Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Q&A: What is the most economic and organic way to cloth diaper your baby?


Question by Shelly: What is the most economic and organic way to cloth diaper your baby?
I want to cloth diaper full time, but we are on a very tight budget and I need to know which cloth diapers are the cheapest and where to buy them. Does anybody know? I want to go all-organic if possible. Where can I buy the cheapest yet most natural cloth diapering supplies?

Best answer:

Answer by Chicka's mama
Check out tribalbaby.org for ways to save money AND the environment with less nappy use! I just stumbled across it the other day i wish i had seen it sooner!


Add your own answer in the comments!
  • Mommy to Lauryn and Sydney says:
    I went to diapers.com if you want to check out there packages and use the promo code BABYSALE you can get 10.00 off your order I order my Bum Genius and Fuzzy Bunz there your going to spend quite a bit to get started but after that you just can buy new soaker pads if needed which are usually 8.00 for a pack of 3
     
  • Danny T says:
    If money is an issue, I'd stray away from any internet site or cloth-diaper company. Go to a charity shop (Goodwill, Salvation Army, etcetera) and buy cloth there, cut it into a diaper and use that, then wash them yourself (it's nasty, but hey it's your idea to do this).
     
  • Rogue Wyndwalker says:
    The cheapest way to cloth diaper organically is to buy natural organic hemp prefold diapers (flat cloth) that you fasten in the front with what is called a Snappi. I tried doing this at first with my newborn because some suggested it would be easier while the umbilical cord was healing. However, it leaked HORRIBLY because, unlike other diapering options, it isn't fitted. The next most economical way to cloth diaper is to still use the prefolds, but also purchase some diaper covers to put over the prefold. The most natural, organic diaper cover is made of wool, but those can be expensive, but the plus side is that as long as the cover does not get any excrement (poop) on it, it can be reused with a different diaper (prefold) afterwards.
    Fortunately, in the long run cloth diapering your baby is cheaper (and more ecologically-friendly) than using disposable diapers. (Not to mention how much gentler it seems to be on baby's skin.) I, personally, really love pocket diapers. I use Bum Genius 3.0 one-size diapers. You can use the same covers from newborn to potty-training and they are really easy to use. You can read more about them here: http://www.bumgenius.com/
    They do have organic Bum Genius 3.0 one-size pocket diapers, but they are a little more expensive. (I've seen them being about more at about per diaper, and they each come with one diaper insert and a doubler.) I prefer the pocket diaper to the all-in-one because I think you can get the pocket diaper cleaner and it dries faster. Hope that answers your question!
    Also, if you have any natural parenting stores in your area that sell cloth diapers, many of those same stores also offer classes on cloth diapering that will really help answer a lot of your questions. Good luck and happy diapering!
     
  • smedrik says:
    Bum genius 3.0.
    They will grow with you baby so they are useful from birth through to potty training. if you care for them properly you will only need about about a dozen of them through the child's entire diaper years. They are about each however under 0 to diaper your child for 2-3 years is a bargain.
     
  • jay_cce1 says:
    the flat unfolded ones are the cheapest and easiest to wash and dry.
    if you want info on how to fold them, let me know and i can give you websites or explain it (i use regular cloth diapers and folded them).
    when i laundered my babies diapers, instead of folding them as i needed them, or in squares to store, i prefolded each one ready to go on babys bottom complete with a liner, and had them ready to go so they were just as easy to use as disposables.
     

5 Adorable Cloth Diaper Adjustable One Size Fits All Nappies Reviews

5 Adorable Cloth Diaper Adjustable One Size Fits All Nappies



  • Outer layer: Soft Polyester coated with waterproof, breathable PUL layer
  • Adjustment of snaps will give you the proper size
  • Inner layer: The super soft microfleece for maximum comfort for your baby's skin
  • Soaker: Made of 3 layers of MICRO-FIBER that is super-absorbent. The lab tests show it is 5 times more absorbent than regular flannel and dries much faster

This sale includes 5 brand new cloth diapers. They are made of the finest materials with delightful colors and they are very durable and comfortable. These are one size fit all diapers and adjustable from newborn to 38lbs. Choose the proper sizes simply by adjusting the snap buttons on the diaper. These diapers are of the delightful neutral color and they are great for baby boys as well as baby girls. We have 5 colors available: white, yellow, green, bears and lovely farm animals. You are welcom

Price: $ 42.99

Friday, January 28, 2011

What to Look for When Buying a Coffee Maker

For many people, the day doesn't officially start until that first pot is brewing. Coffee has become a mainstay of their morning routine. Coffee provides the caffeine that some people need to wake up in the morning or to get that extra boost as the day goes on, and research has shown that the antioxidants in coffee may have a variety of health benefits as well. That said, not all cups of coffee are created equal; choosing the right coffee maker can make all the difference between an outstanding cup and one that's just alright.
So how do you know that you're getting the coffee maker that will best meet your needs and serve up the coffee of your dreams? While any coffee maker may be capable of making a good cup of coffee, there are some features that you can look for to help your coffee brew right, stay fresh, and taste delicious.
Essential Features
Digital Timer - Though it's reached the point that it's almost difficult to find a coffee maker without some sort of digital timer, you should make sure that the coffee maker you choose comes equipped with a timer that features an automatic start function. Most people don't make full use of this feature, but by preparing the coffee maker the night before you can actually save time in the mornings by having your coffee start brewing just before you wake up.
Construction - Stop and take a look at the model of coffee maker that you're considering buying. See how well it's constructed, how easy it is to use, and whether the coffee pot is reinforced or is simply glass. Reinforced coffee pots act like a thermos, keeping your coffee hot and fresh for much longer.
Pause and Serve - This is one of the most useful features that your coffee maker can have if you need a pot of coffee. Instead of having to wait for the pot to finish brewing or trying to swap out your cup and the pot (and spilling coffee everywhere), the act of removing the pot closes a valve on the maker and lets you pour yourself a cup before resuming your brew.
Optional but Useful Features
Water Filter - An optional feature that's becoming more common in coffee makers, having an in-line water filter can really improve the taste of your coffee by making sure that there aren't any impurities in the water you brew with. Keep in mind that this adds a little bit of extra maintenance to your coffee maker as well… you'll need to change the filters regularly.
Variable Temperature - Even the cheapest coffee maker heats water up enough to brew with, but if you have a variable temperature gauge you can actually tweak your brewing temperature to suit your tastes. This feature isn't essential, however, so if there's a significant price difference between two coffee makers with this as the only difference, don't feel bad if you choose the one without.
Locking Lids - A useful feature that generally comes with coffee makers that use reinforced pots; a locking lid enables you to screw a lid directly onto the pot which makes it easy to take coffee to a neighbors or other destination. Locking lids are often designed so that you can't have both a basket in and a lid on; this way you won't accidentally start brewing when the pot is closed.
Other Considerations
Drip Type - Most coffee makers that you'll buy will be of the automatic drip variety… this way you don't have to do anything except fill the basket, pour in water, and start the brewing cycle. Be aware that other types of coffee makers do exist, though, including manual drip, percolators, and press pots.
Capacity - Sometimes you might only want a little coffee, and sometimes you might want a lot. Stop to think about exactly how much coffee you're likely to need, and make sure that the coffee maker that you choose can handle that amount. If you drink a lot of coffee, you don't want a small coffee maker. Look for coffee makers that feature a variable capacity, so that you can make as much or as little as you need.
Filter Type - When it comes to filters, there are 3 options that you should consider. You can find coffee makers that use the standard paper filters, metal permanent filters, and even "pods" which are pre-packaged coffee discs complete with their own filter. Metal filters generally produce a better taste and are compatible with makers that use paper filters, while pods require that the maker is specifically designed for them.
Grinder - Fresh-ground coffee tastes better, and some coffee makers have a coffee grinder built in. However, you can usually save some money by buying a separate grinder, so it's a good idea to explore that option as well.


Q&A: What is the most economical way to cloth diaper?

cloth diaper

Question by aimee_id: What is the most economical way to cloth diaper?
I'm expecting twins in a couple of months and I'm considering using cloth diapers for at least the first 4-6 months (maybe more) to cut down on diaper costs. I'm finding a lot of cloth options, but they seem fairly pricey- especially when I need everything x2. Does anyone have recommendations for good diaper systems that are on the cheaper end of things?

Best answer:

Answer by Diet C
The cheapest way to do cloth diapers is prefolds and covers.
This is a steal: http://www.cottonbabies.com/product_info.php?cPath=22&products_id=148
Also a good kit: http://www.tendercargo.com/catalog/Bummis-Cloth-Diapering-Starter-Kit.html


Give your answer to this question below!
  • MIssC says:
    I have a 3 month old and recently was looking for cloth diapers. The ones that I think are the cheapest are prefolds with Bummis covers. I need about 24 prefolds with 6 small covers for my DD (it came up to approximately 0-220). I do a load of diaper laundry one a day so that they can dry in time for when I need to wash the other half. I have a couple of Thirsties covers which are essentially the same functionality as the Bummis but the Bummis are a bit sturdier. It can depend on the body shape of your babies.
    I skipped the newborn size and went straight to the small (just a bit bulkier at the beginning). My DD was 8lbs though at birth. When she will weigh 16lbs, I'll go get another set of medium prefolds and covers. Still cheaper than disposable and much better for the environment. Think of all the non-biodegradable material, esp. with newborns who have to be changed 10-12 times a day, if not more!
    All the best with your darlings!
     
  • ♥♥♥♥♥ says:
    Personally I think prefolds with prowrap covers. This is what I used and still do use.
     
  • missbeans says:
    I've actually done the math on this. We're planning for another baby, and I thought about doing cloth as a way of saving money, and for being environmentally consious.
    I'm giving you numbers based on Bum Genius, which are top of the line. Personally, they seem like the easiest ones to use, so I don't mind spending a little extra....
    You can buy one of them for about to . For one baby, you'd need about 20-24. For two, you'd probably need 35-40. 40 of them would be about 0. Combine laundry soap, and utility charges for washing them, you're probably looking at less than 0. If you bought Huggies, you'd pay somewhere around a package, and go through probably 2ish a week. So, that's a week for 6 months...equals 0 You are still saving money. And if you stick with the cloth diapers for a year, you're saving over 00!
    So don't worry about the expense of the diapers. If you are dedicated to using them for at least 6 months, you are going to save money no matter what brand you buy...just buy the ones that will work best for your life.
     
  • Irritated Lactivist says:
    Prefolds and covers are VERY inexpensive, but you will save tons of money no matter which type of cloth diaper you use.
    I have a couple covers from Blueberry that are one-size, which is AWESOME. I highly recommend getting a few of them! Twins are likely to be smaller as you know, so some tiny newborn sized covers are a smart option. I like Thirsties covers. :)
     
  • adelatexas says:
    I use the good old fashioned flat fold AND the prefold cloth diapers. You can also buy expensive, fancy, all-in-one, with or without liners, plus your baby's name and CV embroidered on them, but the bottom line is: you still have to change the diaper every single time it gets wet or soiled. Period. Maybe the all-in -one are easier to use and fancier, but I repeat, you still have to change them, and if you are on budget- they are expensive. You have to buy a few sizes as your baby grows, as for the flatfold/prefold- it will last you a couple of years.
    If you want to save money, buy 2 dozen of prefolds and a dozen of flat folds. Gerber has some excellent diapers, birdeye cloth and other variety. I use the flat fold as liners, but they can get bulky, and use either pins or snappies to tie them. These diapers work great, keep your baby's skin breathe and dry. Watch some YouTube tutorials how some moms use pins or snappies. One cloth diaper use will cost you a forth of a cent a year ( a pack of 12 diapers= about with tax).
    I do not use the covers because I have to dig in my baby's pants to find out whether she is wet or not. I guess they work well for heavy wetters- you do not want everything wet underneath your baby. Mine is not, so I am getting away without them.
    I use hypo-allergenic detergent- but you do not have to if your baby handles regular one. But I would still recommend it. I use a line in my backyard for drying them- sun and wind are still free, thanks God. besides, the UV rays in the sunlight act as disinfectant agent... no bleaching needed ever.
    Hope it helps.Good luck.
     
  • Joe Wilson says:
    Switching to cloth diapers is a bit pricey at first.  The diaper are more expensive the disposable but you will save in the long run!  Plus with the newer designs, velcro, and cloth diaper liners, -- cloth diapers are easy to clean and care for
    Check it out this article on the care of cloth diapers. How to Cloth Diaper, the Easier Way
     There are more articles on this site about cloth diapering, cleaning, as well as some links to some deals on some of the more popular cloth diaper brands.
    Check it out - I hope this helps
     
     
     

Babykicks Organic One Size Fitted Diaper, 2 Pack, Natural

Babykicks Organic One Size Fitted Diaper, 2 Pack, Natural



  • One size organic fitted diaper grows with baby (7 pounds to 40 pounds)
  • Designed in Germany to prevent blow outs and wing droop
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  • Separate cover recommended/needed



List Price: $ 39.90
Price: $ 39.90

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Help! Cloth diaper question- Is there somewhere online to buy the leggings that go with cloth diapers?

cloth diaper

Question by lysistrata411: Help! Cloth diaper question- Is there somewhere online to buy the leggings that go with cloth diapers?
I remember seeing these cute little leggings somewhere before that go up to the cloth diaper and can be tucked in so that they act as pants and can show off the cute cloth diaper, too, but now I can't find them anywhere. What are these called? Where can I find them? I even searched on ebay, but come up with nothing! Please help!

Best answer:

Answer by atlas_junkie
Maybe BabyLegs? They're really cute! http://www.babylegs.net/


Add your own answer in the comments!
  • Not a breastfeeding Nazi. says:
    Try babylegs!
    Target also sells them ^_^
     
  • dls says:
    oooh, I love babylegs! The "real" babylegs are too expensive for me (although they are adorable). I buy from a WAHM on Etsy. Less expensive than the others and super cute! I want to think I paid for either 5 or 6.
     
  • Kimber says:
    www.eastcoastdiapers.com if you are in Canada - I sell lots of great diapers and accessories :)
    Cheers,
    Kim
     

Monday, January 10, 2011

Even Designer Bags Such As Marc Jacobs Handbags Can Make Great Diaper Bags

make a diaper bag

Even Designer Bags Such As Marc Jacobs Handbags Can Make Great Diaper Bags

Even if you’re a mother of three naughty toddlers and have another baby on the way doesn’t mean you have to trade fashion for function. Don’t settle for frumpy diaper bags with kitschy cartoon characters and a style quotient of zero. There are a lot of designers who have created special diaper bags that can carry diapers, milk and towels in stylish bags made of fine leather. Just look for designer diaper bags such as those by Marc Jacobs handbags and Coach handbags, which are elegant diaper bags for you and your baby’s needs. Here are the best designer diaper bags perfect for a beautiful, stylish mother like you.
1. Coach Optic Signature Baby Bag. Colored in baby-cute pastel pink, the Coach Optic bag has pockets galore that can hold anything from pins to diapers. An inside zip pocket can hold small documents like doctor’s records and IDs, while five open pockets make it easy to stash bills and receipts. It also contains a diaper changing pad for convenient changing anywhere. Like all other Coach handbags, the Optic Baby Bag is lined with fabric.
2. Marc by Marc Jacobs Baby Bag. For the stylish woman on the go, this elegant baby bag by Marc Jacobs handbags features soft, supple leather and a turn-lock closure. It is accented by gold hardware and has a large front exterior pocket. Its simple design makes it look like an everyday shoulder bag rather than a baby bag. It can even be used to carry large documents to the office. A waterproof lining makes it the perfect bag to take on trips or vacations with your baby.
3. Louis Vuitton Monogram Min Lin Diaper Bag. No other bag is more stylish than the Louis Vuitton Min Lin Diaper Bag. It is made of canvas and trimmed with grained calf leather. Flat handles and adjustable, padded shoulder pads make carrying this bag easy on the shoulders. There are also lots of pockets, compartments for bottles, a useful key ring and even an embroidered changing mat.
4. Coach Addison Patent Baby Bag. For moms who don’t like the bulky feel of most diaper bags, the Coach Addison Patent Baby Bag is a perfect carryall for baby’s every need. From the elegant line of Coach handbags, this multi-function baby bag features multi-pocket compartments and two outside zip pockets. It is also made of patent leather, making maintenance and cleaning a breeze. Its outside front pocket also makes it easy to store receipts, coins and other items while on the go.
5. Prada Tessuto Baby Bag. This all-black baby bag is made of classic Prada nylon, making it easy to clean and maintain. Front and side compartments can hold bottles, pins, diapers and other knickknacks. It also contains a handy diaper changing mat for those little baby emergencies. Its roomy interior can hold clothes, diapers, baby wipes and even powder and lotion.
Just because you’re a mom who has to bring diapers, bottles, baby clothes and other items with her all the time doesn’t mean you have to settle for a huge, unstylish baby bag. There are a lot of stylish bags such as Coach handbags and Marc Jacobs handbags that you can use to carry all your baby stuff.


Go for stylish baby bags like Coach handbags or Marc Jacobs handbags. Visit our site to find the best deals on designer bags.


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