{email subscribers click over for the video} While I was attending the ABC Kids Expo I used a cloth diaper service. I ran out of the house for the airport in such a hurry that I left half of my diaper covers that I needed in my dryer. I asked a few kind diaper manufacturers at the event if I could get a cover or two. One of the covers I received was the Blueberry Coverall in the new print, Tweet. Oh how I love this print! And, I also love the cover. I had not reviewed it yet so I took the opportunity to do so!
Ease of Use ✩✩✩✩ The Blueberry Coverall has a snaps or aplix closure option. If you choose aplix then you will have a very easy on cover over your prefold, fitted, or flats. And even the snapping option only has 4 snaps total, 2 per tab. Sizing is incredibly easy. There are 3 size options, just snap the rise down to the size you need. It is fairly self explanatory what rise setting you will need, just remember you might have to play around with the settings a bit.
Bang for the Buck ✩✩✩✩✩ Even though the Blueberry Coverall is priced a bit higher than a few other name brand one size the quality is worth it, especially if you are looking to use these for future children. The aplix is very strong and durable and the PUL is very nice and thick. The prints are so gorgeous in person also.
Performance ✩✩✩✩✩ I really love this cover and use it as often as I can when it is clean. The gussets are fairly unique and you don’t SEE the second gusset unless you move the top one over. I like the way it is hidden. Everett did test the gussets out with an explosive poop and guess what, they worked like a charm. Thank goodness!
Fit ✩✩✩✩✩ Ev is 20 pounds and 1 year old and wears the cover on the middle rise snap, even over the bulkiest fitteds. I find some covers need to be unsnapped over those big fitteds but not this one. I should have lots of room for growth then. I do tell people to be careful with how a cover with Aplix fits because if it goes under the belly there is a risk of tummy rubbing. Snaps would of course not pose this risk.
Overall: I used the cover with flats, prefolds, and fitteds and it worked with them all. The Tweet pattern is just gorgeous and the quality of this cover is obvious when you touch it and see it in person. You can wipe it clean between uses when you need to and it air dries quickly (I handwashed it while out of town.)
Where to Buy Sweetbottoms Baby carries both the Aplix and Snaps Coverall and have Free Shipping on US Orders.*affiliate link

A few months ago I reviewed the Mo Dia One Size Pocket. My original thoughts on the diaper were pretty positive; it worked great, the design was stylish and unique, and the included hemp fleece soaker was amazing. The downside was the sizing; the waist was a little too small and the rise a little too short. I didn’t expect it to last Everett more than a few more months- how would it last until potty training?

After that review and other customers agreeing with that sentiment the two ladies behin Mo Dia went back to the drawing board. They now have a new pattern for their One Size Pocket that addressed both issues. The sizing is more realistic and more like other OS diapers. I have a video and review for the new Mo Dia. if you would liek to compare to my old review and video you can visit this link.

Ease of Use ✩✩✩ The Mo Dia I reviewed is a snapping diaper with 2 snaps on each tab, 4 snaps total to close. The rise, like many other One Size diapers, has a 3 step snapping adjustment. This is only applicable when you need to size up or down so you don’t have to do it for each change. The insert is one long piece of hemp fleece. The simplicity is genius. You fold it to the desired length, and place the most layers folded over where you need them (front for boy/tummy sleeper and middle for girl). The folding does take longer than just using a sized or pre-snapped OS insert which is why it gets 3 stars.
Bang for the Buck ✩✩✩✩ A Mo Dia runs about 21$ with the hemp insert included. These diapers have a very custom look, even those that aren’t made to order. The snaps usually coordinate well with the fabric options. Some have full PUL outer, some have PUL bodies and cotton knit over PUL tabs, and some are the reverse. Now that the sizing is larger it is even more of a good investment than the previous version.
Performance ✩✩✩✩ I wish I could tell you how much these inserts rock my socks. They look so simple, and they are, but work better than most other included inserts. So, you have to fold them to size… not a HUGE deal. I’ve used this diaper for longer naps and daytime for Everett (10 months old) and nights for my toddler (almost 3) with no leaking or wicking problems. No red marks either!
Fit ✩✩✩✩ When you fix one problem you potentially cause another. The previous Mo Dia sized up nice and tiny and would likely be a good fit for very small babies. Adding more to the rise and width makes it look bulkier. I have not tried it on a new/small baby but I’m just basing on what I have seen. On Everett, who is 20 pounds and 10 months old, he still had one more snap on the rise and a snap on each side for the second snap in on the tab. After that the male end of the snap would touch skin, however I don’t think that is going to happen. And since he is pretty wide I don’t know how many others it would happen to either.  They aren’t the trimmest cloth diaper out there but I don’t mind fluffy.  Just poutting that out there.
Overall: The fact that Mo Dia adjusted their pattern based on user feedback is incredibly awesome and proves how much they care about their product and customers. The new Mo Dia is just as cute but with more growing room. The quality of the diaper is obvious, the stitching is clean and I haven’t seen any loose threads. They come up with the most adorable color and print combinations too!

Where to buy: MoDiaDiapers.com (coming soon!)

A Mo Dia OS was sent for the purposes of this review.  No other compensation was received and all opinions are 100% my own and genuine.  

Swaddlebees and Blueberry have been churning out new products like mad lately!  They recently released new Fitteds in One Size and Newborn Sizes, and have been teasing about new prints!  You know how excited cloth diapering moms get about new prints, right?

Well, the day is finally here!  The BIG Reveal!  I feel like Niecy Nash on Clean House…..

Take off your blind fold and OPEN YOUR EYES!

These 6 new prints will be available for both Swaddlebees and Blueberry diapers!  Meet….

Judging by the photos I will go ahead and say that Tweets and Swirls are my favorites for a boy or gender neutral.  But if I had a girl I would be all over Pink Butterflies.  There is something really pretty about the pink and yellow together that I just love.

There is a nice mix up up patterns and fun “cute” prints, like the Monkeys and Dinos.  I think they were able to cover all of the bases here!  I know a certain DDL contributor who is going to be crazy about Tweets…. not because she loves Twitter but because Green/Brown neutrals are her go-to colors for her girls.    Swirls reminds me of a beautiful white cake with gorgeous marbled icing!  I just know there are more details to be seen in person so I’m looking forward to that day!

Right now the prints are available for the BB One Size, Econappi, Simplex, and Coveralls.

These are only available for retailer ordering between now and the 19th. Starting the 19th, everybody else can order them directly from Swaddlebees.com.  If you have a favorite retailer that you want to order from let them know!  They will begin shipping out to retailers this Thursday!

For now I  get to give 3 Coveralls (One Size Covers) to a DDL Reader!  Winner chooses their choice of print.  Use the Rafflecopter Entry Form below.  As a reminder, you must have Javascript enabled.  Good Luck!

Baby Beehinds is an Australian company.  Their items can be found in the US.  Their line is fairly unique and they offer features not found in a lot of other brands.  Their velcro is much different than what typical cloth diapers use.

Ease of Use ✩✩✩✩✩ The Baby Beehinds cover is beyond easy to use.  It comes in sizes so there is no need to adjust the rise, and for closure you just need to close the velcro tabs.  For the overall diaper change it can be as easy or as hard as you want to make it.  If you are using a fitted with a ton of snaps it might take a while, but at least you can simply put the cover over it andf attach the tabs.

Bang for the Buck ✩✩✩✩✩ A plain PUL cover is 11.50 and the new limited edition prints (as seen on the newborn cover in the video) is 12.50.   Either way they are right on point with the low cost PUL cover options and are very affordable.  These covers are also very well made and thick, the velcro is going to last a very long time too, so they will last through more than one child.

Performance ✩✩✩✩✩ I had a great experience with these covers, and especially enjoyed using the tiny newborn cover on my son when it still fit him.  It was bulletproof for nights paired with an absorbent fitted like the KL0.  We tested the Medium cover on my toddler as well and found it to just about as leak proof.  We had one tiny leak when he had more than usual to drink, but this was more of an absorbency issue than anything else.

Fit ✩✩✩✩✩ As I stated before, we reviewed a Medium and a Newborn.  The newborn was tiny, as it should be, and only goes to 11 pounds.  My son grew out of this in just a couple of weeks.  The Medium fits 15-24 pounds.  We have had it for a while and it is just getting snug now even though my son is over 24 pounds.  He is skinny!  The legs fit nicely and I love the soft binding around the entire diaper.

Overall- My biggest “complaint” of the cover is that is is not wipeable.  I usually use covers overnight and don’t reuse them after that, but for daytime users if the polyster inside gets wet the cover will need to be washed.  I like the amount of space between the velcro and the top to make sure the velcro isn’t rubbing the baby.  The covers themselves work very well and are so well made and sturdy.  If you prefer wool, I have also reviewed their wool wrapping covers and found these to be the most user friendly wool covers on the market!  They are just like the PUL cover, only felted wool.  Supposedly you can wash them in the washer but I am not that brave.

Where to Buy: Babybeehindsusa.com

Baby Beehinds sent 2 covers for the purposes of this review.  No other compensation was received and all opinions are 100% my own.

Doopsy contacted me recently and asked if I would like to review their new cloth diaper.  While the design in general isn’t that exciting or unique, they do offer an interesting new type of insert called a “Super Doopsy” which is a PUL backed, bamboo terry sock.  I think the video will explain it best!

Ease of Use ✩✩✩✩ Doopsy diapers are pockets with snap closures and a 3 step snap down rise adjustment.  You can use the Doopsy as a pocket diaper with their microfiber inserts, or  with the Super Doopsy insert.  Each tab has 3 snaps, 2 on the waist and one on the hip.  Application of the diaper is simple, 6 snaps to affix, but it doesn’t take too long to do.  Granted, there are more snaps than some other diapers and it will obviously take more time than a velcro diaper.

Bang for the Buck ✩✩✩ The Doopsy “SD” is 17.95.  However, you can find the regular version without the SD insert for only 15.95.  While it is a good price for a pocket diaper, you may not get as much for your money since it seems to fit on the small side.

Performance ✩✩✩✩ The Doopsy SD insert is very absorbent.  It takes a little longer to dry than the microfiber insert that comes with it.  I didn’t have any leaks with either insert, but I think the microfiber insert is a bit thinner than others.  It just never happened that my son was in a heavy wetting mood while using it.

Fit ✩✩✩ On the unsnapped rise setting (the largest possible) this diaper fit so nicely on my son.  It is really trim as well.  Unfortunately, on most pocket diapers he is on the middle snap and has more room to grow.  In these he is very close to outgrowing.  He is 25 pounds or so.  Waist wise he does have more room, but not on the rise.

Overall- The Doopsy SD is a good and inexpensive pocket diaper that comes in some really cute colors.  The snaps don’t match the PUL, some people care, some don’t.  It does get very small but looks like it won’t fit as long as many other pocket diapers.  The SD insert is very neat and absorbent, and a nice option to have.

Where to buy: List of retailers

I was sent a Doopsy “SD” diaper for the purposes of this review.  No other compensation was received.  All opinions are 100% my own.

Charlie Banana is a new cloth diaper brand to hit the scene.  They already have an impressive line up of products.  I was asked to review the One Size and Sized Charlie Banana pocket diapers, which are a 2-in-1 system since you can also use them with disposable inserts if you choose.

Charlie Banana Sized Cloth Diaper Review:

Ease of Use ✩✩✩✩ The Sized version of the Charlie Banana has snap closures.  Each tab has 3 snaps, 2 at the waist and one on the hip.  Total you have 4 snaps to close.  After some practice the changes will go much quicker.  Most people find snapping the bottom (hip) snap to be quicker, however I prefer to start at the top.  The diaper stuffs from the front.  You might find unstuffing to be harder from the front that a back stuffing pocket, but you will appreciate it when there is a particularly nasty explosion in the rear.

Bang for the Buck ✩✩✩✩ You can find this diaper for around 18-19 dollars.  Since these are brand new they aren’t carried in many places yet.  This cost includes 2 super absorbent and high quality inserts, a longer insert and a shorter one.  The diaper comes in very cute packaging as well.  Great for baby shower gifts!

Performance ✩✩✩✩✩ The Sized version of the CB has been working extremely well for us.  Even though the size Large has a higher rise than we normally use (he is JUST at the weight limit for the large) the fit around the legs and waist has been great.  We use one insert for daytime, both inserts for overnight.

Fit ✩✩✩✩ My son could have worn a Medium but he was right at the end of the weight range.  I suspect it would have fit longer since he is tall/lean.  The Large does fit but the rise is higher and it looks bulkier than a Medium would.  Looks aside, the diaper fit well enough to have no leaking.  The large is going to be great for bigger todders!

Overall- The Sized CB is nice to have around for your stash.  In general, I like On Size better but a sized diaper is going to give you a nice fit for the time the baby wears the diaper.  And, for smaller babies, sized diapers will be less bulky.

Charlie Banana One Size Cloth Diaper

Ease of Use ✩✩✩✩ The One Size Charlie Banana uses a slotted leg elastic adjustment.  The elastic is numbered and a button is used to adjust.  The elastic goes from 1-7, 7 being the largest setting possible.  You only need to adjust each leg once, unlike the Fuzzibunz OS which you do on both ends.  The excess elastic hides under the front stuffing pocket.  Once the pocket is adjusted it works just like the sized pocket.  Easy to use every day.  3 snaps on each tab, same as the sized.

Bang for the Buck ✩✩✩✩ It looks like the One Size is the same, 18-19 dollars.  However I am only seeing the OS being sold in packs of 6.  A good price for a capable one size diaper.

Performance ✩✩✩✩✩ If I have to choose, I prefer the One Size over the Sized CB.  Mainly because it looked trimmer on my son.  Absorbency wise, there was no difference.  The inserts are the same.

Fit ✩✩✩✩✩ I loved the way the One Size fit my son.  He could be a 5-7, but 7 was a better fit on his legs without being too tight.  The 7 setting on the OS is slightly smaller than the Large version of the CB.  The fit in between the legs is also less bulky.  The size chart says is should fit babies 0-36 months.  I am going to guess it won’t fit a baby over 35, possibly less depending on the build.

Overall- I love that these diapers already have print options, some of which are very boy friendly.  The OS is similar to others on the market, and it is easy to adjust.

Charlie Banana Wipes:

I was also sent Charlie Banana wipes to review.  There are two types :Single Layer and Double Layer.  The Single Layer wipes are one layer of organic cotton.  To be honest, these were not my favorite.  Even to wipe a pee it would be saturated from spraying.  Since I fold my wipes a certain way there is no telling what wipe comes up for a BM, and if this one came up I had to pull the next out.  However, I fell in love with the Double Layer wipes.  One side is organic cotton, the other is fleece.  I have never really like fleece wipes before, but this one gets a poopy butt really clean and is thick enough that I know my hands won’t be getting wet or dirty!  I am seriously wanting to buy more because with 2 babies in cloth, I need more wipes!

Swim Diaper:

In addition to the 2 pocket diapers and wipes, Charlie Banana sent an adorable swim diaper to review.  I was only able to use it once.  He wore it outside while playing in our water table and the water hose.  It has elastic all around to hold in those messes, and a small amount of cotton on the wet zone to hold a pee if they can’t make it between the swim diaper changing and the pool.  This is nice to have I am sure!  He looked adorable in this diaper!  Very European!

Charlie Banana also has other items in their line-up including reusable menstrual pads, wet bags, baby leg warmers, changing pads, and more!  A huge selection for a start up!

Where to Buy: Amazon.com (affiliate link)

I received a goody package from Charlie Banana fro the purposes of this review, including 2 cloth diapers, a swim diaper, cloth wipes, and a changing pad.  No other compensation was received and all opinions are 100% my own.

*** There has been a bit of drama surrounding this brand.  I was not aware of it when I agreed to perform the review.  I would prefer you to make up your own mind about the product.

Maybe you remember waiting for the BIG Announcement Smartipants had planned on their facebook page a while back.  I, among others, waited to find out what was up their sleeve.  I am a big fan of their One Size Sleeve Diaper (you can view my video review here) and recommend it often.  It has lasted me a long time, looks brand new, fits great, and is the trimmest pocket diaper I own.  So, I knew only good things could come.  A One Size Cover, Newborn AIO, and Wet Bags were announced.  Not earth shattering, but nice items to add to their lineup!  This review is for the Smart Fit Cover.  A new type of OS Cover that uses a snap down rise and snapping adjustments in the waist.

Ease of Use ✩✩✩ Despite it looking a little complicated due to the large amount of snaps on the front of the diaper, there is nothing hard about this cover. You may have some trial and error when trying to find the perfect snap on the front. Same goes for finding if you need to use the waist snaps or not. Then, the cover is transformed into a wrapping cover with velcro closure, easy as pie.

Bang for the Buck ✩✩✩✩ I am going to go ahead and say that I expected this diaper cover to cost a little less (by a 1.00 or so), considering the very nice price point of their Sleeve Diaper. Still, at 13.95 it isn’t that pricey.  Plus, it is made in the US and has super high quality snaps that are different than any other diapers I have seen.

Performance ✩✩✩✩✩ At the size my son is at currently, this diaper cover has been a rock star for us. If I want a PUL cover at night this is what I choose now. Because it is “bigger” it can fit over the bulkiest, fluffiest booty no problem. It fits great over even my biggest combo: Mother-Ease Sandy’s fitted and an extra booster. HUGE!

Fit ✩✩✩✩ So I am torn about this category. There are a ton of rise adjustments. I’m not sure that many are really needed. These snaps give the diaper a finer tuning than a 3 step rise, but I have never had a problem with a 3 step or 4 step. 5 steps? Is this too many options? Because I haven’t tried from beginning to potty learning, I’m not sure how it works on either end. When the diaper is snapped to the tightest waist setting, with the tabs crossed, and on the smallest rise setting, the width of the crotch and the thigh holes still look too large for a newborn or smaller infant. The weight limit says 8-35 pounds. I think it will fit later than 8 and longer than 35.

Overall- Like I said, I am unsure if all of the snaps are needed. It looks like there is an extra 2 inches when you unsnap the waist snaps, but you still have tons of room even without them unsnapped. Maybe if there was less fabric around the waist this would be more helpful. These are good for when the baby gets bigger and older, and especially to fit over those bulky fitteds!  I will try the diaper again on an 8 pounder to see how that goes and let you know!

Where to buy: Smartipants.com

A Smart Fit OS cover was sent for the purposes of this review.  No other compensation was received.  All opinions are 100% my own.

So you have decided to use cloth diapers.  Awesome!  Now you are wondering what you do with the dirty diapers?  Disposable diapers go in a diaper pail or trash can.  Where can you put your dirty diapers until wash day where they won’t stink up the joint?

Most families choose between 2 options: A traditional Diaper Pail or a Hanging Wet Bag.  In either case, you will need a PUL (waterproof material, same used for most cloth diaper covers and shells) lined bag of some sort to either put in your pail, or to hang in the nursery to place your dirty diapers in.  There are certainly other options, and I will list those at the end as well.  Full disclosure: the links provided are affiliate links.

Diaper Pail:

If you have ever walked inside of a Target and shopped for baby stuff you have seen the aisle of large boxes containing a variety of different diaper pails.  The most famous being the “Diaper Genie.”  Unfortunately, most pails designed for disposable diapers are simply not cut out for cloth diapers.  Pails that have turning lids like the Diaper Genie don’t have room enough in their openings for many cloth diapers to fit through.  Other brands, like the Diaper Dekor (which I use) can be modified to accommodate cloth diapers and an elastic edged reusable pail liner.

Diaper Dekor Plus Diaper Disposal System

There are also cloth diaper pails which have locking lids.  I have not personally used one since I prefer the convenience of a step can.  Some of these pails use mesh bags to hold the dirty diapers.  The good news is that the mesh allows the diapers to breathe which can prevent odors.  The bad news is that the wet and soiled diapers could get the pail itself dirty.  You would have to wash the pail more often than if using a PUL pail liner.  Locking lids are great for curious little ones.  Since most people do not keep wet pails (pails with water and bleach to soak diapers between washes) at least there isn’t a worry about drowning.

Bambino Mio Dirty Nappy Cloth Diaper Bucket & Lid

A third pail option isn’t technically a pail at all.  Plastic or Metal step lid trash cans can work as a pail also.  You will just want to check the sizing and make sure a pail liner will work.  Many of these trash cans are too big or too small.  I found a hard time locating one to fit a pail liner when I shopped for one, so I bought my Dekor.

Umbra 12-Gallon Trash Can

With a pail you have the option of using an elastic edged pail liner, which functions like a trash bag, but that you wash over and over with your dirty diapers.  Many major brands make their own version.  Wahmies has a popular model which also has an elastic loop that you can use to hang it from a door knob if you choose.

Wahmies Diaper Pail Liner

Wet Bags:

Hanging Wet Bags come in a large variety of options.  There are long skinny bags, short wide bags, zippering bags, drawstring bags, colorful print bags, plain solid colored bags, and so on.  These bags also come in a variety of sizes.

The best hanging wet bag is going to have an unsnappable handle.  These can be looped around anything sturdy enough and closed.  If you have bars on your changing table this is a good place to put one, other than a door knob.  Or, you can opt for a bag made to go on a door knob like the Knickernappies.

Knickernappies Doorknob Diaper Pail

Another cool option out there is the wet/dry bag.  This bag has a front pocket that can be used for clean diapers, and the main pocket is lined with PUL for dirty diapers.  I usually recommend this bag for daycare families.  They can send the bag with clean diapers and have it returned with dirty ones, all in one shot.

Planet Wise Wet/Dry Diaper Bag

You don’t HAVE to put a wet bag in your nursery.  There is the option to hang a wet bag in your bathroom.  Since you will at some point likely be spraying down dirty diapers, this is a convenient place to put them, especially if your bathroom is far away from the baby’s room.  Some people also hang them in their laundry area.

If you are in the market for a MASSIVE bag because you either have more than one child, like to go a while before doing laundry, or will be going on a long trip, then you need the Bummis Fabulous Wet Bag.  I use this one every time I go on vacation!  It can be hung on a door knob or used as a pail liner.  It can hold enough diapers for 4-5 days worth of dirties.

Bummis Fabulous Wet Bag (Large)

(All of the wet bags I mentioned can also be purchased at my affiliate, Kelly’s Closet, if you would like to support my blog!)

Diaper Pails:

Pros:

Can contain Odors

Some are lockable

Those with step lids are hands free and easy to use.

Cons:

Take up more space

Might be hard to find one that works with a pail liner

If they don’t lock, toddlers can explore them and add/subtract items

Eyesores in the nursery

Hanging Wet Bags:

Pros:

Take up less space

Can be placed on door knobs, changing table, etc.

Inexpensive

Choice of cute patterns

Choice of various sizes to suit your needs

Cons:

Zippering/ Unzippering can be a pain

Drawstring bags might not close all the way

Might not be as smell proof as a pail

Other Options:

There are also other options for storing dirty diapers.  Many of them cost little to no money.

Washer:

Some families wash so often that they go ahead and throw the dirty diaper directly in the washer.  Once they have a load they start it up.  There is no middle man and no cost to this method.  If you have basement laundry then this is probably not a great option, unless you are trying to tone your legs!

Hamper:

You could also put the diapers in a hamper, which will more than likely be stored in your laundry room.  The obvious issue here is getting the hamper dirty.  You may or may not care.

Utility Sink:

Same concept as the washer.  You can use a utility sink to rinse off diapers and leave them there until wash day.

Plastic Bags:

Not the ideal option, however those grocery bags many people use as trash can liners can also be used as travel wet bags in a pinch.

Pail with no liner:

Some bucket type pails can be used with no pail liner.  You will likely end up washing the pail often, or ignoring the mess the diapers are leaving.  This method requires you to take the pail with you to the washer and dump your diapers in.

PUL, or Polyurethane Laminate, is the waterproof layer of material often used in cloth diapers.  Pockets, All-in-Ones, All-in-Twos and Diaper Covers most often use this on the outer layer of the diaper as a more breathable alternative to the old Rubber and Plastic pants of the previous generation of cloth diapers.

Example of laminate inside and polyester outside (at top) of this Flip Cover

So what exactly is PUL? When you look at many diaper covers you can see that there is a “wipeable” side which is inside, and a cloth like outside, which is usually polyester or cotton.  The laminate side has been fused to the cotton or polyester side using heat or a chemical process.  Usually this process is permanent and the two layers stay together for the long haul.  However, certain chemicals and other mistreatment of this material can cause the laminate to separate from the fabric outer, in which case the diaper will begin to have leaks through those areas.  It will bubble up and appear like a peeling sunburn.

Cotton or Polyester? Pretty much any diaper you have seen uses polyester as the soft fabric side.  While cotton offers many options for cute prints, these wick more.  The bigger brands can afford to commission large quantities of proprietary prints in polyester PUL.  The reason you don’t see many prints is for that reason, they are expensive and require large orders.  Not to mention they need to be designed.  Remember, the fabric has to look good rightside up and upside down.  A lot of diaper makers who really want to have fun prints choose to use a regular cotton knit sewn over a hidden layer of PUL.  Some are successful in this (GEN-Y Covers have NEVER leaked or wicked for me) but other diapers end up with horrible wicking (moisture from the inside of the diaper migrating to the cotton, usually around the legs.)

1 Mil or 2 Mil? PUL has either a 1 mil or 2 mil thick layer of the laminate backing.  It is up for debate whether or not 1 or 2 mil is better.  1 mil certainly feels thinner, but 2 mil has an extra layer of protection.  It could be argued that 1 mil will potentially wear down quicker over time.  You could also argue that 1 mil would be more breathable since there is less waterproof laminate for air to come through.  I have not seen conclusive evidence of either.  Unless you are making your own diapers and buying PUL, most consumers don’t even realize there are different types of PUL being used.  If you are buying your own PUL, 1 mil is easier to find and less expensive.

Examples? Bummis covers are made with 2 mil PUL.  bumGenius! products use 1 mil, for a comparison.  The Bummis covers definitely feel thicker.  Understandably, some people do not wish to use 2 mil because it is harder to work with and sew.

Some of the larger brands commission their own PUL with distinctive brand specific colors (think Bum Genius) and patterns, (think Mother-Ease).  bumGenius! have stated that they do not use a chemical solvent process, and they also believe their PUL is made in an environmentally friendly way.

Many other brands and WAHM’s have been using a brand of PUL called Fabrite which I recently learned is considered the best for diaper making.  Unfortunately this brand stopped production.  Unbeknownst to consumers, diaper makers are scrambling to find a comparable alternative, of which there aren’t many.  Fabrite used a solvent process described as”The PU film and knit are coated with a solvent based adhesive that slightly liquefies the surface of the PU film and knit, then pressure is used to fuse the fabric together.”  source: Wazoodle

After speaking to others I have learned not everyone thought Fabrite was the best.  Many used to use it and later went with a heat solvent PUL.  Nifty Nappy prefers the heat solvent PUL also.

There is another term floating around regarding PUL and this is TPU.  TPU stands for Thermoplastic Polyurethane.  This is where it gets hairy.  According to Rumparooz, who uses TPU, they regard it in another category altogether.  Taken from Rumparooz’s Website:

In 2008 Kanga Care started using a biodegradable TPU waterproof material. Biodegradable TPU is solvent-free. Biodegradable TPU is a polyester fabric that has been laminated with a thermoplastic polyurethane using a heat bonding process. This process is low in toxicity and is better for the natural environment. Both the TPU laminate and the polyester fabric the laminate is applied to are biodegradable.  When composted they will biodegrade in 4-5 years.

However, the fabric distrubutors Wazoodle, who issued a highly informative breakdown of the different PUL’s, say:

TPU is the technical name for polyurethane film used to make all PUL, new and old.  A few vendors heard TPU for the first time and thought it would help them make their items sound different — just marketing tricks!

So if TPU is better for the environment why aren’t more diaper manufacturer’s using it?

It could just be that they are, and the TPU is just a fancy name for the heat solvent version of PUL that many manufacturers use.  It is all very confusing for someone who does not make diapers!

Bottom line?

It is near impossible to know exactly which PUL a diaper is using unless you ask.  Some makers are very forthcoming, others believe their proprietary PUL recipe should be kept secret.  I found both sides when looking into this post.  You will also see that some diapers source PUL from China, but other brands are still careful to use PUL made in the US.  I still believe PUL has made the cloth diapering revolution possible. I love my Pockets and couldn’t live without them.  Cloth diapers are better than disposables any day, no matter how the PUL was made, but it isn’t something you should keep your head in the sand about either.

What is I don’t want to use PUL but want to use cloth diapers? If you are concerned that PUL production is bad for the environment there are certainly other options.  Wool and fleece work just as well at keeping leaks at bay.  While it isn’t practical to expect every cloth diaper user to use these materials, if you really want organic and conscientiously produced diapers wool and fleece might be what you need.

For responsibly made wool I would recommend: Sustainable Babyish, Better for Babies (Little Beetle), and the WAHM’s out there who upcycle wool into soakers or hand knit them (Hyena Cart and Etsy will yield results).

If you prefer fleece (easier to care for overall and less expensive) I suggest Lollidoo, who use recycled plastic bottles to make their fleece!  Also, there are WAHM’s who upcycle fleece to make soakers as well.

Special thanks to the cooperative diaper companies I contacted: bumGenius!, Bummis, and Nifty Nappy, who were very helpful in answering my questions.

Images: Flip- clothdiapers.blogspot.com, PUL- www.zjgxdiaper.com

If you have been reading my blog for a while you probably know that I am a “fan” of bumGenius! products.  I have been using their 3.0′s since my son fit into them (around 12-14 pounds, leak free) and their Elementals (Organic AIO‘s) since I bought a few when he was a couple of months old.  I have reviewed the 3.0 (BG 3.0 Review) and Elemental (Elemental- FMA BG Organic AIO- review) already.  I won’t say I was disappointed when they announced that the 3.0 was being discontinued since I knew the next diaper (I correctly predicted would be called 4.0) would be very similar with a few improvements.  The most obvious improvement they needed to make, improving the hook and loop closure and adding snaps, were both realized.  Bonus improvements: the ability to easily replace elastic and a higher rise.

They also added new colors, which I am not a huge fan of.  I will specifically say I am not a fan of their names.  Why must color names be so confusing?  Case in point:  I ordered 2 bumGenius! 4.0′s to review, one with hook and loop and one in snaps.  I ordered 2 of the new colors: Noodle and Bubble.  I didn’t double check what the colors were.  Bubble= lavender.  Let me ask you, when you think of a bubble, do you think of purple or blue?  Water=blue.  Bubbles=blue.  Also, the color Sweet reminds me of lavender or pink.  That is pale green.  Noodle is the light yellow, which does make sense.  Noodles are yellow, or pale yellow, and this is an accurate description of that color.  I do not like that I need to research the colors, which not all stores have listed with a description or photo (and photos don’t help since the colors are so pale, they all look the same) before I buy.  My son has a purple diaper.  So what?  Wanna fight about it?

New Color Guide:

Bubble= Light Lavender

Noodle= Light Yellow

Sweet= Light Green

Update: bumGenius has re-released their beloved “Brights” colors and has released a series of prints. You can view all of the new prints by heading to my blog post about theChelsea Perry Tiny Socialite Collection, it includes action shots of them all.

My Review

Ease of Use ✫✫✫✫✫ The 4.0 doesn’t differ from the 3.0 in this regard.  I tell anyone who asks me about a good intro cloth diaper that they should try the 3.0 (now I say 4.0).  It is affordable, durable, easy to use with the hook and loop (and snaps), simple to find the right fit, and easy to take off.  You still need to affix the laundry tabs before washing, and you need to remove the insert.  You will need to restuff the diaper before baby wears it.  Is it easy?  Yes.  Is it as easy as an AIO? No.  Is it worth the extra steps?  Pretty much.  Pockets dry faster than most AIO‘s and are generally cheaper.  I do wish the laundry tabs were closer to the actual tab, so that when I change the baby I could just pinch it closed rather than seek out the tab farther in.  I have to look for it.  Some diapers you don’t need to do this.

Bang for the Buck: ✫✫✫✫ The 4.0 is the same price as the 3.0 was: 17.95.  bumGenius! keeps their prices consistent among retailers.  It is hard to find a “sale” on them.  However, they are worth the investment.  My 3.0′s have lasted for almost 2 years.  I am hopeful that the improved hook and loop will last on the 4.0, and replaceable elastic will also contribute to their life span.  You will see that a few hundred dollars for a stash of 4.0′s will still be far less than the thousands of dollars you would have spent on disposables.

Performance ✫✫✫✫✫ I am going to say that I have had no leaks, no fit issues, nothing with the 4.0.  I was new to cloth when I started with the 3.0 and did experience leaks due to my repelling issues.  I have used these overnight with both inserts and I also had no leaks.  I do prefer fitteds overnight but I was happy to report dry sheets!

Fit ✫✫✫✫ I can at this time only speak to the fit on my toddler.  He is still on the middle rise snap (has been for a very long time) so he has growing room.  In the video you can see a comparison to the 3.0 in terms of the change in rise.  While it isn’t a massive jump I figure it will help increase the time babies can wear these.  He doesn’t get red marks from elastic.  The diapers aren’t terribly bulky with one insert.

Overall- I am very happy with the 4.0, as I was with the 3.0.  Like I said, these are really great for any parents first starting out.  They don’t have bells and whistles like some diapers, and they don’t want to.  You need to start somewhere and learn how to cloth diaper.  These are simple enough to do that.  Not everyone loves microfiber inserts because they can build up the stinkies.  Microfiber is a more affordable insert option, but if you want you can always upgrade to a hemp/cotton/bamboo/zorb insert at a later time.

Where to buy: Pretty much any cloth diaper store.  But, if you want, you can support my blog by buying yours at Kelly’s Closet.

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I purchased (2) bumGenius! 4.0′s to review from Kelly’s Closet.