SIMPLYcloth Checklist

Here's an easy way to start using cloth diapers VERY inexpensively, and with products that are no-nonsense workhorses for functionality.


I've put together this checklist for you, both with what to buy and what to DO.  If you have any questions at all, please feel free to email me here or chat with me if you see the Live Chat button above.


What to Buy:
  • 4-6 SIMPLYcovers in the size you need and the color(s) you want.
  • 8-36 Infant Prefolds 
    Get 8-12 if you plan to EC and will need less absorbency most of the time and use these thicker prefolds only/mostly at night.  Get 36 to cloth diaper full time and have the most simple system possible.  Husbands, grandparents and babysitters tend to be happier with fewer choices - my husband really liked a big stack of prefolds to pull from and not have to try to figure.
  • 18-30 Trim Stuffings
    If you are getting fewer than 16 Infant Prefolds, you'll need some trim stuffings to use when you're doing EC and won't need the absorbency of a thicker prefold.  Choose among Gerber Prefolds, SIMPLYinserts, and Flannel Inserts and get 18-24 of them.
  • biokleen Premium Laundry Powder.  Using regular detergents on cloth diapers and trainers is NOT a good idea.  They will leak and stink.  This is what I've used on all my family's laundry since 2005.
What to do:
  • When your prefolds, inserts, and detergent arrives, do some laundry!  Wash and dry the prefolds and inserts 8-10 times with hot water and high heat dry.  This gets rid of all the oils and residue left on the cloth from manufacturing.  It "fluffs up" the fibers and gets them to their optimum absorbency.
  • When your covers arrive (they will be custom made for you by Joy), first try them on your baby quickly for fit, and if they fit, wash and dry them on hot.  This closes up the holes in the waterproof fabric made when sewing on the elastic edging.  (If they don't fit, just email me and we'll get you new ones made pronto.)
  • Stuff a few covers and put a SIMPLYcloth diaper on your baby next chance you get! 

Helpful Hints:
  • You can re-use the SIMPLYcover until it gets wet or dirty, just lay in new stuffing and put it back on the baby.  Pay attention to the elastic edging for dampness. 
  • Many people especially like the SIMPLYcover because it is easily rinsed or washed by hand and left to quickly hang dry.
  • Make it a habit to change the SIMPLYcloth diaper at night at least once.  It *can* hold wetness a long time, but if you are up with your baby anyway, please change the diaper to keep the baby dry and comfortable.  I found it easiest to pre-stuff a SIMPLYcover or two and keep this handy to make the night changes quick and easy.  It is not uncommon for babies to sleep through diaper changes once it's part of their routine.  Keep nighttime clothing comfortable and accessible - if you need warmth at night, these Wool Leggings UNDER the diaper can't be beat!
Email me to ask any questions you may have, any time!  There is a lot of information out there, but I know it can get overwhelming.  It sometimes helps to hear an exact response to YOUR specific situation.  I've heard tons of stories about using a mixture of cloth and disposables, in-house laundry or shared machines, etc.