How To Cloth Diaper Your Newborn Like A Champ!

Supplies for newborn cloth diapers + how to use them on baby!
Video Links Mentioned:
Cloth Diaper Wash Routine: • Cloth Diaper Wash Rout...
How I Handwash Diapers: • Flats Challenge Day 4:...
What to do with the Poop: • Cloth Diapering: What ...
Overnight Cloth Diaper Solutions: • Overnight Cloth Diaper... (For when your baby is older. I no longer recommend wool due to animal cruelty.)
NEW video on ways to fold flat diapers to wrap on baby:
• How to Fold Flat Diape...
Recommendations:
6-10 newborn or size 1 covers (Recommend Thirsties Duo size 1)
36 flat diapers (Recommend Clotheeze Organic Muslin or Clotheese Organic Birdseye from greenmountaindiapers.com)
2 pail liners (Recommend Planet Wise brand)
1 pail to put the liners in
1-2 wet bags (Recommend Bumgenius brand)
3 dozen cloth wipes
Wipe warmer if desired (your baby would appreciate it ;)
Honest Company Bottom Spray
Honest Company Diaper Rash Cream (or a cloth diaper-safe cream)
Snappi (optional)

[@charrion97]

I just wanna stay THANK YOU!!!!! Literally could not have been more helpful in simplifying my decision making. I took so much from this and now I know exactly what do, what to get, etc. So many people tell their experiences but never really tell me how to make it easier for me a (new) mom to start this journey. Really appreciate you!! I was so happy and excited for this video that I couldn't wait to comment.

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Wow, thank you so much, that felt really good to receive. I'm so glad you found this helpful, it was kind-of a summary of what I learned in my 5 years cloth diapering :) You got this mama!!!

[@lauryncrump8361]

Ok let me be 100% honest here. I've been researching the crud out if cloth diapering for the last 20 weeks, and still felt very fuzzy about my knowledge and such. Then I stumbled upon this glorious video.. oh my gosh! Ordered 8 newborn covers, then I was crazy and ordered size 1s as well. Holy moley the size difference! Even with the size one cinched way down! I have little babies. My daughters were both under 7 pounds. So I'm so thankful I found this video!!! You are a life saver!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

I'm so glad it was helpful for you! My goal was to have everything accessible for beginners, because I remember when I first started researching I was SO confused and had no idea what I was doing! Then I became obsessed and tried all the styles over 5 years with my kids. It was a very fun time for me, and I'm glad what I learned is helpful for you guys:)

[@RockynCurls]

Best cloth diaper vid I've seen

[@natachadeyoung1694]

RockynC urls

[@jummyberry]

This is the BEST COMPHREHENSIVE video on KZbin on cloth diapering! Thanks for sharing! You are AWESOME.

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Oh, thank you so much, I really appreciate that!!! :)

[@FleurdeAli]

A tip I'd like to add is FSTs work really well for flats but also so does receiving blankets!!

[@theburasfamily9194]

Yep. That's what we use and we already had them on hand so it saved us even more money.

[@LadyEsor777]

Awesome video, thank you so much! I'm a first-time mom and baby boy arrives in about 9 weeks! I'm hoping we can endure--newborn to potty trained! Taking notes!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

You can do it! Thanks for watching :)

[@JAHolmesNY]

This is great! It's been 12 years since my last baby and I can barely remember anything. This was a great refresher.

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Thank you, and congrats on a new baby!

[@SidneeLove]

This is the best newborn cloth diapering video I have seen. Thank you for making this!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

I'm so glad it helped you, thank you! :)

[@Wife14Mom17]

I'm so glad you did an update and love thirsties because I love their woodland prints.

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Lydia Yes, they are so cute!!

[@christataylor1447]

Thank you for this informative video! I am pregnant with our first child (due in late June) and whoa are there a lot of blogs and videos on cloth diapering! Felt overwhelmed and then I came across your videos, and this one helped sooooo much! Putting my registry together now and going with your recommendations! Thanks again!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Christa Taylor Oh good, that makes me so happy to hear! I remember that feeling when I first started researching diapers, it was crazy! Congrats on your first baby, enjoy this exciting time😊 Let me know if you ever have any cloth questions, I'm happy to help!

[@christataylor1447]

Hi Ellen! My first born (boy) was born 6/27 and I took your advice beforehand and purchased the newborn cloth diaper essentials! Thank you so much for your help! I am now ready to try everything out (been using disposables in the first month). Purchased the organic small birdseye and large muslin organic flats from greenmountain and Thirsties duo size 1. Followed their set up directions and flats are absorbing well. First attempt used the origami fold. No leaks but the entire flat was soaked. 2nd attempt I just folded up the flat 3 ways so it was just in the middle from front to back. No leaks but again, the entire flat was almost soaked. My question for you....because the entire flat gets wet, I'm finding that the non-waterproof edges of the cover get wet, as well as the large non waterproof flap inside the front of it. As a result, I feel like I can't re-use the cover past 1 time use. What is your advice on this? Again, thank you so much for your help!! I'm determined to make this work!

[@MeganMarie1]

I enjoyed this! Our LO is 6mo now. We use primarily prefolds and covers, but we use flats as back-ups. I also LOVE flats for burp rags and other misc. uses. We were using prefolds with a stay dry doubler at night, but I just recently picked up some fitteds from a friend, so we've been trying those at night with a stay dry doubler (although prefolds with the doublers were working just fine).

[@hkahookele1]

First day cloth diapering!! Thank you so much for breaking it down for me

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Heather Kahookele YAY! You’re welcome! How’s it going?!

[@janetleathers6539]

Hi! I love all your cloth videos...super helpful for this soon to be mommy of twins! I almost gave up on the idea bc I don't have a ton of space in the laundry room to hang diapers and also thought that with twins I'd be crazy trying to wash diapers while wanting to just be with them...I'm a teacher so when I get home at night I think I'd be a little sad having to wash diapers on top of all the other laundry instead of getting to snuggle my babes! But the money and environment aspects of it just really can't be argued with and with two babies I know we're going to appreciate the savings wherever we can get them..and it just kills me to think of spending THOUSANDS of dollars on things we'd throw away! Ok, sorry for the novel, but I just wanted to say I appreciate the simplistic way you come at it and a few other moms on KZbin have gotten me really wanting to try it again...so here's my question (one of probably many to come)...do you have to unfold the flats to wash them or just toss them in all folded up like that? Does that make them harder to get fully clean? Oh! And does it make a difference that I have a front load washing machine? Thanks again!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Janet Leathers Hi Janet! Congrats on your soon to come babies, I always wanted twins. I'm a teacher too (currently on leave) so I totally understand how wiped you are at the end of a day! But yeah the amount of money and waste twins in diapers would take... I'd recommend cloth as much as you can! You don't need to unfold the flats, they open up on their own in the wash. And yes you can use a front loader, it can make washing a little trickier, so I definitely recommend flats as they are by far the easiest to get clean. And thanks for the nice comment😊

[@janetleathers6539]

Thanks so much for the quick reply! I'm kinda struggling with whether to do the flats and Flip covers or the BumGenius FreeTimes just because my husband and mom are not as "gung ho" about cloth as I am and I want to make it as SIMPLE as possible for all of us...but I think as long as I have the flats folded beforehand like you do, then hopefully it won't make as much difference to them? I have friends who have used both of those options and say that for men, the FreeTime or even pocket diapers are easier but honestly I don't even want to bother with stuffing pockets! Gah! I think we'll all find a groove once we get used to it but I do think you're right about flats being the easiest to wash and hardest to mess up! I just really don't want to have to try 12 different systems before I find one that we all like and that works for the babes...I know there's always some trial and error involved but it really helps to hear it from the pros! And that's cool that you're a teacher too! Probably why your videos make the most sense to me. 😊

[@ellenv.s.4913]

I really encourage you to run like hell from AIOs ;) They seem really convenient, but they are expensive and SUCH a headache to clean and dry, especially with a front loaded. I had a top loaded and still had to strip way too often bc they would stink horribly when they were peed in. It's not good or fun to mess with all that. Flats have been around forever. That was the only option for decades, and it worked great for all those babies (myself as a baby included lol). They are versatile in that you can add a fleece liner if needed, so they can work for all babies. The covers might be what you need to troubleshoot, like which fits them best and as they grow that can change a bit. I have used all of the systems over the past 5 years, and I cannot recommend the simplicity of flats and covers enough. My husband did just fine with them *as long as they were pre-folded* haha. If you just fold them ahead of time and explain the way the covers can be re-used (and designate a place for covers that are air drying that can be used again) it is a no-brainer. Trust that your husband (and mom) are smart enough to handle that :)

[@ellenv.s.4913]

And with multiple caregivers and multiple babies (yay!) I'd recommend velcro aka hook and loop. It will make it super easy to get a good fit on each baby in different brands of covers without having to remember which snap number to count in. If you remember to use the laundry tabs, the velcro lasts a lot longer now than it used to, as diaper companies have started using way better velcro after getting such bad feedback. Thirsties velcro is awesome! So is Tot-Bots, although I don't like their covers as much as Thirsties bc the elastic is tight on the legs.

[@janetleathers6539]

Ellen V.S. GREAT TO KNOW! The only thing that hindered me from trying the hook and loop was bc ppl said they wore out faster but after seeing your video and that Thirsties is great I might as well try those! I definitely don't mind trying different covers bc they're so much cheaper than a whole pocket or AIO...thanks again! I think you just helped me commit! Haha

[@jessicalott4728]

this video was extremely helpful! we gave up with all in one pocket diapers after 4 months with our first baby due to the confusion and stink of washing the diapers. this time around I've been researching so much about just using prefolds or flats and am hopeful we will last longer this time around. :)

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Thank you! And I hope you last longer this time too! :)

[@triciamoon6312]

Thank you very much of taking the time to make this great video. I especially appreciate how you told us what things were made in the states. That is a big deal for me :)

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Tricia You’re so welcome:)

[@TheSemiCrunchyMama]

Great video! Ive used cloth for years, but fitting newborns was never easy for me!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

The Semi Crunchy Mama Thank you! Glad the rest of cloth has gone well😊

[@stephaniedobosz7848]

THANK YOU SO MUCH! Bless you for being so passionate and wanting to help others! Im not a Mom yet but excited about being a Mom and want to get a head start on doing my research so I feel as prepared as possible for doing the things I really want to like cloth diapering :)

[@ellenv.s.4913]

That's so smart of you to research ahead! :) And you're so welcome, cloth diapering was a really fun venture for me with my littles, so I'm happy to have been able to share what I learned on the journey :)

[@Lootypop]

So far we have been cloth diapering for 14 months:) I love how easy it is. So thankful for my diaper sprayer, but anytime my son poops I keep my fingers crossed for just a plop able poop lol:) we use disposables at night too.

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Crystal Horton I know, the plopping ones are the best, haha! I did cloth overnight for years, and just got sick of dealing with the really stinky pee diaper in the morning. Glad you are enjoying cloth!!😊

[@tglasper92]

Beautiful! Very, very informative!! I feel like a champ before I even start! Thank you ❤

[@ellenv.s.4913]

tglasper92 Haha, best comment ever, thank you! You got this!👍

[@sw3720to1]

hey Ellen! couldn't work out how to send you a direct message...I had asked your advice on newborn cloth as I'd planned on prefolds, and what size to get, what covers etc...we ended up with 2 dozen GMD newborn and 2 dozen smalls...6 Blueberry Capri size 1...3 Thirsties duo size 1...and one newborn rumparooz. I have to say while all of them have been great...the Blueberry have just knocked it out of the park. we've had maybe one leak total with our newborn stash (team green became team pink and little lady is now 7 weeks) and that was a super poop no diaper could have contained lol thanks so much for all your help. so glad we didn't count on our one size stash working from birth as there is no way it would have fit her, even though she was 8lbs at birth!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Amy Miller Oh good, I'm so glad that worked out for you! Congrats on your baby girl😊

[@Anniekelseyty]

Girl my son just turned 22 months and since yesterday dosnt want to goto the bathroom in his diaper anymore. I had brought the potty out into the livingroom to get him used to it being around and ease him into it after his 2nd bday and i thought it would take him longer than average to potty train due to his birth trauma he has some issues with gross motor and learning some things but in other ways is suuuper smart (weve been told advanced by his drs) so anyways long story short he has been going potty on the potty by himself 80% of the time since yesterday like out of the blue right away! like whaaat! im super proud of him BUT im not prepared! do you have a potty training boys video? or can you make one so i know what my cloth potty training options are? ive found all your videos so helpful and we live a minimalist life similar to yours so i dont want to buy anything i dont need and that is disposable. Thank you so much!!!!

[@SOULSTARBELLYDANCER7]

Annie s that's so cool. I'd be interested in seeing the video also. I started introducing my now 18 month old to the potty at 11 momths. It has been a fun process to watch her growth and excitement about it. We use underwear and fleece covers at home and trainers out of the house or nights and naps. I only put a diaper for sleeping if no trainers are available. Superundies are nice especially with the pocket for more absorbency. I also like the new rumparooz lil learnerz. I have smart bottoms and like the fit but they are less waterproof than the others. I've found that 6 underwear at home work and about 6 to 9 cloth trainers for outings work especially if washing daily or every other day. Your son seems like he's on a great start!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Sorry I never saw these comments, ladies! Ironically I just put out a potty learning video yesterday! And thanks for the tip on Superundies, I forgot about that brand- I think I'll get those for sleeping! I don't feel great about the disposable training pants as far as the environment and cash go! The other cloth trainers I've used in the past weren't all that absorbent. These seem like they are. Thanks for the tip:)

[@corbindreym6476]

Formula fed babies also have water soluble poop. It's when they start eating solid food that you have to worry about the poop.

[@margiedenavarre7919]

Hey girl, I see that new Thirsties, haha! I finally bought a Thirsties cover (it was my latest and also the only one I've bought in a long time--finally not feeling the need to buy diapers)--but anyway, it was the one with navy fir trees and bears, etc. Cute outdoorsy diaper. Glad to see you doing another cloth video. ❤️

[@ellenv.s.4913]

2 Cor. 5:15 Life lol BUSTED!😉 I actually am finally over buying diapers now too. I'm donating all of my AC covers (even though I love them!) because our new house won't work with the diaper sprayer, and the washer wasn't agitating the inserts out or cleaning the microfleece well enough. Anyway, just kept all the flats and bought some Thirsties covers (and a couple others) and it's been working great! The bear one you got is cute too😊

[@csdunavan]

Thanks for this! My newborn is 11 days old, and I used our cloth for one day last week before she started getting redness. I got scared and switched back to disposables, but want to get cloth on her again! I think she may just be sensitive to wetness, so I'm going to try changing her more often. I'm also thinking of cutting up some fleece for stay-day liners. We have flats and prefolds from GMD, along with 4 workhorses I haven't tried yet (her cord is still attached.)

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Colleen Umble You're welcome, and congrats on your new little gal😊 Redness can come from wetness sensitivity, also from detergent used and whether the detergent is fully rinsed from diapers. If wetness sensitivity is the case, then fleece liners will work, just look for "micro fleece" at the fabric store, and I always get white so it doesn't have the extra dyes, but still bleached unfortunately. I looked up the dyed ones and apparently they bleach them first then dye them, so you can save one extra chemical step by getting white. Have fun with cloth and your new baby!

[@appletinImom0f5]

osocozy new size in flats are awesome wash up square... flats rock!!!

[@appletinImom0f5]

dont know if nickis covers are made here but they are good

[@jessicadegraff7265]

I love this video and all your diapering videos! After doing the flats challenge I have fallen in love and really want to destash a ton and get just a few of my favorite covers (thirsties being one for sure), but having a hard time pulling the trigger (what if I might want this or that one for next baby..etc). The addiction is real!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Jessica DeGraff Thank you! Flats are awesome. I say go for it! There are still many variations to try within flats: different flat brands and sizes and folds, different closures, and different covers!

[@colleenmccray8269]

SO HELPFUL!! Thank you!!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Oh good, thank you! :)

[@lollypop9900]

Thank you for all of the awesome info! I don't feel as intimidated anymore 😁

[@ellenv.s.4913]

jeanjean thedancing You can DO THIS!💪

[@pollycrnobrnja5290]

Thank you so much for sharing!!! Specially the shopping list!! How many covers would you recommend for after the newborn stage? Thanks again!!!!!!!!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Teacher Polly Yes, you're welcome!! 6-8 is a good ballpark for after newborn phase. You can get away with less, but it's nice to have a little flexibility when life gets busy.

[@GenevieveSchambach]

super helpful - thank you!! Best video i've seen :)

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Genevieve Boulanger You’re welcome- Thank you so much!

[@RandomVibes505]

Hi what do you think about prefold to put it inside ..them ones where have sew together several layers together ? Thank you

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Prefolds are great! They are next best to flats in that they are absorbent and are made of natural fibers. They can be a harder to wash than flats because there are multiple layers to wash through, but certainly easier to wash than synthetic fibers. They come in multiple sizes so you’ll likely need to purchase multiple sizes as baby grows, but they are affordable :)

[@anairacm]

Great tips in this video! Getting ready to welcome a baby this spring and for sure want to cloth diaper but was overwhelmed by the logistics, however your video was so helpful and straightforward, makes it seem very doable! I do have one question about the snappi. Do you think it helps contain everything better within the diaper? And can you explain how to fold your diaper if you do use one/ or is that covered in another one of your videos? Thanks in advance!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Hi! Thank you! Congrats on your coming baby:) The snappi does help contain the poo, you're less likely to get poo on your cover if you secure the diaper (which means you can use the cover for more changes!). I have a video showing one fold which I will link below, but I will film another soon showing my two favorite folds, and how to make the size large flat adjust down to newborn size with the folds:) For now, here's this one: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5jFgXuhZsSWqqM

[@anairacm]

Thank you so much for responding! Your channel is saving me right now!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

anairacm 😂 thanks! I’ll film the folds in the next week or so.

[@maggietilton8971]

Hi! I love all of your cloth diapering videos. You have such a straight forward way of explaining things that's very efficient. When pad folding the flat during the newborn explosive poop stage, won't the poop get onto the cover and potentially escape the cover? Do you recommend wrapping the flat around the baby instead for a certain time period? The pad folding seems very fast and easy, but I'd be worried that the poop would get everywhere in the beginning. What was your experience like?

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Maggie Tilton Hi, thank you! Yes, so pad folding has the potential for poop to go off the diaper and get onto the cover. If the cover fits well, the poop will stay contained in the cover. But padfolding does increase the chance to get poop on cover, so it can not be reused again until you wash it. Wrapping is a safer bet to reuse the cover multiple times, but does take a little more effort. I enjoyed both strategies, but at night time stuck to pad folding since it’s so much faster:) sleep is golden. I would prestuff the covers with padfolded flats and just assume poop would get on them, and plan accordingly😉

[@mariapaolapardo7098]

So informative! I feel less intimidated by cloth diapering now, thanks! Question about the covers- for the ones you suggest- what size for newborns, 1? then a size 2 when? Thanks so much!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Maria Paola Pardo Thirsties makes a newborn size cover, and I loved it for the first few weeks. However you can make a size 1 work as long as you don’t have a teeeeeny tiny baby. They fit a little “poofy” at first, but as long as the legs and belly are against their body it shouldn’t leak. It depends on how quickly your baby grows for when they need size 2, but I’d say on average about 8 months old is when they would fit better in the next size. It’s adjustable and very generously cut and easily took my kids to potty learning size. I’d just focus on getting small sizes for now, I’d probably get mostly size 1 covers and a few newborn size just in case your baby is tiny, and keep the tags on to return if you think the size 1 fits well enough from the get-go. They grow so fast, why waste money on tiny stuff if you don’t have to?! Good luck! You CAN DO THIS!! 😀

[@mariapaolapardo7098]

Thanks for the reply! I am having twins, so part of me think they will be much smaller but not teeeny tiny... are the size 1 the 'one size' or are those two different sizes?

[@mariapaolapardo7098]

Also, would the small prefolds be an ok size, or would they be too big for newborns? Trying to buy something I can use for longer like you mentioned. Thanks so much again!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Hi!!!! Sorry, I thought I responded to this. Size 1 is smaller than a one size. A one size is intended for about 8 pounds through potty learning, whereas a size 1 is meant for about 6-18lbs. Then the size 2 takes you to potty learning, and is larger than a one size when all the snaps are open. With twins I'd probably go with a size 1 instead of a one size, it would be pretty not practical to fit twins into a one size at birth. Also I'd throw in a handful of newborn covers for twins to be safe.

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Size one prefolds are bulky, but do-able for an average size newborn. My daughter was in the 7lb range and they worked for her, I put them on her out of necessity at about 3 weeks because she was wetting through the newborn ones in an hour. However, twins tend to be born smaller, so with prefolds if I were you I'd buy 2 dozen newborn, and then 2-3 dozen small. The newborn ones make great wash cloths for the bath or burp rags or wipes to clean messy faces faces after eating, so with two littles you will be able to put them to use for years :) With flats, I generally prefer and suggest size large, but with twins who will likely be smaller another option would to stock up on about 4 dozen size one flats from Green Mountain Diapers, I love their organic birdseye. Or you could do one dozen newborn prefolds and 3 dozen one size flats, and then see what you like. As prefolds get larger they get thicker in the middle, making them tougher to get clean. Flats are by far the easiest to keep clean and stink-free. Prefolds are still easier to clean than a microfiber insert because cotton is a natural fiber, but flats are easiest, and really I think the major reason people don't try or stick with cloth is the washing. So I suggest easy! :)

[@ardenmartin7334]

Thanks Ellen this is super helpful! Is the only reason you don’t use Blueberry capris because they aren’t made in the U.S? I was planning to go with those until I watched your video. Thanks again!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Arden Martin Blueberry has since pulled their overseas production and again makes their products solely in the USA. They make high quality products and everything I️ ever owned from them held up extremely well to use. I️ will say their covers have a fuller cut than some other brands though, and can be a tad bulkier. You could always get a couple from Blueberry and a couple from thirsties and then test them to see which you prefer before you finish your stash. So many options with cloth: the blessing and the curse! They are both sturdy brands and will do you well.

[@danicac8920]

Yep, this video was extremely helpful. I wish I had come across it when I was first starting to explore the idea of cloth diapering. Question about the large flats...you suggest getting 36 to use on the newborn- will I be able to continue to use these same flats (with 36 being sufficient) as the baby grows? And I would just update the covers (e.g. moving from Thirsties Duo Size 1 to 6-10 in Size 2?) Thank you!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Danica C Thanks! And you have I️t right- the same large flats will work birth to potty learning, and you’ll just need to change sizes on the covers once from size 1 to 2. (Or newborn to one size in some other brands).

[@hannahw23]

Great video!

[@alexandrahimunchul8147]

Hey. Your videos are awesome and informative. We plan to use disposables for the first week and then move to cloth diapers. How many cloth diapers does one need in total as a starter kit?

[@ellenv.s.4913]

36 diapers is more than enough. If you're getting flats or prefolds I'd recommend 36 (with 6-10 covers). But if you're going with something pricey like AIOs then I'd aim for more like 24 and do laundry more frequently.

[@jennafrandsen9873]

Hi, I watched your first video and then this one. I know you mentioned in the first one that you had a hard time finding something that wouldn't leak. I was planning on using covers with inserts and suprised that you use flats and don't find they leak! I would love to do flats because of the price and washing ease... I just am suprised that there isn't more to it...just a flat (like a flour sack towel?? or are the Grn Mtn different) and you are good to go! Also- I liked the thought of one size covers like Best Bottom so I didn't have to buy 2 (or more?) different sizes. Maybe it isn't as big of a deal as I'm thinking ha

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Hi! Yes, flats are amazing. I wouldn't recommend an insert and a cover because inserts are more difficult to wash and they aren't versatile the way flats are where you can wrap them on your baby when needed, or do different folds when needed. Flour sack towels are similar but not as soft, and probably not made with the intention of heavy washing. I never used FST because I wanted the organic cotton flats, and GMD makes amazing and affordable ones. One size covers can work birth to potty training as long as you don't have a tiny newborn or a large toddler. I don't love Best Bottoms because there is a lot of exposed laminate to the skin and it gave my kids rashes. Also they have tight elastics (can be uncomfortable for baby), a low front rise (which can leak!), and in general are a smaller "one size" cover. My favorite one size cover was Flip. It has off and on been made in the USA, I preferred to purchase it when it was being made in America due to ethics hoping the workers were being paid fairly. But buying a two size system isn't a big deal, they will fit a little better that way because size 1 can get smaller than a "one size" snapped to it's smallest setting, and size 2 gets larger than a "one size" adjusted to the full size. It's kind of fun (I mean really fun!) to be able to change out your colors and prints when it's time to switch sizes too :) Also you can sell your old covers and make some money back, or save them for a future baby, give to a friend, or donate to an organization like Jake's Diapers or Giving Diapers, Giving Hope. There are lots of good ways to reuse those smaller covers vs disposables that just end up in the trash. Hope that helps!

[@Bree404]

Along the leak question: do you find that the fold of the flat or the cover stops leaks the most? I'm honestly having such a hard time looking at that cover and flat and not imagining the biggest blowouts out the legs!! How often do you have leaks with babies under 1 using this system? How do you feel about pre-folds/contours?

[@ellenv.s.4913]

@@Bree404 So wrapping the flat on the baby vs pad folding helps contain poop more, but between the flat and the cover I'd say the cover holds in the really bad blowouts more than the flat. As long as the cover fits well around the legs and belly (it's okay if it's puffy in the middle) it contains almost every nasty blowout. It was rare for the explosion to exit. When we used disposables (for travel or while clearing up a yeast rash or whatever) we had many a blowout up the back, or out the legs, but with cloth hardly ever. Covers go up higher on the back and are wider cut down the legs, so there is just more coverage there. I liked prefolds too but they are a little harder to wash, over time they get build up (nowhere near as bad as synthetics though!) so need to be stripped more often than flats would. Contours were the only thing I never tried, they just didn't have any appeal to me.

[@CecillieNelson]

We are about to begin cloth and are using flats, flour sack towels and covers! I don't know if its correct, but I am planning to cover the microfiber inserts that have come for free with the covers with the flour sack towels since microfiber can't touch their skin. Is this the right thing to do here? What do you even do with those microfiber inserts aside form turning them into a kitchen towel? I have a few fitteds that I got on a crazy deal too. I'm nervous about the washing (which is why I've held off for a bit). But we're 4 months now and running out of disposables that folks gave to us so it's time. I'm excited about it!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Hi again! :) Yay for starting cloth diapering! You are correct, microfiber cannot go against the skin, so wrapping it inside a flat is the way to go. But, microfiber is a bear to wash, so you could always just keep them for washing the car or as a rag if you decide not to diaper with it. I'm curious what covers supplied you with microfiber inserts, as typically microfiber inserts only come with pocket diapers... And as for washing, it can take some troubleshooting, but once you have a good routine it just becomes second nature! :)

[@christines1924]

how do you just lay the diaper in the cover without a Snappi to keep the diaper from moving around or does it just stay in there securely? If the answer is it stays in there securely, when is there situation where you would use a Snappi? With the Jo fold?

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Christine S Some covers have flaps in the front and back to tuck the ends of the pad folded flat into, but in general it just stays put once you fasten the diaper on, as long as it’s folded long enough inside the diaper to reach both ends of the cover. You’d use a snappi when wrapping the diaper onto a baby, such as origami fold or jo fold. Or you can also do those wrapping folds without a snappi and place the cover over the top. Wrapping with a snappi just increases your chances that poop will stay inside the diaper and not get onto the cover, letting you reuse the cover more times between washings. Older babies and toddlers don’t poop as often as newborns, and sometimes are more active during diaper changes, so that’s when I think pad folding is best. It’s great for newborns too, you just might need more covers vs always wrapping with snappi.

[@kaylahgoines_sings]

Do you think the muslin flats are absorbent enough for moderately heavy wetting toddlers? I really want to do flats and covers for both my newborn and toddler, I'm just worried about absorbency.

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Kaylah Goines I definitely think so. I’d consider both of my kids were moderately heavy wetters and they both did great in flats. Fiona was the only one who used the Muslin but they are absorbent. Worst case is you add a doubler if needed, and that’s easy. I changed every 1.5-2 hours and it was never soaked through in that amount of time.

[@ellenv.s.4913]

And both of my kids used flats as toddlers all the way up to potty learning.

[@kaylahgoines_sings]

Ellen V.S. Awesome! Thank you so much for your reply. 😊 I'm gonna go for it!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Kaylah Goines WOO-HOO! Flats are the best! 👍

[@lauralu04]

Thanks so much for your videos! They have helped me so much as I've been trying to navigate the world of cloth diapering. I have been using the Cloth-eez flats and have loved them! Your flats series was extremely helpful when I was deciding what kind of cloth diapers to use. One issue that I've run into is that the edges of the flats kinda curl up and I think that would make it uncomfortable for my little guy since then the edge is super bulky on his back (doing origami fold). I'm hoping there is another solution other than ironing the edges each time I wash... 😊 Have you run into curling edges and how did you combat it?

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Laura S I'm so happy you are liking flats😊 do you mean the actual edge of the flat is curling? The outer edges of some sides will curl in on mine, but the folds I use don't have the outer edge against the skin. I either pad fold or do the jo fold. Dirty diaper laundry has a great video tutorial on the jo fold. It's a great one to check out!

[@lauralu04]

Ellen V.S. Thanks for your reply! Yes, with the origami fold, a lot of the curled outer edges end up against the baby's back and I'd imagine that it would be uncomfortable to lay on. It doesn't really seem to bother him but I'd like to make sure he's comfortable. I'll check out the Jo fold to see if that solves the issue I'm seeing! Thank you so much!

[@MsStar1983]

Is it necessary to use a fleece liner? Iv heard people say its needed to keep the babies skin dry. Would appreciate your opinion. Thanks

[@carmenimani9153]

why does it matter that it was made in the states? just wondering, we use prison labor! and very informative video

[@aliciashank1673]

What is your suggestion for the first few days with meconium and cloth diapering? Is is more difficult to get out? We plan on using only covers and prefold.

[@ellenv.s.4913]

We started cloth day 2 and everything washed out just fine for us. It could depend baby to baby, but it wasn’t an issue for us!

[@JAHolmesNY]

Can I ask why you prefer the flats to prefolds? Is it because you can fold them to have more layers in different areas of the diaper? I used prefolds in the past.

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Holmes Prefolds are nice too, but flats are easier to wash and one size fits all. Plus they are more versatile with fold absorbency, and be used for more things than prefolds due to their larger size, like bibs and blankets and nursing covers.

[@mountaingirlbrook]

thanks for this video and so many of your others... I'm expecting my first in April and we are fully committed to cloth diapering. It's pretty a overwhelming task with so many options! I thought I would just do disposables for the early newborn phase (due to recommendations from my midwife and friends) but am now reconsidering! I'll probably end up having both on hand for the beginning. I also had planned on using AIO's for the majority of our diapers, but again am reconsidering. Anyway...a few questions... Why flats over prefolds? What about the GMD Workhorse fitted with snaps? Have you used those? The advantage I see of AIO is (hopefully) buy once and they fit the whole time. (I was planning on using Thirsties new AIO Natural, have you used these?) And with the prefold/cover system it seems one would have to keep repurchasing as baby grows. Thanks for any additional info!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Brook Moniger hi! I think a mix of organic disposables and cloth for the newborn phase is great! I say flats over prefolds bc prefolds come in multiple sizes, whereas flats you can use the same size the entire time. Also, prefolds, fitteds and especially AIO can be hard to wash. AIO are spendy and not as convenient as they seem bc they are so hard to get clean. Over time they start to smell and you have to strip often to get them clean (and stripping wears out the elastic and PUL and is a big waste of water and your time). I haven't had to strip my flats for probably 2 years. The only thing you would need to replace from this entire stash is the covers, you could get thirsties duo size 2 or any other one size cover you wanted once your baby outgrows the size 1, probably somewhere between 6-9 months, or even later depending on the size of your baby. Let me know if you have more questions!😊

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Brook Moniger Oh and I honestly think the GMD flats are more absorbent than their fitteds. I think you end up with more layers in the wet zone, with the benefit of just one layer to wash. My fitteds never leaked, but were always way more wet than the flats are. And if you lay a flat in a cover it feels like putting one diaper on, vs putting a fitted on baby then a cover over feels like putting two diapers on.

[@mountaingirlbrook]

wow, such great feedback! thank you! flats seem to make the most sense, but, also for me and the hubby, they seem to be the most intimidating. Especially going into our first born and having no idea how this new life will be, well, I guess we both expect to be overwhelmed and exhausted! I think my plan will be to just get a mix of all the different types and see what works and makes the most sense for our family, then we can just get more of what we like. I was set on AIO's and had 20 of the same brand/kind added to my registry...but now I realize (thanks to you and many others!) that it's just not realistic to think you can know before baby comes what will work and what you will like! again, thank you for all the great info!

[@mountaingirlbrook]

Oh I forgot to ask, what do you mean by 'strip' the diapers? What does that entail? thanks!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Brook Moniger That is the perfect plan😊 Give yourself some time to see what you like, and also some grace as you adjust to parenthood. There is no shame in using disposables for the first few weeks if that relieves some stress for you. Newborns are fun, enjoy it! And diapers are fun too, but they aren't going anywhere. I think it's better to start them when you are ready vs making yourself start at the beginning and then getting too overwhelmed to do it. And I know flats seem intimidating, I was totally afraid of them when I first saw them and thought I'd never be interested. Just try it all and see what works for you!😊 and your washing machine lol.

[@jamilasfridge7467]

wow great videos thank you so much! Have you tried regular cloth diapers like bum genius? and is it harder or just more expensive?

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Jamila'S Fridge Hi:) yes I’ve used bum genius and have reviews of most popular cloth diapering brands on my cloth diapering playlist. Most pockets come with microfiber inserts and they are a bear to keep clean. They get urine build up and smell terribly and are a lot of work to strip. Natural fibers don’t hold in stink the way synthetics do.

[@jamilasfridge7467]

Ellen V.S. Oh i see i appreciate that!

[@kayellaweiss9635]

When we are looking at different flats online what measurements would you suggest? For example some say they will srink after washing in hot water to be about 27in × 27in.

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Dawn White That would be about a standard size flat. Those can work fine but I prefer larger ones, the GMD large flat shrinks to about 30x30. It’s a bit bulky on a newborn but still workable and then works better in my opinion for older babies.

[@kirstensacco4368]

Having a baby soon and I want to use flats and prefolds with covers mostly. I bought size large flat birdseye from gmd. Are those too big at first or is there a fold I can do besides pad fold to fit in a small cover? Do you have a video? Also what size and brand prefolds do you recommend wide enough so I can use it with a snappi? My kids are over 8 pounds at birth so I know newborn is too small and won't last. Also this is my last so I don't want to waste money on too many nb cloth/covers. I'd love your input. Thank you

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Kirsten Sacco I'll add that to my video list, I'll try to get to it soon! If I were you I would just stick to the large flats exclusively. They grow out of prefolds quickly, and they are more work to keep clean. But if you really want them, GMD are wider than most brands. With that size baby, you could probably go straight to mediums. They might outgrow the smalls in a couple months and that's just frustrating. The size large flats look crazy big, but within a couple months they aren't so big anymore. Just size up on pants to make room for the fluffy bum. Worth it to save money and environmental waste.

[@marissashilling428]

I know you prefer flats over prefolds, but I found a used bundle of 36 GMD prefolds (24 newborn and 12 small), 5 fitted diapers (clotheez and kissaluvs), 12 covers (thirsties size 1 and XS and fuzzibunz), 5 fleece liners, 5 snappies and 2 pins, and a wet bag...all for $100. Do you think this is a good deal?? I also want to get some flats to try, but this seems like a great deal to me.

[@ellenv.s.4913]

That is a good deal... BUT... those diapers are not going to fit your baby for long! They are xs or small. I'd recommend getting new flats that can last from birth through potty training. Since they will be washed so many times, getting new in this case is a good idea because it could be 3 years of washing every other day. Just my two sense!

[@marissashilling428]

Ellen V.S. thanks!! How many size 2 covers do you recommend for once they move up? (I've watched most of your videos and haven't heard it anywhere that I remember lol) I have 6 thirsties size 2s right now (5 used, one brand new) with a mix of snap and Velcro. I read on the GMD site recently that snappis aren't recommended for flats because of the fabric, what's your experience with this? Thanks for making great videos and being so helpful! :)

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Marissa Shilling Thanks for the nice compliment! You're welcome! Snappis are super sharp, and with certain folds with flats where there aren't enough layers, they *can* poke through. To combat this, I always filed my snappis down with a nail file right out of the package! And would be very careful that there were enough layers where the snappis were going to be placed. Neither of my kids ever had any pokes or scratches with this method😊 I would say 6-9 covers for any age baby is good. 6 means you are willing to hand wash between washes if your kid has frequent or softer poops that get on the cover, 9 means you are more comfortable and can do it all in the machine. Just depends on your budget, needs, and preferences.

[@Theluckwehave]

Have you had any issues with your kids taking off the diaper when using velcro? My mom will be keeping my son and I think she may do better with the hook and loop, but afraid they may not do well.

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Dnae West I think it just depends on the kid, and how badly they want their diaper off😉 My kids usually didn't fight their diapers, but when they did want them off, they were able to get both Velcro and snap diapers off. Putting pants over the top helps with this!

[@shannonhernandez-cruz9980]

Question: Sorry in advance if it has been asked. Can you do the trifold in a cover for a newborn or does the breastmilk runny poop get on the cover as well causing you to have to change it out every time?

[@ellenv.s.4913]

shannon hernandez-cruz Yes, you can trifold in a cover for a newborn. Sometimes it will be a big one and get on the cover, but a lot of times they just do small amount of poops as newborns. Don't get me wrong, a blowout will come your way, but if you are changing often there isn't a huge amount. Wrapping with a snappi does keep the poop in more though. I did a combination of both when she was a newborn. Now I mainly pad fold, and poop does still get on covers. It's just quicker to put diapers away with that fold😉 I'm lazy after 5 years lol

[@SOULSTARBELLYDANCER7]

I agree with flats and covers. I have some newborn and small prefolds also. I may get a couple Aio and fitteds in newborn size for my husband or mom. I'm likely going to be doing the bulk of the newborn changes since I'll be home with them. If I'd known the ease of covers and flats when I started I could have saved more money. Did the thirsties sz 1 fit under the umbilical stump?

[@ellenv.s.4913]

SOULSTARBELLYDANCER7 I didn't realize you were pregnant! Congrats!😍 I had a thirsties xs for nb, not duo 1, so I'm not positive. If it's too tall, you can fold down the rise away from baby and Velcro down. That's what I did with my hook and loop covers that were too tall and it worked well.

[@821Aly]

My baby was 21.5in, 7lb8oz at birth and sz 1 duos did not fit under the cord. At 2 weeks, the aplix covers sort of fit because they can fold down. If you have it in your budget the Thirsties size preemie/newborn covers fit amazing at birth. At 2 weeks they are already too short on my longer baby (the waist still fits fine), but I don't regret having them at all. Green Mountain Diaper half-flats pad folded into thirds both directions fit perfectly in the cover and I plan to use those as doublers later. I also like the Thirsties newborn AIOs. The natural fiber version definitely takes longer to dry, so even though I have natural fibers for everything else I prefer the microfiber version.

[@SOULSTARBELLYDANCER7]

Ellen V.S. I appreciate it :) I foolishly sold my newborn diapers and several gender neutral OS pocket diapers 😠 so I have to get just a few especially if this baby is a boy. Jay's Nest did a video on OS diapers that fit under the umbilical stump. Lalabye and Rumparooz covers did the trick.

[@SOULSTARBELLYDANCER7]

821Aly Thanks for your reply. I have 4 half flats. I did like microfiber newborn thirsties aio. I had issues with stink but I've since found a good detergent and better wash routine. I have the OS thirsties natural aio and after the drier I still have to air dry. Between a few newborn diapers and OS I'm not trying to go over $100. I have lots of newborn and small prefolds as well as flats and other inserts. I want to keep it simple this time 😊

[@alexchesnut6310]

Does the belly and back of the baby get really wet in cloth diapers? I am really looking into cloth diapering, but this thought just popped up.

[@jgr_lilli_]

Alex Chesnut No, not really. If you use fleece liners, they might not even feel wet at all. Also a newborn normally produces rather small amount of pee at a time (unlike older children who pee larger amounts at once). If they poop, they will probably be a little wet (or rather just dirty) from it. But that is regardless of disposable or cloth.

[@alexchesnut6310]

Thank you, that really helps!

[@DaniBGreen]

thanks for the informative video :) what size are your flats?

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Dani B Green You’re welcome! One size muslin and size large organic Birdseye.

[@DaniBGreen]

thanks so much for the quick reply! I'm in South Africa so our sizing system is a little bit different - do you know the measurements in inches or centimeters? E.g. here you can buy flats that are 50x50cm, 60x60cm or 70x70cm :)

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Dani B Green Green Mountain Diapers website has the measurements listed on the site:)

[@8686elmo]

Question regarding velcro: I like that you can adjust the waist exactly, and not rely on finding the "right snap setting" every time. However, my daughter used a Bambino Mio velcro wrap for a short while, and I hated that the velcro was always shifting and making a ripping, loud sound while she was playing. Is Thirsties' velcro high quality enough that it really stays put, or do you hear velcro-sounds throughout the day while your daughter plays? Thanks!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Elisabeth Campos The thirsties Velcro never moved. It only made a sound when I would take it off of her. The price point of thirsties is low for quality that is high, I’d say purchase one to try out! :)

[@8686elmo]

Wonderful, thanks for the reply! Yes, sounds like high quality velcro will make all the difference; we'll certainly get at least one Thirsties to use. Your channel here is fabulous, btw! Very practical advice, including re. veggie kids!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Elisabeth Campos Thank you so much!😍

[@leahtopping7821]

I have 24 all in one that should fit from new born to potty training. But I want to do flats and covers too just to have variety. You said 36 flats, Would you recommend I get all 36 large flats?

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Leah Topping Hi Leah😊 which AIOs did you get? Size L will fit a newborn, but will be very bulky. I used them on Fiona starting about 2-3 weeks old, and they worked great, but they definitely looked silly! The muslin ones are a bit smaller. Wouldn't hurt to have a mixture of the two, they are both fantastic flats (my top two all time favorites!) so it's nice to have both.

[@BeTheChange5276]

I'm currently pregnant and I'm thinking about selling all my all in ones (I have over 40) and going with a mix of prefolds and flats instead (I have a dozen prefolds and 6 flats already) for the newborn phase. Should I just wait and see what works before selling stuff off or should I sell them now so I don't have to deal with the hassle? I have grovia, blueberry, smart bottoms, nickis nbaio, etc. I already have a variety of newborn covers.

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Amber You could keep a handful of them and sell off the rest?! You have about 60 diapers and that’s WAY more than you need!

[@BeTheChange5276]

Ellen V.S. I'm thinking about selling off all the aios, I loved prefolds with my niece so I already know how to fold them. I have so many aios and I've heard mostly bad things about them :/ and if I sell them now I can use the money for postpartum mama cloth 😊

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Amber Good plan! You’ll have more time to sell them now vs when you have a baby😉

[@bonniebranch6083]

How many GMD muslin diapers would you recommend getting? I'm due in April and I want to have enough but not too many 😉

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Bonnie Belle Branch I think anywhere from 24-36 flats is a solid stash. The higher end is more comfortable for the younger baby stage, and also can be used for all the other things I mentioned in the video😊

[@bonniebranch6083]

Great! Thank you so much for always answering my questions :)

[@bonniebranch6083]

Do they do sales on the muslin flats often if ever?

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Bonnie Belle Branch Always happy to help😊 I've very rarely seen sales on GMD prefolds and flats. They did a sale a few Black Fridays ago, but then the next year said they weren't going to. They sell well on their own! Sometimes they have "irregular" ones on discount, but usually it's just a full price type of deal. But it's a good bargain!

[@bonniebranch6083]

Yeah they are definitely super affordable! Just sold my BumGenius Pocket diapers on eBay so I'm switching to flats from here going forward for the rest of our diapering years haha! You converted me :) The GMD website says that the muslin is too bulky for a newborn, but I'm pretty sold on using them because they are more absorbent and you were mentioning the Snappis being less likely to possibly pinch them so do you think we could make due only getting muslin? They grow so quickly!

[@michellenunez3153]

Hi, since the muslin flats are on sale right now.. Should I invest in the large, or one size?

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Michelle Nunez Either will work for you, I had the large Birdseye and the one-size Muslin. I used the large on my daughter newborn to potty learning. The Muslin didn’t come out until about the last year of her diapering days, and at that point they were only in one-size, and it worked well on a toddler. Sorry I don’t have a more definitive answer, you could get some of each so you have options:)

[@michellenunez3153]

Ellen V.S. I went ahead, and just ordered 12 of the one size. I also ordered some Applecheeks based on your latest videos to see what will work best for us. So currently I have 30 flats organic, and muslin. 6 thirsties covers, and 8 size 1 Applecheeks that I will stuff with flats. ☺ I also have disposable in a few different sizes that were gifted from the baby shower which I will still use to make an easy transition. This is my huband and I first cloth diapering journey, and you have helped me so much with your videos. THANK YOU❤

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Michelle Nunez Thanks for the nice feedback, I’m so glad the videos helped you guys:) that sounds like an excellent stash!!! If the applecheeks are a tiny big when your baby is born you can pull the wings up. Their website shows it better than I can explain here, or you can type it in KZbin and someone will show the move. It looks silly, but helps tighten the leg. Flats are super amazing, so are covers, so you’ll be good to go. Just a matter of finding your favorite cover to place them into:) and cloth resells well, so you’re not stuck with anything, there’s room to try stuff out and sell what you don’t love:)

[@michellenunez3153]

Ellen V.S. hi again, so I attempted to stuff the small AC with flats, and they seem really bulky. Tge flats might work better when I transition to size two? Any suggestions on an alternative to stuff AC size 1? I even contemplated buying the GMD NB size flats, or prefolds to stuff them with, but Im not sure at this point.

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Michelle Nunez I saw this post online that might help you: mamanloupsden.com/2015/11/01/how-we-stuff-our-applecheeks-from-1-2-3/ You can also just go with the bulk! I had my daughter in sleeping gowns often for her comfort and my ease of changing, so the bulk wasn’t a big deal. I just made sure to put her in a trimmer diaper for times she needed to go in her car seat for safety.

[@latardenoche]

Hi and thanks for the useful information. I'm expecting my first baby and want to start using cloth diapers from day one. I have a question regarding the diaper covers. In this video you recommend thirsties duo size 1 while in another you said that you could used Flip brand (which were your favourite) right from the beginning. To be honest I like the idea of using the same cover from the start instead of buying first some for new born and then another size. With your experience do you think it would be ok if I only use Flip covers from the start? Thank you!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Mariana Cerezo Congrats on your upcoming baby! If you don't have a tiny baby, then you can totally get away with flips from day one. They will look crazy big at first, but for us worked great. My hesitation recommending them now vs before is they aren't made in the states anymore, and I like to support fair labor. Also the flips do get a little small at the late stages of diapering, but that all would just depend on how large your toddler is and what age they potty train. The elastics do get stretched more in flips than other brands, but I never had issues with leaking because of it. And elastics can be replaced if needed. I might recommend a couple flips and then the rest size 1 thirsties. Then you know you have some that will fit a smaller baby a little better, but you wouldn't have as many to replace later, and then if you don't totally love the flips you aren't stuck with an entire stash of them.

[@latardenoche]

Thank you so much for your reply :) I have a feeling my baby is going to be big but I'll follow your advice anyway. Thanks!!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Mariana Cerezo I expected my first to be big bc I was a big baby, but he was 6lbs9oz full term!!! I gained 50 lbs during the pregnancy so was shocked he was so itty bitty, ha!

[@lolabear1173]

What size flats are the best to get?

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Aurora Star I personally prefer the size large, and while they will work on a newborn, they will be bulky. The one size can work birth to potty too, but I just prefer having a larger flat. I feel it gives me more options for folding, and it's more absorbent since it has more fabric.

[@lolabear1173]

thanks for your reply but I meant how many inches are they?

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Aurora Star You can look up the measurements at greenmountain diapers.com for both the "large" and "one-size". They give you both the pre-washed and then shrunk sizes😊

[@emilyisbell5000]

I'm having twins so do you recommend purchasing 72 diapers?!

[@ellenv.s.4913]

No! That's too many to keep up on the wash. I'd probably start with about 50 and definitely plan to wash daily. That should give you enough for all their changes, then enough clean to get you through while the others wash. You can always get more if needed later, but for now I'd save your money. You're having twins😉 And congrats! I always wanted twins. Enjoy!!!

[@BeTheChange5276]

Blueberry isn't based in the states anymore? 😔

[@ellenv.s.4913]

They sent me an email a handful of months back explaining why they were going to export their labor. Their reasoning made no sense to me; one of the reason I loved the brand was they were located here, so fair-labor shouldn't have been an issue to consider for purchase. Not so sure now...

[@BeTheChange5276]

Ellen V.S. such a shame 😔 they were my #1 favorite for everything. Not just diapers but pail liners, wet bags, etc.

[@MeganMarie1]

I didn't realize this either! I did just go to their website, and everything on there says it's made in the US. In the "about us" page, it does have this excerpt: "We tried once to have our diapers made in China. Despite the advice of a friend, who told me it was a bad idea, I thought, if it saved us 2/3 the normal cost, how could we lose? Here’s how: $30,000 dollars, hundreds of bad press from products that broke too soon, and several design knockoffs later, I realized I wasn't so smart. And, now, more than ever, keeping people here employed in the United States is more important."

[@ellenv.s.4913]

HirschyLifeMusings Thank you for the info! I'm glad they are back in the states. Wish they wouldn't have done that, kinda ruined the love I had for them. Sounds like their reasonings for coming back were financial rather than ethical, but at least they are back!

[@alexandreamccormick7481]

This is definitely solely a stay-at-home mom video.... if you are a working mother and have anyone caring for your child and want to cloth diaper, you are going to have to get AIO's or pockets at the very least.

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Alexandrea McCormick My son used flats and prefolds with covers at his daycare. You just have to ask ahead if they will take cloth.

[@ellenv.s.4913]

Two different centers actually. It was no problem for either place. I just folded everything ahead for them.

[@TheSilverLining80]

What is the brand of the cloth wipes you like?

[@ellenv.s.4913]

It was an etsy shop that is no longer. But I know other shops on etsy sell sherpa/flannel wipes too!