owen bugs: cloth rocks :: links added

so i thought it was about time that i give a little update on the cloth diapering front, since we have been trying something a little different than what we had originally planned. instead of exclusively using the bumgenius pockets or gdiaper covers that i had previously mentioned, we have branched out and decided to use a number of different styles.

for our primary diaper, we have decided to go old school with a prefold and cover. basically our prefolds are a lot like the square pieces of cloth that our mothers or grandmothers may have used, only the newer versions are much thicker, fluffier, and more absorbent. we have chosen to go with three different materials, including unbleached indian cotton, bamboo velour/terry, and a hemp/cotton combo. basically, we just wrap the prefold around owen (there are several different methods/folds that you can use) and secure. instead of pins, we use a thing called a snappi. and instead of rubber pants, we use a cover made of wool or pul. surprisingly, wool is a fantastic choice for a year round cover, as it allows for maximum air circulation, and when lanolized, is waterproof and self cleaning. on the other hand, pul covers are great for use under clothes, as they can be very trim and easy to use.

our second choice are called fitted diapers. basically, these are a one piece diaper that is usually made of all natural materials, like bamboo, hemp, or organic cotton. they are shaped just like a disposable, and are just as easy to use. like a prefold, they are not completely waterproof, so a cover is usually needed. (wool or pul works.) we have found that when owen is running around at home, he can go coverless. but when he takes a nap, he needs a cover.

and our third choice are called pockets. (like the bumgenius ones that i previously mentioned.) basically these look like a fitted, but they have a pocket in the back that you can stuff with inserts. the purpose of a pocket is that it allows you to customize the level of absorbency. owen only uses one insert during the day, but two for at night. these are waterproof, so a cover is not required. we really like to use the pockets when we're going out (cause they fit the best under clothes and require no cover) and for overnight (cause we can stuff them and make them really absorbent, and they have a stay dry inner layer.)

so there you have it...lots of confusing options. we haven't completely given up on the disposables yet. but hopefully we will be 100% cloth here pretty soon. admittedly, it is taking a little time to get used to owen's new fluffy bum. we definitely have to be more selective about the type of pants that we buy for him in the future, and we always have to size up. but overall, i think cloth diapering is definitely a better choice for us.

and now for a couple pics of owen sporting a very cute fitted diaper... (more pics to come.)