I have already reviewed the older version of the Charlie Banana 2-in-2 One Size cloth diaper. Now, the sizing mechanism is new and improved. Rather than using button hole elastic, the Charlie Banana now uses a sliding adjustment similar to that of a bra. I LOVE this new update and it is probably the easiest of the elastic sizing cloth diapers out currently.
Ease of Use ✩✩✩✩ I’m going to say it, to date this is the easiest elastic sizing One Size diaper I have tried. The markings to designate size are easy to follow (no need to read what a 5 is) and the adjuster moves easily back and forth. There is no need to dig deep to find the elastic either. Stuffing the pocket isn’t too bad, there is a generous sized opening for 1 or two inserts. You can find disposable inserts for these diapers, making them a hybrid system if you are traveling. They are easy to lay in under the flat pocket flap.
Bang for the Buck ✩✩✩ The Solid Colors run 20.88 and the Prints are 21.88. They are more than many other similar pockets available. I will say that they are made extremely well. The older versions of their diapers that I own are still functioning and looking great after a year of use.
Performance ✩✩✩✩ The inserts included with a Charlie Banana One Size cloth diaper are really thick (not too thick) and are absorbent enough alone for our use. I can use the Large insert with the diaper sized to the Medium and it fits and holds up well. I don’t have a heavy wetter, FYI. I didn’t use this diaper overnight because I don’t like pockets at night. I used fitteds and covers. Nothing personal, I just didn’t take a chance. We didn’t have a single leak with this diaper.
Fit ✩✩✩✩ I tried the larger of the Medium settings on my first try and it was exactly what I needed. Even if I had needed to make an adjustment it wouldn’t have been too difficult. The tabs meet in the middle, and there is a cross over snap if you need it. The diaper has good stretch whe nyou are putting it on the baby and I felt like I got a great fit every time. The hip snap is in a good spot, but since the male snaps are on the tabs if the wearer gets too large for those snaps farther back to be fastened they could touch the skin. I can’t say if this is an issue or not. The One Size doesn’t seem to get as big as their Sized Large diaper, but since many kids never wear a Large it might not be a problem for many parents. It sizes up pretty small, and I used the older OS on my newborn and it did work. The crotch is also narrower than many other brands.
Overall: I am over the moon excited about such a stupid smart sizing system. They hit this one out of the park! Charlie Banana One Size cloth diapers might make me a fan of elastic sizing one size diapers again. There are no snaps to be seen on the front which is nice. Their PUL feels nice to the touch, and sturdy. The fleece washes well in my experience. I’m thrilled that I was able to meet Gaelle and the Charlie Banana team; they were all incredibly nice and excited about their new product. The fact that they have been able to get Charlie Banana to many mainstream stores like Babies r Us is amazing. Some people argue that cloth shouldn’t be sold in bog box stores, but it creates awareness that small businesses just can’t match. Great diaper, great quality, cute colors and prints!
Where to Buy: Amazon.com
