Now this is a useful baby gadget or toy which will help make changing a wriggly and active baby much easier alright!

I know I have been away for soooo long and this poor website has been soooo neglected (more on that in another post). However, keep the Cloth Diaper passion and spirit burning, with or without Cloth Diaper Malaysia ok!!

Meanwhile, I present to you some tips you can use to make cloth diaper changing a breeze for you and your active baby. These mostly come from my own experience of  patiently struggling to change my active 10 month old’s cloth diapers. These tips will come in handy when your baby is constantly resisting wriggling  (can’t sit still – instead moves bout like a caterpillar) during diaper changes, and also when he starts to turn himself on his back. Boy, what an act diaper changing time can be!

Remember, the safest way to change an active baby’s diaper is on a flat surface and away from elevated surfaces which might risk baby falling off and hurting himself. Do NOT leave baby alone on a higher surface, like the changing table or bed even for a second because they can be very quick, and accidents can occur! The floor is your best bet!

8 TIPS FOR CLOTH DIAPER CHANGING

• Make sure you have all diaper changing essential ready – The key is to be quick, so ensure things like wipes, clean diapers, diaper cream, etc are already right next to you. The last thing you want is to go around looking for something with your your baby lying impatiently butt naked (literally).
• Choose easy to put on cloth diapers – Generally, Velcro type cloth diapers are faster to put on compared to Snap ones, so use them instead. Cloth Diapers with side snaps however are very good because you can fasten the snaps in advance and easily pull up the diapers like a pair of pants/pull up pants. You can even change him while he’s standing!
• 
• Change at the same spot – Babies love routine and familiarity. Therefore, try to change your baby at the same place each time so he knows what to expect and he’s comfortable in that place. Pick a calm and quiet area too so he will not be agitated. You can even decorate the area with colourful wall stickers, hang a mobile and also keep your diaper changing essentials there.
• Distract with a toy – Always keep baby’s favourite toy next to the diaper changing area, so he can be keep himself busy while you quickly change his diaper. It can also be any interesting item that will capture his attention like keys, a box, a bottle, or whatever. For me, my baby’s favourite “toy” seems to be the bright red coloured diaper cream tube. Hey, whatever works!
• Talk/sing to him – It’s always good to talk to your baby and explain to him what you are doing during the whole process. Capture his attention with animated voice, interesting gestures and body language. Invent a simple rhyme or tune you can sing each time for diaper changes, this works too!



• Play Peek-A-Boo – This is a great way to make diaper changes more fun. While he’s lying down on his back, slowly bring your baby’s legs together up in the air in front of him and say out “Up, Up, Up!” Try to hide your face behind baby’s legs. Then ask “Where’s Mummy…??” And open his legs wide to expose your smiling face by saying “PEEK-A-BOO!”
• Make use of your feet! – It’s easiest to change diapers on a flat surface. To stop baby from moving about/crawling away/flipping sides, make a “barrier” with your feet to try to prevent movement. Sit with your legs extended in a “V” shape with baby in between your legs. If need be, you can also quickly use your feet to “clamp” your baby down while you quickly change him.
• Prepare for emergencies! - During diaper changes, your baby might decide it’s the best time  to pee or even poop! To avoid messy situations, change baby on a waterproof mat/surface, and always have some napkins/wipe cloths around to quickly “cover up” the problem (especially for baby boys), or to wipe any messes. A better idea is to cover baby’s genitals with the cloth when it is exposed to avoid such emergencies.

The key is to make diaper changing quick, efficient and still fun. Try to ensure a positive experience each time, and avoid crying or making him uncomfortable. This will make diaper changing a pleasant experience for both you and baby. Good luck!

P.S: What do you think about these ideas? Do you have any other diaper changing tips, or even funny stories? Please share in the comments section!

I have upgraded myself from the Prefold+Cover and Pocket Diaper to a new type of Cloth Diapers: the All-In-Twos (AI2s).

What are All-In-Two (AI2) Cloth Diapers?

• They are similar to All-In-Ones (AIOs) type because they have all the components in one diaper: A waterproof outer and the absorbent soaker.
• The difference is that the soakers, which are secured with Snaps, can be easily removed from the outer (diaper cover).
• It’s easy to use because when you change the diapers, and the diaper is not soiled (cover is still clean), you just remove the wet soaker and replace with another clean one!
• It’s convenient because if you travel or go out, you can just bring extra soakers instead of an entire diaper – Saves a lot of room in your diaper bag!
• Because the soakers can be removed, it allows thorough washing of the soakers and drying times are also faster (compared to AIOs). Also, there’s less laundry to do!
• It is more expensive than the other types of cloth diapers.
• However, in my opinion they can be economical – you just need a few pieces of covers and you can buy many many soakers to use and rotate instead of buying additional cloth diapers!
• The outer cover can also be used as a diaper cover with Fitted Diapers and Prefolds!

I love the simplicity, uniqueness and design of the All-In-Two system. I agree they are a bigger investment, but they are very versatile!

Currently, I am using these two brands of All In Twos:

GROVIA (formerly known as GroBaby)

Actually, I’ve tried GroBaby (and still awaiting my GroVias – coming soon! ). This was the brand that made me love AI2s! The GroBaby shell set costs a whopping RM95 (comes with a shell, a soaker and a booster) but it was well worth it! You can also use it as a Hybrid system, purchase some disposable inserts and it’s easier to use when out and about. The prints are cute, its design is tip top and it’s also one-sized (although it has quite a small cutting). It may not be so easy to buy GroBaby’s now because soon all the shops will be selling GROVIAs instead (slightly different design but still the same features), but if you manage to buy them preloved/second hand, you should! (Psst… there are some listed on Diapers Asia forum, see for yourself )

Available from: My Cheeky Boo, My Baby Pit Stop, Tiny Tapir, and many others.

ITTI BITTI D’LISH SNAP IN ONE (SIO)

I understand why this Australian brand of AI2s are so popular. These cloth diapers are simply the cutest ever, check out the gorgeous rainbow colours and limited edition prints, and Minkee fabric outer too! It has a very unique design too which I liked, the soaker and booster can both be snapped off (Snap In One ) for easy washing and drying, and also for you to reuse the cover. It is SIZED diapers, and the design makes it fit really snugly and it is super duper trim. My husband loves this, saying that they are not bulky and looks comfortable for the baby to move around in. There are also some Moms who are selling these preloved – they’re very popular, just visit the Diapers Asia forums and look for them (I bought all 3 of mine there too )

Available from: Zizitots Collection

Check out the Malaysian CD Shops listing to see where you can get these 2 brands of cloth diapers!

QUESTION: Tell me your favourite brands of All In Twos too!

Kali ini saya ingin kongsi bersama informasi mengenai Ruam Lampin (diaper rash) dan kaitannya dengan menggunakan Cloth Diapers.

Acap kali kita terbaca informasi yang mengatakan:

“Penggunaan Cloth Diapers boleh mengurangkan/mencegah ruam lampin”

Benarkah kenyataan tersebut?

Selama saya menggunakan Cloth Diapers, saya ketahui bahawa mungkin kenyataan ini kurang tepat. Bayi saya tidak terlepas juga dari mendapat ruam lampin atau “diaper rash”.

Apakah itu Ruam Lampin?

• Ruam lampin, atau nama medikalnya “Diaper Dermatitis” merujuk kepada ruam pada bahagian kulit bayi yang dipakaikan lampin (diaper area).
• Ia disebabkan oleh faktor-faktor seperti jangkitan kulit atau bahan yang boleh menyebabkan iritasi.
• Ia menyebabkan permukaan kulit bayi menjadi merah, menggelupas, berbintik-bintik, gatal atau luka.

Mengapa Ruam Lampin Terjadi?

1. Punca utama adalah pendedahan kulit bayi kepada kelembapan secara berpanjangan (prolonged wetness).
2. Perubahan pH kulit kepada lebih berasid yang disebabkan oleh air kencing dan poo bayi.
3. Pemakanan bayi: Bayi yang menyusu badan kurang mendapat ruam lampin (kerana poo kurang berasid) berbanding bayi yang sudah boleh makan.
4. Alergi makanan.
5. Diarrhea.
6. Perubahan diet ibu yang menyusukan.
7. Luka pada kulit.
8. Jangkitan kulat.
9. Pergeselan berterusan kulit bayi dengan lampin.
10. Kulit jenis sensitif.
11. Pendedahan kepada bahan iritan.

**E-mail me this password for 1 EXTRA ENTRY for the Baby-mel/Knickernappies Cloth Diaper Giveaway: “MADE IN USA”**

Katanya pakai Cloth Diapers boleh mengurangkan Ruam Lampin??!

Kenyataan ini bukan lah 100% tepat.

• Sebab utama ruam lampin terjadi adalah kelembapan, dan tiada kaitan dengan jenis lampin yang dipakaikan.
• Sekurang-kurangnya 50% bayi akan mendapat ruam lampin selama jangka masa mereka memakai lampin.
• Tiada perbezaan yang ketara jika kita menggunakan Cloth Diapers atau lampin pakai buang.
• Amat penting agar lampin kerap ditukar, tidak kira jika menggunakan Cloth Diapers atau lampin pakai buang.
• Bayi baru lahir perlu ditukarkan lampin baru setiap jam, manakala bayi yang lebih besar, setiap 3-4 jam.

Namun begitu, antara sebab berlakunya ruam lampin yang mungkin berkaitan dengan JENIS lampin yang kita pakaikan pada bayi kita (Cloth Diapers ataupun lampin pakai buang) adalah:

• Pergeselan berterusan kulit bayi dengan lampin
• Kulit bayi yang sensitif
• Pendedahan kepada bahan iritan.

Umum diketahui bahawa bahan-bahan yang digunakan untuk membuat lampin pakai buang (disposable diapers) terdiri daripada bahan kimia dan sintetik – boleh baca lebih lanjut di posting “Apa yang ada dalam produk pakai buang?” Oleh itu pada pandangan saya, ruam lampin boleh lah dikurangkan sedikit dengan penggunaan Cloth Diapers. Sekurang-kurangnya “kulit bayi yang sensitif tidak akan bergesel secara berterusan dengan bahan iritan dan kimia yang ada di dalam lampin pakai buang!” (Pandainya saya karang ayat baru dari ketiga-tiga di atas, hehe)

Tapi perlu diingatkan, pakai Cloth Diapers pun boleh juga mengakibatkan ruam lampin! Saya akan kongsi pula maklumat ini di masa hadapan

SOALAN: Adakah anda setuju atau tidak dengan pandangan saya di atas?

]]> http://clothdiapermalaysia.com/2010/05/ruam-lampin-diaper-rash-cloth-diapers/feed/ 8 http://clothdiapermalaysia.com/2010/03/cloth-diapering-travelling-ecofriendly-disposables-hybrid-diapers/ http://clothdiapermalaysia.com/2010/03/cloth-diapering-travelling-ecofriendly-disposables-hybrid-diapers/#comments Tue, 30 Mar 2010 09:01:57 +0000 Farhana (ClothDiaperMalaysia) http://clothdiapermalaysia.com/?p=678

I received an e-mail from Cloth Diaper Malaysia reader all the way from Canada, Isha. She has a particular situation involving diapering while traveling. Below is what she wrote to me:

“I will be traveling to Singapore and KL. I would absolutely LOVE to continue to use my cloth while on holiday but, unfortunately, traveling arrangements, a rigorous visiting schedule and frequent changes in accommodation make this an impossible endeavor. So, I have been researching eco-friendly disposable alternatives and only came across one brand called Moltex Oko available in Singapore.  I thought I would drop you a line to see if you have any other suggestions/recommendations that I might have missed?”

Cloth diapering while traveling can be a challenge. You are not in the comforts of your own home, so you might be concerned with things such as:

• How many cloth diapers should I bring? Which type?
• Should I bring along all my other cloth diaper accessories?
• How and where to launder my cloth diapers?
• Will I have the time to wash and care for my cloth diapers?

So what are the options to diaper my baby while I’m traveling away from home?

ECO-FRIENDLY DISPOSABLE DIAPERS

There are many ways to make Cloth Diapering during your travels possible. Isha mentioned one of them: To use eco-friendly (disposable) alternatives. It is not entirely “wrong” to use disposables, let us remind ourselves that disposable diapers are meant to be used for its convenience. So while travelling, it could be the most logical thing to do.

However even if you use disposables, you can still make a difference to mother earth by choosing the types which are eco-friendlier (I specifically mention eco-friendli-”er” because you are still creating some amount of waste because you throw them away after each use. However, the difference is the type of waste you’re creating, they might be less harmful for the environment).

Isha highlighted the eco-friendly disposable diaper brand, Moltex Oko. It can be purchased in Malaysia through the  blogshop Baby Kiddies. Apparently it’s the only brand available over here though.

So what I would like to offer to Isha is another solution: Hybrid Diapers.

WHAT ARE HYBRID DIAPERS?

• “Best of both worlds”: Diapers which combine the convenience of disposable diapers along with the reusabililty of Cloth Diapers.
• Consists of: Reusable diaper cover and use of disposable insert/inner (thrown away after it is used). Hybrid diapers also comes with washable inserts, so you can fully use cloth when you’re at home.
• Advantages: Less plastic waste is generated because only the insert is thrown away; more convenient to use compared to cloth diapers especially when travelling or going out (no need to store wet/dirty cloth diapers to bring home); Inserts are usually eco-friendly/biodegradable; Also means babies are less exposed to chemicals, and it is less harmful to the environment; Flexible 2 in 1 system -Fully cloth diaper at home, and while travelling use disposable inserts!

WHAT ARE SOME BRANDS OF HYBRID DIAPERS AVAILABLE?

Here are some brands of hybrid cloth diapers that you may find in Malaysia:

1. MyEcoNappy – Proudly a Malaysian designed hybrid diaper!  You may find these in retail outlets such as Babyland, Planete Enfante Mamours, World of Cartoons & Bebe Homes
2. Mothercare Smart Nappy system – available in Mothercare retail outlets in Malaysia
3. Gro Baby – Available at My Baby Pit Stop, My Cheeky Boo, BabyMyLuv, Mia Bambina online stores.
4. Flip – Available at Babyz N Mom online store.
5. gDiapers – I personally feel these has a great design. Unfortunately, no Malaysian retailers carry these yet.

Personally, I feel Hybrid Diapers are such a great innovation! You can get a set and use the reusable, washable inserts for home, and when you are out or travelling, there is an option to go (semi) disposable! Super!!

Question: Any Hybrid Cloth Diaper users out there? How do you like your Hybrids?

What do you need to Cloth Diaper outside home? Read about It’s Easy to Cloth Diaper on the Go

You also use Cloth Pads.

Anything else to complete the “CLOTH” package?

What about trying CLOTH WIPES?

I bet we have used these disposable baby wet wipes at least once during our baby caring days:

They’re indispensable and very useful during diaper changes. It is a must have for any baby changing table. (Unless you’re one of the moms who wash their baby’s bum “au naturel” – which is at the sink itself! ) It’s convenient and spares you the time to go to the bathroom and back if your baby needs cleaning after he “dirties” himself. Also, if your baby needs some quick clean ups after a meal, breastfeeding, spills, messes, etc – they’re handy to use too.

But the thing is, the disadvantages of disposable wet wipes are:

• Disposable – More waste in our landfills!
• Chemical laden – The fragrances, drying agents, alcohol might not be the best for your baby’s delicate skin!
• Costs money! – Like other disposable products, you are unnecessarily paying for the added convenience.

So how about converting to a more natural, economical and greener option?

Yes, ditch those disposable baby wet wipes and convert to Cloth Wipes!!

Why should you use Cloth Wipes?

• As versatile as baby wipes: Use them for anything! Diaper changes, wiping face and body, cleaning spills & messes, etc.
• Much funner and cuter: Compared to the boring, white and rough disposable wet wipes. (Ok, this might be a “mengada” reason, but still) It will make diaper changes more enjoyable!
• More natural and softer on baby’s delicate skin: You don’t expose baby to chemicals.
• Saves money: Save up RM10-20 per each time you don’t buy baby wet wipes in the supermarket.
• Easy to wash: Simply toss your used Cloth Wipes in the washing machine (along with Cloth Diapers, etc).
• Many fabrics to choose from: Many different types of cloth wipes are on sale  – flannel, terry, bamboo or cotton. Or simply purchase baby washcloths/face towels to use as cloth wipes.
• You can make your own! Recycle old baby blankets or towels, cut them up and use them as Cloth Wipes!

Cloth Wipes can simply be used with water, or you can use homemade recipes for Cloth Wipes solutions. (I’ll post up my favourites soon).

What you need to use the Cloth Wipe system:

• Container to store your Cloth Wipes
• Spray bottles for Cloth Wipe solution/water
• Thermos and bowl if you prefer to simply use warm water

I’ll write up about Cloth Wipe solution recipes and how to use Cloth Wipes in my later blog posts. What are you waiting for, cloth wipes is the next thing to do! Or, if you have yet Cloth Diaper or use Cloth Pads, using Cloth Wipes can be a simple first step towards your journey to using CLOTH!

Question: Is anyone presently using Cloth Wipes? Leave a comment here and share with others how great it is!

*This post is part of the Cloth Diaper Carnival VII:  Newborn Cloth Diapering at Dirty Diaper Laundry*

So sorry about the very long absence… But it was not for a better reason – I gave birth to a beautiful baby boy, Rafee 1 week ago! So imagine the hectic-ness I have to undergo for this while, I hope Cloth Diaper Malaysia readers would understand

Just so you know, one of the many reasons I started Cloth Diaper Malaysia, apart from wanting to promote and encourage Cloth Diapering to Malaysians, was to also prepare myself with the knowledge to Cloth Diaper my newborn baby. I researched, read and wrote articles related to Cloth Diapers for myself, and also to share with the others about Cloth Diapering.

UNFORTUNATELY, I learnt that theory and practical were two VERY different things. Despite the preparations I made, my Cloth Diapering journey with my newborn wasn’t so smooth sailing and easy.

Here were some of the problems about Cloth Diapering a newborn that I have encountered, which were oh-so frustrating!

1) None of my bought cloth diapers seem to fit my small newborn!

Apparently I was too cautious, not wanting to buy Extra Small sizes because I thought “they wouldn’t last too long.”

2) My prefolds and diaper cover plan to cloth diaper my newborn was a failure.

How silly of me, I have a stash of prefold diapers that were Regulars (again, I thought buying Infant size would be a waste) which did not fit my newborn at all, NOR did they even fit in ANY of the XS or S sized diaper covers that I had.

3) Leaking problems!

Again, this was a sizing issue, even with a small sized Fitted Diaper. I was breastfeeding one time, and my boy leaked all over my lap, grr!!
4) My little boy LOVES pooping on freshly changed diapers.

Happened so many times after I put on a clean diaper, to find out that minutes later he “felt” like the diapers were just too nice not to poop on immediately!

5) My social support system wasn’t really so “supportive”.

My husband was joking with me that I put so much effort in wanting to Cloth Diaper, but apparently so many things tend to go wrong! And I don’t think my mother in law was into the idea of Cloth Diapers too much either!

6) The cloth diapers were so bulky!

On a tiny newborn, almost everything I put on makes my baby an awkward sumo wrestler on his crotch (which didn’t look too comfortable). I was critcized again about this by my social support system, heh.

7) Could I even be bothered with laundry right now??

Cloth Diapering requires ULTIMATE care, but seriously, with a million other things to do with the baby the first month, should I really put so much effort in it?

8 ) I couldn’t figure out how to Snappi lampins (or prefold for that matter) properly.

In the end I gave up. Needs more practice. Sigh.

9) My “one sized” pocket diapers were not really “one sized fits all”.

It certainly did not fit on too well on my newborn. Even at the smallest setting, it was still huge and left gaps at the legs.

10) My apartment laundry area had no direct contact with the sun.

So the stains on the diapers couldn’t benefit from the sunlight. Also, they take ages to dry. Sigh….

So I guess my cloth diaper start was bumpy indeed. Will it stop me from trying? Of course not! After all is sorted, I’m ditching those darn disposable diapers! But now with breastfeeding, identifying baby’s needs and wants, trying to get enough rest, being a zombie during the day…. It’s going to be tough indeed!

But never mind, the good news is, my little baby is born healthy and happy!

(Thanks Adriana for making the birth announcement! )

*UPDATE! One month after I got used to the craziness of becoming a new parent, my Cloth Diapering journey was more successful… Read about how I did in this post: My Newborn Prefold Experience. Yay!!!

Tahukah anda dengan jenis-jenis material atau fabrik yang digunakan untuk cloth diaper? Bukan semua jenis cloth diapers itu sama. Jika anda tertanya-tanya mengapa ada jenis cloth diapers mahal harganya, dan ada pula yang murah, kita boleh menilai dengan mengetahui jenis material yang digunakan untuk menghasilkan cloth diaper tersebut.

Sebelum membeli sesuatu jenama atau jenis cloth diapers, tanyakan dan pastikan dahulu dengan penjual tentang material cloth diaper. Ini adalah penting kerana beraneka jenis material mungkin memerlukan cara penjagaan dan pembasuhan yang BERLAINAN. Sepatutnya juga, para penjual cloth diaper perlu memberi jawapan kepada soalan-soalan ini kepada pembeli:

• Apakah material yang digunakan untuk cloth diaper (lapisan dalam/luar/material asas?)
• Apakah material inserts yang digunakan?
• Bagaimanakah cara untuk basuh pertama kali sebelum digunakan (prewash)?
• Apakah teknik penjagaan/pembasuhan yang khusus untuk cloth diaper jenis ini?

Kita mungkin pernah dengar tentang microfiber, cotton, bamboo, fleece dan sebagainya semasa pencarian cloth diapers. Mari kita menjengah lebih mendalam mengenai jenis-jenis material dan fabrik yang lazim digunakan, bersama dengan kelebihan dan kekurangan masing-masing:

1) PUL (POLYURETHANE LAMINATE)

• Diperbuat dari kombinasi kapas, polyester atau kapas/ campuran poly. Bahan ini digunakan sebagai lapisan luar kalis air cloth diaper seperti untuk pocket diapers, AIO/AI2 dan juga diaper cover.
• Kelebihan: “Breathable” (bukan seperti lapisan plastik yang tiada pengudaraan).

2) FLEECE/MICROFLEECE

• Material sintetik ini (100% polyester) amat biasa digunakan sebagai lapisan dalam pocket diaper, AIO/AI2 dan diaper cover. Diaper liners juga ada diperbuat daripada fleece (untuk diletakkan di atas cloth diaper sebagai lapisan “stay dry” dan untuk menyenangkan pembuangan air besar bayi dari CD).
• Fleece ada pelbagai kualiti. Kualiti paling bagus adalah “Polar Fleece”.
• Kelebihan: Amat lembut untuk digunakan atas kulit bayi, berkebolehan untuk menarik air ke lapisan bawah secara efektif dan menjadikan kulit bayi kekal kering semasa memakai cloth diaper (wicking properties), “breathable”, senang dicuci, cepat kering, “stain-resistant”.

3) MICROFIBER

• Material ini lazim digunakan sebagai inserts, dan ianya adalah kombinasi polyester dan polyamide (bahan sintetik). Fabrik ini seperti fabrik yang digunakan untuk membuat tuala mandi.
• Kelebihan: Agak murah, senang didapati, mempunyai daya serapan yang bagus, berupaya menyerap cecair dari permukaan kulit dengan pantas berbanding material lain (wicking properties).
• Kekurangan: Tidak boleh digunakan terus ke atas kulit bayi kerana akan menyebabkan masalah kekeringan (kerana ianya menyerap cecair dengan pantas), material sintetik ini tidak terbiodegradasi (non-biodegradable).

4) BAMBOO

• Bahan diperbuat dari tanaman bamboo ini semakin popular untuk pembuatan cloth diapers. Ianya digunakan sebagai material asas cloth diaper seperti fitted diaper, lapisan dalam pocket diaper dan juga sebagai insert.
• Kelebihan: Fabrik yang “breathable” (sejuk untuk pemakaian di cuaca panas), lembut, berupaya menyerap lebih cecair berbanding microfiber (lebih sesuai untuk penggunaan waktu malam), mempunyai sifat anti-bakteria semulajadi, bahan yang semulajadi,  mesra alam sekitar dan “sustainable” (bamboo tidak menggunakan pestisid, senang & cepat ditanam).
• Kekurangan: Memerlukan “prewash” yang lebih kerap (lebih 6 kali) sebelum digunakan untuk memastikan daya serap yang tinggi, sewaktu prewash juga tidak boleh dibasuh dengan fabrik lain, harga yang lebih mahal.

5) HEMP

• Diperbuat daripada kayu tanaman hemp. Lazim digunakan sebagai bahan asas untuk fitted diaper, lapisan atas pocket diaper dan sebagai insert.
• Kelebihan: Tahan lasak, berkebolehan untuk menjadi lebih lembut selepas penggunaan berterusan, daya serap yang lebih tinggi berbanding microfiber (lebih sesuai untuk penggunaan waktu malam), bahan yang semulajadi (lebih environmental), mempunyai sifat anti-bakteria semulajadi, sesuai untuk pemakaian di cuaca sejuk ataupun panas.
• Kekurangan: Memerlukan “prewash” yang lebih kerap untuk membuang “natural oils” yang ada di dalamnya, agak lambat untuk dikeringkan, lebih sukar didapati di Malaysia, harga yang jauh lebih mahal.

6) WOOL

• Material semulajadi daripada kulit biri-biri ini amat sesuai sebagai bahan diaper covers atau soakers (shorties/longies). Bahan ini juga selalu digunakan untuk membuat baju sejuk (sweater).
• Kelebihan: Fabrik yang amat “breathable” (sesuai untuk bayi semasa cuaca panas dan juga sejuk), boleh digunakan berulang kali tanpa dibasuh, lanolin dalam wool mempunyai “repelling properties” (boleh memansuhkan air dari kulit bayi dengan cekap).
• Kekurangan: Memerlukan penjagaan yang khusus, perlu di-lanolize semula untuk mengembalikan daya serap dan “repelling properties”, agak sukar didapati di Malaysia (biasanya perlu dibeli dari luar negara), harga yang mahal.

Sekarang anda sudah lebih mahir tentang fabrik-fabrik cloth diaper bukan? Jangan lupa gunakan info-info ini semasa proses pembelian cloth diapers anda kelak!

(What Do I Need to Cloth Diaper? – A Tutorial Video)

Kalau belajar melalui menonton video, tentu lebih senang dari membaca entri blog yang panjang berjela-jela kan? Jika anda masih di permulaan “pembelajaran” Cloth Diapering, video ini amat mudah difahami dan merangkumi aspek-aspek penting dalam dunia Cloth Diapering.

Video hampir 7 minit ini dalam Bahasa Inggeris dan bertajuk “What Do I Need to Cloth Diaper”. Kualitinya bagus dan seronok pula untuk ditonton. Kita boleh mempelajari tentang:

• Apa yang diperlukan untuk Cloth Diapering? – Prefold, Diaper Cover & Snappi/pin!
• Jenis-jenis Prefold - Bleached & Unbleached
• Penggunaan Diaper Pail
• Penggunaan Cloth Wipes – Tidak perlu menggunakan disposable baby wipes!
• Jenama-jenama Diaper Covers – Seperti Bummis, Thirsties, Fleece Soakers & Imse Vimse
• Penggunaan Snappi – Tidak perlu menggunakan pin untuk menyematkan Cloth Diapers!
• Penggunaan Inserts untuk Cloth Diaper waktu malam
• Apa itu Fitted Diaper?

Saya amat suka video sebegini! Tak banyak songeh, informatif dan senang difahami! Kepada mereka yang pening mengenai Cloth Diapers, ini video untuk anda!

Jika anda meminati pembelajaran Cloth Diaper melalui video, anda juga boleh menjengah entri blog saya mengenai Cara-cara Menggunakan Prefolds/Lampin (tutorial video).

Jika anda masih baru dalam dunia Cloth Diapers, mungkin anda merasakan Cloth Diaper itu mahal. Banyak Cloth Diapers yang jenamanya “established” dan telah lama di pasaran adalah jenama luar negara (Rujuk posting “Top 15 Cloth Diaper Brands” untuk mengenali jenama-jenama CD yang popular sekarang). Mungkin dilabel “mahal” kerana harga sekeping sahaja sudah mencecah RM60 ke atas (selalunya jenis Pocket Diapers). Saya setuju kita boleh dapatkan Cloth Diapers yang lebih murah harganya jika ianya bukan jenama antarabangsa atau yang kurang “dikenali” (besar kemungkinan ia Made in China, dll), tetapi saya sendiri belum berkesempatan untuk mencuba untuk menilai kualiti dan keberkesanannya. Namun begitu, saya tahu akan ibu-ibu yang cukup serasi menggunakan jenama-jenama ini, dan berpuas hati dengan pilihan mereka.

Tidak dinafikan juga ramai pengguna lebih cenderung untuk memilih Cloth Diapers jenis POCKET DIAPERS kerana ianya cukup popular dan dikenali. Namun begitu para pengunjung sekalian, eloklah saya memperkenalkan Cloth Diaper jenis PREFOLDS – sebagai salah satu jenis Cloth Diaper yang MURAH dan MUDAH untuk digunakan!

Cloth Diaper untuk Bayi Baru Lahir (Newborns)

Menggunakan Cloth Diapers ke atas bayi baru lahir memerlukan Cloth Diaper dalam kuantiti yang banyak dan juga agak melecehkan. Cloth Diapering pada peringkat awal ini juga mungkin agak sukar dan memerlukan kesabaran. Mengapa pula? (Rujuk juga posting “Berapa CDs yang Saya Perlu untuk Bayi Saya?” untuk pemahaman lebih mendalam):

-          Bayi baru lahir (newborns) sangat kerap membuang air kecil dan besar. Lampin perlu ditukar lebih kurang setiap 2 jam sekali, 12 kali sehari!

-          Ini bermakna, kita memerlukan stok 24-36 keping Cloth Diapers untuk newborn! (jika kita membasuh Cloth Diaper 2-3 hari sekali)

-          Air besar newborn amat cair, sukar melekat pada lampin dan senang bocor di sisi dan belakang (masalah biasa jika menggunakan lampin pakai buang)

-          Newborn masih bersaiz kecil (terutama bahagian peha) dan mungkin tidak sesuai untuk dipakaikan “One Size” Cloth Diapers (kebocoran jika saiz CD tidak sesuai).

Mahu tahu cara paling murah dan senang untuk Cloth Diaper bayi baru lahir? Menggunakan PREFOLDS/FLATS (kain lampin)! Ianya adalah jenis CD yang paling versatil, menjimatkan dan sesuai untuk keperluan newborn:

-          Sekeping Prefold diapers harganya RM8-12 setiap satu. Di mana nak beli Prefolds? Klik link ini untuk senarai kedai: Prefolds di Malaysia.

-          Harga Flat diapers (kain lampin biasa) juga amat murah dan senang didapati di mana-mana pasaraya.

-          Prefolds/Flats sesuai untuk pencucian yang kerap kerana ianya kain yang tahan lasak, dan ianya cepat kering.

-          Kombinasi lengkap yang boleh digunakan adalah Prefolds + Snappi + Diaper Cover. Sistem ini sesuai untuk mengelakkan kebocoran dan penggunaan kerap bagi bayi baru lahir.

-          Diaper Cover menjadikan penggunaan Prefolds sebagai kalis air, dan juga tidak perlu dibasuh setiap kali digunakan kerana ianya lapisan luar. Memadai jika kita ada 4-5 keping Diaper Cover untuk digunakan. Di mana nak beli Diaper Covers? Rujuk di sini.

-          Terpulang kepada bajet, sistem Prefolds+Diaper Cover kosnya hanya RM30-40. Ianya lebih murah jika menggunakan Flats (kain lampin).

-          Jika tidak mahu menggunakan Diaper Covers pun tidak mengapa, prefolds/flats boleh dipakaikan dengan Snappi sahaja. Cuma bersedia dengan alas kalis air jika berlaku sebarang kebocoran!

Siapa kata Cloth Diaper tidak berpatutan harganya? Sesiapa pun boleh menggunakan CDs, dan tidak semestinya membiasakan diri dengan CD jenis Pocket Diapers sahaja. Saya setuju, ada juga Cloth Diapers jenis One Size Pocket Diapers yang berharga RM30-40 sekali dengan inserts, tetapi fikirkan semula: Tiada bezakah CD yang berharga RM30 ini dengan CD yang berharga lebih RM60? Kita juga perlu realistik, jangan hanya kerana “murah”, kita terlalu ghairah membeli. Fikirkan tentang kualiti juga!

*Untuk pengetahuan anda, kualiti Prefolds adalah sama dan standard. Harga Diaper Cover jenama Thirsties dan Bummis yang memang dikenali ramai dengan kualitinya pula berharga RM30-40 setiap satu. (Saya juga beli second hand sahaja, boleh dapat dengan harga RM20 )

Ingati semula mengapa kita mahu menggunakan Cloth Diapers untuk anak kita: Untuk menjimatkan wang? Untuk kebaikan alam sekitar? Untuk keselesaan bayi? Saya rasa penggunaan CD jenis Prefolds/Flats memang mencapai kesemua matlamat ini! Cubalah

If you have read about “10 Things to Consider Before You Start Cloth Diapering”, your next question as a potential or new Cloth Diaper user will be: “How many cloth diapers do I need in my collection”? How many is “too little”? Is there such thing as “too many”? What is “JUST NICE”??!! Argh… Cloth diapering is so confusing and difficult!! *starts pulling hair*

Calm down, it doesn’t have to be difficult

Like I’ve mentioned before, it all depends on how often your baby wets/poops himself in a day, AND how often you are doing your cloth diaper laundry. Even better, the Cloth Diaper Blog came up with a simple enough “mathematical calculation” to determine how many cloth diapers you need for your child:

No. of Diapers You Need =

No. of Times you Change your Cloth Diapers per day  X  No. of Days Between Washings

See, not really rocket science right?

So, what exactly does this mean? Some things to keep in mind:

1. If you wash your cloth diapers LESS OFTEN per week, you need MORE cloth diapers in your collection.
2. If you do MORE cloth diaper laundry per week, the LESS cloth diapers you need (the opposite of the above)
3. Consider the climate: Our weather has its ups and downs. If it’s sunny all day, CDs would dry in no time. If it’s rainy season, longer drying time is required!
4. Also consider the type of Cloth Diapers you use: All in Ones (AIOs) take longer drying time as compared to Pocket Diapers, for example.
5. How many Cloth Diapers you need depends on: Your child’s age and wetting/pooping pattern.

Let’s see how the above formula works with babies and children of different ages:

A) Cloth Diapering NEWBORN BABIES

-          Newborn babies pee and poop VERY often. We will assume newborns do so at least 12 times per day (12 diaper changes).

-          Option 1: 12 diaper changes per day X Washing every day = 12 Cloth Diapers (1 dozen) – include some extras

-          Option 2: 12 diaper changes per day X Washing every 2 days = 24 Cloth Diapers (2 dozen)

-          Option 3: 12 diaper changes per day X Washing every 3-4days (twice a week) = 36 – 48 Cloth Diapers (3-4 dozen) – this is more than enough

B) Cloth Diapering OLDER BABIES

-          Older babies (crawling age) do not pee and poop as often as newborns. We assume they go through 8 diaper changes per day.

-          Option 1: 8 diaper changes per day X Washing every day = 8 Cloth Diapers

-          Option 2: 8 diaper changes per day X Washing every 2 days = 16 Cloth Diapers – include some extras

-          Option 3: 8 diaper changes per day X Washing every 3-4 days (twice a week)  = 24 – 32 Cloth Diapers – more than enough

C) Cloth Diapering TODDLERS/CHILDREN

-          Toddlers (talking and walking babies) require less diaper changes as they approach potty training age. We assume they only change diapers 4 times per day. This also means you won’t have to wash you diapers too often as before.

-          Option 1: 4 diaper changes per day X Washing every 2 days = 8 Cloth Diapers

-          Option 2: 4 diaper changes per day X Washing every 3-4 days (twice a week)  = 12 – 16 Cloth Diapers

See, it is very simple! Let’s summarize:

1. Newborn babies require MORE cloth diapers compared to Older babies and toddlers.
2. The more often you do your cloth diaper laundry (e.g: every day), the less cloth diapers you need.
3. The number of Cloth Diapers that you need to start with (from newborn), can range between 12 – 48 cloth diapers. Amount needed will decrease as you baby grows older (time to sell off your used cloth diapers maybe?)

If anyone else ever asks you this question again “HOW MANY CLOTH DIAPERS DO I NEED??!!”, just refer them this article and hopefully they’ll get it too. Cheers!

QUESTION: How many Cloth Diapers did YOU start off with? How many do you have in your collection now?