Summer is a great time to switch to SuperBottoms cloth diapers. Not only do they save you money, but they also help reduce waste and are better for your baby’s skin. However, using cloth diapers in the summer comes with its own set of challenges. In this blog post, we’ll share some cloth diapering tips for summer to help you keep your baby comfortable and relaxed.
- Choose the Right Cloth Diapers
The first step to cloth diapering in summer is to choose the right type of cloth diaper. Breathable reusable diapers like cotton, bamboo, or hemp work best in the summer. Avoid synthetic materials like polyester or microfiber, as they tend to trap heat and can cause rashes on your baby’s skin.
- Use a Diaper Liner
A diaper liner can help dry your baby’s bottom and prevent rashes. Diaper liners are usually made of natural materials like cotton or bamboo and can be placed on the diaper. They wick away moisture and keep your baby’s skin dry and comfortable. Plus, they make it easy to dispose of solid waste without rinsing the entire diaper.
- Change Diapers Frequently
In summer, babies sweat more, making them more prone to diaper rashes. Changing diapers frequently can help prevent rashes and keep your baby comfortable. You should change your baby’s diaper every two to three hours. If your baby has a rash, you may need to change diapers more frequently.
- Use Diaper Creams Sparingly
Using diaper creams can help soothe rashes and prevent them from getting worse. However, using diaper creams sparingly in the summer is essential, as they can trap heat and worsen the rash. Look for water-based creams that don’t contain synthetic fragrances or preservatives. Natural alternatives like coconut oil, shea butter, or calendula cream work well and are gentle on your baby’s skin.
- Wash Cloth Diapers Frequently
Washing cloth diapers frequently is essential in summer as they tend to get dirtier and smellier than in other seasons. It would help to clean your newborns’ cloth diapers every two to three days. Use a detergent free of synthetic fragrances, dyes, and enzymes. You can also add a cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle to help eliminate any odours.
- Let Your Baby Go Diaper-Free
Letting your baby go diaper-free is a great way to keep them cool and comfortable in the summer. Allow your baby to spend time without a diaper on a clean, dry surface like a towel or a mat. This will help air out their bottom and prevent rashes.
- Use a Cloth Diaper-Friendly Sunscreen
If you plan to take your baby outside, use a cloth diaper-friendly sunscreen. Regular sunscreen can stain and damage cloth diapers, so choosing a sunscreen that is safe for cloth diapers is essential. Look for a mineral-based sunscreen free of synthetic fragrances, dyes, and preservatives.
- Invest in a Diaper Sprayer
Investing in a diaper sprayer can make cloth diapering in the summer much more accessible. A diaper sprayer attaches to your toilet and allows you to rinse off any solid waste from the diaper. This makes it easier to clean the diaper and prevents any odors from lingering in your diaper pail.
In conclusion, cloth diapering in summer can be challenging, but it can also be rewarding with the right tips and tricks. Choosing breathable cloth diapers, using diaper liners, changing diapers frequently, and washing cloth diapers often can help keep your baby comfortable and rash-free.