My DGD did this with her kids and I will tell you that those cloth diapers probably avoided some diaper rash, but not all and when they did get diaper rash, it couldn't be treated because the treatment destroys the diapers' absorbency.
You can buy the outer covers and my experience is that in the long run, buying them is cheaper than making them, especially if you value your time at all.
And the one thing all of you who have answered have ignored, is that the cloth diapers stink to high heaven! They require a special detergent, hours of stuffing the outer cover with the diapers, and on and on into the night. Good luck
but I can tell you that my patience with cloth diapers when better is available has worn thin. Viva high quality disposables!I wish they had been around when my child was a baby. froggyintexas
Originally Posted by
GingerK
My DD used cloth diapers for both her girls. The initial cost is huge but is only about half the cost of disposables over the diapered time of a baby. There are some draw backs. You have to use a special detergent because regular detergent negates the absorbancy of the liners. The liners have to be 'stripped' occasionally--means a special washing of some sort. You cannot use diaper cream on the baby because it interferes with the absorbancy(unless you put an extra little liner between butt and diaper).
I have also replaced the elastic on the legs and backs of many of those diapers. Pain in the butt but do-able and prolongs the life of the diaper. (this is the 'outer' part)
It is a great concept but I really don't think a lot of new parents understand the work and commitment this needs.
Making the outers consists of a special fabric, a special pattern and special fasteners. I am thrilled that DD did not ask me to attempt that. The liners are easier but still need certain fabrics and a serger.
If you are willing to do this, you are a better person than I am!!