A Complete Guide To Cloth Diapers, And The Best Brands!

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This post contains affiliate links which may earn Eco Mom Diaries a commission.

Aside from being totally adorable and wallet-friendly, cloth diapers can be very intimidating for many curious parents who are considering switching over from disposables.

After all, there are about 8 different cloth diaper styles on the market right now (possibly more), and each design has a different fit. So how do you know which cloth diaper will work best for your baby?

First, let’s go over all the different styles of cloth diapers that are available to you.

What Are The Different Styles Of Cloth Diapers?

Flat Diapers

Flat diapers predate all diapers. They are a single layer of cloth (typically cotton or bamboo), and they need to be folded into multiple layers for absorbency. They are economical, but the downside to flat diapers is that they can leak without a cover, and they require safety pins to secure them in place.

Pre-Fold Diapers

Prefold diapers are rectangular pieces of cloth with multiple layers of fabric for absorption, and can be used inside pocket diapers or reusable covers. Prefolds are economical, versatile, flexible and easy to wash. However, they can be bulky, inconvenient, and must be upgraded in size as baby grows.

Fitted Cloth Diapers

Fitted cloth diapers resemble a disposable diaper in that they have an hourglass shape, leg elastics to keep messes contained, and they are easy to fasten. The downside to fitted cloth diapers is that they are not waterproof, and you need to purchase covers; they are also more expensive than prefold diapers.

Pocket Diapers

Pocket diapers are cloth diapers that contain a waterproof cover and inner pocket that can be stuffed with absorbency layers—like prefolds or inserts. They can grow with your baby and come in really cute designs. The downside to pocket diapers is that they can leak, they tend to be bulky, and stuffing/removing inserts can be inconvenient.

All-In-One Diapers (AIO)

All-In-One diapers have a simple design with a trim fit that prevents leaks, and they are made with several absorbency layers along with a waterproof outer shell. They are considered the most convenient reusable diapers for daycares, and can be used throughout the potty training stage as well. The downside to All-In-One diapers is that they are expensive and take longer to dry.

All-In-2 Diapers (AI2)

All-In-2 cloth diapers are very similar to pocket diapers. They contain a waterproof outer shell, but the inserts snap inside of the diaper instead of getting placed inside of a pocket. Parents love these reusable diapers because most of the time (unless there’s a blow out, you only need to swap out the insert.

Hybrid Cloth Diapers

Hybrids are a cross between disposable and cloth diapers. They have a flexible design, a waterproof shell, and can use any absorbency layer (cloth or disposable). These cloth diapers are also cost-effective, daycare friendly, and travel-friendly. The downside to hybrid cloth diapers is that some designs can leak, and beginners might find them a bit complicating.

What Are The Benefits Of Using Cloth Diapers

• Cloth diapers are reusable, which means that while you may fork up a descent amount of money in the beginning, you’ll actually end up saving money in the long run. Depending on the brand, the average household spends between $600-$900 a year on disposable diapers—and you’ll keep spending this amount yearly until they are potty trained.

• Cloth diapers are hypoallergenic and don’t cause skin issues such as chemical burns, rashes or dermatitis. A majority of disposable diapers are packed full of toxic chemicals (including fragrance) that are actually harmful to your baby and their sensitive skin. Cloth diapers are breathable and lined with gentle and non-toxic fabric such as cotton, hemp, and bamboo.

• While they do use up much more water due to laundering, cloth diapers are zero-waste because they do not need to be discarded like disposable diapers, and can be reused for many years if cared for properly.

How Many Cloth Diapers Do I Need?

The amount of cloth diapers that you will need depends on the age of your baby and how often you plan on doing laundry. However, many cloth diaper brands recommend about:

• 24-26 diapers for a newborn

• 20-22 diapers for a 3-12 month old

• 16-18 diapers for a 12-24 month old

• 12-14 for an older toddler who is potty training

But, because of the overwhelming number of diaper changes in the newborn stage, many parents postpone switching over to cloth diapers until their baby is around 4-6 months old—and that’s understandable.

Do Daycare Centers Allow Cloth Diapers?

When it comes to cloth diapers and childcare facilities, each daycare center is different. Most daycare centers in the United States allow cloth diapers, and there aren’t any state or federal rules that prohibit daycares from allowing cloth diapers.

When it comes to diaper style, if your little one is attending daycare and the facility does indeed allow cloth diapers, then the all-in-one style is the easiest reusable style for daycare workers to manage (they won’t need to struggle with inserts and diaper changes will be quick and easy).

What Type Of Cloth Diaper Is Best Overall?

I will recommend, however, that it’s best to choose brands that strive to make their cloth diapers as non-toxic, eco-friendly and hypoallergenic as possible—because babies have sensitive skin.

Cloth diapers are like infant formula—not all brands will work for your baby and you’ll most likely need to try a few different styles before you find one that works best.

With that said, below are our favorite cloth diaper brands. And if you’d like some advice on how to wash cloth diapers, check out the video below by Farmhouse On Boone.

Best Reusable Diapers For A Sustainable Changing Routine

1. Mama Koala 2.0 Cloth Diapers

Size Range | 8-40 Pounds

Mama Koala is an environmentally conscious cloth diaper company that uses sustainable and non-toxic material to create the softest and most absorbent diapers with beautiful aesthetics.

Features

• The 2.0 diaper contains a bamboo interior lining that wicks moisture away from your child’s skin and keeps them dry.

• Contains a wing snap to prevent wing droop.

• Contains cross-over snaps for new born fit as well as a wrap and snap feature for soiled diapers, and rise snaps for customized fit.

• Contains a water-resistant belly band.

2. Charlie Banana Cloth Diapers

Size Range | 6-35 Pounds

Charlie Banana is a 2-in-1 reusable fleece cloth diapering system that grows with your baby. In other words, it’s a one size diaper with adjustable sizing straps and snug fit straps. Inserts can be placed inside or over the pocket, and the brand offers inserts made of fleece, cotton, bamboo and disposable varieties. Charlie Banana is Climate Neutral and a member of 1% for the Planet.

Features

• Contains edge to edge soft fleece lining.

• Contains a pocket for reusable inserts.

• Contains leakproof leg casing.

• Contains adjustable leg elastic and snaps.

• Contains a wide back elastic.

3. Kanga Care Rumparooz Cloth Diapers

Size Range | 6-40 Pounds

The hypoallergenic Rumparooz One Size Cloth Diaper is a pocket diaper system that grows with your child. They are designed with a patented leak protection technology and each diaper comes with a free set of microfiber absorbent pads called the 6r Soaker. 

Features

• Outer layer: 100% Waterproof TPU polyester, Inner layer: 100% Microchamois stay dry polyester.

• Insert is made from 100% Polyester Microfiber.

• Contains 4 size settings.

• Patented double inner gusset leak prevention technology.

4. AlvaBaby Cloth Diapers

Size Range | 6-33 Pounds

The AlvaBaby brand is a nice budget-friendly alternative to most other cloth diaper brands, and there are a ton of fun fabric designs to choose from. The “one-size” pocket diapers come with (2) 3-layer microfiber inserts that draw moisture away from baby’s skin, and the adjustable snaps allow the diapers to grow with your baby.

Features

• Contain hip snaps and crossover snaps to prevent wing droop.

• Washable, waterproof and breathable. 

• Comfortable elastic legging area to prevent leaking.

• Can be used as nappy cover.

5. Thirsties Cloth Diapers

Size Range | 8-40 Pounds

The Thirsties All-In-One cloth diapers are great for babies and toddlers who like to unfasten their diapers. These diapers contain a built-in 3 layer microfiber terry soaker that absorbs an incredible seven times its weight in liquid, and the soaker is topped with a stay-dry micro fleece which keeps your baby feeling dry.

Features

• 100% polyester outer layer with waterproof TPU laminate.

• 100% organic cotton inner layers.

• Hook and loop snap closures.

• Grows with your baby.

• Gentle elastic around legs and waist provide protection against leaks.

6. Bambino Mio Cloth Diapers

Size Range | 8-35 Pounds

The eco-chíc looking Bambino Mio Miosolo All-In-One Reusable Cloth Diapers are super soft, and the one-size design means it will grow with your little one from baby to toddler. It also contains an inner pocket for inserts to maximize absorbency for heavy wetters. The material is OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified which ensure that they are hypoallergenic and safe to use on baby’s sensitive skin.

Features

• Each set contains 6 diapers and starter accessories.

• The size of the diaper can be changed using the adjustable snaps and hook and loop fastenings to suit the shape of your little one.

• Super stay soft fabric remains soft wash after wash, providing the softest and most comfortable diaper for your baby’s bottom.

7. Nora’s Nursery

Size Range | 10-33 Pounds

This hidden gem is not as well known as the brands above, but it is well worth the buy for many reasons. They are a small family-owned business, and all of their diapers come with 4-layer bamboo viscose inserts and wet bags in whimsical earthy color palettes.

Features

• Contains super absorbent 4-layer bamboo polyester inserts.

• Adjustable snap layout fits babies and toddlers from 10 to 33 pounds.

• Snug leg openings and waterproof cover.

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Shopping For Organic Baby Slings? Read On For The Best Brands That Focus On Your Baby’s Health, Mom’s Comfort And The Planet’s Sustainable Resources

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If you’re looking for an organic cloth baby carrier, you’ve come to the right place! This guide contains the best baby wraps and slings that are stylish, comfortable and sustainably made!

Are Baby Wraps And Slings Worth The Buy?

With my first child, I didn’t consider buying a wrap or ring sling because, to be honest, these cloth baby carriers looked like a lot of work.

For many first time moms who are not familiar with baby wraps, all of that tying can appear pretty intimidating, and can even create understandable fear and anxiety that your precious cargo will accidentally fall through.

However, after getting tired of lugging around a 20-30 pound car seat with me every time I went out to the grocery store, I decided to give babywearing a try—and it was one of the best “baby gear” purchases I’ve made.

What Are The Benefits Of Babywearing?

Babywearing mimics the womb, which reduces stress for your little one, allowing baby to feel calm and secure. That’s why certain styles of baby wraps are wonderful tools for skin-to-skin contact and soothing fussy babies.

Babywear also allows you to multitask by freeing up your hands! You can get things done around the house, or run errands while your baby is snuggled securely against your body. When I finally decided to wear my baby, a trip to the grocery store was much more pleasant—my wrap even had a pocket on the front where I was able to store my baby’s pacifier.

Lastly, babywear helps increase mom’s milk supply and even helps reduce baby’s spit-up after feedings because they’re resting in an upright position.

At what Age Can You Start Babywearing?

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), slings and wraps are intended for infants and toddlers between 8 and 35 pounds. 

Babies younger than 4 months of age are still developing neck muscles, and babywear can put your baby in a position where their breathing can become obstructed.

Hence, please take caution and always monitor your baby to make sure that they are not in a curled up position, or have their chin down when being worn in a wrap, sling or other hybrid.

Which Baby Carrier Is Best?

Baby carriers are constantly evolving, but typically range from unstructured hammock-shaped varieties to lengthy fabric that wrap around the body. There are also hybrids that offer a combined set of features.

Choosing the right baby carrier depends on baby’s age and weight. For example, a wrap was better in the first few months of my baby’s life because it was tight and allowed me to keep baby’s head more upright. It was also better for skin to skin contact.

Later on, as my baby grew and developed better head control, I was able to add a ring sling into the mix, which didn’t make me feel as sweaty during summer months. That’s because baby wraps tend to be a little thicker—trapping heat (at least that’s how it was for me).

Lastly, now a days, hybrid carriers are available which don’t require any tying or adjustment, and are the perfect fit for parents (like dads) who might feel self-conscious or intimidated to wear a fancy ring sling or over-complicated baby wrap.

Now that you’re familiar with the basics of babywearing and all of the different carrier styles, let’s look at my favorite brands that make their baby carriers in a responsible way and with non-toxic material to keep your precious one happy and healthy.

Best Sustainable Babywearing Brands

1. Solly Baby | Wrap Carrier

Weight Limit: Up To 25lbs

These buttery soft and breathable baby wraps by Solly Baby provide a secure yet comfortable fit that babies love and feel at ease in. The snug security that these wraps provide make them ideal for newborns, and are a perfect tool for that skin-to-skin contact. The Solly Baby wraps are available in various designs and are ethically manufactured in facilities where fair wages and humane working conditions are a top priority.

Features

• Made from 100% certified Lenzing modal (a luxuriously silky-soft, sustainable knit made from the pulp of Austrian beechwood trees)

• Made with environmentally-friendly, nontoxic AZO, phthalate-free and metal-free dyes

• Made without flame retardants

• Lightweight and breathable for year round wear  

2. Kyte Baby | Sling Carrier

Weight Limit: 8lbs Up To 35lbs

The buttery soft Kyte Baby linen ring slings by Kyte Baby are stylish baby carriers with a pretty rose gold ring that ensures a tight grip. These eco-friendly ring slings also have pockets, and I can’t stress enough just how convenient pockets are on baby carriers—especially for cell phone storage and pacifiers when you’re out and about and need access to them fast.

Features

• Made from environmentally-friendly 100% pre-washed flax linen

• Hypoallergenic and antibacterial

• Contains two pockets: a large exterior pocket and a smaller interior pocket

3. New Native | Baby Carrier

Weight Limit: 8lbs Up To 35lbs

The New Native baby carriers are the perfect solution for on-the-go caregivers who absolutely cannot stand ring slings or traditional baby wraps. That’s because New Native baby carriers are non-adjustable and fitted to the wearer—which means you never have to struggle with all those complicating tying instructions. They make a convenient breastfeeding cover, and dads love them because they’re simple and perfect for minimalists—which most men tend to be.

Features

• Made from hypoallergenic organic cotton

• Non-adjustable and hassle-free design is free of buckles, straps, and rings

• Doubles as a nursing cover

• Allows for multiple carrying positions

• Available in sizes: XS (95 lbs) to XL (225lbs)

4. Nalakai | Ring Sling

Weight Limit: Up To 35 Pounds

The super soft and eco-friendly Nalakai ring slings are made from a sustainably sourced bamboo-linen blend, which means that you don’t have to break them in—they’re automatically soft straight out of the packaging. These organic ring slings are also uv reflective and made with non-toxic dyes. You’ll also find that they contain a stylish logo made from sustainable vegan leather.

Features

• Luxury bamboo and linen blend

• 100% vegan dyes

• UV Reflective

• Unwelded aluminum rings

• Fits petite and plus size moms

5. Boba | Wrap Carrier

Weight Limit: Birth To 35 Pounds

The Boba wrap is a very well known and popular baby carrier, but it wasn’t until recently that this brand has decided to go green! Boba has begun to use organic cotton fabric in a few of their wraps and many parents and caregivers are ecstatic!

Features

• 95% Organic Cotton with a touch of Spandex to retain its shape 

• Four way stretch that provides flexibility, adjustability, and real support

• One size fits all—from petite to plus size

• International Hip Dysplasia Institute – Certified Hip Healthy 

6. Baby K’Tan | Wrap Carrier

Weight Limit: 8–35 Pounds

Don’t feel like dealing with complicated wrapping instructions? This organic baby carrier is ready to wear right out of the box! The Baby K’tan organic cotton baby carrier is made of a 100% GOTS certified organic cotton with unique one-way stretch. This organic baby carrier is made of a soft natural fabric that will give you and your little one a warm and cozy hold.

Features

• 100% GOTS certified organic cotton

• Ready to wear out of the box

• Machine washable and dryer safe

• Patented double-loop design slips on like a t-shirt

• Front, outward & hip carrying positions

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Shopping For A Natural Teething Toy? Read On For The Best Non Toxic Teethers To Safely Soothe Baby’s Sore Gums

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Are you looking for a teething toy that’s safe for baby and environmentally friendly? You’ve come to the right place!

Teething is one of the most unpleasant experiences that both baby and mom go through together.

When a baby is teething, the gum pain can disrupt their sleep cycle, their temperature can spike, they drool excessively which can cause skin irritation, and it just makes them oh so irritable.

That’s why teething toys can be such a life saver for babies—and mom’s sanity.

However, not all teethers are safe for babies to chew on, and many conventional teethers can leach harmful chemicals that mimic estrogen—even those synthetic teethers that claim to be BPA-free.

With that said, we’ve put together a guide to non toxic teething toys that help soothe your little one’s gums safely and effectively. They are made from the following:

• 100% organic cotton

• Natural hard wood

• 100% natural rubber

• Food-grade silicone

What To Avoid When Choosing A Teething Toy

Not all teething toys are safe for babies to put into their mouths, and there are several ingredients to avoid when choosing a teether. Luckily, many natural and organic teethers do not contain these biologically harmful chemicals:

• BPA (Bisphenol-a)

• PVC/Vinyl

• Phthalates

• Latex

• Lead

• Cadmium

With that said, below are some of our favorite non-toxic teething toys that are void of harmful chemicals, and 100% safe for your little one’s gums.

And before you go, take a look at these awesome teething remedies and hacks by Taylor Raine on YouTube.

Best Natural Teething Toys For Babies And Toddlers

1. Bamber Natural Rubber + Natural Amber Teething Toy

The Little Bamber teether is made from a combination of natural rubber and natural Baltic amber—and is perfect for parents who love the concept of Amber as a soother, but don’t feel comfortable using a necklace. With Amber infused into the rubber, this teether is a safe and effective gum soothing device that many moms swear by.

2. Baby Elefun Silicone Teething Toy

The Baby Elefun silicone teether is made from food grade silicone and is super easy for your little one to hold. We love this teether because it has 5 different textures for your child to nibble on, and even reaches the back molars.

3. Green Sprouts Organic Cotton Blanket + Silicone Teething Ring

Give baby the best of both worlds with this nontoxic silicone teether and organic Cotton blanket in one by Green Sprouts! The soft organic cotton muslin blankie is great for cuddling with or chewing on, while the silicone teething ring massages gums and promotes healthy oral development. This combo makes your baby feel safe and secure and is perfect for road trips and travel!

4. Nuby Natural Teether

The Nuby natural teether is made from a combination of natural wood and food-grade silicone. It has multiple shapes and textures to target different areas of the mouth, and it’s easy for babies to grasp and hold on to.

5. BookWorm Baby Silicone Teether

Let’s face it, babies LOVE chewing on books! And this non-toxic silicone teether by Bookworm Baby is the perfect solution to both painful gums and keeping your little one’s real books in-tact! We love that this teether contains little bumps, and is tear-resistant to prevent bacteria growth. Plus, Basil the bookworm is super adorable.

6. Hoolaroo Eco The Bunny Natural Teether

The Hoolaroo Eco Bunny Teether is made from a blend of natural beech wood and food-grade silicone. It has both smooth and textured areas that allow for soothing painful gums, as well as exploration—plus, it’s super cute!

7. Moonjax Silicone Teether

The Moonjax baby teether is a minimal teether with a fun ergonomic design. It’s made with medical-grade silicone and is great for both teething babies as well as older autistic children. We especially love that this teether has zero dyes, and is both dishwasher and freezer safe.

8. Smily Mia Never Drop Silicone Teether

The one thing that all baby teethers have in common is that babies tend to drop them very easily. That’s why we love the Smily Mia Never Drop silicone teether. It’s specially made so that baby holds in to it with a firm grip, and it’s also super fun for baby to play play with! Christmas themed animals are available as well!

9. Fu Hollow Silicone Teething Tubes

There comes a point where most teethers can’t reach toward the back of the mouth. Hence, these silicone tubes are perfect for areas that most rounded corners can’t reach. They also come with cleaning straws, and are dishwasher safe. Plus, kids love them, and they are also great for children on the spectrum.

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