We had a chance to connect with Karen Randall, owner of New and Green Baby, a Vancouver-based online cloth diaper store. Love that you can hear Karen’s little one in the background. 
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Music credit: Fond Farewell © SOCAN, Pilkington ’09.
Run time: 14:10
Here are some of the things we covered in our podcast:
Some common myths about cloth diapering:
- Cloth diapers are too much work.
- Cloth diapers are messy.
- My baby won’t be comfortable in cloth diapers.
Some realities about cloth diapering:
- Technology has changed. Fabrics and patterns are new and designed with functionality in mind and has changed the way parents use cloth diapers.
- Unlike the diapers from the 70s, today’s diapers are made of hemp or organic cotton, and have a water-repellent outer layer that’s breathable.
- Washing machine technology has changed.
- No longer “poop soup”. You now use just a common pail, which isn’t that different from tossing a diaper into a normal garbage can.
Options for cloth diapers
- One step diapers – one step to put on and off. Functionally the most easiest to use. Parent’s favourite for older babies. Includes pocket diapers and all-in-one diaper. Great for caregivers who aren’t used to cloth diapering.
- Two step diapers – Absorbent and waterproof part. Can customize the inside and outside. Can get a really great fit on tiny babies.
When you’re shopping for cloth diapers, here are some keywords to look for:
- Pocket diaper
- All-in-one
- Fitted diapers (absorbent part)
- Prefold or flat diapers (flat, traditional diapers)
- Diaper covers
Karen’s essentials when you’re starting with cloth diapers:
- Diapers
- At home storage bag. (Bummis wet bag). Can be used as a pail liner or a stand-alone bag.
- Detergent (e.g. Rockin’ Green)
- Cloth wipes
- Wet bag for when you’re on the go.
Final thoughts:
- Go check out the resource section on NewandGreen.com
- Sign up for one of New and Green’s workshops.
- Easiest to use diaper is Easy Fit Diaper
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Good one, ladies! Congrats, Christine, on the first podcast!