Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Is This The Right Fit?

Finding the correct diaper size for any baby can be a daunting task, especially when you are a newbie to cloth diapering and motherhood in general.
Every baby is different; and although size charts are helpful, it is best to physically measure your child to find what size range they fall into.
The basic factors that effect the fit of diapers are the rise, waist, thigh and "bottom width".
The rise refers to the length from belly button to lower back. To take this measurement, position the measuring tape at the back of the waist right in line with the navel, through the legs stopping just under the belly button, making sure there is slack in the crotch area. You may find it helpful to perform this over a diaper.





The second is the waist. Simply position the measuring tape at the navel and wrap around ending where you began. Be sure the tape is snug not tight around the your baby's waist. 



Next, measure the thigh finding the largest part closest to the hip joint. 



Last but not least, I like to call this measurement" bottom width". Most people do not think about this, but, I found my little one's bottom was at least one inch wider than manufactured cloth diapers, so I created a custom pattern. To find this, locate the widest part of your baby's bottom drawing the tape from one side to the other, resting in the crease between the bottom and upper thigh.



Once these measurements are tallied, you can then efficiently find the proper size for your baby. When looking at common size charts it is better to have your measurements fall at the lower end of the category. That way you will gain greater use from your size specific cloth diapers.

Are you steadfast on one size diapers? Sadie's Babies currently offers one size diapers to fit 8-35 lbs. Click here to find out more. 


Did you find this helpful? Let me know...

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Overnight Diapering

I have a new love when it comes to cloth diapering! 
Wool and Fleece Soakers!

Wool Soakers

 These easy covers are especially great for night time use, or, if you're home all day. Fleece and wool soakers are not waterproof, however, they are water repellent; meaning they kick the moisture back into the diaper. 

Left to Right: Pull up fleece soaker, fleece longie, snap on fleece soaker



When it comes to overnight cloth diapering there is a great chance the diaper will leak and this can happen for a couple of reasons:
  1. The diaper can be soiled for an extended period causing a basic overflow.
  2. With the extra absorbency packed in the diaper this may cause gaps between the baby's thigh and the leg elastic of the diaper
*If your diapers leak on a regular basis a post of helpful hints is coming soon* 


To help prevent overnight leaking ensure the diaper has a stay dry interior usually made up of some type of polyester material like microsuede or velveteen. These fabrics will pull moisture away from your baby's bottom and reduce the risk of irritation. This action is known as "wicking." There are even night time specific diapers or those tailored for heavy wetters. 

As an extra measure, add your fleece/wool soaker. The extended leg trim will wrap around your baby's thigh to decrease the chance of overflow.

Wool Soakers Left to Right: Small, Medium, Large
If You have any questions, leave a comment and I'll be sure to get back to you.


**Note: it is not recommended to wear fleece and wool soakers under clothing**

How to Store Cloth Diapers

The key to cloth diapering success is organization. So it is important a system is in place to ensure your diapers are within arms reach when needed.
Storing a stash of 3 dozen or so diapers can take up a bit of room, but, it is definitely manageable. Through trial and error pull out drawers and/or flat open top baskets are some of the best options.When stored near your changing area this system makes changes fast and easy.




It is best to separate your diapers according to size, style, time of use (day/night) and even brand. Categorizing your diapers in this manner is helpful for several reasons: 
  1. Limits confusion: especially when daddy is performing changes.
  2. Able to change baby quickly
  3. You can see how many clean diapers are available
If using cloth wipes be sure to have those plus your solution handy at the changing area as well. 
With continued use and organization you'll quickly reap the benefits of cloth diapering.




**TiP: storing soiled diapers in a zippered wet bag or lined diaper pail will keep possible odors contained 





For help on how to wash your cloth diapers click here.


Questions? Just post them in the comment box.