use flips or the gdiapers on babys that crawl?
How do they hold up???
Autumn Beck says
We have used Flip since before Sterling was crawling. I made sure the rise was small enough to where it held the insert in place well.
Amy says
I cannot say enough how pleased I am to have stumbled upon your site, and this post in particular! I have used disposable diapers on each of my children (my youngest is 8 months), but I have recently been considering delving into the wide world of cloth diapering. This system seems to have everything I could possibly need – and it is cost effective, to boot! Thank you so much for the information.
jaime says
Oh… and I was also going to say that I do really like the gDiapers too. I have only tried them with the biodegradable insert (good for camping), and also I have stuck a Flip insert in them and they work great together. I only wish the gDiaper was a one size! I have also stuck the Flip insert into the GroBaby cover, and that works too:)
Jodi says
Jamie, i like that you mentioned mis-matching the inserts and diapers. have you tried putting the g-diapers biodegradable inserts with the flip cover? i’m new to cding and am trying to decide between flips and bum genius 3.0…but i was initally intrigued by g-diapers. after reading peoples reviews and opinions i thinking of leaning more towards the flip, but as much as we camp i still am drawn to the gdiaper’s giodegradable insert idea!! thoughts?!
Autumn Beck says
I’d definitely go with Flip then buy some disposable inserts for when you camp. Flip covers are much, much easier than gDiapers.
Jaime says
Just wanted to say that I LOVE the Flip diapers with the stay dry inserts! I have tried GroBaby, Fuzzy Bunz (one size and perfect size), Happy Heinys, and gDiapers. I can honestly say that I like the Flip diapers best. I originally was going to go with the GroBaby diapers because you can reuse the shell a couple of times, and because they are “one size”, but I found that the inserts are not the softest and tend to stain more easily. The shells, even though they are one size, seem a bit smal for when baby gets bigger. The Fuzzy Bunz and Happy Heinys I liked alot. Sizing is good, and they seem like they will fit for a good period of time. The only thinng I don’t like is the fleece in the shell that suts between the baby and the insert. It seems to wick moisture to the leg holes in the diapers and baby gets wet more easily. This is why I love the flip so much. Their shells do not have this fleece lining, as the insert has a soft side that goes against baby’s skin. The stay dry inserts are just that…. dry! I have pulled an insert out that was almost dripping wet, and the side that was against baby was still pretty dry, and there was no leaking!! Love them! And they are one size, so they wll fit my little man until he is ready for the potty!
Jessie says
I bought the day pack recently for my 10 month old daughter. We only cloth a few days a week because we don’t have a washer/dryer in our condo. But we do EC too so that helps keep down diaper usage on the other days! I really do love these diapers! They are fabulous. We haven’t had any leak problems on the days we use them. Hopefully by the time baby #2 comes along we will have a house with a washer/dryer so I can use these full time!!! They are totally worth the initial cost.
Bethany says
You mentioned you don’t use a diaper sprayer. What do you do with the poopy inserts?
Autumn Beck says
dump the solids then toss in pail. i run a prerinse with bacout in the washer.
Shannon Ropp says
Have you tryied the organic insert with the Flips? I was wondering what would work better?
Autumn Beck says
I’ve not used the organic inserts.
Amanda G says
I am pregnant with my first and I definately want to cloth diaper! I am pretty set on using prefolds with Thirsties duo covers with the snaps. However, the new flip diaper has my curiousity peaked. I am wondering how they stack up against each other, since the Flip doesn’t seem that much different to me than regular prefold and covers. Also, do you think one or the other would be better for a newborn?
PS: Love your site, it’s been very helpful, as I don’t know one other person who has used cloth diapers!
Autumn Beck says
The gusset protection that Thirsties provides is pretty hard to beat when it comes to newborn runny poop. You’ll still be using a new cover every time most likely but atleast the poop will stay in the cover. FWIW, the next newborn we have I won’t use Flip. I prefer fitteds or Lil’ Joeys.
Shannon Ropp says
We are expecting baby # 3 this Sept. and since I didn’t start CDing till my dd was 15 months old, I need to buy a few more diaper. I am on the fence between prefold and covers or the flip system. My current stash is all pockets. I want to try the flips but my local cloth store discouraged me. She said that the newborn poo will make a mess of the cover. However, I still read that people love them. Not sure what to think. I am on a budget and want to get the most for my money but still be easy. what are your thoughts?
Autumn Beck says
Compared to prefolds and covers you aren’t going to have that much more of a mess with Flip. I would go with Flip for simplicity, ease and price.
Amy says
Hi — we’ve been using a diaper service with prefolds and swaddlebees covers, but we’re about to switch to doing it ourselves. Trying to figure out the difference between the bumGenius 3.0 one-size and the Flip. Do you, or any of your readers, have a preference? Thanks!!
Autumn Beck says
Flip is going to be similar to the 2-step system you are used to. I prefer Flip because it is less laundry and easier to clean. The Bum Genius one-size is a pocket diaper that requires you to stuff the pocket with an insert. The main difference is once your baby pees, the whole diaper has to go in the pail (not just the lay-in insert like with Flip). For the price and ease I recommend Flip.
Claudia says
Hi, just started cd for my 4th baby. I am lost as far as size…my son@2 months old was already 15 pounds! He has massive chunky thighs, & I had ordered aios, ai2s all from wahm websites, but all leave horrible red marks. Can you recommend an aio or even pocket diaper that is more suitable for large chunky thighs? Thanks for your advice!
Autumn Beck says
Baby Softwraps are very gently on the thighs. Paisley had super chunky thighs and I used a lot of minky Blueberry sidesnaps. I liked sidesnap on her because it allowed more room, imo.
Jennifer says
Speaking of newborns, I was wondering what experiences you or others might have with using Flips with newborns, as far as size goes. Are they just huge on a newborn? Would you recommend a “special” newborn size like kissaluvs for the first several months and then Flips? What do you think is best? I’m due in about a week and am trying to figure all of this out :) Thanks so much!
Autumn Beck says
I’m not a fan of OS diapers on NB. I prefer a NB sized diaper like Mutts (www.muttaqinbaby.com) or Lil’ Joeys (www.rumparooz.com). Kissaluvs are good too, I used them with my 1st son.
Karem says
Hello, I was wondering how many covers/inserts would you recommend for newborns?
Thank you
Autumn Beck says
For a newborn you’ll need more covers because of the runny poop. I’d recommend at least 10. Inserts- 24 or more.
Christine says
Hi, there. Does anyone know whether the Flip system will be suitable for babies with chunky thighs?
Autumn Beck says
I would think they’d work fine. I know many moms use other Bum Genius cloth diapers on babies with chunky thighs.
tina says
my son is 2 months old and i’m exclusively breastfeed him, so you can imagine how mess his poop. i’m new in CD but i would like to leave all my disposable diaper and change to CD. I live in Indonesia (south east asia) and not so many choice of CD available here. Do you prefer Gro baby or Flip for my first time regarding my son situation?? what do you think about knickernappies and which one is better: velcro or snap..? thx a lot
Autumn Beck says
That’s a tough one. First, I have never used Knickernappies so I don’t have info for you on them. But I do really like Katydid pockets. Recommend them fully.
If I had to choose between Flip and Gro Baby I’d go with Flip. I like that you can rinse out the cover and reuse if poop gets on it. With Gro Baby this isn’t easy because of the fabric inner cover. I did use them on Sterling when he was a baby and I did wash it off occasionally but the poop left a stain and it wasn’t always easy to get the poop off.
Jennifer says
Do you need to soak the Flip inserts or do they get put into a dry diaper pail?
Autumn Beck says
They go straight into the pail.
Judy says
Oh, and saying all that, I meant to ask, any tips on washing? I would like to hear what detergent (s) everyone recommends for this particular brand.
Also, does anyone recommend the toilet sprayer?
Autumn Beck says
@Judy, I use Kirkland’s (costco) environmentally friendly detergent. Check out Crunchy Clean and Rockin Green also. I think most people use the bum genius sprayer but I don’t have any personal experience with any sprayers.
Judy says
I cd with my 2nd child, using the fuzzi bunz. I really liked the softness and how it kept my sons skin dry but I did have problems with them leaking. I eventually went back to disposables. We have since had another child, girl, who is now 21 months and have started the process for adopting. That said, I am considering cloth diapering again and have been researching for something convenient and something that works. I have purchased 1 Flip diaper and was totally impressed with the fit and it never leaked! I am definitely considering purchasing several day time kits. After reading previous reviews, I love how it seems to give a good fit to both chunky babies as well as smaller ones. My daughter is pretty chunky and they fit her very well. Not knowing what our adopted sons size will be, I wasn’t sure about investing in something that may not work for both children. I think this cd seems great and can’t wait to purchase my stash! Thanks for such a great blog that has such great information!
Stephanie says
One more question, what is the material like on the inside of the flip? Is it plastic-y? I have not seen it described anywhere, and if it has the ability to be wiped out I am having trouble figuring out what it could be. Does it make noise when the baby moves? Thanks!
Stephanie says
Thank you so much for your great site! I too am preparing to make the first time switch to CD with my twins (1 mo. old girls), and like Ali wanted to see which you prefer Gro Babies or the Flip. I have decided that both look good to me, I like that the Flip has the ability for the cover to be wiped out and used again, but like that the GB has snaps to keep the inserts in place. So, after using both, which do you prefer? Would you recommend a newbie like myself who needs a goodsized stash to purchase some of both, or stick to one so everything is interchangable? My hubby will be a SAHD when I go back to work, so I need them to be super easy, and need to spend as little as possible. Thanks for your help!
Autumn Beck says
Congrats, Stephanie, on your twin girls! What a blessing. I’d go with the Flip for a couple of reasons: 1) newborn poo is hard to contain. neither of these systems will do it well but atleast the Flip cover can be easily rinsed off in the sink. 2) the Flip covers have a greater size range (in my experience). 3) Flip is extremely affordable at this time. You can purchase them from my go-to stores: Cloth Diaper Superstore or Banana Peels Diapers. Banana Peels Diapers
Another option you may consider is Econobums. Both of the above stores carry them as well.
Jennifer says
Do the Flip covers need to be put in the drier to “seal” the PUL? On the tag of the cover it says line dry, but should I put it in the drier every few times I wash or will that mess them up? Or would the PUL stick to other dipers or the inside of the drier since the PUL is exposed?
Autumn Beck says
Jennifer, I dry my covers in the dryer. They have not stuck together or even gotten soft from the heat. I would follow the washing instructions as they are directed unless you are okay with the manufacturer’s warranty being nullified.
Ali says
I love your website and really appreciate your reviews. I am 6 mo pregnant with baby #3 and will be cloth diapering for the first time. I had decided to try the gro baby diapers (after the newborn stage) and saw the wonderful review your wrote about them. My kids tend to be VERY skinny as you have described Sterling. The Flip system sounds very similar to the Gro Babies and I was wondering which you like better and why. Thanks for your time and expertise. I think I’ve read just about everything on your site and just became a fan on facebook.
courtney says
i use flip and gdiapers. i think i might switch to all flips although i would like a velcro option. love love love them. very trim which is what i love best cuz my ds is already a chuncky monkey, he doesnt need any more bulk.
Dab says
Just wanted to send my own feedback. I bought one organic set, one extra organic soaker, and one package of disposable liners. I haven’t tried the cloth inserts yet (they’re in their 2nd wash), but I’ve used the cover and the disposable inerts. First, let me say that cottonbabies shipping (the free economy shipping) was super fast! I ordered on Saturday, it shipped on Monday (UPS ground) and I received it yesterday!
Anyway, the organic inserts are SO incredibly soft! The cover is a wider fit between the legs than some of our other covers, but the fit is far less bulky because with our others, they have to combine a lot of absorbency in a smaller area, thus creating quite the “bubble butt” (and crotch!). Because the Flip covers are wider, they can spread the absorbency out more so the diaper isn’t near as bulky.
I read the comments from the maker of Flip diapers re: the disposable inserts causing leaks. She said the problem was from people having the diaper covers too loose. The insert needs to be right against baby’s skin, so the cover needs to be snug enough to create that kind of fit. I decided to be brave and try them at night, using one disposable insert, with the top folded down once to create more aborbency in the front for my little boy. He woke up this morning with no leaks, no shifting, bunching, etc., and believe me when I say I have a crazy sleeper who thrashes around all night, lol! Better yet, I was able to simply wipe out the cover and there is NO pee smell!
So thank you, Autumn! I’m sold!
Autumn Beck says
Dab, thank you!!
Tasha says
Why do you prefer organic and natural to your diapers? Is the microfiber or stay dry lining (polyester or fleece) harmful to the baby? I’ve been using BG and fuzzi bunz one size but not organic. I thought the stay dry lining was probably better for baby, but now I wonder if I should switch. Thanks!
Autumn Beck says
Tasha, I like to use organic materials because they’re organic ;) Having a natural fiber, free of chemicals and synthetics is important to our family. We don’t all wear organic clothes but we do stay away from synthetic fibers. It’s just a preference but I wouldn’t tell someone to switch their stash. Some babies react bad when their skin is wet at all, in that case a stay-dry fabric is best!
Alison says
Here is the exact name of it–Cotton Babies
One-Size Insert Sock™ I guess you can put pfs in it to get the stay try feeling and lay it in a cover or you can put microfiber in it and lay it in a cover so that the mf insert does not touch baby’s skin. I figured since I have have so many pf and microfiber I will give it a shot. Just ordered one though to see how I like it and it is only $2.99. I am sure if someone is handy with a sewing machine they can easily make one–I am not!
Lisa says
Just a random observation..I think the cd manufacturer’s are INGENIOUS for creating these shell/soaker pad combos with the option to use sposie pads. What an awesome way to introduce non-receptive moms to the world of cding! I think that once they get their hands on a system like this they will be much more willing to take a look at the traditional cloth soaker options. And what a wonderful shower gift for new moms-to-be…let them try the system either way and decide from there. Love it! I personally have BIG LOVE for my Gro Babies (including the wonderfully absorbant sposie soaker pads!) so I am not sure if I want to make the switch to Flip, but I am just glad to see more manu. making these hybrid options available.
Dab says
I’m reading a lot of negative reviews (on the cottonbabies website) about the disposable inserts. I was really excited when I priced them because they’re MUCH less expensive than the current options we have for disposable inserts, and much less expensive than using 7th generation or earth’s best disposables for travel. However, all the negative reviews have me thinking that they’re not good quality. Thoughts?
Autumn Beck says
Got your email, Dab…replying.
Alison says
Do you think these will work for my 2yr old who is about 30lbs? If not I can just use them for my 6 month old. I ordered just the flip cover today in Ribbit. I can not wait to get it, however your pics make me wish I ordered moonbeam;( I figured I would use the crazy amount of gmd pfs I have in them. I ordered one of the sock inserts they sell at cb, I figured that would help with shifting issues and a pf. I also got the disposable inserts I hope I like those too!!! I wanted to like g-dipes so bad but I did not feel the love.
Thank you for your reviews!!! Since I have been reading your blog I have purchased sustainablebabyish longies, the flip, and am trying to convert my stash to BG organics and or flip LOL!!
Autumn Beck says
Alison, I’ll have to look into this “sock insert” you speak of :) Never heard of it and it may be something I’d like.
Candace Robinson says
I haven’t yet tried the Flip, but I did order an econobum and love it as a cover. LOVE LOVE it! It’s great at night and fits over my thick night time dipes. The prefold it comes with is nice too, but mainly I seem to think of it as a cover that is OS and snaps.
I’ll have to try out a flip one of these days.
jamie says
there are disposable diapers that do not contain the gel or sap. They are made by tushies. that is what we use for travel. i am intersted in buying the flip diapers. i love the bg 3.0
Autumn Beck says
Jamie! I knew there was a diaper without gel! Thank you for reminding me (((hugs)))
amanda miller says
what are the differences between the flip and g diaper?
Autumn Beck says
Amanda, gdiapers have a completely different insert system. I know many moms who use them and love them. I never could get a good fit and putting them on wasn’t as simple. gDiapers have a cloth (non waterproof) cover, then a snap in waterproof scoop like insert. Then you place in the disposable insert. The waterproof layer is what creates the “seal”. I did a price comparison for inserts on Amazon and the Flip inserts are less expensive.
Grateful for Grace says
Wow. These sound nice. Sure would like to see them in person. Some of the lingo is still lost on this newbie. Plus, well… I could see you. ;-)
Autumn Beck says
GfG, come over and check them out…or I could bring them to family fun night ;) what could be more fun that cloth diaper show-n-tell??
Nichole says
Autumn, I am disappointed that you like it with the SAP — I recall that you were excited about the Huggies Natural type diaper until you realized it contained SAP. Just a thought.
Autumn Beck says
Nichole, I respect your thoughts. I have learned a lot in the last few months. The biggest lesson learned is that my judgemental stance of “all or none” was wrong and hurt many people. I would never eat at a McDonald’s or any fast food restaurant for that matter but if circumstances meant that was the only option for my family then I’d swallow my pride and order a chicken salad. I’ve realized that sometimes traveling means there are no laundry facilities nearby, what should a cloth diapering mom do? Just like in the fast food example, I’d make the “healthiest” choice. Cottonbabies (Gro baby disposable inserts are the same) offers the lowest SAP content available. I pray that my response brings forth understanding for you.
Sara says
I agree completely with everything you wrote, Autumn! We tried them out, and I love the fit. I think it is better than the 3.0s. And it really is trim – I am so impressed with how much so.
Anastasia says
only 1 word to say, airports! yep that’s all, feel free to think what ya’ll wanna!
Crystal says
Wow, that sounds great. My 7 month old is also on the slim side and this sounds like an excellent solution. We will be traveling this Thanksgiving too, and no one in Oklahoma will let us use their washers to wash our dipes. We really didn’t want to do sposies though. We were thinking Gdiapers, but this sounds even better. Thanks for the info!