Cloth Diapering 101: A Complete Guide for the First Two Weeks
Cloth Diapering 101: A Complete Guide for the First Two Weeks
Becoming a parent brings endless new experiences and cloth diapering doesn't have to be the intimidating one!
With the right system and a few practical routines, cloth diapers can easily fit into even the busiest family life. At Mother-ease, we've spent decades helping parents simplify their cloth diaper journey and we've learned that the first two weeks are all about confidence, convenience, and comfort.
Choosing Your Cloth Diaper System
Every family's lifestyle is different, and so are cloth diapers! Here's a quick overview of the three main styles and how they fit your routine - with Mother-ease favorites as examples:
1. Fitted + Cover Systems
A fitted diaper offers absorbency and a snug fir, while a separate waterproof cover keeps leaks contained.
Perfect for: Parents who want reliability (especially overnight).
Mother-ease pick: Sandy's Fitted Diaper + Air Flow Cover - an unbeatable leak-free combination.
2. All-in-Two (AI2) Systems
These feature an absorbent insert that snaps or lays into a waterproof cover.
Perfect for: Families who want the economy of a 2 part system, but the ease of one-step diapering.
Mother-ease pick: Wizard Duo System - simply snap in a clean insert, snap on baby in one step, and reuse covers a few times before washing.
3. All-in-One (AIO) Systems
Everything - the absorbent layer and waterproof cover - is sewn together in one piece
Perfect for: Caregivers and daycare use (no assembly needed).
Mother-ease pick: Wizard Uno - quick to use, slim fitting, and quick drying.
How Many Diapers Do You Need?
Your stash size depends on what age your baby is when you decide to start using cloth. Newborn babies require more diaper changes per day than toddlers.
As a general rule, you'll want 20-24 diapers for newborns and smaller babies who will need to be changed 10-12 times per day. Toddlers require changing about 6-8 times per day, so you'll want to plan to have 12-16 diapers on hand.
You'll want enough diapers for 2 days worth of changes at any stage, so you can wash every other day. This ensures diapers are getting laundered frequently enough that your wash routine will get them fully clean without any ammonia build up.
Essentials to Have On Hand:
- A diaper pail (for storing soiled diapers between washing)
- Wet bags (for on-the-go diaper storage)
- Extra inserts or boosters (for naps or nighttime)
- A good quality, commercial brand detergent to get your diapers good and clean (no fabric softeners or oxy clean)
Dealing with the First Challenges
Nighttime
For extra protection overnight when your baby gets to about 6 months old, lay in an absorbent booster for added absorbency. Babies under 6 months old will not out-pee a Mother-ease diaper!
Blow-outs
All Mother-ease diaper systems have 2 lines of elastic defense against blow-outs! Say goodbye to explosive messes! Adjust the fit around the legs and waist to ensure a secure seal.
Daycare
Choose simple systems like our Wizard Uno AIO or our Wizard Duo AI2 (pre-snapped for a one-step change). They're just as easy as disposables and often daycare friendly. Send along a wet bag for soiled diaper storage.
Traveling
Bring a few extra wet bags and either AIOs or pre-snapped AI2s to make things easy. Many parents find cloth diapering on the go easier than expected.
Your Cloth Diaper Wash Routine
Keeping your diapers fresh is simpler than it sounds. Don't get swallowed up in all the conflicting information online! Follow these steps:
- Rinse or short wash to remove residue
- Main wash with hot water and a good strength detergent (no softeners or oxy clean)
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all detergent
- Dry on the line or tumble dry
Ensure you're washing every other day to avoid buildup of bacteria and ammonia.
Avoid Leaks and Odor
- Don't overload the washer - diapers need space to agitate.
- Use a good strength detergent (boutique brands or homemade concoctions + no softeners or oxy clean).
- Ensure inserts and covers are fully dry before use.
Your Free Cloth Diaper Starter Checklist
Download our Cloth Diaper Starter Checklist to start yourself on the path top success in cloth diapering.
Download the checklist here.
Ready to Begin?
Cloth diapering is easier, cleaner, and more sustainable than you might think. Start your journey with confidence by exploring our Trial Packages, designed to make trying out cloth simple and stress-free.