Learn How to Make Cloth Diapers in 2021 with a complete step by step guide by The Norfolk Nappy.
When I meet new or soon-to-be parents for a consultation the first thing they often tell me is they are so confused by all the information out there on cloth nappies and all the equipment that seems to come with them. It can really put you off even wanting to start.
So what do you need to make cloth diaper?
- 20-30 cloth nappies to use them full time.
- Somewhere to store the dirty ones until you want to wash them – like a wet bag or bucket with a lid
- Some Non-bio washing powder
- Some liners if you want to use a nappy cream
- Reusable wipes – not essential but so much easier than disposables and why not help the environment just that little bit more.
Not a huge shopping list and once it's done you won't have to add nappies (and wipes) to your shopping list every week.
So what about all the different types of cloth nappies?
There are only about 5 main types of cloth nappy and once you know them it's easy to see they all fit into one of those categories. They are all made up of the same basic components with an absorbent core followed by a waterproof wrap.
- All in Ones – these are the closest to disposables you change the whole nappy each time and it comes in one piece. They can take a bit more drying time as they don’t come apart.
- All in Twos – the absorbent part comes away from the waterproof outside layer so you can in theory just change the inside part for a couple of nappy changes meaning you need to buy fewer waterproof wraps.
- Pocket – the absorbent layer goes in a pocket in the nappy and the whole thing is changed each time. As they come apart they are quicker to dry but take a little time to put together.
- Two Parter – In effect it's two nappies you put on at the same time. One made of absorbent material like cotton or bamboo and then a waterproof wrap. These are especially good for overnight as they are more absorbent but bulkier.
- Terries and Prefolds – The original cloth nappy – this is effectively a towel square folded into a nappy shape and fastened or a cotton square folded up then you put a waterproof wrap over the top.
Which is the best way to make cloth diaper?
This is different for everyone. It really depends on your priorities – drying time, ease to put on, budget, how bulky they are, being as environmentally friendly as possible. A consultation can help you decide what is most important to you and allow you see all the different types up close before you make a decision. You can even get a trial kit to try each type first if you are still unsure.
Making the switch to cloth nappies or choosing them over disposables should be an easy option and one I love to help with.