Our guest blogger this week is Teresa Johnson, owner of the “Squishy Tushy” store in Blissfield that sells cloth diapers and covers, diapering accessories, training pants, toys, jewelry and products for moms.

Most people hear the words ‘cloth diapers’ and instantly think of pins and rubber pants. Cloth diapers have undergone a major overhaul in the last 12 years. Modern cloth diapers now are no different than disposables with the exception of cost savings, lack of chemicals, and not adding to the landfills. First let’s take a look at the ease of use with modern cloth diapers. Usually the first thing that I hear from newly-converted cloth diaper users is “Wow, I didn’t realize how easy they would be to use. We should have switched a long time ago.”

Dunking dirty diapers in the toilet is a thing of the past as well. Dirty diapers now are simply stored in a dry pail or bag—so no more trying to dump a pail of bleach water either! Urine-soiled diapers are simply placed into the diaper pail or wet bag and and any formed stool is easily dumped into the toilet. Smells are not an issue, even in the humid summer months! Diaper laundry is the easiest laundry I have ever done—simply dump the dirty ones into the washer, then throw them in the dryer or hang them to dry; folding is not required! You can store your clean diapers in a drawer, under the changing table, in a bag, or whatever fits your family’s need!

Yes, there is an up-front cost with cloth diapers. However, once your diapers are purchased, you will not have to purchase any more diapers as long as you do not get addicted! Modern cloth diapers could cost as little as $100 for 24 diapers. I’d like to see someone use disposable diapers for 3 years for that little cost!

There are several different styles and brands of modern cloth diapers. The search for the perfect cloth diaper for your family could be overwhelming. If you are lucky enough to live close to a diaper store, you can find all the help you need to make your diapering choices much easier. If not, look for online websites that offer trial kits so you can try the diapers before you spend your money on them. Some stores even offer generous returns so if you purchase a diaper that simply does not fit or you don’t like it for any reason, you can return it!

Most families find that their baby does not have diaper rash near as often using cloth diapers, if at all. I have seen children with horrible eczema that either goes away or significantly improves when they start using cloth diapers. Many children are allergic to the chemicals found in disposable diapers, not to mention who wants to sit in a pile of chemical beads? When I think of the amount of chemicals that go next to that precious, delicate skin, it just makes me cringe.

Check out Squishy Tushy.com for more information, tips and tricks on cloth diapering and natural parenting!

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