Blog

Partnering with a diaper service isn't as common as subscribing to Netflix. So, most people don't know what it means. Fear not. We explained it using the power of words and a nice list. 

We are using this opportunity to give back to our community. Do Good is donating 3% of proceeds from Boo sales to the Greater Minneapolis Crisis Nursery.

Discover the chemical differences between standard disposable diapers and 100% natural cotton. Learn why Twin Cities parents are choosing the 'reuse' route.

Using cloth diapers at your childcare provider is definitely possible! There aren’t any laws or regulations against using them in centers. Most parents just don’t ask and most providers don’t realize how easy they are. Here are some practical tips on how to use cloth diapers at daycare, ensuring a smooth experience for everyone involved. Communicate and Educate: Before your baby starts daycare, have a conversation with the staff about your decision to use cloth diapers. Instead of asking “Will you use cloth diapers?”, state “We are using cloth diapers at home.” Have an open conversation explaining the benefits and address any concerns they might have. Provide them with information about how to handle cloth diapers, such as changing, storing, and laundering them. Sharing resources like instructional videos or written guidelines can be helpful. Choose User-Friendly Diaper Styles: Opt for cloth diapers that are easy to use and require minimal adjustments. All-in-one (AIO) or pocket diapers with pre-stuffed inserts are great options for daycare because they resemble disposable diapers in terms of functionality. Make sure to demonstrate how to put on and take off the diapers to make it as simple as possible for the daycare staff. Simplify Diaper Changes: Make the diaper changing process at daycare as straightforward as possible. Prepare diapers in advance by stuffing inserts into pockets or attaching them to AIO diapers. Place each diaper inside a wet bag or a zippered pouch, labeled with your child’s name. This way, the daycare provider can easily grab a complete diaper when needed and put the soiled one away. Provide Ample Supplies: Ensure you supply the daycare with everything they need to handle cloth diapers effectively. This includes an adequate number of diapers, wipes, wet bags, and any diaper creams or powders you use. Label and organize all supplies. Keep a spare set of supplies at the daycare, so you don’t have to transport them back and forth daily. Simplify Laundering: Discuss the laundering process with the daycare staff and agree on a plan that works for both parties. Provide clear instructions on how to handle soiled diapers, including proper storage and any necessary rinsing. Consider using diaper liners or disposable inserts during daycare hours to minimize mess and make cleanup easier. Follow Up and Provide Support: Regularly check in with the childcare to see how things are going and address any concerns or questions they may have. Be open to feedback and provide additional resources if needed. Offering your support and appreciation for their cooperation will foster a positive environment for cloth diapering at your childcare. Using cloth diapers at daycare requires communication, organization, and cooperation between parents and childcare providers. By educating the daycare staff, providing user-friendly diapers, and simplifying the process, you can make the cloth diapering experience at daycare hassle-free. Remember, the benefits of cloth diapers extend beyond convenience, as you contribute to a more sustainable future for your child. **Do Good Diapers (and the two parents who own the business) have years of experience working with childcare providers in Minneapolis/St. Paul and highly recommend Tierra Encantada, Mis Amigos, and Casa De Corazon. 

Cloth diapering continues to gain popularity due to its eco-friendly nature, cost-effectiveness, and skin health benefits. However, many parents wonder about the ideal age to begin cloth diapering. Here are a few thoughts. Newborn Stage: While cloth diapering can be done from birth, it’s important to note that newborns have specific needs that may influence your decision. Newborns require frequent diaper changes, as they tend to have more frequent bowel movements and sensitive skin. However, using cloth from the start often helps families stick with it (it just becomes a thing you do as a parent). Plus, starting early helps develop routines that enable parents to become confident cloth diaper experts. If you wish to use cloth diapers from day one, there are newborn-specific cloth diapering options available that cater to their unique needs. And utilizing a local diaper service, like Do Good Diapers, will help you manage the extra laundry.  Infancy to Toddlerhood: Some parents find that cloth diapering becomes more convenient and efficient as their child grows older. Around 2-3 months of age, babies generally start having fewer bowel movements and a more predictable schedule. This can make cloth diapering more manageable as you can establish a routine and adjust to your baby’s patterns. Between 6 months and 1 year, when babies start solid foods, their bowel movements become more solid and predictable.. At this stage, you can also introduce additional cloth diapering accessories like inserts and boosters to enhance absorbency. Potty Training Phase: As your child approaches the potty training phase, cloth diapers can provide an advantage. Cloth diapers tend to give children a better sense of wetness compared to their disposable counterparts, which can aid in the potty training process. Cloth diapers with adjustable sizing and pull-up options can be particularly useful during this transition period, allowing your child to become more independent. Personal Preferences and Circumstances: Ultimately, the best age to start cloth diapering depends on your personal preferences and circumstances. Some parents choose to start from birth, while others wait until their child reaches a certain age or developmental stage. Factors such as your commitment level, availability of support (e.g., laundry facilities), utilizing a diaper service (e.g. Do Good Diapers) and your child’s comfort can also influence your decision. While there isn’t a definitive “best age” to start cloth diapering, it’s clear that cloth diapering can be successfully implemented at any stage of your child’s development. Consider your child’s needs, your own preferences, and the support available to you when deciding the right time to begin cloth diapering. Regardless of when you start, embracing cloth diapers can be a rewarding choice for your baby’s health, the environment, and your wallet.

When it comes to taking your little ones for a swim, choosing the right swim diaper is essential. A swim diaper is designed to contain solid waste while letting liquid through. While disposable swim diapers have been popular for their convenience, reusable swim diapers are gaining recognition for their numerous advantages. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why using reusable swim diapers is a wise and beneficial choice for both your child and the environment. Environmental Sustainability One of the most compelling reasons to choose reusable swim diapers is their positive impact on the environment. Disposable swim diapers contribute to the ever-growing landfill waste as they are designed for single-use and discarded after each swim. In contrast, reusable swim diapers are made to be washed and reused multiple times, significantly reducing waste. By opting for reusable swim diapers, you actively participate in the reduction of landfill pollution, making a positive contribution towards a more sustainable future. Cost-effectiveness Reusable swim diapers are a cost-effective option in the long run. While the initial investment may be higher than purchasing a pack of disposable swim diapers, reusable options can be used repeatedly. Over time, the cost of buying disposable swim diapers adds up considerably, whereas reusable swim diapers offer long-term savings. Investing in reusable swim diapers not only benefits your wallet but also provides a practical and economical solution, particularly if you frequently take your child swimming. Superior Comfort and Fit Comfort is key when it comes to swim diapers and reusable swim diapers excel in this aspect. These diapers are designed to provide a snug and secure fit for your child. With adjustable closures and multiple size options, reusable swim diapers can be customized to fit your child’s specific measurements, ensuring optimal comfort and containment. The gentle and breathable materials used in reusable swim diapers allow for better air circulation, reducing the risk of discomfort and irritation for your child’s sensitive skin. Durability and Versatility Reusable swim diapers are known for their durability and versatility. They are typically made with high-quality materials that can withstand frequent use and washing without compromising their functionality. Many reusable swim diapers are designed to grow with your child, featuring adjustable snaps or hook-and-loop closures that allow for a snug fit at various stages of your child’s growth. You can find them in many stylish designs and colors – they can even double as a swimsuit in some cases. Conclusion When it comes to choosing the right swim diaper for your child, reusable swim diapers offer numerous advantages that make them a wise and practical choice. From their positive environmental impact and long-term cost-effectiveness to their superior comfort, durability, and stylish designs, reusable swim diapers check all the boxes. Make the switch today and enjoy the benefits that reusable swim diapers have to offer.

Introduction: Cloth diapers continue to gain  popularity as an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to disposable diapers. Proper cleaning and maintenance are crucial to ensure the longevity and hygienic use of cloth diapers. In this blog post, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to effectively clean cloth diapers, helping you keep your baby comfortable and the environment happy. 1. Preparing for Diaper Cleaning: Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s essential to set up a convenient and organized system for handling cloth diapers. Here’s what you’ll need: Diaper pail or wet bag: Use a designated container to store soiled diapers until wash day. Diaper sprayer or liners: A diaper sprayer that attaches to your toilet can help you remove solid waste easily. Alternatively, you can use disposable liners to catch solid waste, making cleanup simpler. Cloth diaper-friendly detergent: Choose a detergent that is free of additives, fragrances, and enzymes to prevent diaper rash and maintain absorbency. Plot out your washing schedule: This will be based on how many cloth diapers you have, how many diapers you use in a day and your availability. With home washing, it is often recommended to wash frequently (every 2-3 days). 2. Removing Solid Waste: For exclusively breastfed babies, there is no need to remove solid waste before washing. However, for formula-fed babies and older infants, you should shake off or rinse off any solid waste into the toilet using a diaper sprayer or by holding the diaper under running water. Remember to avoid using hot water as it can set stains. 3. Pre-Washing: Before the main wash, it is recommended to pre-wash your cloth diapers. Pre-washing helps remove urine and bacteria, making the main wash more effective. Follow these steps: Place the soiled diapers in your washing machine without adding any detergent. Set the machine to a short wash cycle with cold water. Once the pre-wash cycle is complete, proceed to the main wash. 4. Main Wash: The main wash cycle is where you will thoroughly clean the diapers. Follow these steps: Add the recommended amount of cloth diaper-friendly detergent to the washing machine. Select a long wash cycle with warm water, ensuring the water temperature is safe for the diaper fabric. Use an extra rinse cycle to ensure all detergent is rinsed out. Avoid using fabric softeners or bleach, as they can reduce absorbency and cause skin irritation. For optimal agitation, load the washing machine with an appropriate number of diapers. Overloading can hinder proper cleaning. 5. Drying: Proper drying is crucial to maintain the integrity and absorbency of cloth diapers. Consider the following options: Line drying: Hanging diapers under the sun is a natural and effective way to remove stains and sanitize them. Machine drying: If time or weather constraints prevent line drying, use a low-heat setting on your dryer. Do not use dryer sheets as they can leave residue and reduce absorbency. 6. Stain Removal: In case your cloth diapers develop stains, here are a few methods to tackle them: Sunning: Placing stained diapers under direct sunlight can help fade stains naturally. Lemon juice or vinegar: Apply a small amount of lemon juice or vinegar to the stained area before washing. These natural substances can help break down stains. Oxygen bleach: If the above methods don’t work, consider using an oxygen bleach specifically formulated for cloth diapers. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Conclusion: Cleaning cloth diapers doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these steps and maintaining a consistent cleaning routine, you can keep your cloth diapers fresh, hygienic, and long-lasting. Remember, each diaper brand may have specific care instructions, so always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for the best results. If doing all the cleaning yourself is too much or you want to give yourself the gift of time with your little one, check out a cloth diaper delivery service in your area like Do Good Diapers. They do all the dirty work for you so you can spend your time where it matters most! Whether you clean your cloth diapers at home or use a delivery service, embracing cloth diapers is beneficial for your baby and for the environment, reducing waste and promoting sustainability.

Diaper creams are designed to protect your baby’s skin, and so are cloth diapers. So, you want to make sure that the creams you use will work well and wash out of the fabric when laundered. Some diaper creams contain ingredients that can leave residue on cloth diapers, reducing their effectiveness. What to look for: Ingredients: Look for diaper creams that are free from petroleum, mineral oil, lanolin, fish oil, cod liver oil, and other heavy oils. These ingredients can create a barrier on the cloth diapers, reducing their absorbency and causing odor retention. Fragrance: For extra-sensitive bottoms, be on the lookout for fragrance on the ingredient list. Synthetic fragrances should always be avoided. Natural fragrances (i.e. from essential oils) often serve an active role in natural diaper creams, but should be noted for the ultra-sensitive bum. Cloth Diaper Safe Label: Check for labels or certifications specifically mentioning that the diaper cream is safe to use with cloth diapers. This can provide you with peace of mind that the cream has been tested and proven to be compatible. Disposable Liner: Consider using a disposable liner in your cloth diaper if you must use a cream with zinc oxide. Zinc can coat the natural fibers of the cloth diaper and be difficult to completely wash out. Best Diaper Creams for Cloth Here are our 5 favorite diaper creams – we think they are the best for baby and cloth! Do Good Organic Baby Balm: designed by Do Good Diapers specifically for use with cloth diapers as a protective barrier and for minor rashes. Easily add to your next diaper delivery! Earth Mama Organic Diaper Balm: No petroleum, zinc or lanolin. Formulated with effective organic ingredients to soothe and calm. California Baby: diaper creams are free of common allergens and preservatives, offering therapeutic relief in super-sensitive and calming varieties. CJ’s BUTTer: shea butter balm provides healing, moisturizing relief to treat a variety of skin conditions, including diaper rash, eczema, and stretch marks. Northern Essence Better Butter Cream: includes no petroleum, lanolin, or zinc; cooling and soothing on baby’s skin. When a diaper cream is necessary, always check the ingredients list and look for cloth diaper safe labels when selecting a cream to ensure its compatibility with your cloth diapers. Look for diaper creams that are free from heavy oils and specifically labeled as cloth diaper safe. Our favorites listed above are trusted options that offer safe and effective solutions for diaper rash protection. By choosing the right diaper cream, you can keep your baby’s skin healthy while keeping your cloth diapers in excellent condition.

Cloth diapers have been used for centuries as an eco-friendly, cost-effective, safe and comfortable way to keep babies dry and clean. Here are some of the benefits of using cloth diapers: Environmentally friendly: Disposable diapers are a significant source of waste in landfills, taking up to 500 years to decompose. Every year over 18,000,000,000 diapers are thrown into landfills. That is over 3.4 million tons of plastic, paper and tape filling up our landfills. Single-use diapers represent between 2% to 4% of solid waste in our nation’s landfills and the emissions of carbon dioxide and methane from landfills are major contributors to Global Warming. In contrast, cloth diapers can be reused and are a more sustainable option for the environment. In addition to reducing waste in landfills, cloth diapers also have a smaller carbon footprint than disposable diapers, as they require less energy and resources to manufacture. Cost-effective: Although the upfront cost of cloth diapers can be higher than disposable diapers, in the long run, they are more cost-effective. With proper care, cloth diapers can last through multiple children, saving families thousands of dollars in diaper expenses. Healthier for baby’s skin: In 1955, before modern disposable diapers it was estimated that 7% of babies and toddlers had diaper rash. In 1991, long after plastic disposable diapers dominated the market, the number jumped to 78%. Disposable diapers contain chemicals and plastics that can irritate a baby’s skin and cause diaper rash. Cloth diapers are made of natural fibers such as bamboo and cotton that allow the skin to breathe, reducing the risk of irritation. Can be used as a potty training aid: Cloth diapers can be used as a potty training aid by allowing toddlers to feel when they are wet and need to use the potty. Disposable diapers pull moisture away from the skin to keep babies comfortable after they have used their diapers, so they don’t feel the wetness against their skin. Variety of types & styles: Cloth diapers come in a variety of styles, colors, and patterns, allowing parents to choose a diaper that fits their lifestyle, budget and preferences best. Disposable Diaper Shortage & Price Increases: As supply chain issues started to create havoc in the early stages of the pandemic, diapers were one of the items difficult to find on the shelves. And then once they returned to the shelves it was with an increased price tag! Still today, there is uncertainty of what diapers you will find in the store when you need them. This has left many parents searching for a reliable and affordable source of diapers for their babies. A great benefit of cloth diapers is they are reusable – once you have them you will continue to have a steady supply. Cloth diapers are a great option for families who are looking for a more eco-friendly, cost-effective, and safe way to keep their babies dry and clean. And the cloth diapers of today are so EASY to use – the learning curve is not as steep as you may think!

You have likely heard that reusable diapers are better for the environment and your wallet than disposables. However, not as often discussed are baby wipes. Yet, cloth diapering raises the question of whether to use cloth wipes. Most parents will consider cloth wipes for the same reasons they use cloth diapers. Cloth wipes are cheaper, generate less waste and help you avoid rubbing chemicals on your baby’s delicate bottom. So, ditch the single-use baby wipes along with the nappies! They will only drain your bank account, pile up in landfills, and potentially irritate your child’s skin. Additional Advantages of Reusable Baby Wipes They are more effective. Cloth cleans poopy bottoms better than throwaway wipes. Fabric “grabs” messes, making cleanup easier and keeping your hands cleaner. Disposable wipes are thin and offer little protection. Plus, you have to use many sheets because they are so thin. You know what is on them. If you make your own wipes, you will know precisely what you use to clean your baby’s sensitive skin. In fact, there is nothing wrong with simply wiping your baby’s bottom with water. It is the ideal solution for newborns whose skin is susceptible and absorbent. However, even oils labeled “safe for babies” should not be used on infants younger than three months. Sustainability matters. Ditching disposable baby wipes is a terrific way to live more sustainably with your baby. Wet wipes contain polymers; therefore, they degrade slowly, taking years to break down in landfills. A Guide to Using Reusable Baby Wipes You use reusable wipes like you would disposable ones. Tip: Keep toilet paper beside the changing table for major messes (poop). Start by removing solids with that and flushing them down the toilet, then finish wiping your child’s bottom clean with a damp cloth wipe. On-the-go: Carry dry wipes (pre-moistened ones can get mildewy quickly) and wet them with bottled water when you need to use them. You can also pre-make a soapy solution and put it in a spray bottle to easily spray a dry wipe on the spot. Lastly, keep a separate waterproof bag at hand for storing used wipes. Washing Reusable Baby Wipes Washable wipes do not require much more effort. Just toss them in a tub of cold water until laundry day. Then, wash them with your other clothes or make a designated load for your cloth diapers and wipes. (Check your brand’s washing directions for specifics.) If you need assistance in choosing what’s best for your family, reach out to Do Good Diapers to discuss!

Inflation is causing a tremendous strain on many families with children still in diapers. The cost of diapers has risen approximately 14% over the past year. It is estimated that a child can go through around 6,000 diapers before completing potty training. So, how can parents save money on these necessities? Here is everything you need to know about the rising costs of inflation on cloth and disposable diapers and how you can save money. Disposable Diaper Costs Disposable diapers offer convenience for families but are typically more expensive than cloth diapers and create environmental concerns. Diapers from top ‘green’ brands can cost between 37 and 90 cents each. Rising inflation costs have recently driven up regular brands’ prices by approximately $20 per box. In addition, with manufacturing supply chain problems and worker shortages, parents may see the price of disposable diapers continue to rise. In comparison, Do Good Diapers can cost 30 to 43 cents per diaper and create less environmental impact than typical cloth or disposable diapers. Cloth Diaper Costs Many parents opt for cloth diapers to save money, but washing at home will require more work for many busy families. Keeping a child in cloth diapers can take up to six hours a week just for washing, drying and folding. Considering the extra energy costs for frequent laundering, the financial impact can be a strain with rising inflation. This laundering also creates a much bigger carbon footprint than disposable diapers. Fight Rising Inflations Costs with an Affordable Diaper Service Do Good Diapers provides affordable hybrid packages that cost less than many green diapers on the market. These diapers offer all the benefits of cloth diapers with the convenience of disposable diapers. New client packages feature 80 cloth diapers, diaper pail rental, diaper covers, liners, travel bag and weekly pick up and laundering. Save money from riding inflation costs by signing up for diaper service today.

Today’s cloth diapers are modern diapers for the modern family. They have progressed a long way in functionality and design from the reusable diapers of previous generations. They are simpler to use, gentle on baby’s skin and highly absorbent. However, cloth diapers still need to be washed. This is the primary factor that hinders would-be cloth diapering families from adopting the practice. But what if you didn’t need to deal with the labor of cleaning them? That is the purpose of a diaper delivery service like Do Good Diapers. We make reusable diapering simple by handling the dirty labor while you and your baby reap the rewards of cloth diapering. What a Diaper Service Does The concept behind a diaper service is that you receive a pack of reusable diapers that someone will launder for you for a weekly or monthly fee. What a relief! All you have to do is leave the dirty ones for pickup, and we will replace them with fresh, clean and sterilized ones. We employ a professional cleaning service at Do Good Diapers. It is one of the advantages of choosing the service versus self-washing. You can be confident that the diapers are 100% hygienic. Additional Benefits of Employing a Diaper Service Less waste. As your baby grows, we can change the size of the diapers delivered. Therefore, you will not have to deal with piles of leftovers or spend money buying a whole new batch every time they grow out of them (if you opt for cloth diapering on your own). Convenience. The days of dumping a soiled diaper in the toilet are long gone. Instead, the dirty diaper can be tossed in the pail and forgotten! Save time. A diaper service saves you time (less laundry or fewer grocery store trips), which you can spend playing with your beautiful baby! Save money. Our service is comparable to disposable diapers because a cloth diapered infant usually potty trains 1+ years earlier, meaning fewer diapers. Plus, you pay by time with a cloth diaper service, not per diaper. In contrast, every time you throw away a disposable diaper, you have to buy another. Sustainability. Using reusable diapers is better for the environment than single-use diapers, which end up in landfills. See For Yourself the Benefits of a Cloth Diaper Service Still unsure about cloth diapers? Email eric@dogooddiapers.com or call (612) 990-2183 with any questions. The friendly staff at Do Good are ready to assist.

Reusable cloth diapers have many well-known perks, like saving money while protecting your infant’s sensitive skin and the environment. But did you know that reusables can even help you get your child potty trained faster? Do Good Diaper Service You can bid the diaper phase farewell sooner by using Do Good Diapers’ reusables instead of store-bought disposables. And the best part about this decision, aside from being a good steward of the Earth, is that Do Good Diapers does all of the cleaning work for you! By signing up for our services, all you have to do is put the dirty diapers in a bag, and we pick them up and replace them with a load of clean ones. We make the swap even if you aren’t home, so there is no interruption to your busy schedule. How Do Reusable Diapers Help Speed Up the Potty Training Process? When your child urinates in a disposable diaper, they still feel dry because of the super-absorbant polymers that immediately draw the moisture away from their bottom, meaning there is no incentive to use the potty. However, cloth diapers do not have that lining, so your child will feel some wetness on their skin. Your little angel begins to understand the cause of their discomfort when they can feel the wetness after they pee. Then, they will catch on quicker about how going to the potty means staying dry. This “potty-awareness” connection is half of the battle. Note: We do offer pocket diapers that feature suede or fleece-type liners that wick away moisture, allowing it to be absorbed by the insert in the pocket. Your baby will feel as dry as they would with a disposable diaper. Babies of the Past Completed Potty Training Faster The average age to complete a child’s potty training during the 1950s was 18 months. This was right before disposable diapers took the world by storm. Fast-forward to today, and the average age is 36 months. Babies of the past likely ditched their nappies faster because they wore reusable cloth diapers. Give Reusable Diapers a Chance We cannot guarantee that a cloth-diapered baby will always transition to the potty faster than a disposable-diapered baby. But if you search the internet, you will find countless parent testimonials hailing their child’s early potty-using ability thanks to reusable diapers. So, give Do Good Diapers a chance and sign up for services!

You choose cloth diapers because they don’t have many chemicals and other materials that disposable options do. Did you know that some diaper creams include ingredients that are not only smelly but could make a rash worse? Several diaper creams are available that are designed to work with cloth diapers and are both safer and more effective. Best Diaper Creams for Cloth Diapers Diaper creams are designed to protect your baby’s skin, and so are their cloth diapers. So, you want to make sure that the creams you use will work well and wash out of the fabric when laundered. Do Good Naturals Butt Balm: designed by Do Good Diapers specifically for use with cloth diapers as a protective barrier and for minor rashes. Angel Baby Bottom Balm: certified organic, vegan, zinc-free, and can be used for everything from diaper rash to bug bites to minor burns. Baby Bottom Better: antifungal flower ingredients in this salve make it ideal as a moisture barrier for yeast rashes. California Baby: all diaper creams are free of common allergens and fragrances, including their super-sensitive and calming varieties. CJ’s BUTTer: pediatrician-recommended salve that treats a variety of skin conditions, including diaper rash, eczema, and stretch marks. Northern Essence Better Butter Cream: includes no petroleum, lanolin, or zinc but can be purchased with or without essential oils. Diaper Creams to Avoid Many common diaper rash creams can damage your cloth diapers because they are nearly impossible to remove or could stain the cloth. In addition, they sometimes include ingredients that aren’t effective or may worsen a diaper rash. For example, diaper rash creams containing cod liver oil may create a moisture barrier but can lead to odor and are difficult to remove from the skin and cloth diapers. A&D Original Ointment: made with cod liver oil and has a strong smell Aquaphor: may worsen a yeast rash Boudreaux’s Butt Paste: may cause staining and has a strong smell Desitin: made with cod liver oil and is hard to wash out Do Good Diapers offers not only cloth diapers and laundering services but also compostable wipes, hypoallergenic soaps and lotion, as well as plush bath towels. Be sure to grab all the essentials, including diaper creams, at our online store.

Disposable diapers are in every store and are so prevalent in our society that one might think there is no other option. Unfortunately, synthetic, single-use diapers can contain chemicals that could have harmful effects on babies, leading to respiratory problems, an increase in rashes, or allergic reactions. Read on for some of the gross facts about disposable diapers, and learn about the benefits of cloth diapers as a more natural and eco-friendly alternative. Dioxins Are Carcinogenic The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) lists dioxins as highly carcinogenic chemicals. Exposure may cause skin reactions and can even alter liver functions and impair the immune, nervous, and endocrine systems. Sodium Polyacrylate Absorbs Wetness, but What About Baby? Used in the fillers of disposable diapers for greater absorbency, sodium polyacrylate was removed from products such as tampons due to fears around toxic shock syndrome. However, it can be found in the form of small, gel-like crystals on the skin of babies who wear synthetic, disposable diapers. Sodium polyacrylate is suspected to be linked with respiratory and skin irritations, however, it has not been used long enough for research to know the long-term effects on babies. Tributyl-tin (TBT) is Harmful to Aquatic Life Tributyl-tin is found in many disposable diapers. Also known as TBT, the EPA states that it is extremely harmful, and even toxic, to aquatic life. In addition, it can cause endocrine disruptions in water-dwelling organisms. Just as dangerous, TBT does not degrade and remains in our environment and in the food chain. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are Irritating There are often chemicals known as Volatile Organic Compounds, or VOCs, used in the production of synthetic disposable diapers. VOCs can include ethylbenzene, toluene, xylene and dipentene. These chemicals can cause irritation to the eyes, nose and throat, headaches, and damage to the liver, kidneys and central nervous system. Other chemicals used in synthetic disposable diapers include adhesives, dyes, fragrances, plastics and petrolatums. A Healthier Alternative When you use natural cloth diapers, you eliminate exposure to these and other chemicals. Reach out to Do Good Diaper Service and learn more about our natural, sustainable and convenient option for clothing diapering in the Twin Cities area.

Soon-to-be parents have a lot of decisions to make, including what type and brand of diapers to use. Cloth diapering is becoming more and more popular as we focus on safer and more eco-friendly ways to care for our babies. The first thought most parents have about cloth diapers is cleaning them. A diaper service can take care of that for you, allowing you to experience all the benefits of cloth diapers without the messy cleanup. Cloth Diapers and More With a cloth diaper service, you aren’t just getting the cloth diapers. You will receive everything you need to use and clean them safely and conveniently. This makes using a service an easy choice, especially for new parents who have much more to worry about than how and when to wash their diapers or even run to the store for more disposable ones constantly. Here is what is included in the Do Good Diapers cloth diaper service: Cloth Diapers Snappies Diaper Covers Diaper Pail Pail Liner And even a Travel Bag! Laundry Service Each week, you will have a laundry service pickup and drop-off. Leave the bag of soiled diapers outside to be picked up. You don’t have to take any steps to clean the diapers before placing them in the bag. You will receive a delivery of fresh, clean diapers equal to the number of diapers that were picked up. Eco-Friendly Option You are also getting an eco-friendlier way of diapering your baby. It’s estimated that a newborn will use 10-12 diapers a day, gradually decreasing as they get older. On average, a baby can use between 2,500-3,000 diapers within their first year alone. If you are using disposable diapers, this impacts our landfills and is eliminated when choosing cloth diapers. Peace of Mind When using a cloth diapering service, you can also depend on the quality of both products and services. The diapers are tested to ensure complete sanitation and no presence of bacteria. They are also the proper pH balance for your baby’s skin, reducing the chance of rashes and other skin irritations. Cloth diapers are checked for maximum absorbency. At Do Good Diapers, we are ready to answer any questions you may have about cloth diapering and our services. Call us at (612) 990-2183 or register for one of our live, online or in-person training classes.

While preparing for your little one, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the amount of information out there. Strollers, cribs, diapers, oh my. When considering which reusable diaper is best for you and your family, the important thing to know is you have options—and they're all pretty easy to figure out. It's just diapering after all.  The two most common types of cloth diapers are prefolds and all-in-ones. Let’s take a look at both. Prefold Cloth Diaper A prefold cloth diaper is a faster and more convenient version of the time-tested cloth diaper we all envision when we hear the term. Prefolds are ready to go, without as much finagling needed to get the multiple layers required in the “wet zone” as well as a proper fit. As a tried-and-true option, they are most affordable but may also need a bit of practice when it comes to fitting and fastening with the clip. These cloth diapers are not waterproof on their own. You will need to use a diaper cover once it’s fastened into place. However, there are countless designs in every size, making this a great way to make diapering fun for you and your baby. Pros: Affordable Already folded and ready for use Can use a wide variety of diaper cover designs Cons: It can take some practice to learn how to fasten them securely It may not be a good option while at daycare or in the care of family and friends All-In-One Cloth Diaper An all-in-one cloth diaper is just that. It combines the absorbent cloth layers inside, the waterproof diaper cover on the outside, as well as the fasteners needed to keep it in place. Also called AIOs, these work very similarly to disposable diapers, making them a great choice when your baby is with others who may not be comfortable changing a prefold diaper. There are no inserts, covers, or other extras needed to use an AIO cloth diaper. Pros: Easier for others to use if your baby will be staying with others No learning curve needed Longer dry time because of the many layers Cons: Less absorption makes them not as effective for overnights Because the diaper cover is built-in, there is not as much customization Many parents choose to use a combination of both prefolds and all-in-one cloth diapers due to their respective benefits. You may choose to use prefolds at home and save AIO diapers for traveling or when your baby is in the care of others. No matter what types of cloth diapers you choose, a quality cloth diaper service can make it easier. Do Good Diapers takes care of delivering fresh diapers, washing the soiled ones and making sure you have everything you need to take care of your growing family. To learn more, try one of our Cloth Diaper 101 classes!