Back Blowouts: The Nightmare Every Parent Wants to Avoid!
Does it really have to be this challenging? Are there no tricks to avoid these messy incidents? Absolutely, there are! And today, we’re here to share them with you!
The answer is straightforward and involves just two steps:
- Say goodbye to your disposable diapers (preferably, donate them. It’s wasteful to toss unused ones).
- Embrace the world of cloth diapers.
Simple, right?
But let’s delve deeper into this solution. Read on.
Do Cloth Diapers Leak Less Than Disposables?
The majority of cloth diaper users would emphatically say 'yes'—provided the diaper fits well and is changed regularly.
While cloth diapers can leak, it's usually not in the sudden, explosive manner we see with disposables. From a survey we conducted at Veras, it became clear: most parents find that cloth diapers mainly leak urine, whereas disposables tend to leak feces.
How to Avoid Leaks with Cloth Diapers
To truly combat leaks, you need to pinpoint the issue. Ensure you're getting these right:
- Fit
- Inserts: type and quantity
- Change frequency
- Inner fabric type
Fit
Cloth diapers differ in fit from disposables. They tend to be shorter at the front and back, meaning they sit below the navel rather than extending upwards towards the chest like some disposables. Think of them fitting like underwear – snug around the crotch. Ensure there are no gaps at the thighs or waist, which could allow for escapes. The waterproof PUL layer should always be on the outside. If, for instance, a cotton seam from the diaper touches the baby's clothes, it can wick moisture onto the clothes, leading to leaks.
Inserts
The right inserts ensure maximum absorption. With pocket diapers, you can control which inserts to use. Typically, two inserts suffice: we recommend a hemp insert (bottom) and a bamboo one (closest to the baby). Hemp can absorb a lot but slowly, while bamboo absorbs rapidly, but doesn't retain as much. Microfiber absorbs very quickly but isn't great at retention. If your baby urinates a lot, consider adding a booster – a smaller insert placed where most needed, without adding unnecessary bulk. Boosters can also be used in all-in-one diapers with fixed inserts.
Change Frequency
This refers to how often you replace the diaper. If you find the diaper leaking and it's soaked inside, consider increasing the change frequency or adding a booster, as discussed under "Inserts".
Inner Fabric
Some parents find that diapers with a coolmax/mesh inner lining tend to leak more. If you've addressed the other factors like fit and inserts, consider trying diapers with a cotton lining instead of coolmax/mesh or suede cloth.
A Tip for Those Sticking to Disposables
Not ready to fully transition to cloth diapers but tired of poop leaks from disposables? Try placing a PUL cover over your disposable diaper for an extra layer of leak protection!