How do cloth diapers work?
Cloth diapers are washed after use and can be used throughout your child's whole diaper period. In short, a cloth diaper consists of absorbent inserts on the inside and a waterproof shell on the outside. Today's cloth diapers are modern and functional — and honestly rather good-looking. They're a far cry from what many people imagine.
At Time Ahead you'll find pocket diapers and covers/all-in-ones that are easy to handle in everyday life.
Why do parents choose cloth diapers?
A considered choice for your child
Our diapers are designed for good comfort, with breathable materials that wick moisture away from your baby's skin. Soft, stretchy fabrics and several adjustment options give a secure fit. The materials are OEKO-Tex Standard 100 certified — tested for harmful substances — and free from perfume.
Really, modern cloth diapers work just like disposables. The difference is that you wash and use them over and over again.
Reusable — you notice it in the bin
Every cloth diaper that's washed is one disposable fewer that needs to be made and thrown away. It's a simple, concrete difference in how much single-use material leaves your household every week — and a benefit that grows the longer the diaper period lasts.
Economy
If you go all in on cloth you can save up to 10,000 SEK — and even more if the diapers are used for a sibling. But cloth doesn't have to be all or nothing. Purely financially, replacing one disposable a week is enough to start saving.
There's also a good second-hand market for cloth diapers, with active buy-and-sell groups on Facebook.
Read more about the economics of cloth diapers here.
How many cloth diapers do you need?
For full-time use, 24 is a good rule of thumb — enough for most families washing every third day.
Washing and storing cloth diapers
Most families wash their cloth diapers every 2–4 days. Store used diapers in a wet bag in a pail that isn't completely airtight — a pedal bin works well. That keeps odours away.
- Inserts/inner diapers (the absorbent part) are washed after every change
- Pocket diapers are washed after every change
- Wool covers are washed every 3–4 weeks — they stay fresh for a long time
Blöjupproret
Read more at Blöjupproret — Sweden's association for EC and cloth diapers, with good information about cloth diapering and baby pottying.