Life
When I decided to cloth diaper, I heard so many negative comments. Things like,"Why?" and, "I'll give you a month before you quit" come to mind. I also remembering hearing the occasional, "It's too hard," and "I remember cloth diapering my kids and it was such a pain." There was also the fun,"Your house is going to stink" and, "Ain't nobody got time for that." I'd like to think that I have proven them all wrong, so I've come up with a few things I think moms who cloth diaper should say to the haters.
First of all, why on earth do you care what I put on my baby's bottom? Seriously. I honestly don't even think about what kind of diapers other people use, let alone feel the need to comment on their decision. I am well aware that cloth diapering is not a perfect choice for protecting the environment, and I am sure other cloth diapering parents are, too. You really don't need to tell us. Besides, nobody likes lectures about their parenting choices from other parents. I admit, I do like to tell people about the wonders of cloth diapers, but not because I am judging them for choosing an alternative. Usually, I just like to talk about cloth diapers because they're so fun and easy to use. I do like to dispel myths about them and to show off my baby's cute fluffy butt, too.
If I'm being honest I have to admit there have been some cloth-diaper related ups and downs; yucky stuff like yeast infections and ammonia so strong it burnt our nose hairs. Still, even the gross parts were cool, giving me an opportunity to try every tip and trick for washing and stripping diapers and preventing these issues from returning. Science is fun. Here are a few more things I'd like to say to the haters, because I'm not going to let them ruin my fun.
"It's So Much Fun"
I freaking love cloth diapering. You might say I'm addicted (and if you did, you would totally be right). I get to buy adorable diapers in all styles and prints, and come up with custom diapering solutions to resolve issues and meet my baby's needs. It's so fun.
"They Are Easier To Use Than You Probably Think"
I was a little intimidated by cloth diapers before I started using them, honesty. Now that I have cloth diapered three babies, though, I have no idea what I was afraid of. Once you get used to a routine, it's so easy my 4 year old can do it.
"Look At My Baby's Fluffy Butt"
There's nothing cuter than a fluffy butt. I have diapers in every style and print imaginable, including but certainly not limited to: flowers, narwals, space cats, foxes, and even Wonder Woman (that's my favorite). Whatever your interests, you can probably find a cloth diaper to reflect your (or your baby's) personality. If not, you can have someone make a custom diaper (really, they are totally a thing).
"We're Saving A Ton Of Money"
Cloth diapers, like many other baby-related items, can be cheap or expensive depending on which diapers you buy. So far, my partner and I have only spent about $150 on diapers for our newest baby, and we were able to sell the one's he's outgrown at a consignment sale and upgrade to one-size diapers that he can wear until he's potty trained. We've spent way less than we'd have spent on disposable diapers.
"I'm Reducing My Carbon Footprint One Poop-Filled Diaper At A Time"
Now, I'm not going to lie and lecture you about how you should use cloth to save the environment. Each person has their own priorities and ability to make choices. We are privileged to own our own home with a washer and drier and it definitely makes cloth diapering more accessible. We do use more water and electricity, especially during the cold months, but I feel good about reducing the amount of garbage we contribute to landfills. After all, our baby goes through, like, 10 diapers a day.
"They Are Super Cute"
OMG they are so cute. They are coming out with new prints all of the time, too, so the cuteness is only going to become more prevelant. Yes.
"Watch Me Do Science!"
I love a challenge or a mystery to be solved. When my diapers start to stink or aren't getting clean like they should, I try a new wash routine, test my water hardness, add softeners, or try a new detergent. Science is fun.
"Why Do You Care?"
So far, in eight years of motherhood, the only questions or comments I have made to other moms about diapers are, "That's cute, where did you get it?" and, "What kind of nighttime diaper do you use to avoid leaks?"
That's it. I really don't understand the hate.
"Just Let People Enjoy Things"
My bottom line: other people's choices really have nothing to do with you. Live and let live, and for goodness sake let people enjoy things. Yes, even if it's not your cup of tea.
