Using Diaper Covers with Cloth Diapers
There are so many options for cloth diaper covers today that it can make your first choice overwhelming. For newborn and up to 10 lbs you may want to rent covers from us since your baby will grow out of them quickly. Our covers are the Thirsties' white hook and loop closure ones shown on this page. When you rent these, you wash them at home and let us know when your baby is ready for the next size larger!
Once your baby reaches 10 lbs, baby's growth slows so you will get more use out of each size. Spending a little money to get quality covers will save you time and money in the long run, and make diapering easier. It can also be fun to choose colors and patterns!
Once your baby reaches 10 lbs, baby's growth slows so you will get more use out of each size. Spending a little money to get quality covers will save you time and money in the long run, and make diapering easier. It can also be fun to choose colors and patterns!
How to Choose Diaper Covers
In our experience, having the right cover can make a big difference! After talking to hundreds of parents, and changing more diapers ourselves than we can count, here are the things that you should look for:
Remember that you do not have to change a cover every time you change a diaper. If it is not soiled, and doesn't smell, you can reuse it. Simply change out the diaper to a new one.
- Leg gusset - having a double gathered elastic area around the legs helps prevent leaks
- Adjustable - make sure that you can adjust the fit of the diaper to your baby
- Fasteners - this is really about personal preference. You might want to try a couple different types to see what is easiest for you; Snappi and Boingo are the 2 types most popular (see bottom of page for picture for Snappi).
Remember that you do not have to change a cover every time you change a diaper. If it is not soiled, and doesn't smell, you can reuse it. Simply change out the diaper to a new one.
Cover Care
Make sure you read the instructions carefully for how to wash your covers. If you use the wrong water temperature or dryer settings you will reduce the life of your cover and the effectiveness. On our covers, we ask that you DO NOT use blech, it will discolor them.
Each cover is different!
Each cover is different!
Where to Buy
There are a lot of places you can buy both new and second-hand diaper covers. As long as they are well cared for, often diaper covers are able to be resold when you are done with them. Here are some places to look:
When in doubt, ask some of your other parent friends and see where they love to shop!
- Your local baby goods store
- Online retailers
- Buy and sell groups
When in doubt, ask some of your other parent friends and see where they love to shop!
Using Snappis to Secure the Diaper
If you use a diaper cover that does not have a velcro fastening method you may need to pin or Snappi your diaper to hold it in place. Snappi are easy to use if you don't want to use pins!
Snappi is a diaper fastener that is easy to use!
