My Top Picks

First I feel it is only fair to indicate what diapers I have actually tried. There are numerous I have not tried so, my apologies if your favorite brand does not appear on this list.

If you think there is a brand I might like better-- tell me about.


Brands/ diapers I have tried and the age/lbs. they were tried on:

Knickernappies OS: (2 1/2yr- 33lb)(1-2month- 8-12lb)
BG 3.0 OS Pocket: (2 1/2yr- 33lb)(1-2month- 8-12lb)
BG 4.0 OS Pocket-snaps: (2 1/2yr- 33lb)(1-2month- 10-12lb)
Flip OS AI2: (2 1/2yr- 33lb)(0-2month- 7-12lb)
Little gPants (Size Small): (0-2months- 6.5lb-12lb)
Happy Heiny's OS Pocket: (2 1/2yr- 33lb)(1-2month- 8-12lb)
Tiny Tush Elite OS Pocket: (1-2month- 8-12lb)
FuzziBunz OS Pocket: (1-2month- 8-12lb)
FuzziBunz Perfect Size (Small): (1-2month- 8-12lb)
Kissaluvs Fitteds (Size 1): (1-2month- 8-12lb)
Thirsties Covers (Size Small): : (1-2month- 8-12lb)
Thirties DuoWrap Aplix-(Size 2: 2 1/2yr- 33lb)(Size 1: 1-2month- 8-12lb)

Inserts (not prefolds) used:
Knickernappies Loopy-Do
Thirsties Duo Hemp
FuzziBunz
BG doubler and regular
Flip Microfiber
Flip Organic
Green Acre Designs OS Hemp French Terry Insert
BabyKicks Hemparoo®- JoeyBunz
Happy Heiny's Hemp Stuffins
Under the Nile Organic Cotton
TinyTush Contoured Hemp pocket Stuffer



My Picks:

Aesthetic Appeal- Knickernappies are my first choice in regards to aesthetics. I love the way that they snap on the sides and I am in love with the "Chocolate" colored diaper. Nevertheless, a funky print would make these even more exciting but, perhaps they are going for that modern chic look they have going for them.

Fit & Bulkiness- Tough call but I would say gDiapers get the #1 spot followed closely by Knickernappies. gDiapers are sized which already makes them likely to fit best but for a OS diaper Knickernappies does a great job at fitting tiny babies better than most and it fits are 33lb daughter, with room to grow, unlike most OS diapers that are barely hanging in there. Likewise, both of these diapers fit great under appropriate sized clothes.

Absorbency- The best absorbency diaper I have found is the Thirsties Duo Hemp Prefold! It is super trim and ultra absorbent. Likewise, it can be used as a pocket stuffer, trifolded and laid in a cover, or snappied with some finesse. I like it best stuffed in the pocket of a BG 4.0. Trims down the diaper and still provides the same (if not better) absorbency as the BG microfiber insert.

Overall Pocket- I would have to say the BG 4.0. I love the snaps and the look. The fit is great. they are affordable and reliable. They have a strong following, great customer service, a one year warranty and now replaceable elastic

Prefold- Most people would argue that the GMD prefolds (AKA: Cloth-eez) are the best prefolds-- and I like them a lot but, as mentioned previously the Thirsties Duo Hemp Prefold is my preferred option. Nevertheless, Thirsties Duo Hemp is more difficult to snappi-- because it was designed to be trifolded and used as a pocket stuffer or just laid into a Thirsties Duo Cover than the GMD's. For a parent that plans on using prefolds exclusively or a first time prefolder I would suggest the GMD. Like the BG they have a strong following followed only by Little Lions- which are a slightly cheaper alternative.

Fitted- I have only tried the Kissaluvs but, I like it. It is a little bulkier than I like for a diaper but, it is darling and fits nicely under a Flip or Thirsties cover. I would be interested in trying a Thirsties fab fitted and a TotBots bamboozle though.

AIO- I have never tried an AIO because I do not feel they are conducive to our life style. I did not feel it was eco-friendly to purchase 24 Pocket or AIO diapers as many people suggest-- and we want to line dry our diapers to boost their longevity. AIO's require hot washing and tumble drying to be conducive to a every other day washing and air drying-- this takes its toll on PUL shells.

Inserts- outside of the Thirsties Duo Hemp prefold, I love the Knickernappies Loopy-Do. A blend of 55% hemp 45% cotton sewed in a loop for faster drying times is hard to beat. They are super absorbent-- even the small one works great for our 33lb daughter as an overnight. But, these inserts are expensive! they are a heck of a deal if you buy the Knickernappies diaper-- I definitely recommend the $6 upgrade for 2 Loopy-do inserts rather than microfiber.

But, if you are looking for a cheaper high-quality alternative-- you cannot beat a BG microfiber insert. Their absorbency is out of this world and you can get a 6pack for $18.

Newborn insert- You just cannot beat a BG Newborn insert-- also known as a "doubler"

Cloth Diapering Lingo

It came to my attention in writing the last post that in the cloth diapering world there are tons of abbreviations that may leave a newbie completely confused and searching message boards for the meaning of pf's and cd's and AI2's. So for this reason I decided it would be good to make a reference sheet of such acronyms.

CD- cloth diapering/ diapers

AIO/ AI1- all in one: a diaper most like a disposable. It typically has no pockets to stuff(although some have a pocket where you can add a "booster" for extra absorbency). These a donned as the most simple to use cloth diapers since they have a waterproof exterior and all of the soakers are already sewn in. Often advertised as babysitter and dad friendly.

PF- prefolds: this references the cloth diaper that comes to mind for most people. It consists of a white cotton, hemp or bamboo cloth that has been folded to make the center more absorbent than the two outer panels. You probably have some of the Gerber variety laying about as burp cloths. Prefolds typically requires diaper pins or a snappi (don't worry-- I will explain the snappi). Prefolds require a diaper cover for leakproof protection.

DSQ PF- Diaper Service Quality Prefolds. This typically refers to prefolds that are folded and sewn to have 4 layers of cloth on the outer panels and 8 layers of cloth on the inner panels (AKA- 4x8x4; 4-8-4). Non DSQ prefolds are usually 4x6x4 or 2x6x2. These are often sufficient for a small baby that is not a heavy wetter- many infant diapers are 2x6x2 in order to reduce the bulkiness of the diaper.

AI2- This typically refers to a waterproof diaper cover with an insert/ soaker (sometimes disposable/ sometimes cloth) that can be removed while allowing the cover to be used again without washing every time baby is changed. Diapers in this category include the gDiaper, the Flip, GroVia (AKA: GroBaby), and the Thirsties Duo Cover+ insert.
Covers-These go around an insert (AKA: wraps) to prevent leaking. These tend to be the cheapest method of cloth diapering-- especially if you use prefolds. Nevertheless, you can also use a fitted diaper underneath that has fasteners already on the diaper and many have elasticized legs to prevent leaking-- think of this as diapering twice and getting twice the protection.

Fitteds- like prefolds fitted diapers require a diaper cover in order to provide leak-proof protection. Unlike the prefold it does not require pins or use of a snappi to hold the diaper in place. The combo of a fitted and a cover is about the same cost as an AIO or Pockets but, many people swear by its ability to contain the worst of messes. Perhaps the most popular fitteds are Kissaluvs and Thirsties "Fab Fitteds."

Pockets- These are similar to the AIO but have a pocket inside the diaper that you stuff with an insert/ soaker for absorbency. These are typically the most expensive cloth diaper outside of wool covers but, they offer the convenience of an AIO (especially if you pre-stuff them) with much faster drying time since the inserts are removed from the diaper when washing.

Contours- This typically refers to a diaper that is a sort of in between prefolds and fitteds. Like the fitted it is already cut and shaped into a diaper form-- no folding required- but, like the prefold they require pins or the use of a snappi to secure it. Some contours have elasticized legs but, most do not. Contours also require a diaper cover.

PUL- Polyurethane Laminate fabric. This fabric is 100% waterproof and is used on diaper covers, pockets, AIO's and AI2's to prevent leaks. They can be washed in hot water and tumble dried.

Inserts/ Soakers- These are the absorbent material that you put into an AI2, Pocket or Wrap. They come in various forms and fabrics (hemp, bamboo, cotton, organic cotton, fleece, sherpa, etc...)

Doublers/ Boosters- These provide extra absorbency to your diapers. You can use these in any type of diaper for extra protection. Many parents use these at night or for times when a child may go longer in between changes. Some retailers use these interchangeably with inserts.

Snappi- A snappi is an alternative fastener for prefolds or contoured diapers to the diaper pin. It is a pin-free method of securing a diaper by means of a hook and teeth, t-shaped, stretchy plastic closure. The snappi is somewhat difficult to explain but, they truly are amazing when it comes to fastening a diaper-- so please click on the link to take a look. They truly have revolutionized the way people cloth diaper.

OS- One size. This refers to a diaper that is meant to fit a baby from birth to potty. They typically range from about 8-10lbs to 35lbs+ by including a series of snaps on the front of the diaper which allow you to lower the rise of the diaper by snapping down the top row to a lower row on the diaper for a smaller fit.

Flats- This is by far the cheapest method of cloth diapering but, has a learning curve as you have to fold the diaper to get soaking power out of it. Nevertheless, these are probably the most used diaper around the world, they dry the quickest (great for traveling and camping), and once you get the hang of it they aren't as difficult as one might think. They come in various sizes and materials (hemp, cotton, etc...) and they are multi-functional-- able to be used as pocket stuffers, burp cloths and super absorbent rags after baby is done using them. My oldest used a large on as a blanket in the summer and I used it as a great light weight, breathable sunshade on hot days when she was an infant.

"Fluffy mail"- you guessed it: receiving cloth diapers by mail.


Popular Brands (that are often shortened)

BG-bumGenius
HH-Happy Heiny's
FB- FuzziBunz
GMD- Green Mountain Diapers- typically refers to the Cloth-eez prefolds that Green Mountain Diapers are best known for

I am sure I have forgotten some abbreviations/ definitions and for this I apologize but, I will update the blog when I come across more. Nevertheless, this should be a good jumping of point into the world of CDing.

BumGenius 4.0 One Size Pocket Diaper

I thought I would start with the newest and perhaps most talked about diaper on the market today- the bumGenius 4.0. (Also referred to around the web as BG 4.0)

Does it live up to the hype? Is it really that much better than the 3.0? And, is it worth the money to invest in a BG 4.0?

Well my answers are yes, yes, and YES!

We purchased six 3.0 One-size (OS) diapers before our son Hoffner was born just a month prior to the announcement of the release of the 4.0.

I researched cloth diapers for what seemed like eons prior to settling on the 3.0 but was still a little wary as a result of a few unsettling reviews.

Most people seemed to think BG was pretty good but, I read post after post about leg gussets snapping, replacing elastic, and the aplix (fancy word for velcro) wearing out in less than a year.

Since I was looking to save money while attempting to assuage my guilt for dumping 5 1/2 years worth of disposable diapers (AKA: sposies) in a landfill I just wasn't to pleased with the prospect of a $24 diaper (yes, we spent more than we should have-- they retail for $17.95-- even less now since the 4.0 came out) lasting just one third of the time I expected out of it.

I am not handy with a needle, I do not have a sewing machine, and I have no desire to ruin an expensive diaper trying to learn how now.

So, here was my predicament: I wanted a bumGenius diaper that had snaps not aplix and I wanted the ability to replace the leg gussets (elastic) should they break.

With research I found that perhaps what I really wanted was a Fuzzi Bunz OS but, it didnt have quite the loyal following of the BG. Nevertheless, I decided to buy 3 after Hoffner was born and in the 3.0's.

I loved the way they fit our 8lb baby-- they looked much better on then the BG (both in sizing and aesthetically) but, there was something about getting the elastic just right and a couple of exclusively breastfed infant poo blowouts that I just didn't appreciate in the way I did the BG. Likewise, my husband felt the BG was easier to stuff and unstuff.

That is when they announced the release of the 4.0. I was disappointed I didn't know that it was coming out sooner but, I had already looked into converting our BG's to snaps prior to our moving abroad so, I decided to calculate the costs of replacing these with the 4.0's or getting them converted.

Turns out-- at just $17.95 a diaper it was actually cheaper to sell the old ones and replace them with the new ones so that is what I did. I put an ad on Craigslist for 6 Very Good Used Condition (VGUC) diapers for $80 on July 10th just four days before the 4.0's came out. Not 15 minutes later I had a buyer.

So, I sold my 3.0's for $80 and purchased 6 new 4.0's for $104 from CottonBabies.

To have them converted to snaps would have cost $3.50 per diaper= $21
To ship them RT the person who would convert the would have been $4.95 each way= $9.90

So, conversion would have cost an additional $30.90 whereas selling my month old, used diapers cost me just $24 since CottonBabies has free shipping.

And boy was I pleased. I absolutely love the 4.0. It looks better than the 3.0. It actually fit our 10lb baby better than the 3.0 (despite questions about the larger Large sizing creating a problem for smaller babies) and I am confident that I could put a couple of stiches in the diaper where the elastic is seen, if need be.

Of all the pocket diapers I have tried bumGenius 4.0 wins my vote in the overall category!

4.0 Features (As stated by Cottonbabies):

• NEW! Durable snap closures help keep diapers on older babies.
• NEW! Generous sizing accommodates larger babies.
• NEW! Easily replaceable elastic keeps your diapers fresh.
• 3x3 snap down design* adjusts the sizing to fit small, medium and large sizes (approximately 7-35+ pounds).
• Trim, snug and comfortable stretchy tabs* provide a custom fit.
• Waterproof insert stopper* prevents leaking at the tummy.
• Diapers are bundled with two inserts: a newborn insert for newborns and a one-size insert for your older baby.
• Wide slot opening makes it easy to stuff and remove insert.
• Slot cover* protects your baby from wetness.

An Introduction

So this is my first post. My blog will be primarily about the "joys" of motherhood and cloth diapering but, I will include stories from our trips abroad and the day to day amusement of being a mommy.

I just recently began experimenting with cloth diapers and thought I would share my experiences with other people who may find themselves overwhelmed by all the options when they first begin.

One of the many reasons why people start cloth diapering is to save money; but, can you really save money if you go through numerous brands just to find the one that works for you and your family? What about different brands/ sizes for different stages of growth? Different stages and amounts of wetting? Or what if you cannot find that beloved brand and decide cloth diapering just isn't for you after spending several hundred dollars on cloth diapers that you never intend to use.

I hope my blog will make the cloth diapering adventure a little less stressful for the new user by providing pictures and a synopsis of the many brands I have tried and will continue to try on my cloth diapering adventure.

Don't blink because before you know it you will be as addicted as I am to these fluffy, oh-so-cute diapers.