Types of Cloth Diapers

Types of Cloth Diapers

Below is a brief description of the different types of cloth diapers.  Contributors of this list include:  Veroushka Mener, Dara Bonavia and Cari Newcomb Morehouse from The Rebecca Foundation's Cloth Diaper Closet. 



Type: Flats

Flat Diapers

Flat diapers, commonly just called "Flats", are truly the original cloth diaper. Flat diapers are large squares or rectangles of single-layer material.  They are traditionally made from Birdseye weave cotton although you can now find these in other cotton weaves and other fibers such as bamboo or hemp.  It is not uncommon for flats to be up-cycled from T-shirts, receiving blankets or Flour Sack Towels.  Flat diapers do require the use of an external fastener such as the traditional diaper pin or one of the newer type fasteners such as Snappi or Boingo.

Benefits of Flats:

• Fits Any Baby:  The appeal of the “Flat” is that it can be folded in so many different ways.  This allows for a perfect fit for any baby (regardless of age, weight or body type).  It is a true “One Size” cloth diaper.  That huge square can be folded into a diaper small enough for a newborn or big enough for a 3 year old.  Adjustments are made to flats by varying the type of "fold" used.  Some types of folds are more suitable for smaller babies (such as newborns) while others work best with larger babies (such as toddlers).  In addition, by varying the type of fold used with a flat diaper, you can move the area of largest absorbency to the front or back if desired, making the diaper more appropriate for girls or boys.  Flats can be folded individually at each diaper change or they can be stored pre-folded to allow for a quicker change routine. 
• Very inexpensive:  Flats are the most economical choice when it comes to diapering.  A dozen flats will customarily cost between $12.00 - $30.00 per dozen, depending on size (small/large) and fiber content.  However, by up-cycling T-shirts or receiving blankets, you can often reduce the cost of a flat by 50% to 100%!   In theory, a dozen flat diapers will last you the entire diapering life of your baby.  However, it is advised have a few extra on hand for those occasions when they cannot be washed for immediate reuse.  It is also important to remember that the younger your baby is, the more often he/she will need to be changed.  Even if you don’t plan on using Flats as your primary means of diapering, it is advised to have a few on hand for emergency situations. 
• They Wash Easily and Dry Fast:  Flats can be used and abused.  They are tried and true and can be laundered just like any of your other laundry.  There is no debate about the need to use special soaps, they can be bleached without controversy when needed, and you won’t have to worry as much about repelling issues since they are made from natural fibers.  For families without a washer (or families that travel often), they can be easily hand washed in any bath tub, sink, or a homemade bucket washer.  
• Versatility: Flats are the most versatile diapering option available.  The number of folds is almost endless.  Flats are not waterproof, but using flats allows you the flexibility to decide between wool, fleece or PUL waterproof covers.  They make excellent inexpensive and absorbent inserts for pocket diapers too!

Type: Prefolds

Prefold Diapers

Prefolded cloth diapers are called “Prefolds”.  They are also considered “old-fashioned” cloth diapers.  Invented in 1950, the prefold diaper reduced the amount of folding needed with a conventional Flat diaper and concentrated the area of absorbency into the middle of the diaper.  While prefolds are smaller than flats (due to the material already being folded for you), they are customarily made of the same types of fiber (cotton, bamboo or hemp).  Prefolds are not only prefolded for convenience, but the fold has been made permanent by sewing the material after folding.  This prevents the prefold from unfolding and once again becoming a flat.  Prefolds come in different sizes from preemie to toddler and are generally defined by how many layers they have.  Prefolds are folded into three “panels”, two outer panels and one middle panel.  Different brands and sizes of prefolds may be folded just a bit differently but are all represented by the same numerical formula (Side) x (Middle) x (Side).  This formula indicates the layers in each panel of the prefold diaper (the smaller number represents the outer panels and the larger number represent the more absorbent center panel). For example 3x6x3 means that the two side panels are three layers thick while the middle panel is 6 layers thick.  Likewise, 4x8x4 indicates that the two side panels are four layers thick while the middle panel is 8 layers thick.  You may see prefolds with colored thread serged along the edges.  These colors are used to easily identify the “size” of the prefold.  However, these colors are not universal and may vary from brand to brand.  Prefold diapers do require the use of an external fastener such as the traditional diaper pin or one of the newer type fasteners such as Snappi or Boingo.


Benefits of Prefolds:

• Fits Most Babies:  Like flats, Prefolds can be folded to achieve a custom fit.  However, prefolds are not generally considered “One Size” diapers.  They come in many different sizes and you are unlikely to be able to use one size from birth to potty training.  You can however minimize the number of sizes required by using the most common sizes and folding them to fit.  The most common sizes are Infant, Premium and Toddler. 
• Inexpensive:  Prefolds are also a very inexpensive diapering choice.  Prefolds come in different fibers and different thickness and quality is often reflected in the price of the prefold.  A dozen prefolds will customarily cost between $14.00 - $50.00 per dozen depending on fiber and fold. 
• They Wash Easily and Dry Fast:  Prefolds are a workhorse diaper.  Prefolds can last for years and through multiple children when well cared for.  Like flats, they can be laundered just like any of your other laundry.  There is no debate about the need to use special soaps, they can be bleached without controversy when needed, and you won’t have to worry as much about repelling issues since they are made from natural fibers.  For families without a washer (or families that travel often), they can be easily hand washed in any bath tub, sink, or a homemade bucket washer.  Because they are prefolded into multiple layers, they do take a bit longer to dry than regular flats.
• Versatility: Prefolds are less versatile than Flats but still allow for multiple folding options. This aids in getting a custom fit for your baby’s weight and body type.  Like Flats, prefolds are also not waterproof.  They are also most often used with wool, fleece or PUL waterproof covers.  Alternatively, prefold diapers can be tri-folded and positioned inside many types of diaper covers and the cover then pulled onto or fastened around the baby.  They too make excellent inexpensive and absorbent inserts for pocket diapers! An added bonus, after they have served their time as diapers, they can be recycled and used as household cleaning or dusting rags!

Type:  Contour

Contour  Diaper

A “Contour” is another step up from the prefold.  While the prefold still requires some folding to fit around baby, the contour is already designed in a way that hugs around baby’s legs and waist for a “contoured” fit.  Also made from an absorbent fiber such as cotton, hemp or bamboo, a contour is also not waterproof.  Contour diapers come in several shapes and sizes. Contour diapers are designed so that the entire diaper is absorbent.  However, it is not uncommon for a contour to contain a hidden added absorbent layer of natural or man-made material in the middle area.   They can be sized (Small, Medium, Large) or come in a one size option.  Some contour diapers contain elastic in the leg area to help hug to baby’s legs and allow for a more universal fit.  You will find leg elastic is most One Size contour diapers.  The wings or tabs of the contour diaper are pre-formed but still require the use of an external fastener such as the traditional diaper pin or one of the newer type fasteners such as Snappi or Boingo.  Contour diapers are an especially appealing option for newborns and first time cloth diaper users as they are easier than Prefolds or flats and cheaper than Fitted diapers.

Benefits of Contours:

• Pre-formed for even less folding:  Contours are often very similar to prefolds (available in a variety of natural fibers), but due to the contour of the diaper, they require less folding. 
• Ease of Use:  Contour diapers are easier to use than Flats and Prefolds and are designed more like common disposable diapers.  They have a typical “diaper” shape and since the folding requirement has been eliminated, there are fewer variables to contend with. 
• Affordable: Contour diapers can be expensive than Fitted Diapers or Pocket Diapers, but offer the same basic diaper shape. This varies by both quality and brand as Contour diapers are often customized by designer.   
• Versatility: Because Contour diapers often have added absorbency, they are ideal for daytime use and are sometimes absorbent enough for nighttime use as well.  This of course varies by brand.  Contours are a great option for babies with healing diaper rashes.  Using a contour without a cover allows you to change baby as soon as baby is wet and allows for added airflow around baby’s diaper area. 

Type: Fitted

Fitted Diaper

A “Fitted” is another step up from the Contour.  Fitteds are actually identical to Contours with one major exception; they require no external fastener and close using either aplix (Velcro) or snaps.  Fitteds can be sized (Small, Medium, Large) or One Size.  They are form fitting and most come with elastic in the leg area for a more universal and snug fit.  Fitteds may also come in a wider variety of fibers including synthetic fibers than do Contours.  However, fitteds
Benefits of Fitteds:

• Pre-formed for even less folding:  Identical to Contours, the Fitted diaper fits snuggly to baby’s form.  They come in many sizes, shapes and fibers. 
• Ease of Use:  The Velcro and snaps attached to Fitteds make for even easier use and are the first step to claim diapers being more like common “disposables”.  If you’re looking for a natural fiber diaper MOST like disposables today, Fitteds are your go to option. 
• Versatility: Because Contour diapers often have added absorbency, they are ideal for daytime use and are sometimes absorbent enough for nighttime use as well.  This of course varies by brand. 
• Great for use with EC (Elimination Communication): Fitteds are most often used with a cover.  However, if you practice EC then Fitteds are a great choice.  They allow you to instantly know when your baby is wet therefore learning to more easily distinguish clues related to your babies elimination habits. 

Type: Pocket Diaper

Pocket Diaper Inner

One of the more popular types of cloth diapers is the Pocket Diaper.  A pocket diaper looks and functions very similar to today’s “disposable” diapers.  Pockets are comprised of three main components.  The outside component is a waterproof fabric such as PUL (Polyurethane Laminated) or TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane).  Both PUL and TPU function identically in that they prevent leakage of the diaper and provide a waterproof outer shell.  The second component is an inner moisture-wicking (also called “Stay Dry” fabric.  This component wicks moisture away from baby leaving baby feeling drier than traditional organic fibers.  An area between the outer waterproof layer and the inner stay dry layer is left open to form a pocket.  Within this pocket is placed the third component, an absorbent insert.  Inserts can be made from organic or man-made fibers.  The most common inserts are:  100% cotton (such as a flat or prefold), microfiber, bamboo and hemp.  Inserts can contain one or a variety of these absorbent materials.  The pocket diaper functions much like a traditional disposable.  The baby wets, the moisture is wicked away from baby and into the insert and the moisture is prevented from leaking out by the outer waterproof layer.  Pocket diapers also have built in external fasteners (Velcro or snaps).
Benefits of Pocket Diapers:

• Ease of Use:  Pocket diapers are easy to use.  All you need to do is stuff an insert into the pocket and fasten diaper (using attached Velcro or snaps) onto baby.    
• Waterproof without a cover:  Unlike diapers before it, the Pocket diaper requires no cover to make it waterproof/leak-proof.  It has its own attached external cover. 

Type: All In One Diaper

AIO Inner

All In One Diapers (AIO) are identical to pocket diapers in that they have a waterproof outside and a stay dry inner layer.  The exception is that the absorbency core has been pre-sewn into the diaper and there is no need to place an insert within the pocket of the AIO diaper.  There are some AIO diapers that do still come with pockets in which additional inserts can be placed for heavy wetters and nighttime use. These diapers are the most similar to today’s disposable diaper.  However, unlike today’s disposable, the AIO can be washed and reused!  Because this diaper is all inclusive (there are no inserts, external fasteners or waterproof layers to apply) it is likely the diaper to choose if you are looking for a reusable option to disposables, but fear the complexity of other varieties.  AIO is a great choice to use if baby is occasionally cared for by an outside care giver or child care facility.  Just like Pocket diapers AIO have attached external fasteners (Velcro or snaps).
Benefits of AIO Diapers:

• Ease of Use:  AIO diapers are by far the easiest to use.  The diaper requires no covers, no additional inserts and no additional external fasteners.  They look and function just like cloth versions of disposable diapers.  They are the most easily adopted by those venturing into cloth for the first time and they are the easiest options for Day Cares and Dads alike.      
• Waterproof without a cover:  Just like Pockets, the AIO diaper requires no cover to make it waterproof/leak-proof.  It has its own attached external cover.    

Type: All In Two Diaper

AI2 Inner

All In Two Diapers are a hybrid two component diaper.  They have the traditional waterproof outer layer (like the Pocket and AIO) but the insert is snapped into the diaper and goes directly against baby’s skin (instead of stuffed into a pocket or sewn in), eliminating the stay dry layer seen in Pockets and AIO.  The outer layer serves as a re-usable diaper cover and the inner insert is removed when wet or soiled and changed out for another.  As in Pockets and AIO diapers, the external fasteners for AI2 diapers consist of Velcro or Snaps.
Benefits of AI2 Diapers:

• Ease of Use:  AIO diapers are by far the easiest to use.  The diaper requires no covers, no additional inserts and no additional external fasteners.  They look and function just like cloth versions of disposable diapers.  They are the most easily adopted by those venturing into cloth for the first time and they are the easiest options for Day Cares and Dads alike.      
• Waterproof without a cover:  Just like Pockets and AIO, AI2 diaper requires no cover to make it waterproof/leak-proof.  It has its own attached external cover.  In fact the AI2 has the added benefit of being able to be used as a cover as well as an AI2.      
• More affordable than AIO: The ability to snap in and out inserts and reuse the outer shell makes the AI2 diaper more affordable than a full set of AIO diapers. 
• Variety:  The AIO snap in inserts/soakers come in a variety of materials and fibers.  Some even come with their own attached stay dry layer for those who prefer the function of the layer in the traditional pocket with the ease of use of the AI2.  It is important to note that not all AI2 diaper systems use compatible snaps.  This means that inserts/soakers in one AI2 brand may not be compatible with those of another. 

Type: One-Size Diapers
One Size (OS) diapers are popular options in cloth diapering.  OS diapers are available in Contour, Fitteds, Pockets, AIO and AI2.   Like Flats, OS diapers provide the flexibility of using one set of diapers for Birth to Potty Training.  OS diapers can use a snapping “rise” system allowing the diaper to convert from very small to large by adjusting the row of snaps used.  Those that do not use a snapping rise (such as some Contours) can have the rise adjusted with the use of a Snappi.
Benefits of AIO Diapers:  

• Affordable: One diaper can be used from birth to potty training making the purchase of multiple sizes unnecessary.   OS diapers are easily adjustable and perfect for families with multiple children in diapers (meaning that one set of diapers can be used concurrently amongst all children in the house). 
• Versatility: With an adjustable rise this diaper can be used by any size baby making it as versatile as a Flat with the convenience of a modern cloth diaper.  OS pockets add the versatility of being able to add additional absorbency as baby grows and needs change. 

Type: Diaper Cover
Diaper covers are waterproof or leak resistant covers used over Flats, Prefolds, Contours or Fitteds.  Diaper covers provide you with the flexibility to use the diapering method of your choice.  Diaper Covers are available in PUL, TPU, Wool and Fleece.  They come in a variety sizes, external closures and fibers.

• PUL and TPU Diaper Cover:  These are waterproof covers made of PUL or TPU.  They are applied over non-waterproof diapering options and use either Velcro or Snapping closures.
• Wool Soaker: A wool soaker is a diaper cover that is made exclusively of wool. This type of fabric has a high lanolin content, so it works well as a diaper cover. It can hold up to forty percent of its weight in moisture and can be used with fitted, contour, or prefold cloth diapers. Prefer natural fibers and materials?  Wool covers provide optimal protection against leaks, making them perfect for nighttime (and daytime too). Diapering on a budget?  Stretch your diaper dollars with a one size diaper cover.
• Fleece Soaker: Much like a wool soaker, a fleece soaker works by wicking moisture away from baby.  These are popular choices for both day and nighttime use. 

What kind of Crunchy Mama are YOU?

So, today has been a fantastic day.  Our Dirty Little Hippie woke up in a great mood (as usual) and it has been nothing but smiles, coos and snuggles all day long.  We went outside together, we played on the floor together, we did her diaper wash together, we napped together,  we even worked on a new carry in our ring sling.  I only wish that today were longer and the sun were out for longer.  We really could have gone for a walk.  For that, there is always tomorrow.

In the meantime, and while I work on getting caught up on other various household tasks that should have been completed today but were put on the back burner to spend time with our DLH on the ONLY day in the entire world that she will be 14weeks and 5 days old, I would like to share this blog post from Amber Dusick's blog "Illustrated with Crappy Pictures".

The Crappy Mohs Scale of Crunchy Mamas - NOW WITH MORE SCIENCE!*

Amber has also written a fantastic book related to her blog, which I highly recommend.  You can purchase the book on Amazon.com (Hardcover or Kindle) by clicking the image below.  Enjoy!

 

Flour Sack Towels (FST) as Cloth Diapers

So, I posted this thread awhile back on my favorite and most helpful cloth diaper Facebook group "The Cloth Diaper Compendium" .  

I asked Square Daddy to stop at Walmart on the way home to get Flour Sack Towels. I haven't tried them and the cheap cheap cotton flats that I purchased are starting to unravel. So, I figure I'll give these towels a go. They're even less expensive than the cotton flats I'm wrecking, and it's only $5! 

I asked him to go to Walmart and call me for further instructions. I can already see how this conversation is going to go. 

Me: "Ok honey, I need you to find the kitchen section where the kitchen towels are". 

Him: "Ok.....but we have lots of kitchen towels". 

Me: "I know we do, I'm not going to use them in the kitchen, they're for our Dirty Little Hippie." 

Him: "Oh, are you going to use them for burp cloths or something, we have a lot of those too". 

Me: "No, they're not for burp cloths. Have you found them yet?" 

Him: "Yes, I'm in the towel section." 

Me: "Now, look for Mainstay Flour Sack Towels. They're solid white. There will be 5 in the package and they are $4.98 per package". 

Him: "Ok, I see xyz towels...Oh, here are some white ones with birds on them. They have the red ones we have at home" 

Blah Blah. He'll tell me about 10 things he sees that I DON'T need before he tells me they don't have them and right before he gives up (about 5 minutes in) he finds them! "Ok, I have them!" "Now, what are you going to do with them"? 

Me: "I'm going to use them as diapers." 

RADIO SILENCE 

Him: "You're going to put towels on the baby's ass?" 

And, then I'll send him for the distilled water I'm going to start using in the wipe solution. LOL! Wish me luck!

Lucky for me, Square Daddy actually not only found the Flour Sack Towels (FST) without incident, but did so quickly and brought them back home without even questioning the fact that I was going to use them as cloth diapers.  I think at this point, he's learned not to question anything weird that I do.  I always have my reasons. 

I wasn't sure about using towels as diapers at first.  But, they are 100% cotton and that's exactly what cotton flats are.  These towels looked much sturdier that the cheap cotton flats that I had ordered from china.  I figured, if they didn't work for me then I wasn't out a whole lot of money, and I didn't have to wait on them to ship to be able to try them out. 

The first thing I did was take them out of the package and WOW.  These things are HUGE compared to the flats I had been using.  I have both bamboo and cotton flats and they are both the same size.  I have pictured a bamboo flat here against the cotton flour sack towel (pre-wash).  

FST on bottom and bamboo flat on top

Just to give another perspective, here is one of our Dirty Little Hippie's largest 3 month jammies on top of one of the flour sack towels (pre-wash). 

FST under a large 3 month outfit

They're 28" x 29" pre-wash and although they do shrink up a bit, they're still very "roomy" after being washed and dried.

There isn't a lot that you must to to prep them.  I washed them once before using.  That's it.  As always (and with all of my cloth diapers) I use my regular mainstream detergent without fabric softener.  There is no special detergent required and the use of fabric softeners will hinder the fabrics ability to fully absorb fluid, so they should be avoided.

As with all of my flats, I utilized the diaper bag fold.  It is so far my favorite because it's quick and easy to do, can be altered for a growing baby and looks neat when completed.  Check back soon for a link on all the great ways to fold flats!  Until then, you can perform a google search on "folding flat diapers" for lots of ideas!

I also utilize fleece liners with all of my diapers (flats, prefolds and pockets).  Our baby girl is super sensitive to wetness and fleece liners wick the moisture away from baby and into the diaper leaving her feeling dryer for longer.  You can view my post on making your own fleece liners for under $1 here: Making Your Own Fleece Diaper Liners

FST folded in diaper bag fold with fleece liner

Baby diapered with FST and fastened with Snappi

Once applied, the diaper can be secured with either a snappi or pins.  We prefer the snappi closure at our house. 

Cover being applied over FST to make diaper waterproof

 



We use diaper covers at home and on the go, just to keep ourselves (and everything else her cuteness touches) dry.  A diaper cover (or pocket diaper) can be put on right over the flour sack towel just as you would any other flat.

Baby in yet another CUTE Rumparooz diaper cover!

I can't tell you how pleased I am to have found FST diapering!  We literally use these almost every day.

A) They're inexpensive
B) They take no special detergents
C) They dry quickly
D) They absorb lots of liquid
E) They can be used a a flat diaper or folded as a soaker/doubler in pocket diapers and covers
F) No bleach needed, just dry in the sun

and on, and on, and on.

The original cloth diapers really are the easiest cloth diapers in my opinion.  It is true that a pocket diaper may look like the stand out choice, but not all pocket diaper designs fit all babies.  By using flats (such as FST) you truly get a custom fit for your baby each and every time.  And if you've purchased a stash of pocket diapers that don't yet fit or that fit your baby poorly, consider using them as covers over FSTs until they either fit your baby properly or you can sell or trade them for something that does!

Do you use FST diapering?  What has your experience been?  How do you use them?

Will you consider using them now?


Please don't forget to Pin this post and add your comments below.

Making your own fleece diaper liners

I wanted to do a quick "how to" on making your own fleece diaper liners to protect your baby from wetness or protecting your diapers from unsafe creams and ointments.  It seems like I'm asked
at least a few times a week (and anytime I recommend them) where to get them and/or how to make them.  I want to start by saying I use them every day for every diaper change.  I found out early in our cloth diapering journey that our Dirty Little Hippie is very sensitive to wetness.  It's sometimes easy to forget, but baby skin is much different than our own.  It's new, unmarred and certainly unweathered.  The least amount of wetness irritation can cause devastating effects.  These effects can range from a little redness to peeling or blistering raw spots.  Their skin can literally be peeled or eroded away from wetness.  We found out just a few weeks into our diapering days (even before switching to cloth) that our daughter was one of the super sensitive.  Since that time, it's been important for us to use a barrier to keep the moisture away from her skin.  Many of the common barrier "creams" and "ointments" are not cloth diaper safe.  The others that we tried were either ineffective or contained ingrediets that we would prefer to keep off of her skin and therefore out of her body.  The solution, fleece diaper liners.

You'll need a few things to get started:
A piece of micro-fleece (For this post I am using .222 yards of micro-fleece to make 13 liners)
Scissors
A template (I use a piece of junk mail)


Choosing Fleece
I get a lot of questions about the "type" of fleece.  "Does it have to be micro-fleece?"  The short answer is no.  It really doesn't.  However, I will add that micro-fleece is the best choice and will hold up the longest and withstand the most washes without repelling liquids.  What you're really looking for is for the liquid to pass through the fleece into your insert/soaker.  Once the liquid has passed through the surface of the fleece will remain dry against baby's skin.  Thicker fleece tends to become less effective at this over time.  How much time?  That is dependent on the number of washes it goes through and I'm sure a plethora of other factors that I honestly haven't had time to evaluate.  The
down and dirty is that these are so cost effective to make, that even if you're only using them a few times (and I am still using some thicker fleece liners two months in, which equates to around 30+ washes), you're saving money. I happen to get my fleece at JoAnn fabric for three reasons.  Reason number one is that it's the closest fabric store to my home.  Reason two is that they almost always have fleece in the remnant bin and reason number three is that they often put fleece on sale for 30-50% off.  Here's the great thing about their sales.  The remnant bin is 50% off regular price.  When fleece is on sale for say 40% off, then the fleece I buy is already marked down 40% and I get 50% off what is already marked down by buying a remnant.  Buying remnants also allows me to change it up more often at home.  An entire yard of fleece will make a whole lot of liners! 

I'll be using .222 yards of fleece for this post.  The fleece is labeled "Chan Monkey See Monkey Do" at JoAnn fabric (in the event you want to find it).  The regular price is $12.99.  .222 yards at $12.99 came out to $2.88.  Fleece prints just happened to be on sale for 50% off that week reducing the price to $1.44.  I purchased this out of the remnant bin which gave me an additional 50% discount bringing the total cost to $.72 for my materials.


DO NOT WASH FLEECE PRIOR TO CUTTING.  Doing so will cause the edges of your liners to curl making them difficult to cut. 


Scissors
I suppose you could use any scissors that work for you.  I use a pair of common sewing scissors.  I'll let this be your call.  Fleece does not fray so there is no need for special scissors, edging or serging!

Template
As I stated above, I use a piece of common junk mail.  Once of my new years resolutions is to deal with mail as it comes into the house, but I still always have a piece of junk mail lying around.  This particular one is from Dish Network.  I'm sure they're wanting me to subscribe to their service no doubt.  However, I doubt that will ever happen so instead I will use their junk offering as a template for my diaper liners.  I find that this size (roughly 9x4) works great in our diapers.  Our Dirty Little Hippie is 3 months old now and I foresee that this size will continue to work well into the future.  If there comes a time that these become too small, I will use them as fleece wipes instead.

Junk Mail 9 inches long

Junk Mail 4 inches wide

If you purchase a fleece remnant, the first thing you'll notice is that you're going to get a label side.  I usually just leave this on, but to make these "pretty" I cut it off.  This particular piece (and they do come in all shapes) was one very long thin swatch of fleece.  At the largest point, it was less than 12 inches long. 

 

Fleece - Label side

Lay out your template

I usually just eyeball the piece of fleece to see which cuts will give me the most liners.  I haven't found much difference in many pieces.  Only once did cutting one way vs. the other give me two more liners, so don't spend a lot of time worrying about "where" to cut.  Lay your template on the fabric and cut around it.  It really is that easy. After you've cut your first liner, move your template and cut a second liner.  Continue with this until you've used all of the available space in your fabric.  When there is no more available space, you're done!

Continue moving template to available fabric

Cut liner after liner until you can cut no more!

Completed stack of 13 liners

 You're likely notice (if you're anything like me that your liners are not perfect and they aren't all exactly the same size.  I struggle with wanting them all the same size and being too lazy to be that attentive to detail.  I've sided with the theory that it doesn't matter if they're not all exactly the same size, if there are some off edges or if I hacked one silly, because they're all eventually going to be pooped on.  They're diaper liners.  They don't have to be perfect.  Just let it go.  Rejoice in the fact that this is one thing that you don't have to fix as a mommy!  Ok, if you're really that concerned about it, trim a few edges and have done with it!  Wash liners prior to use but after cutting.  You never know who touched your fabric in the store and what they may have had on their hands or the factory may have on/in it's machines.

Completed Stack of almost the same size liners

When using your liner, simply place a liner between the diaper and your baby and voila!

Liner in Diaper

I've used these liners with flats, prefolds and pockets alike.  I use them at every diaper change to protect our daughter from wetness however, not every baby is as wetness sensitive.  Some mommies choose to only use diaper liners when using creams or ointments that are not cloth diaper safe and may cause repelling.  These liners are also perfect for that!  I do recommend that if you choose to use liners for this reason that you always use that set of liners for that reason.  There should be no need to go about constantly stripping petroleum products from diaper liners that cost $0.77 cents to make.  But do remember that this $0.05 cent diaper liner can save your $20 diaper from having to be stripped of petroleum based cream!

Have you made your own fleece liners?

Will you be making some now? 

Please don't forget to Pin this post and add your comments below.

Receiving Blankets as Cloth Diapers

You wouldn't immediately think of a receiving blanket as being a diapering option, but it makes an excellent flat diaper for many reasons:

A)  It's 100% cotton
B)  It's square/rectangle
C)  It's easy to launder
D)  It dries quickly
E) It comes in a million pretty colors and patterns


When first hearing about using receiving blankets as a diaper, I was skeptical.  I wasn't quite sure about the logistics of it.  I mean, it's a blanket after all.  But when it really comes down to it, it's a 100% cotton piece of fabric that like any other flat, can be folded many different ways!

My first task was to acquire receiving blankets.  Unlike most everyone in America, I didn't receive a horde of them at my baby shower.  I had a small low key shower and received a total of three receiving blankets.  I knew that in order to properly test the theory of using these for diapering our three month old, I would need a lot more than just three.  We usually go through around 10-15 cloth diapers a day.  The quickest way to acquire additional blankets was to post an add on several of our local Facebook online garage sale sites.  So, that's what I did.  I posted an add on three sites stating:

"ISO: Receiving blankets for baby. Preferably unisex or girlie prints. Like new or very very gently used. Please post price when responding. Local In-Town PU preferable."

Within the hour, I had responses.  Ultimately, I acquired an additional 25+ blankets for less than $1 each.  I'm sure if I had posted that I was looking for free receiving blankets, I would have also had responses as a few of my acquisition were indeed donated to me. 

My next task was to wash them and get them ready for use.  As I was pretty sure that none of these receiving blankets had been used for diapering in the past, I skipped a disinfecting soak and went straight for regular laundering.  No need for any special "cloth diaper safe" soaps/detergents (I don't use anything special on my regular diapers either - gasp! - But we'll talk more about that later).  I used our regular Arm & Hammer Free and Clear that we wash all of baby's clothes in.  Why A&H F&C you ask?  Because that's what was on sale before she was born.  I also have a stash of All F&C waiting in the wings.  When that is all gone, I'll likely go with Kirkland or Tide F&C until our Dirty Little Hippie is a little older and less likely to have detergent sensitivities.  After a hot water wash and a quick dry, I decided to use my favorite "Diaper Bag" fold and get them all ready.

You can google "Flat Diaper Folds" and find a million of them.  I do plan on a separate post with picture and video links, but don't have time for that right this moment.  So, pin this post and check back in a few weeks where you will find an updated link to said future post.

The diaper bag fold works great for us because it stores and carries perfectly.  Here are a few examples of what the fold looks like completed.  

 Once folded, they store very nicely.  Here I used $1 bins from Dollar Tree for storage.  You'll notice that one bin holds more than the other.  I suggest finding storage that is affordable and works for you.  At $1, Dollar Tree really does have some great storage ideas!

18 Folded Diapers (Ready to use)

16 Folded Diapers (Ready to use)

I decided to do a 5 day test run of exclusive receiving blanket diapering.  Well........with one exception.  We still use 1 disposable diaper every night.  I've been blessed with a baby who sleeps but is sensitive to wet.  I don't currently see the point in disturbing her sleep just to say we cloth diaper 100% of the time.

Here is what our "diaper bag" diaper looks like.  You will note that I use fleece liners in all of our diapers (this photo shows our blue butterflies).  The fleece liners wick moisture away from baby and keep her happy and dry.  I am happy to say that it has also eliminated our bout with wetness rash. 

Folded Receiving Blanket

Blanket with "wings" open

Blanket with "tail" open

Blanket with fleece liner placement shown

A Blanket on baby as diaper secured with snappi

Blanket covered with cutest Rumparooz diaper cover

At the end of our 5 day trial, I can honestly say, we'll continue using receiving blankets in our diaper rotation.  Here are some notes from our experience:

1.  Receiving blankets come in different sizes.  There are standard sized blankets (square) and large blankets (rectangle).  
2.  They're much thicker than the flour sack towels that we use and that was a downside for me.  I prefer the thin flour sack towels as they are a trimmer fit for our three month old. Some people prefer a thicker diaper and for you, these would be perfect for any time any day.
3.  When I get ready to try cloth at night, these will be on my list.  They can hold some serious liquid! I would say they hold twice or three times the amount of liquid my flour sack towel diapers hold and they are seriously absorbent.
4.  The large blankets will be well suited for larger babies, toddlers and overnight.
5.  Blankets can be secured using a snappi or pins.  I prefer a snappi as I would seriously be poking myself ALL the time with pins.


Remember, receiving blankets are 100% cotton and are perfectly safe and suitable as cloth diapers.  The fact that they are marketed as "blankets" does not make them an inferior choice.   They come in a million pretty colors and patterns and I found that we could go without a cover if checked often. They can be found at garage sales, online garage sales, friends, family and thrift shops for next to nothing.

Have you or do you use receiving blankets as cloth diapers?

Do you think you'll try them now?

Please don't forget to pin this post and add your comments below.

Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day

I've never been much of a baker and I didn't take Home Economics in school (like most girls).  Learning to sew and cook just weren't high priorities for me.  I was much more interested in hanging out with my friends and looking for trouble.  After all, don't they sell most everything you might possibly want at the store?  My mother wasn't a bread baker.  My grandmother wasn't a bread baker.  No, in our house....Mrs. Baird's was our bread baker.  Like most people, we drove to the grocery store to be greeted by the endless selection of sliced prepackaged perfection.  With big machines mixing, kneading, baking and perfectly pre-slicing my bread, why on earth would I ever need to know how to do it myself? 

As I grew older and my consumption of sandwiches made at home dwindled, I discovered Artisan bread.  Until recently, purchasing Artisan bread was almost a weekly occurrence in my household.  We eat it with dinner almost every night.  There is something about Artisan bread that makes my mouth water just writing about it.  I love its thick crust and its unique texture.  I particularly love it topped with sea salt or garlic and roma tomatoes.  YUM!  The one thing I do not like about it is the price.  Depending on its size and composition, it can run me between $3.00 and $7.00 a loaf.  EEEK.

Solution:  Project Bread Head.  I decided to learn to make it myself.  For those of you interested, I HIGHLY recommend the purchase of "Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day"

They also have a website that will walk you through everything!  Artisan Bread in Five

I will give you the basic low-down here, but buy the book and visit the site!  You won't regret it!

If you think that bread baking is a long tedious process and therefore don't have time to learn
this handy self sufficient craft....Think again!  I tried it once and I'm hooked!   It's far cheaper
to make it yourself. It also has fewer ingredients than store bought bread and subsequently fewer
preservatives.  EPIC WIN!

Let's compare.....

Regular Store bought bread ingredients: Enriched wheat flour (flour, barley malt, ferrous
sulfate (iron),“B” vitamins (niacin, thaimine mononitrate (B1), riboflavin (B2), folic acid)), water,
sweetener(high fructose corn syrup or sugar), yeast, wheat bran, whole wheat flour, wheat gluten, 
molasses.Contains 2% or less of: soybean oil, salt, sweet dairy whey, butter (cream, salt, enzymes),

maltodextrin, honey, corn syrup, calcium sulfate, soy flur, dough conditioners (may contain:

dicalcium phosphate, calcium dioxide, sodium stearoyl lactylate, ethoxylated mono and

diglycerides, mono and diglycerides, and/or datem), yeast nutrients (may contain: ammonium

sulfate, ammonium chloride, calcium carbonate, monocalcium phosphate, and/or ammonium

phosphate), cornstarch, wheat starch, vinegar, natural flavor, beta carotene (color), enzymes,

calcium propionate (to retain freshness), soy lecithin.

Homemade Artisan Bread ingredients:  Unbleached Flour, yeast, salt and water. 

I think that speaks for itself.  Now for the fun part!  I documented one of my quick bread making 
sessions to share with you.  I hope you find it inspirational and take a crack at it yourself!

Making Artisan Bread Step 1:  Acquire Ingredients 

1.  Large 6 quart container (I bought mine at Sam's in a package of 3 for $12.48).  
     Note: I've also found that a 6qt plastic shoe box works well and fits perfectly in the fridge. 
     (You can purchase one at Dollar Tree for $1.)  Obviously you can also use a glass container
     to avoid plastics.
2.  Flour (You will need 2 lbs for each batch).  You can purchase unbleached flour or grind your own.

     Note:  I have a hand grinder and an electric grinder.  I still use my Bendtec to grind my wheat.

3.  Yeast (Also available at Sam's in bulk (2 1lb bags for $4.68, a nice price)

4.  Kosher Salt (Just buy a small box, you won't use much)

5.  Water (Filtered, Tap or Bottled will work, whichever your family prefers)
6.  A Pizza Peel or Parchment Paper  
7.  Corn Meal if you'll be using it (I use flour instead)

 

Making Artisan Bread Step 2:  Locate basic recipe.
I have listed the basic recipe below, but really suggest you buy the book for all of the fantastic variations, tips, tricks and other recipes it contains.

Basic Recipe:

3 cups  lukewarm water
1 1/2 tablespoons granulated yeast
1 1/2 tablespoons kosher or other coarse salt
6 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
Cornmeal for the pizza peel

Making Artisan Bread Step 3:  Make bread mix!
I will go through the basic steps here and YES you can make the bread with these instructions (I do it regularly now), but after you try a batch and fall in love, BUY THE BOOK or check for it at your local library!

1.  Measure out three cups of lukewarm water and place it in your container
2.  Add 1 1/2 tablespoons of granulated yeast
3.  Add 1 1/2 tablespoons of kosher salt
4.  Measure out 6 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour (gently scoop it and level it off with a knife, do NOT pack it down) and add to your water, yeast and salt. 
5.  Mix with a wooden spoon until all water is absorbed and all flour is wet.  This is a wet dough, so if yours is too dry, add a little more water (a few tablespoons at a time until well mixed). 
It should look like this:

6.  Cover loosely (by just setting the lid on top - DO NOT SEAL!)  I just leave it out on the counter.
7.  Let rise for about 2 hours.  If you live in a colder climate, you can let it rise for up to 5 hours. 
It should go from this:

To this:

And become flat on the top as so:

8.  Place lid on top (again DO NOT SEAL) and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks! 


Making Artisan Bread Step 4:  Let's make some bread!
You can find some more official instructions here: Mother Earth News and I do recommend reading the entire article if you haven't purchased the book. 

1.  Throw a little cornmeal on a pizza peel (easiest) or my versions: a little flour on some parchment paper on a cookie sheet.  Parchment paper my favorite as it can go right in the oven with the bread until the bottom is done enough to slide it away. 
2.  Flour your hands and remove dough from refrigerator and pull out about a 1 lb piece (no you don't have to weigh it).  I've pulled out everything from a baseball size to a grapefruit size, just don't use it all!  I would say about 3 loaves per bucket is my average. 
3.  Keeping dough in a ball in one hand, throw a little dusting of flour over it and wrap dough from top to bottom with both hands creating a smooth top and a bunched up bottom. This is vital to create the "Gluten Cloak".  You ideally want to see a stretched smooth appearance around the top of the bread and it really doesn't matter how bunched the bottom is.  Don't freak out if you can't get it perfectly smooth.  I've made some great bread without a perfect gluten cloak.

4.  Place dough on your cornmeal or floured surface of choice (see #1) and let it sit for about 90 minutes. 


Making Artisan Bread Step 5:  Let's BAKE our bread!
1.  About 20 minutes before you bake your bread, preheat oven to 450 degrees. 
2.  Place a metal pan (broiler, brownie etc.) on the lowest rack.
3.  Place a pizza stone on the middle rack.  I use my favorite Pampered Chef stone (Actually, I use it for everything). 
4.  Dust top of bread with flour and use a bread knife to cut slits on the top as seen below (I use less flour than most, but if the top is white...don't worry.)  I also sometimes salt the top with sea salt at this point, but that's a personal preference. 

5.  Bake your bread for about 30 minutes or until it is golden brown. 
6.  Remove and let cool on a wire rack until room temperature. 

Making Artisan Bread Step 6:  Eat the darn bread already! 

It's really hard to wait for it to cool, but trust me...it's so worth it!  If you don't, the crust will become soft. 

Now, I'm making a batch of dough every few days and I haven't bought a fancy specialty loaf since.  At a cost of about $0.50 a loaf to make it myself,  I don't think that I ever will!

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