So we delivered your diapers, now how do you use them?

Cloth diaper's  are very simple to use, but like anything it takes some getting used to. Below are a few pictures of how to fold cloth diapers. We also included some quick FAQ'S about diaper rash and leaks etc. Please do not hesitate to call us if you have any questions! We want cloth diapering to be an enjoyable experience for everyone and are always happy to help in any way we can! 

There are several different ways to fold a diaper. The method that works best for you will depend on your baby's gender, size and shape as well as you own personal preference. Experiment and find the fold that you prefer. As your baby grows and changes, your preferred fold may change as well!

The Newspaper Fold

This is the most basic fold. Fold the diaper in thirds. Fold the front of the diaper  to shorten the length (as shown below). This fold is good for newborns and younger babies since they are still stationary. Once the baby starts to move around more or crawl, then we recommend using a different fold as it will not contain leaks as well. 

The Angel wing fold

This fold is also quite simple and creates a "poo pocket" at the back of the diaper. Fold both sides of the diaper toward the center at an angle, leaving the back open wider than the front. (This is often easier to do when the baby is in place on the back of the diaper.)

The Bikini Twist

A great option for girls! Just lay the diaper flat on top of the diaper cover and place the baby at the back of the diaper. Pull the diaper between the baby's legs and twist 180 degrees. Secure the diaper cover and do a quick check to make sure that the diaper is completely tucked inside of the cover.

The Short Fold

This fold is perfect for newborns, girls, or anyone struggling with too much bulk at the front. Simply fold the diaper in thirds "the other way," then lay it inside of a cover and secure to baby.

Diaper Rash

Although its not too common with a cloth diapered baby, rashed can and do occur! Here is a link from Dr. Greene and Dr. Sears on their findings about diaper rash.

Here at NPDS take great care when cleaning your babies cloth diapers. We do not use any kind of harsh chemicals when laundering your diapers. If a diaper rash does happen to occur though, please call our office and we will help you troubleshoot what the prolbem could be.

A word about cloth diaper creams

Most diaper creams are NOT cloth diaper friendly. Please do not use any kind of diaper rash cream containing cod liver oil as it will ruin the diaper. A few  that we like to recommend to cloth diaper parents dealing with diaper rash are:

♥ Grandma El's
♥ Burt's Bee's
♥ CJ'S BUTTer
♥ Angel Baby Bottom Balm-Our favorite!
♥ California Baby Diaper Cream
♥ Noli and Nali Diaper Cream

  One's that are NOT cloth diaper friendly are some of the following

• Balmex
• Desitin
• Butt Paste
• A+D
• Aquaphor

Leaks

Many people, when they start using cloth diapers, complain of leaks. Cloth diapers do not contain toxic super absorbent chemicals that  allow your baby to be in them for hours at a time, so when you baby goes it is only a matter of time before the diapers start to leak. However diapers that are on your baby correctly should not leak at all, adjusting the fold could fix this prolbem.

1. Make sure your baby's diaper is the correct fit. I it is a little small then let us know and we will switch sizes on your next delivery day.
2. Although you can just fold the diaper in thirds and lay it on the diaper cover, we recommend you use a snappi. When a diaper is fastened with a snappi then paired with a cover, it truly makes for  a leak-proof system! Play around with different folds and see which one works best for your baby.
3. Make sure the diaper is tucked into all parts of the cover. If there is a piece of the diaper sticking out of the cover, this will cause leaking. The cover is waterproof, not the diaper, so make sure all of it is in the cover (the back, between the legs, by the belly bottom etc.)
4. If baby is going to be in the diaper for longer periods of time (in example when napping or at night) you can use a doubler to help fight leaks. A doubler is a thick piece of cloth that goes on top of the diaper (between babies legs) to add absorbency. Doubler's are available at our online store and will soon be apart of regular diaper service.