Friday, April 30, 2010

To Snap or not to Snap. That is the question.

The debate on snap vs. aplix (velcro) continues to loom around the web. I understand the pros and cons of both options.

Aplix is easier to pull tight, to get on and off. Daycare providers tend to like aplix, as it is most like disposables. However, it can also wear out quickly in the wash, even with laundry tabs. And I've heard tell that toddlers are able to undo the aplix easily.

Snaps are also adjustable, given enough of them, and they are more difficult for toddlers to take off. Some parents think they are just as easy, while others find them more difficult to use. I see a lot of people asking about how to convert aplix to snap, so I know it is popular.

Although I've only been working with them a short time, and my son is young, so I don't have the pulling off issue, I like aplix better so far. I like that I can secure exactly where I want it, not just where the snaps are, which gives me less gap in the front. I also thinks it's faster and easier, which is great for "guest diaperers."

Saturday, April 24, 2010

Cloth Diapers: Take Two

I had planned on using cloth right from the start, but motherhood was overwhelming for me at first. I was dealing with my feelings from a birth that went so differently than I had hoped, and we struggled to get nursing going. I tried the cloth diapers several times, but just couldn't get it to work for me, so I decided not to do it.

Now that we are further into Little Man's life, I am excited to say I am starting cloth diapering again. When he was first born we used the prefolds and covers, but I didn't like those. So we are going with pockets and AIOs this time. I am having such fun choosing which ones to try. I have bought 1 of many different kinds so that I can see what I like. When you purchase at Jillian's Drawers, you can try the diaper for 30 days, and if you don't like it, return it (stain-free) for a full refund. Such a great way to try different brands!
I'm a bit obsessed at the moment and can see how this will become even more of an obsession for me. I love looking through the various cloth diapering blogs, reading about different kinds, and what people have done to find what works best for their babies. So far I frequent the various sections of Diaper Shops, especially Kelly's Closet. And I love their blog, The Cloth Diaper Whisperer. I also just troll the web, looking for deals, reviews, and discussions.
Here are the diapers I am trying:
BumGenius One Size 3.0
BumGenius Deluxe AIO
FuzziBunz One Size
GroBaby One Size
Flip One Size
Sposoeasy
GoodMama Good.Nite
Bummis (Tots Bot) Easy Fit
SmartiPants
Rumparooz
GoodNight Heavy Wetter
As I try them, I will jump on the cloth diapering review bandwagon and write my own little reviews.

One of Little Man's first cloth diaper pics: