Cloth diapers are often touted to be the frugal option, and this can certainly be the truth. However, if you’ve seen some of the fancier cloth diapers that cost $15 to $30 a pop you may have your doubts! While some of these diapers are certainly wonderful products, don’t be misled. It’s very possible to cloth diaper successfully as well as inexpensively. Here are a few tips from moms who wanted to save as much as possible while keeping their babies comfy and dry.
Pick your system
One of the reasons cloth diapering may be expensive initially is because of the investment of the first stash of diapers. Babies who are in cloth will be changed more frequently. It’s not uncommon for a young baby to go through ten cloth diapers a day, maybe more for a newborn. Unless a mom wants to wash daily, she’ll need a couple dozen diapers. One way to save money from the get go is to know exactly what kind of cloth diaper “system” you want to go with so you don’t become unhappy with the diapers you’ve chosen and end up selling them at a loss.
Ask other cloth diapering moms what they like and why. Some of the questions to ask are: “What types of diapers fit babies with my baby’s body shape best?” “What diapers are best for babies who have other caretakers?” “What’s best for newborns/older babies/heavy wetters/toddlers?” etc.
The cheapest and often simplest cloth diaper system is that of prefolds with waterproof diaper covers. Prefolds are inexpensive and will last for multiple children. They are also quite thirsty and require no special care. Waterproof diaper covers are usually around $10 a pair and only a few are needed in each size. They will also last a long time if washed gently and air dried. All in ones tend to be the costliest diaper system, but are super convenient for babies in day care and for travel. Daddies and Grandmas tend to prefer them too for their ease of use.
Some cloth diaper websites also allow you to try before you buy. For just a few dollars they will send you a diaper and allow you to use and feel it, then return it.
Budget conscious moms should also ask for friends and loved ones to give them cloth diapers as baby shower gifts. Many of the cloth diaper websites offer gift registries. Big box store bought cloth diapers and covers are generally low quality so steer clear of those.
Buy used cloth diapers
Cloth diapers can be obtained at thrift stores, online auctions, diaper swap forums, consignment sales and shops, and more. Just do a Google search to find lots of options.
Some larger cities have diaper services that sell cloth diaper seconds. If their prefolds have a spot on them that can’t be removed, they take them out of circulation. The diaper service sells these perfectly serviceable, high quality prefold diapers for pennies. It’s worth a phone call.
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