You might be hesitant to try cloth diapers because you think they're complicated and time-consuming. However, we've learned from experience that it's actually quite simple. Not to mention, you'll save a ton of money and help the environment by keeping disposable diapers and wipes out of landfills.

One thing we learned over time is that you don't have to use cloth diapers all the time. If you decide to use modern cloth diapers on your baby or toddler, you can still use disposable diapers too. There are many reasons why families choose to cloth diapers—not all of them are motivated by wanting to save the planet.

So you can use cloth diapers part-time or full-time? Yes, absolutely. Read on to know the difference.

Part-time Cloth Diapering: What is it?

Part-time cloth diapering is a type of flexible cloth diapering that does not require a complete, 100 percent commitment. You can use both cloth and disposable diapers. This solution is ideal for anyone who is interested in cloth diapering but concerned about traveling, daycare, or overnight diapers.

Why do some families use cloth diapers part time? 

1. Overnight Cloth Diapering
   
   Overnight cloth diapering can be tough for a lot of families. It can be tricky to find an absorbency set up that works for some babies who produce a lot of urine output. Some families will use disposable diapers overnight as they have less of a learning curve and are often more forgiving for heavy wetters.
   
   
2. Daycare
   
   Although some child care facilities are open to the use of cloth diapers, not all of them are. If your chosen day care setting does not allow for cloth diapering, families can send disposable diapers with their child during the day and cloth diaper them at home and on weekends.
   
   
3. Going outside
   
   There are a few challenges that come with using cloth diapers when you leave the house, but it's definitely doable. Cloth diapers take up more space in the diaper bag, you'll need to bring a bag for dirty diapers and they're not always as convenient as disposables. Families who are frequently dealing with leaks may also choose to use disposables when they're away from home to avoid any unexpected cloth changing.
   
   
4. Mental health
   
   Being a parent is a journey with lots of highs and lows. Some parents opt to use cloth diapers part time, either when life gets complicated or they just need a break. It's important to always prioritize your mental health.

Using Cloth Diapers is a Commitment

If you have fully decided that you want to use cloth diapers for your baby full-time, you may need to accept the fact that it is a commitment. Everything has benefits and drawbacks, and if you really want to stick to it, you have to plan ahead and be ready before something happens. 

Overcome the Challenges

There are several advantages to using disposable diapers, such as convenience and ease of use. However, it's important to weigh all the factors before making a decision. For example, cloth diapers can be more economical in the long run and are better for the environment. 

The cloth diapers of today have come a long way since your grandmother used them. They are much more efficient and no longer require saggy sides or pins to stay in place. You can trust that our cloth diapers will keep your baby safe, dry, and comfortable. Cloth diapers today are generally made to fit babies, most with waterproof covers and bands around the legs and waist. Like disposables, some cloth diapers have Velcro or snaps for easy on and off. However, they are not as absorbent, so you'll need to change your baby more frequently. 

Initially, there will be some challenges. How are you going to deal with them?

1. Unsupportive circle of friends and family
   
   Dealing with unsolicited parenting advice can be difficult, especially if it's coming from someone close to you. Remember that you are the mother and you know what's best for your baby. You can politely listen to the advice and then make your own decisions, or you can graciously decline the advice altogether. Thank the person for their concern and move on.
   
   Ask yourself:
   
   “Do I need to respond to this?”
   “Will it start a conflict?”
   “Do I have to change my mind for others?”
   
   When two people have different perspectives, it can be helpful to discuss the issue in order to gain a better understanding of the other person's point of view. However, sometimes this type of discussion can lead to arguments and feeling pain or upset.
   
   If you're met with negative feedback about your cloth diapering decision, don't engage. There's no need to justify yourself or your beliefs; simply thank the person politely for their input and move on. You can start a different conversation, engage with someone else, or physically walk away. Whatever you do, don't let it upset you.
   
   
2. Daycare or babysitters
   
   When making the decision to use cloth diapers, you need to weigh your options carefully. Consider how strongly you feel about using cloth diapers and the potential for disruption to personal relationships. You also need to think about the convenience of disposables when your child is in the care of someone else. Ultimately, you need to balance all of these factors to make the best decision for you and your family.
   
   Here are your options:
   
   - The policy is simple: if it's not 100% cloth, then we can't do it. That means no childcare, babysitting, or sleepovers unless everything is made of cloth.
   - If they want to use disposable diapers during childcare hours or babysitting, they will need to purchase them.

A Word from Cutie Patootie

If you're considering using cloth diapers, there are a few things you'll need to make the process more efficient. Many people who use cloth diapers find that a bidet or sprayer is more helpful than other methods (like swishing the diaper around in the toilet) for rinsing the solid waste out of the baby's diaper and into the toilet.

It is also important to have a wet bag to store soiled cloth diapers when you're away from home. If you're not planning on using disposable diapers, this is essential. Some parents also find it helpful to have handmade or flushable wipes with them when they're out and about, in case there are any accidents. 

When making the decision about whether or not to cloth diapers, keep in mind that it doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing choice. There are many different types of diapering methods, so try out a few to see what works best for you and your child. You may be surprised at how much you enjoy cloth diapering once you give it a try.