bumGenius Cloth Diapers Review

Fynn sporting his diaper 

I did A LOT of research when trying to choose the *perfect* cloth diaper. Probably a bit too much research.  I wanted a diaper that wasn't too complicated for a cloth diapering newbie like me, I wanted something affordable, and something that would last for more than just my first born. Tall order? Surprisingly not.  After reading many blogs, forums, and top 5 lists, the winner became evident. bumGenius!

After cloth diapering for over a year now, I feel very comfortable giving the bumgenius 4.0 cloth diaper a big thumbs up. Here's why:

* Can be used for babies 7-35lbs, meaning it's the ONLY diaper you'll need until your little one is potty trained
* Snap attachments are stretchy and allow you to adjust the diaper so it's a perfect fit
* Easy to clean: Now, a cloth diaper will never truly be EASY because it does require you to go the extra mile for your baby (and the planet) but it's not that bad...honestly
* Comes with a newborn insert and a one-size insert. Now that my little man is a bit bigger I use both inserts for extra wetness protection
*Once your baby is on the move, I swear it is easier to get a cloth diaper on during a diaper change than a disposable!
* Easy to stuff and remove inserts
*Stretchy elastic around the legs gives a secure fit
*Variety of colours to choose from, and they look SUPER cute on!
* Sell for roughly $23.95 each, but if you buy more than 6 you can definitely get a discount so ASK!
*Covers are made in USA and Egypt...but the inserts are made in China (boo) and Egypt
*Waterproof covers can double as a swimsuit (but I wouldn't suggest using them frequently in chlorinated pools)

I recommend buying at least 20 so you can get a good rotation going, washing about every other day.  The care instructions are pretty simple: pre-rinse cold, wash hot, extra rinse, and once a month, add eco-friendly bleach to the hot cycle.

I have had a smelly issue before, and had to "strip" the diapers, which basically means rinsing them repeatedly. Stinky diapers are usually a result of either a detergent build up on the diaper or being exhausted/forgetful and waiting longer than 3 days to wash your diapers. Here's how you remedy it: http://www.zany-zebra.com/stripping-cloth-diapers.shtml

A Few Cloth Diapering Tips

* Buy a diaper sprayer that hooks up to your toilet. I tried doing without this for a few months and it was gross! I vowed to never swish a poopy diaper with my bare hands in the toilet again. A diaper sprayer is under $50 and you will NOT regret it!
*You don't really need a diaper pail liner. I just rinse the pail with hot water and a little soap each time I empty it and then add a few drops of tea tree oil.
*Although I do love bumGenius, here are a few other diapers that I have heard equally good things about: FuzziBunz, AppleCheeks, and Rumparooz.
*If I'm going somewhere for the day (or a few days) where I won't have access to laundry or I don't want to cart smelly diapers around with me, I will definitely use disposable diapers.  I always try to do the best thing for my baby and the planet...BUT... my sanity also ranks pretty high on my priority list, so I never beat myself up over making occasional allowances.

I must say that a lot of people tried to talk me out of cloth diapering and I am really glad I didn't listen. I truly believe the extra effort is worth it. Each time I drag the  pail downstair with a heavy sigh I remind myself that not only am I saving a ton of money, but there is one less diaper in a landfill, and that's something.
Happy Washing!