Cloth diapers are an old concept that has come back into style. They perform the same function as disposable diapers, but are laundered and reused just like any other clothing garment. The modern versions of cloth diapers are similar to those popular half a century ago, but they are greener and more convenient. While many new parents today have never heard of cloth diapering, those who have may conjure up images of soft cotton cloths, tall diaper pails and big diaper pins.
Laundering
Like any other garment worn by babies, cloth diapers should be laundered in the washing machine. They can be air-dried on a clothesline or put in the dryer as a matter of personal preference. Dirty diapers should be stored in a diaper pail with a lid until it is time for washing. If there are stains, use modern cleaning products to treat them before washing in the machine. Special soap or regular detergent can be used. In the days of old, they were often washed by hand. This is no longer necessary. Fabric softener or wool balls will keep the materials soft in the dryer.
Modern Improvements
One modern convenience that makes laundering easier is the addition of diaper liners. These are placed inside the garment while the baby is wearing it. When it is soiled, the biodegradable liner is removed during changing and flushed down the toilet. This prolongs the life of the diaper and makes laundering easier. Another modern improvement is the professional diaper service. They, too, are making a comeback. A service comes by the home weekly to exchange clean ones for dirty ones. This eliminates the home washing routine.
Materials
Cotton and cotton blends have always been soft and preferable for baby's bottom. Cloth diapers are made from a variety of mostly cotton materials, depending on the manufacturer and parental preference. They have different levels of organic and eco-friendly components. Some are made from organic materials which are grown and harvested without the use of chemicals and pesticides. Others are simple cotton blends with a soft feel and durable wear. Cloth diapers can be recycled for repeated wearings by washing after each use. When the baby has outgrown their use, they can be used as rags for cleaning or for automotive work. They are also biodegradable for the compost pile. Disposable diapers are manufactured mostly from plastic and man-made materials that are not biodegradable and cannot be recycled.
Fasteners
The biggest difference in cloth diapering of today versus yesteryear is how they are fastened. One choice in modern diapers use the standard hook-and-loop closures that are found on most children's clothing and shoes. It is sturdy and holds well. When it wears out or picks up other fabric, it can be replaced. Another modern option is snap closures. Multiple snap positions are incorporated into the cloth diapers for a snug fit as the baby grows. The old diaper pins were very big and heavy-duty with a large head. This made it easy to slide the pin through several layers of heavy fabric to hold each side of the garment in place. These pins are still used for an old-fashioned look and snug fit, but they, too have been modernized for safety and are more reliable to stay closed and hold their shape. Also available is a plastic fastener similar to safety pins which works well on prefold cloth diapers.
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