Category: Cloth Diapering

Cloth Diapering on a Vacation

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When we went for our first vacation with baby Glen, I took it as an adventure to exclusively cloth diaper during our vacation. We went on ten days holidays to Goa which happens to be our natives. I was not confident to be honest to cloth diaper during all these days. I was sceptical and I didn’t wanted this holiday to be hectic for me especially because Glen was pooping frequently during his teething phase. But this didn’t stop us from being exclusively cloth diapering parents. Here is what we did and how we did.

Our Stash:

We took a stash of :

  • 6 Superbottoms Pocket diapers
  • 4 Superbottoms cover diapers
  • 2 Superbottoms Plus
  • Some more pockets and covers for back up and lots of extra dry feel soakers (around 7)
  • 1 Superbottoms wetbag

What did we use:

Major part of our days went with Superbottoms cover diapers (we barely used 2 covers and 5 soakers a day). Sometimes pockets too. Superbottoms Plus worked great for the night. The best part was that we were in a village for 4 days and we got great sunlight. It was too hot during the day and the diapers dried in less than four hours and I realised I carried way too much. We didn’t need too many diapers because I wasn’t sure of the climate and the place we will be staying, so didn’t wanted to risk it. It was totally worth it because the next four days, we stayed beach side and that’s when we needed so much stash. The diapers took more than half a day to dry here. Moreover, Glen had loose motion throughout our journey from day 1. We used reusable liners most of the times. When we were visiting places, disposable diapers were of great help.

How we did this:

We rinsed the diapers as soon as they were off the bum. Whenever we were out, travelling or sightseeing, we stuffed the used diapers in a wetbag. They took care of the smell and wetness and we didn’t have to worry one bit about it. The diapers were washed the next morning and line dried. I would hand rinse them under a wash basin and soak them in detergent and water in a bucket. Read – Common Mistakes in Washing Cloth Diapers.

Never thought I could do it. But once I did,
We have always exclusively cloth diapered in all our vacations.

Top 5 Cloth Diaper Myths Busted

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Cloth Diapering is a fairly vast concept. As new parents, we are bound to get lost in our set of confusions about cloth diapering. Here are few cloth diaper myths that we have busted.

Myth#1 : “Its Gross”

No. It isn’t!

Cloth diapering is pretty easy. All you need is a decent stash and a good wash routine. You need not wash the diapers separately. You can wash them with other clothes in a washing machine. Our parents have successfully cloth diapered even in vacations. Read on further here to get some tips.

Once the baby poops, you can scoop off the poop using a jet spray and rinse in a wash basin. Store them on a dry bucket or wetbag till the laundry time. See, didn’t we tell you its easy.

Myth#2: It affects the milestones of babies’

This is another biggest myth.

Cloth diapers, in no way affect the growth and milestones of babies. Every baby is different and they take their own time in turning, crawling, sitting or walking.

Myth#3: Isn’t it old fashioned?

Yes, our grandmas did use cloth on us because those days disposables diapers weren’t really an option. But the concept of cloth diapers have now been revamped and they are this generation’s modern cloth diapers ☺ want to know how? Read how get your babies the leak proof cloth diapers.

Myth#4: Cloth diapers are expensive

When you compare the cost of 1 cloth diaper to that of 1 disposable diaper, cloth diapers do cost more. However, that cloth diaper can be used over and over again, unlike the disposable, which you have to continue purchasing. Here is a handy guide to show you the cost of cloth vs. disposable over time.

You need 4000+ diapers on an average from birth till potty training. The price per diaper on an average is Rs10. Thus, the total money spent on disposables is not less than Rs40000. Never thought this far right?

Now let’s compare this with the price of cloth diapers. 12-15 diapers are needed from birth till potty training. Price per diaper on an average is Rs 750/-. Thus you spend not more than Rs 12000/- on cloth diapers.

Myth#5: They leak

A big no to this myth as well. In fact, its disposable diapers that leak and most of our customers have faced poop blow outs in disposables. If you are using cloth diapers properly, they wont leak at all. Read how to get a perfect cloth diapering experience.

There you have it, 5 myths about cloth diapers busted!

We hope that helps you either decide to use cloth diapers or help you convince your loved ones that cloth isn’t as crazy as they think!

Happy cloth diapering!

How to get a perfect cloth diapering experience?

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Using a cloth diaper is a lovely gesture and the best feeling, not only for the environment but also for your baby and your wallet 😉

This blog is to make your cloth diapering journey an easier one. Cloth diapering is pretty easy to be honest, just have your basics in place and thou shall fall in love with it. Read our cloth diapering guide for beginners.

So how can we really get the best cloth diapering experience? Here are some tips:

  1. Be patient: This is the first and foremost point. Do not expect to master the art overnight. Go slow, take it easy on yourself and enjoy these cloth diapering days. You will miss these days once your baby gets potty trained. The mesmerising beautiful prints are a part of your life only till the baby is diapered. Enjoy this phase.
  1. Buy the right type of cloth diaper: Keep in mind the needs of the baby. For a new born baby who weighs below 4.5 kgs, make sure to invest in new born size diapers. Investing in one size diapers too soon may not give you a good first impression about cloth diapering.
  1. Be kind to your cloth diapers: Follow the right wash routine. Wash the diapers regularly. Do not keep them unwashed for more than 2 days. Washing them everyday is highly recommended. For more details on the best wash routine, read this.
  1. Treat the leaks like a pro: If you are new to cloth diapering, and your diapers leak within a short period of time, treat them by getting the right fit.

Follow these tips and we are sure you and your baby will enjoy a perfect cloth diapering experience.

Tips for Cloth Diapering in Rainy Season

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Rains are beautiful. We Indians wait eagerly for the rainy season to arrive. That beautiful fragrance of the mud, the lovely view of greenery everywhere is truly a delightful sight. We can never get enough of it. But with great rains, comes great responsibility. With dampness everywhere, drying cloth diapers and other clothes seem to be an endless task. We fear the rains and cloth diapering in rainy season. But it’s not as difficult as it looks like.

Here are some great tips to use cloth diapers successfully during the rains:

Tip 1: Use the right cloth diapers: Pockets and cover diapers come with regular microfiber soakers. They dry in no time. Using them for day time and using all in ones for night time helps.

Tip 2: Have a decent stash: Have enough number of diapers according to your needs and keeping in mind the wash routine. Consider having a bigger stash of cover and pocket diapers with some extra diaper inserts.

Tip 3: Change frequently: During winter and rainy season, babies tend to pee more than usual. Changing frequently is an excellent idea as well as more hygienic. This is why we recommend having a decent stash.

Tip 4: Skin care:  Skin care is not really a tedious task when you are using cloth diapers. Wipe the baby’s bottoms with a moist cloth and pat dry. Apply coconut oil before putting on a fresh diaper. There is absolutely no need to use rash creams or talcum powder. Coconut oil is the best moisturiser for babies.

Tip 5: Wash the diapers everyday: Try not to wait for alternate days to wash cloth diapers if you do not have a sufficient stash. Washing them every day is better for the durability of diapers, especially during the rains and so that you have enough for the next day. Washing cloth diapers in a washing machine is also better than hand washing them because machine wash gives a good agitation to cloth diaper and the diaper inserts

Tip 6: Drying tips: Spin dry the diaper inserts as well as the diapers. Line dry them once done. Keep it under the fan overnight and tadaa…see the magic next day J

Tip 7: Use homemade flats and suede sleeves: The most economical way to use cloth diapers with a limited stash is to use homemade flats. You can make them by cutting cotton saree or old cotton t-shirts into huge squares, pad fold them and stuff them inside suede sleeves. Use this with cover diapers and see how easy it is. Flats, covers and suede sleeves also dry fastest as compared to any other diaper or diaper inserts. Suede sleeves are tiny pillow cover like thing which is made of suede fabric. This fabric is known to keep the baby’s bottoms dry even after being peed on. You can stuff homemade flats or any other non stay dry soaker and use it with cover to get absolute dryness.

So that’s all, isn’t cloth diapering in rainy season easier than what we promised before we began this blog?

5 Most Common Mistakes when it comes to Cloth Diapering

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A new Cloth Diapering mom is bound to get lost in the dos and don’ts that cloth diapering needs. They are not really as complicated as people tend to make it. We as new mothers tend to go with the flow and give up soon considering that it is too tough to handle. But before you start with cloth diapering make sure you have chosen the right cloth diaper for your baby.

It always better to consult the support team of the cloth diaper brands before choosing a cloth diaper. Buying a diaper blindfolded just because every second person has been telling or appreciating its type doesn’t make it full proof. Every baby is different. So are their needs. A baby who poops once in two days can happily use an all in one diaper or a pocket diaper. But for a baby who poops 3+ times a day will need cover diapers for its own economical benefits.

Cloth Diapering Mistake #1:

Not understanding the basic concept:

Cloth Diapering has some really basic concepts that one needs to understand before getting into its depths. They are much different than cloth nappies. Cloth nappies need to be changed after every pee. Cloth diapers on the other hand are eligible enough to soak pee for 2-12 hours depending on the type of cloth diaper it is. Modern Cloth diapers and cloth nappies are thus not the same. They are completely washable and reusable.

Cloth diapers have soakers (also known as inserts) that need to be inserted or placed on the diaper. They are the ones that do the major job of absorbing pee. The other important part of the modern cloth diaper is the outer shell. This is made of a high quality PUL which allows air to pass but not pee thus making them waterproof, breathable and leak proof diapers. Reading the instructions leaflet before using them helps a ton.

Cloth Diapering Mistake#2:

Expecting cloth diapers to look like disposables:

Disposables are very thin and narrow because the chemical crystals inside swell up when wet. Cloth diapers do not change shape when wet, so are designed to put absorbency where it is needed. This will not cause any discomfort to baby. In fact, for babies who have hips that are “out” from their delivery, doctors recommend double-diapering so that the thickness between the legs will put them in the froggy position in order for the hips to go back into place. You will cause problems for your baby by putting her into tight-fitting diapers, sleepers, or baby carriers that position the legs straight down. Even doctors recommend that babies should have froggy legs (legs spread wide apart) instead of straight legs.

P.S: Cloth diapers look more attractive and cute on babies bum.

Cloth Diapering Mistake #3:

Not prepping the cloth diapers properly and improper wash cycle:

This is the one of the most important part. Some cloth diaper soakers/inserts need some basic prepping. Natural fabrics like organic bamboo cotton needs to be prepped before using them full fledged. Prepping is nothing but the process of washing diapers a few numbers of times in order to prepare the cloth diapers to be fully absorbent. They become fully absorbent after 8-10 washes. But that does not mean you can use it only after washing them so many times. They can be used after the first wash for short naps. Washing cloth diapers also does not mean just rinsing them, it means having a complete wash cycle.

Use appropriate detergent and water to wash your cloth diapers. Use detergents that are free of additives, fragrances and softeners, for e.g. Surf Excel, Tide Plus and Rustic Art little laundry. DO not use soap, liquid detergents, dettol etc on cloth diapers. Take a look at common mistakes in washing cloth diapers here >>

Cloth Diapering Mistake #4:

Using talcum powder or rash creams:

This again is one of the most common mistakes that most parents make when it comes to Cloth Diapering. First of all, cloth diapers do not cause rashes unless the diaper is not been changed timely or not cleaned when pooped. There absolutely is no need to use a rash cream or powder. They affect the absorbency of the cloth diapers and also cause skin irritation. You may use coconut oil generously between every change. Coconut oil is the best thing on their bottoms as they keep their skin moisturised.

Cloth Diapering Mistake# 5:

Not getting the right fit:

A cloth diaper, too loose or too tight will give leak issues. Getting the right fit is very important. There should be no gaps on the crotch area. The elastics should be on the crease of the legs like that of underwear. The rise setting should be done according to the weight of the baby. Do note that slight elastic marks are absolutely normal. They go away in 15-20 minutes.

Cloth diapering is easy–just keep baby in a dry diaper, keep a very simple wash routine every day. Read our Beginner’s Guide To Cloth Diapering.

Have questions regarding cloth diapers & cloth diapering? Ask Superbottoms – to drop your messages, click here.

Winter is coming: 3 diapering tips to be ready if you are using cloth diapers

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If you have a baby, you are definitely aware that anything can affect your baby’s pee pattern. A season, an illness, certain medications or sometimes, there could simply be no particular reason!

Winter however is a time when you can expect some obvious changes in your baby’s pee pattern. Cloth diapering in India during winters can depend on where do you stay. In areas such as Mumbai, Chennai the winters are pretty mild however, Delhi, Bangalore, Pune and such places can definitely be much colder.

Here are 3 ways to cloth diaper during winters –

  1. Get heavy absorbency diapers: Winters can have your babies peeing often. The cold temperatures do have that effect. It is a good idea to invest in heavy absorbency diapers during winters. This, especially if you live in a place where the winters are really cold.
  2. Use coconut oil: Winters can cause dry-skin. Add to it the reduced diaper-free time and it can cause irritation to the skin. It is a good idea to give the bum some diaper free time, if possible. Use coconut oil on the baby’s bum liberally between changes. This will keep your baby’s skin hydrated.
  3. Sunning and washing: During winters, especially in very cold areas, drying may take longer. It is a good idea to find atleast some sun time and get your diapers out there. Also, do spin dry in washing machines to help dry quicker.

Let the winter season not deter you from cloth diapering your child. It is really pretty simple and doable if you just tweak your diapering routines and follow these simple baby diapering tips.

Cloth Diapering Out of Home

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Many parents believe that reusable diapers are to be used primarily at home. They use them at home during day-time while for nights and for going out; they prefer to use disposables because they are, as the name suggests, easy disposing off. However, cloth diapering out of home is much simpler than you think.

Here are 4 ways to make cloth diapering out of home a success for you.

1. Decide how long do you plan to be out and figure a few things out

Depending on the time duration for which you plan to be out, you will have decide on the type of diaper you choose.

If you are going to be out for long, at a place where there may not be proper changing facilities, you may want to use high-absorbency diapers such as Superbottoms Plus All-in-ones.

If you are sure there are changing rooms available, you can use regular diapers too.

Using covers with cloth diaper soakers/inserts are good for out of home diapering if you have changing facilities.

You can carry extra cloth diaper inserts and a few covers and simply change soakers and reuse the outer. That way, you have to carry lesser number of diapers

2. Carry a wet bag

Wet bags are waterproof bags that are especially convenient to carry wet / soiled diapers post changing.

Carrying wet bags makes like very simple when you are cloth diapering out of home.

3. What do I do with the poop?

This is one of the biggest concerns parents have when they cloth diaper out of home. So when your baby poops, like with disposable diapers, you need to wipe your baby’s bottom clean first.

If you have the facility to, knock off the poop in the pot and flush it down. You can keep the diaper in the wet bag / waterproof bag to carry home. Ensure that the bag is tightly sealed and closed to avoid stink.

If you do not have the option of knocking off the poop, it is okay to tightly close the diaper and store it in a waterproof bag, sealed shut.

Once you are home, you can wash the diapers clean as usual.

4. Cloth Diapering on Vacation

While this calls for an entirely separate post (that we will put up eventually), cloth diapering on vacation requires a bit of planning but it is certainly doable!

As we always say, figure out the washing and storing facilities. If you are on a homestay vacation, choose one with a washing machine. If not, hotel bath tubs / wash basins work just fine.

Ensure you carry enough cloth diapers and your favourite detergent and you are good to go!

Cloth diapering 100% is doable and great for your baby and the environment.

When you can get the convenience of disposable diapers in the goodness of cloth, why let plastic touch your baby’s bottom?

A Beginner’s Guide to Cloth Diapering

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Cloth diapers are an excellent choice for the new age conscientious parents. In fact, it has been mentioned as a key trend in millennial parenting by none other than Vogue. While a popular parenting choice abroad, Cloth Diapering is now coming into limelight in India and for all the right reasons. With their chemical-free nature, and eco-friendly qualities, they are certainly becoming a preferred choice for most parents. Not to mention the fact that they look super cool on baby bums! If you are exploring the option of Cloth Diapering for your baby, these are the few key points that should help you start. So, here are 5 basic things to know for you to start with Cloth Diapering –

Cloth Diaper Parts

Each diaper is made up of 3 parts

  • Waterproof Outer – This provides the leak-proofing and sizing
  • Soaker – These are the absorbent cloth pads that do the job of soaking. These are even called as cloth diaper inserts.
  • Dry-Feel Fabric – These provide the essential dry-feel to the babies

2. TYPES OF DIAPERS

There are two basic types of diapers – Pocket Diapers and Cover Diapers.

  • Pocket Diapers have a pocket of the dry-feel fabric in which one places the soaker (absorbent pad)
    • Pocket Diapers, due to overall dry-feel fabric, provide better performance and protection
  • Cover Diapers do not have this pocket, instead the dry-feel layer is attached ON the soaker. This soaker is placed inside the cover (Like sanitary napkins are)
    • Cover Diapers, since you can replace the wet soaker and reuse the cover, are a little more economical

For Beginners, we recommend Regular Pocket Diapers for their convenience and great performance. You can see them here

3. SOAKERS

  • There are many types of soakers and each has its pros and cons
  • Microfiber soakers – Low Maintenance, Low cost, average absorbency
  • Hemp / Bamboo Cotton etc – High Cost, High absorbency, slightly higher maintenance

For Beginners, we recommend microfiber soakers for their low cost and low maintenance.

All Superbottoms regular pocket diapers come with 1 microfiber soaker

4. DIAPER AND SIZE

  • Each Cloth Diaper comes with sizing snaps on the front
  • These snaps enable you to reduce / increase size of the outer cover
  • Each Diaper thus lasts the baby for the entire diapering phase from 3kg – 17 kg

Cloth Diapering is a brilliant option for your baby’s diapering needs. It however does take some getting used to. We, at Superbottoms, are committed to simplifying cloth diapering to take it to all the babies in India. It is a great choice both for your child and the environment. If you have any queries about Cloth Diapering, feel free to reach out to us at +91 9820301106 any time on call / Whatsapp or via our contact form here. We will be happy to help you. Always.

Happy diapering to you :)

Watch video on the comparison between disposable diapers and Superbottoms