What are Modern Pocket Cloth Diapers? Pocket Diapers have only been around since 1998 but are becoming one of the most popular choices in cloth diapers.  They consist of a two piece system; a waterproof outer layer (PUL) and a stay dry inner layer (Suede Cloth / Milled Fleece) that has the ability to wick wetness away from baby’s skin.  They have a contoured shape and fasten with either aplix (Velcro) or snaps.  At the back (or sometimes at the front), they have a pocket opening allowing you to add absorbent materials such as microfiber inserts, hemp inserts etc.

The advantage of a pocket diaper is that you are able to customize the amount of absorbent materials you stuff in the pocket depending on your needs.  They also dry very quickly since the inserts are removed for laundering.

What are Inserts?Inserts are absorbent multi-layer fabrics that are placed inside a pocket diaper.  These can be made of various materials such as microfiber, terry, hemp, bamboo etc.

Will using cloth diapers mean more work for me? Not really!  It is just as simple as daily washing!

Will it be HOT? The PUL used is a breathable material.  Suede Cloth used is ultra-soft and although it feels thick, it is not warm for the child.

How many pieces to start with? How many you need to get started depends on whether you will be using cloth diaper full-time, how old your child is and how often you plan to do laundry.

Recommended – to start with 8 to 12 pieces.  (based on daily washing)

Can I use both Cloth and Disposable Diapers? Absolutely!  Most mommies choose to use both the cloth diapers at home and disposable for outing and / or at night time.  Of course, the less disposable diapers you use the better.  But what is most important is what work best for your baby and your family.

How do I get rid of baby's poo?Shake any solids into the toilet, the suede / fleece material is great for releasing anything fairly solid.  Remove the insert, and then rinse any solids still on the diaper.  We highly recommend the mini toilet spray for spraying off solid waste.

Why shouldn't I use bleach or softener? Bleach will leave a residue on the diapers and breaks down the fibres in the diapers, shortening their lifespan.

Softener will coat the diapers, making them water repellent and will cause leaks!

What type of Detergent should I use with my cloth diapers? Besides No Bleach / No Softener, generally you will need to use less detergent than normal for washing cloth diapers, as they are easily susceptible to build-up.  It is also best to avoid detergents with whitening enzymes. 

Why is pre-washing recommeded? Yes, it is important to prewash your new diapers.  Ideally, it should be washed 3 times before using to attain good absorbency.

Are cloth diapers Bulky? Cloth Diapers are a little bulkier than disposable but not enough for anyone to notice most of the time.  The bulkiest is usually at night when you require extra stuffing for babies who sleep for long hours or for heavy-wetters.

Do cloth diapers Leak? Both cloth diapers and disposable diapers may leak.  But if you choose the right absorbency and proper fitting, it is almost unlikely.

Do I need to change my baby more often if I use cloth diapers? Regardless of whether you are using cloth or disposable diapers, you should change your baby’s diaper every 2-3 hours during the day to prevent diaper rashes and keep skin healthy.

Does cloth diapers prevent diaper rashes? Diaper rashes are usually caused by bacteria, ammonia or chemicals from the disposable diapers, coming in contact with the baby’s skin. This can be minimised by using cloth diapers as it allows baby's sensitive skin to "breath" better.

What are the different type of Fabrics Used in cloth diapers?

PUL (polyurethane laminate)Used for the outer layer of the pocket diapers.  It is a laminated polyester fabric making it waterproof and breathable.  It has the ability to withstand high temperatures and lots of use.  It is also very easy to care for.

Suede ClothMade from 100% polyester, it does not pill and looks new with wash after wash.  Known for its ability to wick wetness away from the skin and it is stain resistance.  Often used as the layer next to baby’s skin.

MicrofiberUsed for pocket inserts.  Great absorbency.  Known for its ability to absorb fluids rapidly.

How do you wash and care for your cloth diaper?

Cloth Diaper

1. Remove insert from diaper
2. Fastern laundry tabs (aplix type)
3. Cold soak or rinse to prevent stains from setting
4. Wash warm, hot or cold
5. Use 1/4 cup the recommended amount of detergent
6. No Bleach.  No Softener.
7. Extra rinse if necessary to make sure all the detergent is rinsed out.
8. Dry on low heat or hang to dry.

*  Prewash is recommended for cloth diapers & Inserts (3-time) before use to attain good absorbency.

How do you wash and care for the inserts?

1. Pre-wash 3-5 times in hot water with a small amount of detergent, drying between   each wash.  * During pre-wash, do not wash them with Fleece products. Hemp has natural oils in it and the oils can coat your fleece.
2. Product shrinks to size and becomes absorbent during this process. Once pre-washed, insert may be washed and dried with the rest of the diapers.
3. Dry on low heat or hang to dry.

Where do you store wet and dirty diapers?In a Wet Pail, Dry Pail or Pail Liner.

Wet Pail Covered diaper pail half-filled with water until wash day.

Dry Pail Covered with or without a liner  or simply a hanging laundry bag.  It is much easier than wet pails. Dirty diapers are placed in it until wash day. * By doing a pre-soak or a rinse in your washing machine without detergent before doing a hot wash you are eliminating the need for a wet pail.

Pail Liner It is a waterproof laundry bag. On laundry day simply turn the bag inside out for all diapers to fall into washer.  Throw in the Pail Liner at the same time too. No more washing dirty pails!