As previously mentioned A LOT of research went into making the cloth diapers. The diapers we make are called "All-in-Ones" (AIOs). AIO diapers are a one-step diapering system that is easy to use. They are shaped like disposable diapers and consist of a waterproof outer layer with a sewn-in absorbent layer and then fitted with a soaker (or insert). All-in-one diapers are put on just like disposable diapers: Open the diaper, lift the baby's bottom, slide the diaper underneath, close the diaper and you are ready to go! The one-size method that we chose is adjustable based on the size of the baby. For smaller babies, the front flap is placed higher on the baby, the touchtape is secured around the baby and then the flap is folded down securing to some touchtape tabs.
Why Cloth!??!? Well...numerous reasons...Not only are cloth diapers comfortable for the baby, they are more economical, healthful and environmental. From the comfort stand point - would you choose to wear paper/plastic undies!??!?! Cloth diapers are made from breathable and cushiony fabrics that are soft to the baby's skin. The inner fabrics are moisture-wicking, keep the baby's bottom feeling dry. They don't have any plastic on them that would otherwise rub against tender skin. From a health standpoint, the fabrics used in cloth diapers allow for increased airflow inside the diaper, keep the baby cooler and help to prevent diaper rash. Disposibles contain chemicals and plastics that have been known to cause allergic reactions and other health problems. And from an environmental standpoint, hands down cloth diapers are a responsible choice. Disposable diapers leave a trail of waste from manufacture to disposal. In addition, the solid waste in disposible diapers goes into our landfills, which can leach into groundwater and potentially spread disease. On the other hand, cloth diapers release solid waste where it belongs - into the sewage system to be treated with other household waste water.
All those reasons aside....I can't help but mention that cloth diapers are CUTE!! They can be stylish and soft at the same time. We chose to do solid colors with a contrasting color on the inside. The ones in the pictures from yesterday's post are red/navy, celery/olive, burgundy/black and turquoise/brown. The remaining sets to be sewn for our little guy are sage/chocolate, baby blue/navy and chocolate/turquoise.
What we decided on was to use at PUL fabric on the outside and a suedecloth on the inside. Then a Microfiber insert is placed between the two layers through a welt pocket in the suedecloth. This insert comes out and is washed seperately. The benefit is you can adjust where the insert lies, depending on how big your baby is and whether you need more up front (for a boy) or more in the middle (for a girl). We also choose to use Touchtape to close and secure the diaper around the baby.
Fabric glossary:
PUL (Polyurethane Laminated Polyester) - The PUL fabric is a highly waterproof fabric. A thin polyurethane layer is bonded to a stretchy polyester knit in a high heat industrial process. It is recommended as an outer layer on diapers and for waterproof bags for wet diapers
Microfiber - Usually 75% polyester 25% polyamide, and is a great diaper fabric for soakers and inserts. It traps moisture between its fibers and can absorb up to 8 times its weight in liquid! Light and thin, microfiber dries quickly and gets more absorbent with use.
Suedecloth - Is thinner than microfleece but has many of the same qualities that make it perfect for diaper inners. Suedecloth wicks moisture away from baby, resists staining, and does not hold pooh. In addition, suedecloth does not pill and stays new-looking longer.
Touchtape - Is a durable hook & loop system similar to velcro and aplix. We prefer touchtape to aplix because it is so flexible and has an extremely strong hold. Best of all, touchtape comes in lots of colors to match our beautiful outer diaper fabrics!
One big resource for the above informaiton is http://www.zany-zebra.com/
...more later on storing dry and dirty diapers and how to wash cloth diapers.
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