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No that is not a typo. Two hyena diaper sellers, GoodMama and Sweetiebums, teamed up this past week and made some rather amazing diapers. All of them sold for a pretty penny but the lowest price brought in by the auction was $130.00 for an organic bamboo fitted diaper and the highest price was $296.00!!! Wow!

Does this like a $300 dollar diaper. I will let you decide….

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Parents often dread potty training.  Teaching a child to use the toilet after he has gotten accustomed to using a diaper seems like a daunting task.  But many parents claim that elimination communication potty training, or EC for short, is less stressful and more effective than traditional methods.

What is Elimination Communication?

EC has been used in many cultures for centuries.  It is simply the practice of learning to recognize the signs that your child needs to use the bathroom, and taking him to the toilet when you see them.  It is generally started before six months of age, but some parents start later than that.

Each child has his own individual way of communicating that he is about to urinate or have a bowel movement.  It’s up to the parents to pick up on these signs.  Some things to look for include passing gas, grunting, squirming, or a serious look on your child’s face.  Your child may do some or all of these things, or he may give cues that are unique to him.

Once you’ve figured out the signs, you can start taking the child to the potty when you see them.  Parents often develop signs, either verbal or visual, that let the child know that they are in a place where it is acceptable to eliminate.  If he does, some praise will reinforce the behavior and make him more likely to continue with it.

To Diaper or Not to Diaper?

One reason that some parents choose the EC method is because it can reduce the need for diapers.  While you will probably need some backup in the early stages, the possibility of not having to buy diapers or fill up the landfills with them once the child starts using the toilet is quite appealing.  Some parents find that using cloth diapers enhances their children’s success with elimination communication due to the fact that they can feel the results of elimination.

Some parents choose not to use diapers at all when practicing EC potty training.  Many of these parents claim that their children rarely have a bowel movement in their underpants.  It is often necessary, however, to use a diaper when on the road or away from home.

The Debate About EC

Some experts feel that elimination communication potty training is inappropriate due to the fact that it is started at such a young age.  They claim that because children under two years old do not have fully developed muscles, they cannot control their urination and bowel movements.  There are also psychologists who argue that early toilet training can cause problems later in life.

EC supporters claim that it is not damaging to the child because he is not pressured into going to the toilet on his own.  If done correctly, EC puts the caregiver in charge of getting the child to the toilet when he needs to go.  The child will realize what is going on and start going to the bathroom on his own when the time comes.

Elimination communication sounds unusual to some parents, but it is an easy concept to implement.  It has the potential to make potty training easier and less stressful, and it could save you a lot of money in the long run.  Once you’ve deciphered the signs that indicate your child needs to go to the bathroom, the hardest part is over.

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Potty training is a major step toward independence for your toddler.  But as important and rewarding as it is, it can also be frustrating for parents.  Sometimes it’s hard to determine just when you should start, some children are resistant to it, and setbacks may happen along the way.  For these reasons, many parents have lots of questions about the subject.

The more you know going into potty training, the better off you’ll be.  Here are a few pointers:

* The average age for potty training is 2 to 3 years, but it’s important to make sure that your child is physically, cognitively, and emotionally ready before you begin.  Signs include awareness on your child’s part that she is about to urinate or have a bowel movement, a desire to be changed quickly when wet, and curiosity about parents and others using the toilet.

* Some parents begin using the elimination communication method when their children are six months old or younger.  This involves learning the signs that your child is about to go and taking her to the toilet before she uses her diaper.  This often makes potty training easier when they are ready for it, but it does require a certain amount of time and attention.

* If your child is resistant to potty training, figuring out the reason behind it is the key to breaking through.  Sometimes it is a power struggle, in which case it may help to reduce the pressure and find ways to encourage your child to use the potty while letting her think it is her idea.  Other possible problems include changes such as the birth of a sibling or divorce, fear of the toilet, and medical problems.

* If you are getting nowhere with potty training, it’s possible that your child isn’t emotionally ready.  If she shows no interest in using the potty whatsoever, consider postponing training for a few weeks or months, then trying again.

* Rewards are often helpful for children who are reluctant to use the potty.  Sticker charts are a common tactic, but you could also use things such as small toys, special trips, and extra bedtime stories as incentives.

* Some parents claim that using cloth diapers makes potty training go faster.  Cloth diapers allow toddlers to feel moisture and discomfort when they have a wet or dirty diaper, giving them a natural incentive to start using the potty.

* Try not to make a big deal out of accidents or setbacks.  Keeping a positive outlook will give your child the confidence she needs to succeed.  If an accident happens, letting her know that you have faith that she will do better next time will do more to encourage her than scolding.

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Parents of toddlers nowadays can choose from hundreds of products designed to help with potty learning.  There are potty chairs and seats, instructional potty books, and even anatomically correct potty dolls.  There are sticker charts, flushable wipes, and even alarm watches that remind your child that it’s time to try and go potty.

One of the most often used potty training aids is pull-up pants.  They are thin disposable diaper-like pants that are made like underwear so that the child can pull them off and on when it’s time to use the potty.  Some have symbols on them that fade when wet, and some are made with tear-away sides in case of accidents.  But there is some debate as to their effectiveness. Many times they end up being used as a diaper more than pants.

The problem with pull-ups and diapers is that they absorb too well.  They wick away from the child’s skin, and this is a very a good thing for babies.  But toddlers who are potty training can benefit from the motivation and discomfort that a wet diaper provides.

Cloth Diapers Can Help with Potty Learning

Moms who use cloth diapers have a bit of an advantage when it comes to potty training.  Cloth diapers allow the child to feel the wetness and discomfort caused by urination and bowel movements.  Most children learn find this quite unpleasant, and it provides a good incentive to start using the potty.

Another good thing about cloth diapers when it comes to potty training is that they’re more affordable than disposable pull-ups.  So if your toddler has a lot of accidents you will have to wash diapers more often, but that is cheaper in the long run.

Disadvantages of Cloth Diapers for Potty Learning

One problem with cloth diapers as opposed to pull-ups is that they are usually harder for the child to pull down on his own. The velcro and/or snaps can be hard for them to master. So during the learning stages, he may need more help than he would otherwise when going to the potty. There are special cloth training pants though can help with this issue.

Another disadvantage is evidenced when traveling or on the go.  If the child uses the diaper, you will have to find somewhere to store it until you get back home….like a wet bag.  If you’re not prepared, you could be in for a smelly car ride, especially if you’re on a long trip.

Cloth Diapers May Make Potty Learning Faster

Although they can be less convenient than disposables, many moms are choosing to use cloth diapers.  Those who are attempting to potty train often find that their children learn quickly.  In fact, statistics show that toddlers who wear cloth diapers are fully trained six months before those who wear disposable diapers or pull-ups. Wow!

Cloth diapers are affordable and better for the environment and landfills than disposable diapers.  They also provide an advantage to moms who are attempting to potty train their kiddos.  So even though cloth diapers are less convenient than disposables in some ways, using them may result in less time in diapers overall for your kid.

Technorati Tags: cloth diapers, diaper trainers, potty learning, potty training

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If you have been hanging around this site for more than 5 minutes then you already know that using cloth diapers has some big time advantages over disposable diapers.  Cloth diapers can save a ton of cash, and they are the better choice for the environment. Despite all this, parents continue to shell out big bucks for what is essentially garbage (disposable), figuring they just can’t handle the inconvenience of laundering cloth diapers. As a cloth diapering mom of 4 plus years I have to wonder…what inconvenience???Perhaps one of the biggest deterrents to cloth diapering is the diaper laundry.  You would think cloth diapering mamas beat their diapers on rock in a nearby river or something.  In actuality, cleaning those cloth tushie covers is as easy as handling any other kind of laundry.  You throw a load in the washing machine, turn it on, and forget it.  The machine does all the work.  Then you transfer that load to the drier and let it finish the job or hang the diapers on the line and walk away. Personally I never folded diapers or even put them away very often since we used them so much. I just tossed them in nice wicker basket. 

There are a few simple changes to make sure the diapers are thoroughly clean. Put your diapers  in the washing machine and set it to wash a cold cycle.  You can add soap if you want, but the main purpose of the cold wash is to help prevent the soiled diapers from staining.  Plain water works pretty good.  When the cold wash cycle finishes, set the washing machine to wash with hot water.  Then add a your favorite detergent, usually a little less than normal, and let the cycle run.  At the end of the hot wash cycle, you can re-rinse if you like. I usually do…just to make sure there is no soap residue.  Otherwise, take the diapers out and toss them into the drier.  Depending on what kind of diapers you are using, set the drier to run either a regular or cool drying cycle, and turn it on.  Reuse the diapers again and again. Rinse and Repeat.

Here are a few things to keep in mind to make washing cloth diapers as easy as possible and to extend the life of your diapers.

1.  When the diaper is soiled, you don’t have to do anything extra for babies who are still exclusively breastfed.  The washing machine will take care of it.  When the baby is eating solid foods the poop will be more solid and will need to be scraped off.  Gently scrape with some toilet paper and flush.  You should try to get as much off the diaper as you can, but the washing machine can still handle a surprising amount of residue, so don’t overdo it.  Just get rid of the really solid stuff.

2.  Do not use bleach or fabric softeners.  Bleach will wear down the fibers in the diapers, shortening their useful life.  Fabric softeners tend to add residue to the diapers which can irritate baby’s bottom as well as cause the diapers to repel, rather than absorb water.  Rely on the hot water, soap and vinegar to sanitize the diapers.  If they smell clean, they are clean.

Washing cloth diapers may seem more difficult at first, but it’s really more work for your washing machine, and maybe a learning curve for you.  Once you’ve washed a few loads, it becomes second nature and you too will be scratching your head  in wonderment when your friends balk at using cloth diapers.

Technorati Tags: cloth diapers, benefits, washing diapers, diaper laundry

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If you are looking for cloth diapers that can comfortably fit both your six-month-old and your almost potty trained toddler, then Wonderoos Pocket Diapers may be just the thing for you.  The diaper consists of a fleece lined waterproof pocket, in which you insert the part that absorbs water.  Then you snap the completed diaper snuggly around your baby or toddler and off you go.

Wonderoos come in one size fits all, and that claim is almost true.  They really are too big for newborns.  But once the baby weighs around fifteen pounds, baby can wear them.  How big can baby get and still fit them?  Well, my 36 lb four-year-old wears them at night, and there’s still plenty of growing room.

They come in all sorts of bright colors, which can be fun for the children wearing them.  My girls like to match.  But they also come in plain white if that’s what you prefer.
They are convenient on the road, because once they are properly assembled, they go on and come off just like a disposable diaper.  The main difference, of course, is that you will then take them home, take them apart, and run them through the laundry.  If you have someone else care for your child, it’s easy to “train” that person to use the Wonderoos even if she has never used cloth diapers before.  I use my Wonderoos for day trips and family vacations, when before I used disposables.

I’ve definitely enjoyed mine and overall consider them to have been a worthwhile purchase.

Like many cloth diapers, you get the occasional leak, and that tends to be exacerbated if you have used any kind of diaper rash ointment on your little one as lotions and oils tend to make the fleece repel water.  That problem is solved by stripping, and after using my Wonderoos for over two years I’ve only had to do that once.  If the diaper gets too full, it will start to seep through the pocket, so you want to make sure you are on top of changing that little one.  Still, they can hold a decent amount before they give you problems.

My diapers are getting old, and the first place I’ve noticed it is that those elastics aren’t as snug as they used to be, and sometimes I’ve had the “wee” come out the sides, leaving an almost completely dry diaper (and a wet bed).  This happens sometimes when my baby is lying on her side.  I have used these diapers on two people for over two years, and continue to use them.  I mean, they have been through a lot.

Technorati Tags: cloth diaper, Wonderoos, pocket diaper, one size diaper

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Thirsties Fab Fitted Diapers are made from silky cotton velour on the outside and comfy soft microfleece on the inside to keep baby dry. Grab yourself a rainbow of FAB diapers!

What’s to like? Thirsties are very absorbant, super soft and very easy to use. My son is a super soaker, when the new Thirsties Fab Fitted’s came out I bought a few, then a week later I sold all of my other diapers and bought 12 more. We have never had a leak with these diapers. The whole diaper is so soft, both the outside and the insides have stayed just as soft over multiple washings as they were they day we bought them. The aplix closures make they really user friendly, even my 9 year old likes to change his diaper now! They also come in some really cute and fun colors. They also have matching covers that make our cloth diaper stash really pretty.

The only thing I do not like about these diapers is that the aplix laundry tabs don’t work very well. They come apart in the wash and stick to each other, but it hasn’t caused any problems for us.

Technorati Tags: cloth diaper, thirsties, fitted diaper, aplix, velour diaper

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I will admit I am not much of a hyena anymore. While I was going through cancer treatment my son started wearing disposable diapers (gasp!) and now he just wears the same old cloth he had before with only a few new ones that boring mom sewed for him. ;) . I  seem to have lost my inner diaper connoisseur. BUT I stumbled across a few diaper boutiques that had me salivating and I hadn’t done that in a VERY long time it seems. Unfortunately for me I am not the only one salivating over these diapers because I picked true hyena food (Hyena: A term for hard to get, popular diapers that are stalked by diaper hungry moms). AND strangely enough the diapers are prefolds which never really tempted me all that much…it appears that prefolds are back big time!

The first find was Peanut Butter and Ellie Baby. The mom owner makes beautiful prefolds called Grae Flats which have two layers of silky soft bamboo velour backed with a bamboo loop terry. They look scrumptious!

This particular site then brought me to the Sugarlump Boutique where the mom owner takes regular prefold diapers and dyes them mouth watering colors and embellishes them with fabric. Peanut Butter and Ellie Baby sent a couple Grae Flat samples to Sugarlump to get jazzed up and this was the result.

The prefolds at the top of this page are from Sugarlump Boutique and here are some more delectable designs:

Visit both of these stores to stock up…that is unless someone else beat ya to it!

Technorati Tags: cloth diaper, prefolds, Peanut Butter and Ellie Baby, Sugarlump Boutique, hyena diaper

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This is a training pant it’s just like the Happy Heiny pocket diapers.  The only real difference is that the trainers give you the option of both sides sewn shut, or snaps on one or both sides.  It is made out of the same materials as the pocket diaper.
I like that you are given the option of snaps or no snaps.  Also, you can make them as absorbant as you need….just one insert for day time accidents and as much as you need to use at night.  I use one happy heiny insert during the day.  At night I use one happy heiny insert plus one hemp prefold folded in thirds.  We have had no leaks yet.
The only things that I don’t really care for is how “puffy” they are and the sizing.  They are very puffy, my son doesn’t really complain about it, but his calls them the puffy’s!  The sizing could be a little closer to true size.  I had to order 2 different sizes before getting the right one.  My son weighs 34 lbs.  By the weight he should fit into the medium.  The medium about fell off him.  The smalls are the one that we finally got to fit.  They seem to be just right, but without much room for growing.  The bad part is that when he outgrows this size, he still won’t fit into the mediums for a while. I will also mention that there have been a few morning that I have noticed red marks on his hips where the snaps are.   It would be nice if the snaps were hidden is a way that would keep them away from his skin.

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Diaper Free Baby: The Natural Toilet Training Alternative by Christine Gross-Loh

I Like everything about this book and dislike nothing! It is a wonderful book!  The book explains in thorough detail the age old concept of Elimination Communication (also called Natural Infant Hygiene).  The author talks about the history of EC and how it’s been around for ages in various parts of the world-  even before the diaper came to be.  She even notes that in some countries, a baby never even sees a diaper!  She then goes on to explain how one can begin trying EC for themselves.  She candidly discusses with such clarity and wisdom why one should consider ECing  and then she breaks it down according to age and amount of time one wants to commit to EC. She begins with ECing  a newborn 0- 3months, Middle Infancy 3-8 months, ECing your mobile baby and then ECing your toddler. 

The book is wonderfully written and it includes many testimonials from parents and other caregivers who practice EC.  They comment on various aspects of EC’ing wh ether it be age (advantages and disadvantages), common struggles, or the amount of time one is able to commit to EC’ing their little one and how it works for them. 

The author is wonderful in that she explains how to EC at any age, and for any amount of time without any judgment or bias thus making one feel completely comfortable if they are a “late” starter who only practices ECing occasionally or part time.  She says to try it for a week and see what happens.   Prior to reading this book, I thought I’d need to meet with others who practiced EC before being able to start.  This book has proven that I can go it alone and has been extremely helpful to me in beginning my own ECing journey with my baby. If I were going to read only one book on the topic of EC, this book would be it!

Buy Now!

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