When you have more than one child, hand-me-downs are a way of life. One of the best perks of cloth diapering is that your "stash" can be passed down just like baby clothes—depending on how much "love" they’ve seen!
While Thirsties diapers are designed to go from birth to potty, every household’s journey is unique. We gathered the best tips to share with you for making your diapers go the distance.
While Thirsties diapers are designed to go from birth to potty, every household’s journey is unique. We gathered the best tips to share with you for making your diapers go the distance.
Real Staying Power
We reached out to the Thirsties family on Instagram, and the results were amazing!
@naturallythriftymom is currently using her stash on baby #4!
@kristinajura has covers on their third baby and Newborn AIOs on their second.
@crystamh is using Duo Wraps that were passed down from her sister (who used them for two kids first)!
@kristinajura has covers on their third baby and Newborn AIOs on their second.
@crystamh is using Duo Wraps that were passed down from her sister (who used them for two kids first)!
So, how do you get that kind of longevity? Here are three keys to success:
01. Stash Size Matters
The bigger the rotation, the less wear and tear each individual diaper takes. If you use a Duo system instead of a One-Size system, you naturally spread the use across two different stashes.
01. Stash Size Matters
The bigger the rotation, the less wear and tear each individual diaper takes. If you use a Duo system instead of a One-Size system, you naturally spread the use across two different stashes.
Recommended Minimums:
Newborn: 20–24 diapers
6–12 Months: 14–18 diapers
12–24 Months: 12–16 diapers
Newborn: 20–24 diapers
6–12 Months: 14–18 diapers
12–24 Months: 12–16 diapers
02. Know Your Components
Understanding what wears out first helps you protect it:
Elastics: These usually go first. To save them, never stretch elastics while they are still hot from the dryer. Avoid bleach and "sanitize" cycles, which are harsh on rubber.
Hook & Loop: Keep these strong by always using the laundry tabs during wash cycles. Our Hook and Loop is pretty darn indestructable, so if yours is no longer sticking, look to see if you need to remove lint that may have built up between the hooks.
Lamination (PUL): High heat is the enemy of waterproof lining. While a quick 10-minute tumble on high can occasionally "reseal" laminate, regular drying should be done on low or via line drying.
Hook & Loop: Keep these strong by always using the laundry tabs during wash cycles. Our Hook and Loop is pretty darn indestructable, so if yours is no longer sticking, look to see if you need to remove lint that may have built up between the hooks.
Lamination (PUL): High heat is the enemy of waterproof lining. While a quick 10-minute tumble on high can occasionally "reseal" laminate, regular drying should be done on low or via line drying.
03. Master the Wash Routine
Excellent care is the secret sauce. Stick to a simple routine: Pre-wash, Hot Wash (max 130°F), and Extra Rinse.
Hard Water: If your water tests at or above 180ppm, use a softener to prevent mineral buildup.
Natural Fibers: Cotton and hemp are favorites, but they wear faster than synthetics. Avoid overfilling your machine, as excessive agitation can cause premature holes or fraying.
Natural Fibers: Cotton and hemp are favorites, but they wear faster than synthetics. Avoid overfilling your machine, as excessive agitation can cause premature holes or fraying.
The Bottom Line
Cloth diapers are an investment that can truly pay off across multiple children if you treat them with a little extra care.
We want to hear from you! Is your stash brand-new for Baby #1, or is it holding strong for Baby #2, #3, or beyond? Let us know in the comments!
