Educating Today... For a Better Tomorrow
Surviving the Diaper Years‌ By Tami Main
D
id you know that during the time between your child’s birth and potty training, you will change approximately 7,200 diapers? Over four million diapers are thrown away every day in Canada. When my daughter was born, cloth diapers were not as widely used as they are now. Cloth diapers have greatly evolved from the pins and complicated folding techniques of old. I was surprised to see that the new cloth diapers come in cute designs with easy-touse snaps. There are many misconceptions about how functional and convenient cloth diapers are. I recently sat down with Karen Randall from New & Green Baby Co., who gave me the scoop on poop and cloth diapers. On average, you will spend $3,290 for
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disposable diapers, compared with $444 to $1,042 for cloth diapers. Home laundering costs vary from $430 to $690 based upon 15 loads per month including washer, dryer and detergent. In addition, using cloth will help keep one tonne of garbage per child out of the landfills. One of the keys to successful cloth diapers is a good fit, as this will prevent leakage, which can be one of the frustrations for new cloth diaper users. Check to make sure there are no gaps in the legs and tummy area. You will need one diaper pail, which can be a simple garbage can with a lid. Use a waterproof bag to line the garbage can. The bag will hold and transport your diapers to the washing machine and may be washed right along
with the diapers. You will also need a waterproof tote bag to carry home dirty diapers, approximately 24 diapers for a newborn, 36 reusable cloth wipes, a cleanser such as Taslie Cheeky Bum Wash, and cloth diaper specific laundry detergent. Every two to three days, you will dump the diapers, wipes, totes and pail liners into the washing machine. Set on cold or cool rinse/soak cycle, then spin. Wash on hot and rinse twice to ensure diapers are well rinsed. Dry on medium. Do not use detergents with whiteners, brighteners and enzymes. If they are not completely rinsed out, the enzymes can cause a rash when baby urinates. Fabric softeners and bleach are also not recommended as softeners can leave a residue and