Preparing for a newborn is the fun balance to all the nausea, frequent peeing and braxton hicks that go with pregnancy. No matter how uncomfortable I am it seems I can always move a piece of furniture if it has to do with the baby. And fold laundry?! No fun in that unless it’s itty bitty baby items.
My preparation for cloth diapering our sweet baby #5 began early. But, buying cloth diapers isn’t the only part of the equation.
This weekend while my mom was in town I went and bought storage for baby diapering items and I had my baby shower!
I wasn’t sure what I wanted for storage. I knew I didn’t want to buy another plastic storage system! I found a great black bookshelf for $16 at Walmart and added a few cloth bins to it. It was cheap and it looks great. I just hope it functions well :)
On Sunday after church my dear friend and fellow cloth diaper mama, Grateful for Grace, (she likes her anonymity) hosted a beautiful baby shower for me! What a blessing it was. My mom commented that it was by far the best she’d been to and she’s had plenty of practice–this is grandbaby #10 for her.
Totally a tangent, when I put this dress on for church I thought “Wow! This dress makes me look like I’m not even pregnant!” I’m very serious. It wasn’t until I looked at this picture that I realized how a) my mirror is very distorted or b) my self-image is very distorted. Probably both.
Cloth diapers were present at the shower and pretty much stole the show. It was great to introduce the older women to modern cloth diapers and for the younger moms-to-be to see how simple they are.
Also included in the gifts was a gorgeous Planet Wise Hanging Wet/Dry Bag in Green Meadow. This print is amazing!! Way better in real life than the picture.
Yesterday, in the mail I received my much long awaited Muggabug newborn interlock wool soaker! It is SO TINY! All this buying, receiving and rearranging really has me anxious for this baby. I’ve done a great job of staying busy (really not that hard to do with 4 children and homeschool) but now my mind has slipped off into all-baby-all-day.
I’m almost finished receiving the last of the cloth diapers for the baby. I have 6 small Nana’s Bottoms on the way then I *think* I’m set. If only I could stop reading about how wonderful the xs Bum Genius aios are…
Oh, and I also got my very first diaper bag at the shower! Crazy that I’ve never had one before. It’s a gorgeous black damask JJ Cole Diaper Bag. Can’t wait to see how everything fits.
In September I wrote about cloth diapers at a baby shower. In it I link to many sites that have registries. In my experience though, unless the buyer is very familiar with online shopping then Amazon, Target and Babies R Us are your best bets. Believe it or not, by registering for cloth diapers and having a subtle hint on the invitation I only received 3 small packages of disposable diapers. That’s a success!
At 6 weeks out, I think I’m fully prepared to cloth diaper a newborn. I have plenty of cloth diapers ( I recommend a *minimum* of 24 and that’s if you do laundry every other day.) and all the accessories that go with.
The picture below does not include any of the one-sized diapers I have (Softbums, Pooters, Bum Genius..)
Autumn is a wife, mother, homeschool teacher, friend and most important a follower of Christ.
Heather P. says
Hi Autumn. I love your site, I have used so many of your tips. So, I am expecting baby #3 in December, and we have never cd’ed from the newborn stage, we waited till they fit in the one sizes. But I am getting 10 newborn prowraps (yay!) for $15, and I was wondering if you know if newborn swaddlebees prefolds will work for a normal sized baby- (my last two were 7 and 9lbs) I see many places that people say they need premie sized prefolds for a normal 7 pounder. Also, did you use wool for any newborns? I am concerned about poop getting on the cover, I dont want to have to wash it all the time I never used wool before, and we don’t use fitteds either. I will make newborn fitteds if I have to, if that is the key to poop containment. Thanks!
Autumn Beck says
I haven’t used prefolds on a newborn, however I have tried one on. It was big so if I was using them full time premie might be what I tried. I have used wool on a newborn. If a little poop gets on the wool it’s really easy to rinse it off. When folding prefolds the jelly roll is great for holding in the poop.
Megan says
How is the storage system working for you now that its in full working mode? do you still like the set up? finding the “perfect” cloth diaper is hard enough but finding a storage system really seems to be equally as hard!
Come August I’ll have 2 in cloth and just trying to find a system that works for us :)
Autumn Beck says
I almost never use it! I’ve taken the bins and they lay next to the pack n play in the living room :) Not exactly pretty but it’s convenient.
Erin says
This will be baby #1 for us and I am looking for a diaper that will work for a newborn and also for awhile after. I am looking into getting the Thirsties Duo Wraps and was wondering if they work ok with the newborn’s cord area. I didn’t want to invest too much money in the newborn diapers since they grow so quickly and we’re on a budget, so I was hoping this would work. Or if you know of any other CDs besides newborn sizes that will work for this situation. Thank you!
Ashley says
Hi Autumn,
I’d like to cloth diaper with one size diapers from Day 1 (if poss) but it sounds like my BGs and Kiwaiis won’t work initially. So I was thinking of getting some Rumparooz one size and maybe some Pooters one size with covers. Would those work better on newborns? I’m not sure I fully understand the pros and cons of a one size pocket vs a one size fitted with cover – either way you have something to wash and the drying time isn’t that different is it? Does one contain better than the other?
Thanks so much for answering all these questions!
Autumn Beck says
It’s just a matter of preference mostly. Fitteds contain better for nighttime usually.
Sandra says
It is totally a matter of preference as Autumn said. Some moms like using natural fibers and materials and if that’s the case, pockets aren’t the best because of PUL. I personally am a big fan of fitteds and wool covers. Breathable, contain well, and natural.
Raychel says
And you do usually have to replace microfiber after a year or less depending on the size of your stash. So if your wanting to not have to replace AS quickly, natural fibers would work best. Also, the stink issues are horrible! I had some BG’s on loan from a friend, after 6 months of use betwEen the two of us I had to bring out my canning pot to boil them in to get the amonia smell out. No amount of stripping would do it. I personally won’t buy something I’m going to have to boil.
sara says
Hi Autumn, you have a great blog and seem like the person that can best respond to my question.
I was initially thinking of getting a diaper service for our baby (#1 due in June 2011). After reading so much about cloth diapering, I am now wondering if I should invest in the ~$100/mnth service fee to have someone else pretty much wash the cloth inserts for me, or if washing the diapers are pretty easy enough for me to do on my own and save some money??
I’m just concerned that with a newborn, there is enough clothes to wash and haul up and down 2 floors, and having to wash diapers on top of that may be too much, can you please give some guidance… help!
Also if I do the cloth prefolds, I am looking for a one-size snap-ons. What brand do you recommend??
Thanks so mcuh!!
Autumn Beck says
Washing isn’t that much added work. Toss them in, do a prewash, regular wash and 2nd rinse. Then toss in dryer.
Does “one-size snap-ons” mean one size cover? If so, Thirsties are a good cover.
Just a thought…take 2 months of the diaper service money and buy a great carrier (my favorite is Beco) to wear baby up and down the stairs ;)
Tara says
I should clarify, cloth diaper for NEWBORNS.
I have some softbums that my DD uses, but whenever I see newborns in them they look eaten alive by the velcro closures.
Autumn Beck says
they are bulkier but when the cord falls off i think the fit is good when you use the newborn doubler.
Tara says
Autumn,
What would you say at the most trim cloth diapers?
Now, could you answer that question again for a Momma on a budget?
Thanks!
Autumn Beck says
trim newborn diapers= lil’ joeys, mutts or little boppers fitteds…a lot of fitteds are trim but not that absorbent. for budget- buy used. visit due date clubs on diaperswappers a couple-few months before you and ask if they’ll sell you their stash when they are done.
Tara says
Quick question. I am having a baby this February and would like to cloth diaper from the start…it just seems like cloth diapering a newborn with cloth is SO EXPENSIVE! Is it really saving money or is it just helping the environment?
My two main concerns are (1) finances and (2) trimness. I can’t stand cloth diapers that droop below the knees of a newborn. Help!
Autumn Beck says
Cloth diapers on newborns has always been trim for me. I use fitteds that are tiny, however. Cost can be crazy with newborns but it certainly doesn’t have to be. Buy used, buy cheaper brands, buy prefolds but even if you go with a brand that appears pricier when calculating the cost of disposables in those first 3 months it’s not really hard to compete.
Chloe says
First of all, I wanted to thank you because everything on your blog was so helpful and I am all prepared all because of YOU!!!!!! Thanks so much!
Here are the questions~~~
1. What covers do you use? seems like you have Thirsties? right? Do you have other covers? if yes, what are they?
2.Do you use Gen-Y cover for new born? even XS is too big for my 6 lbs 6 oz baby.. what’s your thought on Gen-Y Minkee covers?
I noticed you have Muttaqin Fitted but 3. what are those plush ones on 2nd and 3rd stacks from the right? seems like they are fitted?
Many thanks~~ in advance!!!! Merry Christmas and Congrats on your next new one!!!
Autumn Beck says
1. proraps
2. not a big side snap cover fan
3. the plush ones are goodmama newborns. YUMMY! they are a fitted.
Thank you for you kind words and the congrats.
Lauriel says
We are expecting our first baby in July (I know we have a long ways still!) but I’ve been trying to do some research to figure out what we want in cloth diapers. I am leaning toward the Bumgenius one size all in one, because it seems the most efficient. I ordered one to try on my nephew over the holidays :) Do you think I need to get something different for a newborn? Also, why the logic of having so many different brands instead of one that you really like?
Autumn Beck says
You won’t know which brand you really like unless you try a few. It’s not possible to try them all of course but variety will help you find the best fit. Under “My Recommendations” you’ll find the cloth diapers I recommend for newborns. Bum Genius have a longer rise and tend to take a little longer to fit newborns than the Rumparooz one size, for example.
Jocelyn Groff says
Hey Autumn,
I will be a first time mom when my little girl Zoey comes at the end of March. We are doing cloth diapers so I’ve been browsing your site like crazy (I found the Ultimate Guide very helpful!) I still have a few questions though.
QUESTION 1:
I am putting together my registry this is what I have so far for cloth diapers:
Cloth-eez Organic Prefolds (12 pack)
Kissaluluvs Fitted
Muttaqin Fitted
Sloomb “Magic Diaper” Fleece Fitted
Tiny Tush 4.0 Hemp One-Size
Berry Plush Cover
Thirsties Duo Wrap Cover
Disana Organic Wool Pull–On Cover
Imse Vimse Wool Wrap Cover
Newborn Crocheted Wool Soaker from Etsy
Swaddlebees Pocket
(2) Lil Joey AIOs
SmartiPants Little Smarti AIO
(6) Diaper Rite Prefolds
That makes for 18 prefolds, 4 fitteds, 5 covers, 1 pocket, and 3 AIOs. I’ve put down that I want all of these in size NB. I figure I can see which types/brands I like best after she comes and then order the next size up in the ones I like for when she gets bigger. Does this sound like a good plan? Will the baby go through these too quickly to be putting so many NB sizes on my registry? Should I also/instead be putting some on the registry that are the next size up?
QUESTION 2:
Are “liners” the same as “inserts?” How many inserts should I have/ how many inserts of each type of material should I have?
Thanks!
Autumn Beck says
I’ll answer your question 1 with a question: what do you want with your newborn cloth diapering? Ease? Affordability? Containment? You have a wide variety of things but it may be a little too hodge podge. Prefolds are a great investment if money is a big factor. They will have to be changed more often and poo leaks are more common than with fitteds. I see 2 diapers that will last a little longer through the night (sloomb and tiny tush) which will be extremely helpful. When it comes to sizing up I’ve found that the newborn diaper brands are not ones that I like in bigger sizes. For example, Mutts are my favorite newborn diaper but I’m not a big fan of Mutts for bigger babies b/c they aren’t that absorbent. Sloomb are great in all sizes. I’d look into Pooters, Rumparooz OS and Bum Genius 4.0. The Rumparooz will fit very early so they are a great investment. Pooters are excellent nighttime diapers and super affordable. Bum Genius are nice, easy, functional and will fit after about 12lbs.
Question 2: liners are either disposable or fleece (which would be used when you want a stay dry barrier for baby or you are using an ointment not safe for cloth diapers). Inserts are the absorbent layer that you add to pockets. Doublers are extra absorbency that you lay in any diaper.
Sandra says
Help! Expecting and trying to get my stash together. I’m thinking I will use mainly fitteds with covers and have a few pockets and AIOs for when out and about or if someone else is diapering baby (before I go on, does this seem like a good plan generally? I believe you said that until recently you were mainly a fitted and cover mom yourself right?) I like pooters (the one size is just too great), sbish fitteds, and kissaluvs organic fitteds. I also got a nifty nappy pocket, a rumparooz pocket, and 2 BumGenius Elementals. If I plan to do wash every other day, being realistic but also kind to my wallet, how many of what should I get?
Autumn Beck says
You sound like you have a great mix of brands! Doing wash every other day with a newborn you will need at least 2 dozen. I like having a mix of fitteds, aios and pockets. Different times need different diapers :) As far as how many of each kind: in the beginning I have more fitteds b/c I change more often and fitteds tend to contain better. As they get older I transition into more pockets and aios.
Sandra says
Thank you so much and sorry for all the questions! You are just such a good resource I can’t resist. I was wondering if you knew of any all in ones for newborns. I know about lil Joeys and was wondering what you had heard about them because I was reading a lot of reviews that they leak quite a bit. Any other AIOs?
Also, assuming I don’t bother with the pockets or the AIOs during the newborn stage, are fitteds+cover doable under most clothes? Should I buy larger pants and onesies to accomodate?
Sandra says
Autumn you mentioned above that you use certain diapers, like sbish bamboo fitteds only at night. Do you have different diapers/covers you use during the day and night? Which do you use for which and why?
Autumn Beck says
At night you want more absorbency. Sbish are highly absorbent.
Sandra says
From all you’ve said, I gather that sbish and pooters are very good night time diapers. I’ve gotten both, as well as some nifty nappies, kissaluvs, bg aios, and muttaquins. I’m wondering if you ONLY use the sbish and pooters for nightime. Meaning, do you have specifically designated daytime and nighttime diapers or are there just some that you make sure you use at night because of their absorbency but dont mind using them during the day as well? Man I hope that makes sense. Pregnancy brain apparently makes communication problematic =)
Also, you said you like to use more fitteds during the newborn stage and then you switch to more AIOs and pockets later on? How much later is “later”? Do you still use fitteds as well? Do you prefer pockets or AIOs?
Sorry for all the questions. Hope that little one makes an appearance soon =)
Autumn Beck says
I only use Pooters or Sbish at night. I like to make sure they’re available. During the day I like the convenience of a one-step system. I usually start using pockets and aios when they grow out of the newborn fitteds.
Sandra says
Do you prefer AIOs or pockets? Do you use different ones at different times or situations?
Autumn Beck says
AIOs are easier, I don’t like to stuff pockets. But, pockets are more versatile so I end up using them more. I have a nice set of AIOs (from Nana’s Bottoms) and Ragababe AI0s and AI2s for when this baby outgrows the nb size.
Sandra says
So sorry about ALL the questions! Last one… why do you have both the AIOs and the AI2s? Do you use these at different times or for different situations? I was looking at Ragababes and liked them but couldnt decide which to get.
Autumn Beck says
I mainly have them both because companies have sent me both. I prefer AIOs though because I never use the AI2 system to it’s extent. AI2s are great for nighttime use but I wouldn’t spend the extra money for that system just for nighttime purposes.
janet says
Hi Autumn! This is a very nice blog sight!! I totally appreciate all the info on cloth diapers i can get. I’m having baby number 1 around christmas. Very soon thankfully!! since it is getting closer and i am much more into the philosophie behind the cloth. Yet, i’m living here in Germany so i think the main brands are quite a bit different Have you heard of the name PoPoLiNi. They say that they do have a one size variation that i am thinking about. I, of course like any new mom to cloth diapers am nervous about jumping into the cost. I mean, i don’t really mind as long as i know the quality is there and they will be comfortable and absorbant. any info you can pass along would be great! i will also continue to read your blog to find out anything i can!! Good luck with baby number 5. when are you due?! my Sister had 5 gorgeous kids! That takes a strong momma and alot of support!! kudos!! all the best!
janet
Autumn Beck says
Janet, I *think* Sustainablebabyish is available in Germany. That is an excellent brand. I haven’t heard of PoPoLiNi.
I am due the 24th. I’m expecting to go over though, as I usually do. Congratulations on your 1st baby!
Anonymous says
thanks for the quick response! i looked them up and didn’t see anything on CD’s in their product list, but i did write them a letter asking about that and if they are also distributed here. I will also look into ordering bumhuggers and some other brands. maybe they will ship out here! i mean, with globalization the world is so small!
Just went to doc today and he seems to think I’ll be early by a couple weeks! ahh, this would make me a very happy lady! But, my search continues before then!
thanks again!!
all the best!
Anonymous says
decided to go for the PoPoLiNoS. On recommendation from a work collegue of my husband. They loved them years ago and have recommended then to many family and friends who are courageous enough to CD . My husband is already confident with them and that is a huge bonus as he will also be doing the changing!!! ;-) I may invest in some other kinds depending how the first weeks go. they have disposable inserts for the beginning which are supposed to be very good and absorbant for the breast milk poo. They also come with one insert that you can use later. Yes it is a one size that i got. i got 2 small covers for now. i’ll send you a photo of them at a later date! Still on the wait. i’m due on the 26th. baby WAS in a good position a couple weeks ago, but no longer. one more week and the doc might want a c sec. :-( we’ll see!
Good luck also to you this week. Soon Soon Soon!!! all the best!
Melvina says
We are expecting baby number 6 this Feb. (well together we have 7, but this is MY 6th baby) We have that exact same bookcase! lol I however am using it for all his little clothes, shoes, care items ect. ( I also have these little bins I got from Walmart on sale for like 5 bucks per 3) I then got the Munchkin canvas Baby Care cart for all the prefolds, covers and unwet cloth wipes. Then on our stand, I have our wipes warmer that will hold our wipes solution and wet wipes… So far I got a good start on it, any suggestions I can use before Feb.?
Autumn Beck says
Congratulations on baby #6!! You are so blessed !
yanira says
hi Autum,
By the way, CONGRATULATIONS on baby #5!. thank you so much for all your wonderful reviews. I was wondering what type of fabric and style did you order from Nana’s bottom. I looked at the site and she has AIO, fitted etc. not sure what is better..
thankyou
Autumn Beck says
I ordered aios with bamboo inner and soaker. They are so cute!
Bulbul says
Great blog. I am first time Mom to be due mid December. Can you suggest some good options for new born babies.
Autumn Beck says
check out the tab “My Recommendations”
Catherine says
Hi. I’m expecting my first child in a week and bought prefolds plus covers with a few pockets. I am just wondering why you don’t use prefolds for the newborn stage? Just curious to see what I am getting myself into. It seems a lot of pros don’t use prefolds, yet most websites say prefolds are the best for newborns.
Autumn Beck says
For me, they never contained, weren’t the tightest fit and not as quick and user friendly as I prefer :)
Susan says
Thanks for this post, Autumn. I have started my “stash.” Right now I have some Little Joeys and Flips (for when he is a bit bigger.) My little guy is set to arrive in early January and am hoping for some Black Friday or Cyber Monday sales to stock up on more for the newborn stage. I think I am going mostly with your “budget” suggestions for newborns…prefolds & proraps. Fitteds sound great, but I am also not sure about spending a lot on the newborn stage.
Julie says
I started late with cloth diapers (5 months) so I missed the newborn time.
How long do newborn size cloth diapers usually fit. My son was born quite large and outgrew newborrn size disposables in 2 weeks.
We are looking to have another and I’m not sure if I want to get some newborn size or stick with what I have, mostly adjustable size diapers like Hapy Heinys and GroBaby.
Autumn Beck says
Many one-sized diapers can fit babies starting at 12lbs (sometimes 10lbs). You don’t necessarily have to buy “newborn” diapers. Having some newborn covers and prefolds will hold you over until they grow into the ones you have.
Nicole Betts says
I didn’t realize you are due so soon! My due date is 12/26 with my first babygirl. I plan to CDing but have concerns about fit for a newborn with my Kawaii and Sunbabies stash (pockets and covers) I can’t afford to or see it being cost effective to buy fitteds that the baby can only wear a short time. I have heard that the meconium stools are difficult to wash out and many moms use disposables for a few weeks. What do you suggest?
Autumn Beck says
I’ve never found the meconium to be difficult to wash out, and I’ve cloth diapered 2 newborns so far. I know Kawaii’s are pretty big so not sure they’ll fit a newborn for a while. Sunbabies are a bit smaller. There are newborn cloth diaper rental programs (Sweetbottoms Baby and Pooters) as well as the cheap prefolds and covers.
Beth @ Sweetbottoms Baby Boutique says
Aaawww!! What a beautiful Mama!! Love the picture, Autumn! :)
Majaliwa Bass says
I am so jealous of your stash! Congrats again on your upcoming bundle of joy. I’m expecting a new niece that same day too!
Crystal Dorsey says
Wow, I just realized we must be due around the same time… you say you are 6 weeks out in the blog above, and I am 6 weeks out as of yesterday… due date 12/28/10. I have done disposable diapers with both my other 2 girls, but with this next girl I am determined to do cloth — I tried it with the first child and just couldn’t get the hang of it, then went back to work when she was 8 weeks old and Dad just flatly refused. So, I haven’t purchased your “all about cloth diapers” guide yet because we’re in the process of moving — yes, moving — and I wanted to wait until I was settled in the new house and actually on maternity leave (working full time) to research. If I go with a diaper service for the first month or two, they provide just regular old tri-folds, so I won’t get much experience with anything else but at least we’ll be cloth and I’ll have time to finish research! Good luck on the rest of your pregnancy #5 and best wishes!
Autumn Beck says
Crystal, I highly recommend a newborn cloth diaper rental program. Yes, you’d have to wash them yourself but you get a much better system to try out. Sweetbottoms Baby and Pooters have great rental programs.
My edd is 12/24 :)
Kristi says
My LO is due in 5 weeks (though I don’t think she’s actually going to wait that long!) and I have to say I am totally jealous of your stash! I have 24 nb prefolds, 12 preemie prefolds (with hopefully another 12 on the way) and like 7 proraps. I toally wish I had some cutsies dipes for her, too!
Raychel says
It’s amazing how all the cute cd’s actually make you look forward to diapering your baby! How many sposie mom’s can say that…not many would be my guess. While I don’t particularly love poopie diapers, it’s much less annoying when you have JUST put a new diaper on your baby and the baby immediately poo’s and the diaper is cloth. If it’s disposable your annoyed thinking “ugg, if I had just waited 3 minunets we could have saved a diaper” When it’s cloth, oh well, you can wash and reuse! It’s also fun how much you evolve over time with the diapers, you can go from one type to the next and back again and it doesn’t matter if you buy to many because someone else will pick them up and you can recoup some of your funds!
Cindi says
Chiming in to confirm that it was indeed a blessed baby shower. All of the gifts were wonderful…Autumn didn’t mention the timer she got, but then maybe she is saving that for another post :) hope I didn’t let the cat out of the bag DD.
One thing I will comment on from the perspective of buying for storage; keep it simple and functional, buy things that will continue to serve in other capacities later as the diaper stash morphs into larger sizes or your needs change. I always wanted everything matching with all the bells and whistles and what found is that I didn’t use half of the stuff and when the baby grew into a toddler my storage needs did indeed change as did my desire to have everything just right. Functionality became my mantra, not style.
Annji says
I just found out I am pregnant with #2. With my first I did not use cloth diapers. I am going to do it this next time araound. And I love the response on the Flip cloth diapers. But I am not sure it is wise to purchase just one type. Should I invest in a few? Help?
Elizabeth says
Before my newborn came we got something similar to your storage system at Shopko. It’s four large cloth drawers stacked on top of each other on a rolling metal bookshelf type thing. It was on sale with the back to campus dorm room stuff. You could put a fifth drawer on top, but I have a smaller container of diaper accessories there and a little lamp. We have a drawer for AIOs and pockets, one for covers, one for inserts, one for wipes and such. I have been so grateful to have everything organized, and was kicking myself for not doing it sooner!
I don’t have a lot of newborn diapers and wasn’t really interested in investing in them, so we’ve used the paper diapers we got as gifts from friends and free from my Dr.’s office and the hospital. I just switched her into the cloth (she’s 8 weeks) but our one size diapers are still HUGE. I have smaller covers and pockets that I love (some thirsties and applecheeks) but the inserts are SO BULKY. I was thinking of taking the gerber cloth diapers I already have and cutting them in half (widthwise) for inserts until she’s a little bigger. Does anyone have other suggestions? I looked at some infant size indian prefolds online, but I’m not sure what to look for in a good purchase. I just want a cheap short term solution since she’s my last one!
Autumn Beck says
You probably have full sized inserts and yes, they would be bulky on a newborn. Here are a few links for smaller inserts:
Fuzzi Bunz
Joey Bunz
Thirsties
Bumkins
Raychel says
I needed some smaller inserts and actually cut up some ratty towels that we had into the sizes I wanted. Then my grandma sewed them together for me. They worked well and didn’t cost me anything.
Sandra says
What are your favorite inserts? Can most inserts be used with all sorts of diapers or is it better to use brand specific inserts? Also, can you use inserts with diapers other than pocket diapers for extra absorbency?
Autumn Beck says
I have a wide variety of microfiber inserts made from a wide variety of brands. I interchange them in different pockets. I wouldn’t use the inserts as doublers because they are microfiber and you don’t want that touching baby’s skin. When I need a doubler I reach for bamboo.
Sandra says
What about inserts made from things like bamboo and hemp?
Autumn Beck says
sure. you can use them if they fit nicely in the diaper.
Kristi says
If the Gerber prefolds that you have are just the regular ones you buy at walmart and such then don’t cut them.. at least not down the center, anyway. They are filled with fiberfill (the fluffy stuff used to stuff pillows and what not.) It’d probably just be a big mess! The Gerber Organics and Premium prefolds are actually cloth in there.
Elizabeth says
Thanks for the advice, and I’m glad I saw Kristi’s comment before I grabbed the scissors! I’ll cut widthwise and plan on doing some sewing.
rebecca says
I’d love to see a picture of your newborn in a rumparooz os once he or she is here : )
Nicole says
Autumn, You look amazing for being so close to welcoming baby blessing #5! Your stash is so fabulous! Keep us updated on your organization station, is that just for the newborn or for Sterlings diapers too?! (Not to add fuel to the fire, but I had about 10 bg xs that I used everyday that were a dream!! ;) )
Autumn Beck says
that’s just for newborn diapers. sterling has 4 big drawers lol
Julie says
I have to say I love your blog! I am new to cloth diapering compared to you ;). My daughter is 16 months and we have been cloth diapering since she was 3 months old. Instead of trying different ones out (I didn’t know to do that) I bought 15 Rump-a-Rooz. I do like them but not “in love” with them. We are ttc and hope to have a baby come August (we shall see). I need more diapers I know but I don’t know where to begin. What do you suggest? I love cloth diapers but I’m nervous to buy any more thinking I won’t like them. I do have to wash every other day and I’m afraid I paid too much for the diapers and they will wear out quicker than I would get my money’s worth. Any suggestions would be so helpful.
Thanks :) Congrats on baby #5, that’s awesome! We would like to have 4. :)
Autumn Beck says
Since you aren’t yet pregnant I’d buy a different diaper every month to try it out. A few suggestions: Kawaii, Bum Genius, Flip, Thirsties…
Rachael says
I’m due with my first in May, and so looking at getting it together to cloth diaper the baby. I’m inclined towards flats and pre-folds (I think I got the words right) for their versitility later on when they aren’t so up for being a diaper (after several babies, is my thought). Maybe when the baby shower starts, I’ll drop some big hints to the hostesses!
Raychel says
Lots of CD websites have trial packages for newborns. I really encourage you to try that, you’ll quickly learn what works well and what doesn’t. But buy some prefolds anyways, they are the BEST burp cloths:)
Mikaela says
Oh man are you making me have the baby blues!!!!! Dh and I are only talking about the next baby but I have already been thinking about my newborn stash-to-be :-) haha I have had to resist buying newborn diapers I find and fall in love with it’s crazy! Question: are you mostly a fitted and wool person? Or are some of the diapers in your stash pic AIO’s? Just curious what a veteran cloth diapering mom prefers for a newborn.
Autumn Beck says
In the newborn stage I use 90% fitteds and covers. Then, I transition into pockets or aios when they are a few months old. I prefer the containment of fitteds in the early stages.
Ashley says
Have you ever tried Nifty Nappy diapers on a newborn. I loved them on my toddler but am a little cautious in buying a whole stash. Only because I don’t know how they’d fit a newborn. Any input would be great.
Autumn Beck says
I haven’t tried Nifty Nappy diapers. I have heard that they DO fit great on newborns ;)
kimberly ross says
I have to say since I start cding my 3rd son late at 1.5 months I know if we do have another baby I will definitely do it from day one! What a cool blog and love the organization!
Julie says
Hi Autumn, I think I am just a little behind you in dates with my first pregnancy. I am so happy you are going to post your opinions about cloth diapering your new newborn. I’ve been reading your website for a few weeks and I ordered a sampling of all the newborn diapers you recommended. Looking at your picture brings up a question that has me confused. When do you plan to use your wool soaker and when do you plan to use your covers? I now have a variety of fitteds and a few covers and wool soakers. Do yo ujust use the wool at night? How can I plan to rotate my diapers thoughout the day and night with a newborn? I am planning to transition to AIO when the baby gets bigger. Thanks!
Autumn Beck says
I use whatever cover I grab. Wool can be used day or night. I tend to use the Proraps more than wool. I have certain diapers I use just for night (sustainablebabyish bamboo fitteds).
Catherine Brown says
Hi! I wanted to send a link to my website and introduce you to my diaper line! Please let me know if you are interested in a sample and if you would be interested in doing a review.
Thank you!
Cathy Brown
Autumn Beck says
http://www.allaboutclothdiapers.com/a-cuteybaby-a-blissful-booty-and-a-bright-star-baby-plus-a-winner/