Many young mothers are wondering which diapers are more convenient to use? Of course, reusable diapers will save the family budget, but before you start using them, you need to know the pros and cons of such panties.
Why are reusable diapers needed?
Each mother decides for herself what will be more convenient for her to use and what type of diapers is more suitable for her baby.
Benefits of reusable diapers
Reusable diapers have some advantages over disposable ones.
- Reusable diapers are made from natural materials (cotton, wool, bamboo fibers, silk), as opposed to disposables, which contain cellulose.
- Thanks to natural materials, baby's skin is protected from allergic reactionsth, contact dermatitis, diaper rash. The materials from which the diaper is made allow the baby's skin to "breathe" and ensure normal heat exchange and heat regulation processes.
- Buying reusable diapers doesn't hurt your wallet. Compared to disposable diapers, the price of reusable diapers is much lower and it is possible to use them for a long time. But do not forget that the savings can be questionable, since when washing diapers, money will go to electricity and water supply.
- Reusable diapers are ideal for potty training. The baby will feel a moment of discomfort after the act of urination or defecation. Several studies have shown that using disposable diapers lengthens the potty training path of a baby.
- Parents, when using reusable diapers, clearly set the frequency of urination, as well as the volume. This fact also helps parents in the potty training process, as moms or dads can pick up the connection between water or food intake and the moment of urination or defecation.
- Today, manufacturers of reusable diapers make them in one universal size. Of course, all children are different and they may not suit everyone, but manufacturers strive to cover the largest period of time during which a child can be in a given diaper. For this, special Velcro, buttons, ties are created, located at different distances, so that the mother, as the child grows up, can select the desired size.
- Don't forget about disposing of diapers. It's no secret that disposable diapers are hugely harmful to the ecology of our planet. Reusable diapers are very easy to dispose of, thanks to the natural materials that are included in their composition.
- Reusable diapers are great for wide diapersif children have a pathology of the hip joints.
Disadvantages of reusable diapers
Despite the large number of advantages, reusable diapers have several disadvantages.
- Parents should be especially careful when using reusable diapers. They need to regularly monitor the dryness of the diapers, because they get wet almost immediately. Improper use of reusable diapers leads to the fact that the baby can remain wet for a long time. As a result, diapers should not be used at night, during walks, or for newborns.
- After the act of urination, you need to change the entire diaper, because the liner is inside the panties and they will wind up at the same time... There are also diapers in which the liner lies directly on the surface of the fabric between the legs, but here you need to remember that the liner itself can "get lost", for this you need to constantly monitor it and correct it in time.
- Reusable diapers take longer, since after use they need to be washed and washed.
- Reusable diapers are much thicker than disposable ones. This fact can restrict the movement of the child, cause discomfort, and also not all clothes will fit.
- Improper use leads to diaper leakage.
How to use reusable diapers correctly?
Reusable diapers require more attention and time from parents. Otherwise, the disadvantages of using such diapers will be much greater. You should buy reusable diapers in a set, from 10 to 20 pieces.
You need to take liners and diapers, at the rate of 2 liners for 1 diaper.
The number of diapers can vary depending on how the insert is attached. Some panties have a special pocket for it, and some devices for attaching the insert to the surface of the diaper. A clean, dry diaper should be worn on the baby. Multiple liners can be used for better absorbency. It is better not to use panties for newborns, because the frequency of urination can reach 10 - 12 times a day, and it is also possible that the diaper does not fit snugly to the body and the likelihood of leakage increases.
On reusable diapers there are various fixing devices with which you can adjust the diaper according to the age and weight of the baby. The diaper should fit snugly against the baby's belly, back and legs. Panties should be changed every 2 to 3 hours on average. But the interval depends on the quality of the diapers, liners, and the volume of urination.
It is necessary to change the diaper when the elastic bands at the feet are wet.
Types of reusable diapers
Nowadays, every mom can find her ideal version of reusable diapers, because there are a sufficient number of them on the modern market.
- All-in-one reusable diapers. Such diapers are characterized by a built-in liner inside. This type of diaper is the simplest and does not require specific knowledge about their use. The downside of many mothers is that such a diaper dries for a rather long time, unlike others. Also, the disadvantages include the need for more diapers that will be required in use, since the entire diaper gets wet when urinating.
- Reusable diapers with insert pocket. These diapers have a special pocket for the insert, providing three-layer materials. The outer layer is made of waterproof material. But it is worth noting that such fabric is capable of air permeability. The main task of the liner is to absorb moisture as much as possible and keep it inside. And the inner layer is usually made of a soft, delicate material that does not irritate the baby's skin and should stay dry. Such diapers are more convenient to use, since only the inserts can be changed, and also for better absorption, it is possible to use several inserts. But it should be remembered that the thickness of such a diaper increases.
- Reusable two-in-one diapers. Such a diaper is a system consisting of a pant-shaped outer waterproof material and an inner absorbent layer. This type of diaper is also convenient to use, since only the inner material needs to be washed and replaced. The outer layer can remain unchanged for a long time.
- Flat diaper. Such a diaper can be made with the help of materials at hand; diapers, towels can be suitable for it. Unfold the diaper in the form of a scarf and tightly wrap the baby's crotch and buttocks. You can fix it with special fasteners or pins for diapers. The advantages include a natural, breathable material that dries quickly after washing. At the same time, such a diaper requires special attention, because it gets wet and wet quickly.
- Panties for potty training. These panties are used for children over a year old who are starting to master the potty. Outwardly, they are not at all different from ordinary cowards. But their inner layer is very thick.
How to choose the right size?
As mentioned above, diapers are generally available in one size fits all. That is, they can suit absolutely all children from birth to 2 years old. But the physical development of all children is different and, therefore, it is not a fact that the diaper will fit perfectly. Therefore, you should choose a diaper based on the size grid.
The size of reusable diapers, like disposable ones, corresponds to the baby's body weight. And, as a rule, it is divided into several groups. The smallest size is designed for children weighing from 3 to 6 kg, the middle group corresponds to a weight of 4 to 9 kg, and the last one for children from 7 to 18 kg. Special panties for potty training may have slightly different sizes. Also, some manufacturers of reusable diapers are creating a product for premature babies.
Washing reusable diapers and other helpful tips
Used diapers may be contaminated with baby feces, which must be removed before washing. First, the diaper and liners should be soaked or washed. You can wash both in the washing machine and by hand. Of course, it is easier and faster to wash in a typewriter, since a sufficient number of diapers and liners have to be washed per day, but the volume depends on the type of the diaper itself.
Better to wash separately from other items. The temperature should be set to about 30 degrees, as high numbers can ruin the quality and material of the diaper. It is not recommended to use conditioners, bleaches and other products that can damage the structure of the fabric. And the detergent itself may be that which is used for washing children's clothes.
In case the mother chooses the manual method of washing diapers, the same recommendations should be followed. That is, the water should be warm, and also use only detergent when washing. Then squeeze out thoroughly and hang to dry. Washing machines, in most cases, have a spin function. After such washing, the laundry is practically dry, but even in this case, hanging drying is required.
Do not dry diapers on a battery or heater.
It is recommended to iron dry nappies from the inside and inserts for disinfection. But there are also individual recommendations, for example, not all diapers can be ironed, and some recommend washing with certain means.
The absorbency of diapers improves after 5-6 washes.
DIY reusable diapers
You can also make reusable diapers yourself. Such a diaper will save the family budget even more. Before starting work, you need to decide on the raw materials of which the diaper will consist. The fabrics used must have a natural composition in order to fulfill their main purpose.
For the outer layer, you should choose a glued material that will not allow moisture to pass through, but at the same time must be breathable. When choosing a material for the inner layer, it is necessary to be guided by the fact that the main criterion for it is softness. Microfleece fabric is ideal for this layer.
The absorbent liner is usually made of microfiber. Such fabric retains moisture well inside. After purchasing the necessary materials, you should start sewing the diaper. The scheme according to which the diaper will be created must correspond to the physical characteristics of the child. According to the pattern, the diaper and the liner are cut out separately, which is then sewn between the two layers. The outer and inner material are sewn together. And between them, elastic bands are laid in the area of the legs and back for a better "fit" to the body. At the last stage, Velcro, buttons or strings are sewn. It is recommended to sew these elements at different levels so that the diaper can be adjusted with the age of the baby.
The opinion of a pediatrician
What kind of diaper to use is up to mom. Both have pros and cons. It is certainly more convenient to use disposable diapers. Moreover, in the modern market you can find a decent product with "breathable" properties. Only not everyone can afford it.
When choosing a diaper, you should always proceed from your budget. A diaper combination is ideal. That is, reusable can be used at home during the day, and disposable for a walk and at night. But still, only parents can decide, based on their budget and the availability of free time.
Top 5 reusable diapers
Diapers of different companies can “sit” on a child in different ways. Therefore, it is better to first study popular brands, then try it at home. In the modern market, there are 5 main brands of reusable diapers that are most popular among mothers.
Reusable diapers by "Nasha MAMA"
These are the simplest, Russian-made, all-in-one diapers. Such diapers are composed of simple materials (gauze) that are not able to retain moisture. Diapers of this brand must be checked frequently and changed immediately after each act of urination or defecation. They can be used as a liner in other reusable diapers.
This product consists of 2 layers of gauze, no dimensions. Can be used from the newborn period. The kit includes 5 pieces of diapers, the average price is 530 rubles.
Reusable nappies
Reusable diapers "Waterproof"
Domestic diapers. Has a pocket for earbuds, which can be purchased separately. The liner of this company, like many others, consists of microfiber. And the diaper itself has an outer waterproof membrane layer that allows the skin to "breathe", and a soft inner one.
Diapers of the firm "Nepromokashka" are regulated by buttons and Velcro. But also this brand provides a choice of a size range for the weight of the child's body. In addition to daytime reusable diapers, the manufacturer offers panties for potty training and swimming. Reusable diapers are sold by the piece, the price is about 130-200 rubles. Reviews of mothers about domestic panties are unsatisfactory.
Reusable nappies
Reusable diapers "Coolababy"
The diapers are presented by a Chinese manufacturer. This company has a higher price category. The set includes 2 microfiber liners and the panties themselves, the outer layer of which is waterproof, and the inner one consists of microfleece. The diaper can be adjusted with Velcro and buttons. The price of such a set is 690 rubles on the official website. The insert can be purchased separately for 119 rubles. And also, which is very convenient, you can order a set of diapers with inserts.
Reusable diapers for newborns can be used from the first days of a baby's life. The size can be adjusted as the child grows. Experienced mothers have good reviews for this company, parents recommend diapers for use.
Reusable nappies
Reusable diapers "Mathercear"
These diapers have an English brand. Most moms use this particular reusable diaper company. They differ in that the liner, in addition to the microfiber included in the composition, has some layers that absorb moisture and do not let it out.
The kit includes one diaper with an insert, the price is 800 - 900 rubles. The size grid corresponds to the baby's body weight and is divided into 3 standard groups. One of the indisputable advantages is that only the liner can be washed with use.
Reusable nappies
Reusable diapers "Disana"
This company has a German manufacturer. These panties are ideal for children who have problems with hip joints. The materials that make up the diaper and inserts are natural. The diaper is secured with strings. Such a system is not suitable for everyone, because it is necessary to adapt to putting on the diaper correctly. After fixing the diaper, woolen pants are put on top, which are already included in the set.
You can buy everything separately, for example, a diaper costs about 230 rubles, you can buy an insert for the same price. Natural panties for newborns are ideal for baby's delicate skin.
Reusable nappies
Summing up
Reusable diapers are very popular in the market among mums. Some parents have completely switched from disposable to reusable diapers. Each type of panties has its own advantages and disadvantages. Of course, reusable ones have a big plus in terms of natural materials and ecology. But parents should remember that they require more attention and time, because an untimely diaper change can lead to diaper rash and irritation.
