Hi Mama! 💕 I’m a second-time mom who’s been through the diapering journey once before with my son while living in a small apartment. Cloth diapering worked wonders for us, and I’m here to share everything I’ve learned about keeping diapering simple, natural, and holistic.

Diapering Through History: From Moss to Modern Cloth

• Ancient Times: Moms used absorbent natural materials like moss, leaves, and animal pelts tucked into slings.
• 1800s-1900s: Cloth diapers made of cotton or linen became popular, secured with pins. Washing was labor-intensive but effective.
• Mid-1900s: Disposable diapers emerged as a convenient option, but they came with environmental costs, unnecessary spending, and harmful chemicals.
• Today: Options range from disposables to modern cloth diapers, hybrids, and even elimination communication (no diapers at all!).

Diapering Options Today

• Cloth Diapers:
• Types: Prefolds, flats, pocket diapers, all-in-ones, and hybrids.
• Pros: Reusable, cost-effective, eco-friendly, and gentle on baby’s skin.
• Cons: Requires washing and upfront investment.
• Disposable Diapers:
• Pros: Convenient for busy days and travel.
• Cons: Costly over time, non-biodegradable, and often contain chemicals.
• No Diapers (Elimination Communication):
• Encourages reading baby’s cues and using the potty early.
• Requires patience and consistency but minimizes waste.

How Many Diapers/Cloth Diapers Will You Need?

• Newborn (0-3 months):
• 10-12 diapers/day = 70-84/week
• Cloth stash: 24-36 diapers (for washing every 2-3 days).
• Infant (3-12 months):
• 8-10 diapers/day = 56-70/week
• Cloth stash: 20-24 diapers.
• Toddler (1-3 years):
• 6-8 diapers/day = 42-56/week
• Cloth stash: 16-20 diapers.

DIY Baby Wipes & Solutions

• DIY Baby Wipes Solution:
• Ingredients: 2 cups distilled water, 1 tbsp coconut oil, 1 tbsp castile soap, and a few drops of lavender or chamomile essential oil.
• Instructions: Mix ingredients in a spray bottle and spray onto reusable cloth wipes or directly onto baby’s skin.
• No Wipes? No Problem!
• Use a soft, damp washcloth or cut-up old T-shirts or flannel sheets.
• Store-Bought Alternatives:

Choose unscented, biodegradable wipes with minimal ingredients (look for water-based or organic brands).

Holistic Alternatives to Baby Wipes and Diapers

• Wipes: Use plain water and soft cloths or rinse under the sink for gentle cleaning.
• Diapers: Practice elimination communication when feasible.

Natural Diaper Rash Prevention & Treatment

Prevention Tips:

• Change diapers often to keep the area dry.
• Give baby some diaper-free time daily.
• Use natural fibers like cotton or bamboo for cloth diapers.

DIY Rash Cream Recipe:

Ingredients: 1/2 cup shea butter, 1/4 cup coconut oil, 1 tbsp zinc oxide powder, and a few drops of chamomile essential oil. Instructions: Melt shea butter and coconut oil, stir in zinc oxide, add essential oil, and store in a glass jar.

DIY Baby Powder Recipe:

Ingredients: 1/4 cup arrowroot powder, 1/4 cup bentonite clay, and 1 tsp calendula powder. Instructions: Mix ingredients in a jar. Dust lightly onto baby’s skin as needed.

How to Cloth Diaper Like a Pro

• Choose Your Style: Try different types of cloth diapers to find what works best for you.
• Prep Your Stash: Wash new diapers 2-3 times to boost absorbency.
• Wash Routine:
• Rinse diapers after use.
• Wash every 2-3 days with a mild detergent.
• Line dry when possible for freshness and to save energy.
• On-the-Go: Carry a wet bag for dirty diapers and a spray bottle with your DIY wipes solution.

Tips & Tricks for Natural Diapering

• Batch Make Wipes: Pre-soak reusable wipes in your DIY solution and store them in a reusable container for easy access.
• Combat Stains Naturally: Sun-dry diapers to naturally bleach out stains.
• Diaper-Free Time: Protect floors with waterproof mats or old towels during baby’s diaper-free time.

Inspiration for Natural Moms

Remember, every choice you make to reduce waste, use natural products, and nurture your baby with care makes a difference. Diapering can be a beautiful way to connect with your baby and practice sustainability. You’re doing an amazing job, Mama!

Whether you’re diving into cloth diapering, exploring natural baby care, or just looking for gentle solutions, remember to celebrate each small step you take 💕 Share your diapering journey with me or your community—let’s support each other! Need personalized advice or encouragement? Connect with me @ElementalGrowth or book a coaching call. Let’s grow together!

Additional Resources for Natural Moms

• Books:
• Diaper-Free Baby by Christine Gross-Loh (for elimination communication).
• Raising Baby Green by Alan Greene (eco-friendly parenting tips).
• Natural Baby and Childcare by Lauren Feder, MD (holistic care practices).
• Online Communities:
• Facebook Groups: “Cloth Diapering 101” or “Natural Parenting Mamas.”
• Reddit: r/clothdiaps and r/naturalparenting.
• Blogs and Websites:
• Fluff Love University (comprehensive cloth diapering guides).
• Wellness Mama (DIY recipes for baby care).
• ElementalGrowth.org (holistic living and coaching support).
• Supplies and Tools:
• Brands: GroVia, Thirsties, or BumGenius (cloth diapers).
• Wet Bags: Planet Wise or AlvaBaby.
• Natural Creams: Earth Mama Organics or Weleda.

Additional Tips for Mamas

1. Keep It Simple: Don’t stress about perfection—whether you’re cloth diapering full-time or part-time, every effort counts.
2. Stock Up on Essentials: Have at least one backup solution for diapers and wipes, like disposable liners or washcloths, in case of emergencies.
3. Celebrate Small Wins: Got through your first day of cloth diapering? Found a DIY recipe that works? Take a moment to feel proud!
4. Get Baby Involved: As baby grows, involve them in the process. Toddlers can help carry clean diapers or choose their favorite colors.

You’re Not Alone!

Natural diapering is a journey, and you’re part of a growing community of parents making mindful choices for their families and the planet. Lean into your instincts, try new things, and know that your efforts are creating a healthier, happier future for your baby 🌸