Cloth diapers are often touted to be the frugal option, and this can certainly be the truth. However, if you’ve seen some of the fancier cloth diapers that cost $15 to $30 a pop you may have your doubts! While some of these diapers are certainly wonderful products, don’t be misled. It’s very possible to cloth diaper successfully as well as inexpensively. Here are a few tips from moms who wanted to save as much as possible while keeping their babies comfy and dry.

Pick your system

One of the reasons cloth diapering may be expensive initially is because of the investment of the first stash of diapers. Babies who are in cloth will be changed more frequently. It’s not uncommon for a young baby to go through ten cloth diapers a day, maybe more for a newborn. Unless a mom wants to wash daily, she’ll need a couple dozen diapers. One way to save money from the get go is to know exactly what kind of cloth diaper “system” you want to go with so you don’t become unhappy with the diapers you’ve chosen and end up selling them at a loss.

Ask other cloth diapering moms what they like and why. Some of the questions to ask are: “What types of diapers fit babies with my baby’s body shape best?” “What diapers are best for babies who have other caretakers?” “What’s best for newborns/older babies/heavy wetters/toddlers?” etc.

The cheapest and often simplest cloth diaper system is that of prefolds with waterproof diaper covers. Prefolds are inexpensive and will last for multiple children. They are also quite thirsty and require no special care. Waterproof diaper covers are usually around $10 a pair and only a few are needed in each size. They will also last a long time if washed gently and air dried. All in ones tend to be the costliest diaper system, but are super convenient for babies in day care and for travel. Daddies and Grandmas tend to prefer them too for their ease of use.

Some cloth diaper websites also allow you to try before you buy. For just a few dollars they will send you a diaper and allow you to use and feel it, then return it.

Budget conscious moms should also ask for friends and loved ones to give them cloth diapers as baby shower gifts. Many of the cloth diaper websites offer gift registries. Big box store bought cloth diapers and covers are generally low quality so steer clear of those.

Buy used cloth diapers

Cloth diapers can be obtained at thrift stores, online auctions, diaper swap forums, consignment sales and shops, and more. Just do a Google search to find lots of options.

Some larger cities have diaper services that sell cloth diaper seconds. If their prefolds have a spot on them that can’t be removed, they take them out of circulation. The diaper service sells these perfectly serviceable, high quality prefold diapers for pennies. It’s worth a phone call.

Care for your diapers

Don’t bleach your diapers as this will wear them out fast. Borax also tends to wear diapers prematurely. Even vinegar harms some diapers. It’s best to use a natural detergent and to use as little of it as possible to get the job done. Rely on presoaking in your machine to help with stains instead of using stain removers. Enzyme cleaners can eat away at your diapers too. Many additives are not appropriate for diaper covers. Hang your diapers in the sun to whiten them, and don’t overdry them if you do use a dryer. Baking them for too long in the dryer breaks down the elastic and cotton.

Cloth diapering is certainly the healthier option, the better option for our planet, and more comfy for babies. With some creativity cloth diapering can also be the frugal choice.

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