How to Fold a Cloth Diaper

A couple of methods

Lay the cloth diaper flat, with the length running up and down. Fold the right side over the middle, and the left side on top of the right fold. Then, spread out the top and bottom of the diaper so it is in a "v" shape. Slide the baby into the diaper, and pin the front and back corners together. This is known as the "thirds" method. Moms can also fasten Velcro at the corners of the diaper, or use a cute diaper cover. Another method, called the "triangle fold," is popular. Fold the rectangle diaper corner to corner, so it's in the shape of a triangle. Put the baby on the diaper, and bring the lower point of the triangle in between the baby's legs. Bring the other two points around its sides and pin in the center.

Some Helpful Hints There's a few things a parent can do for a baby to make sure its comfortable in a cloth diaper. When putting the diaper on a baby, pinching the fabric close together between the baby's legs will prevent bunching, which can lead to chafing and rash. If the baby is a newborn, make sure the back of the diaper is higher than the front to avoid irritating the umbilical cord with the fabric. When fastening any type of diaper, make sure to fasten the diaper snugly, but not too tight - avoid pinching the child's delicate skin.

To Pin or not to Pin?

Pinning a baby's diaper is a simple process once a parent knows what to do. Of course, they key is to not poke the child with a pin point. Between pin uses, stick the pins into a bar of soap so they will slide easily through the fabric of the diaper and force won't be necessary. If pins just won't work for your life, consider diaper covers or Velcro fasteners; both hold a cloth diaper in place pin-free.