Cloth Diaper Buying Guide

Types and prices

Lots of online retailers are in the business of selling cloth diapers, and this gives parents a lot of choices. Depending on what a parent is looking for, there are many options. Cotton diapers with colorful outer covers and absorbent insides are widely available and retail for about $20 each. Hemp diapers, which are super absorbent, retail anywhere from $7 to $10 each depending on the size of the baby; cotton terry cloth diapers run anywhere from $5 to $10. A six pack of diapers from Dream Eze that include a diaper and a cover can run up to $100. Diaper covers alone can run anywhere from $10 to $30, depending on size, material and design. For some parents, this option might be cost prohibitive; making cloth diapers at home is much more cost effective.

Chinese prefold diapers Chinese prefold diapers are the type that most diaper service delivery companies use - they're high quality Chinese cotton and they're what many call a "workhorse" diaper. Parents who make this diaper choice will need to use a diaper cover or a fastener of some type to keep the diaper in place. Prices for these diapers vary, but a median price is about $15 to $20 for a dozen diapers. Chinese prefolds are soft against the baby's skin, are effective absorbers and available to fit babies of all sizes, weights and ages.

Diaper accessories

Parents will likely keep diapers on a changing table, and there are a few necessities at the changing table that make caring for baby a snap. There are many types of changing pads available, and making sure the pad is cushioned, soft and fits snugly so it is safe for baby to lie on. Some will use a proper changing table, and if so, that's convenient as everything can be kept in one place. If not, purchasing some containers to keep things organized is probably a good idea. A list of other common baby care items include wipes, cream for diaper rash, cornstarch to keep baby fresh, Vaseline and baby lotion.