Setting Up A Modern Cloth System
Here at Baby BeeHinds, we recommend a 'two part system' that comprises of a nappy and cover. A 'two part system' will provide supreme leak protection as opposed to 'one part systems' like disposables. This is because there are TWO leakage barriers- the nappy then the cover. In our experience, the extra 3 seconds it takes to put a cover over the nappy is worth the peace of mind and superior performance.
You are able to buy 'one part systems' made from cloth, such as Pocket Nappies or All in Ones. These nappies dont require a cover as it is built in. Keep in mind though, that they may not provide as much leak protection as a 'two part system'. They are, however, a convenient option when out and about!
Please find following our recommendations to set up your perfect modern cloth nappy system........
Nappies- How many?
Generally, we recommend a Full Time Nappy Package, comprising of 25 nappies. You will then have enough nappies to wash every second day, and have a couple spare in case of bad weather. A Full Time Package is also a great option if you have 2 in nappies, ie a toddler and a newborn. A Part Time Nappy Package contains 10 nappies, which is enough if you plan to alternate your Baby BeeHinds with other nappies.
Covers- How many and what type?
PUL covers are a great day-to-day cover. Generally, PUL is 'breathable', which means air can evaporate out through the cover via microscopic holes in the fabric (our baby BeeHinds PUL covers are breathable). This helps to keep baby cooler and drier, unlike with plastic or PVC covers which are not breathable and become quite hot and uncomfortable for baby, contributing to nappy rash in many instances. Providing they are cared for properly, your PUL covers will last quite a while and are therefore worth the extra expense for reliability, durability and the comfort factor. We recommend purchasing at LEAST 4 PUL covers per size. Ideally, 5 or 6 covers would be even better for a newborn. We recommend rotating between two covers throughout the day- one worn by baby, one airing after you've done a nappy change, one clean spare cover in case of an accident and then the other in the wash. Hence the need for at least 4 covers. It really does make life easier to have the recommended number of covers on hand- it is very frustrating when you discover that you dont have enough because they are all in the wash!
Fleece covers are great for breathability and are soft and available in a range of different prints and colours. However, fleece is bulkier and can be prone to compression wicking if a high quality fleece is not used. Please note that Baby BeeHinds does not currently offer fleece covers as part of our range. Do a google seach or try the links to try and find some UK WAHMs who sell fleece covers if you are interested in exploring this option.
Wool covers are beautiful. Wool is soft and fluffy, and the most breathable of all nappy cover types. Wool covers work by absorbing excess moisture from the nappy if needed and then evaporating that moisture out of the cover into the atmosphere. They are a great water resistant option if 'lanolised' using pure lanolin. Wool covers are also great for neutralising urine, due to the lanolising process (see the product care section to see how this is done). There are 2 types of wool covers available- hand knitted (cute colours and designs!) or woven fabric. Wool is a natural fibre.
Liners
Liners are useful for protecting your nappies from stains and helping to keep your baby's beehind dry and protected from nappy rash. There are 2 types of liners- Microfleece and Silk. Microfleece is fantastic for an everyday option. It works by wicking the urine through the liner into the absorbent nappy fabric underneath. However, it doesnt allow the moisture to pass back through onto the skin. Therefore it acts as a one way barrier, helping to keep baby dry and comfortable. Super easy to care for, they are just washed in with your nappies as usual. Silk liners require extra special care, because they are a liner that contains special healing properties. They are a natural alternative to nappy rash creams and will amazingly help clear nappy rash very quickly. It is best that these are used only when baby has a rash to ensure that the healing properties are maintained as long as possible. Silk liners are not available at Baby BeeHinds UK.
Boosters
Boosters 'boost' the nappy, by providing extra absorbent fabric when it is needed, for example, at night. Some babies require boosting at night because they are heavy wetters, and the nappy alone is not enough to hold all of their wee throughout the 13 hours or so overnight. Most babies only require one booster in addition to the nappy, though some babies require 2 if they are VERY heavy wetters. Here at Baby BeeHinds we sell both hemp and bamboo boosters.