We've been a cloth diaper retailer for almost five years and have been a cloth diaper user for almost a decade. There are numerous types and styles and it's often confusing to new parents considering this option when trying to choose which ones to purchase.
There are a number of things to consider, of course one of them being cost - but is that really the only thing? It's true that we're in times of some economic uncertainty and families are looking to make the most out of every dollar they spend. When it comes to cloth diapers there are some things to keep in mind when making your selection. We want to give you some thoughts to ponder when you are considering your cloth diaper budget and how much to spend on them.
It's true that there is a cloth diaper for ANY budget. In our workshops we definitely touch on the economic advantages of using cloth diapers versus disposables and the budget associated with each type and style. A complete set of cloth diapers and accessories to get you started diapering an infant will cost you about $210.00 including taxes (not including shipping, if applicable). These diapers will fit a baby from approximately 8-15 lbs. Once baby outgrows that size of system, you would need to purchase a similar set for a toddler that will cost about $200.00 including taxes (not including shipping). That means for less than $500.00 you can purchase enough cloth diapering products to last from newborn to toddler sizes in a two piece system, made right here in Canada with high quality materials and superior workmanship.
There are other styles of cloth diapers whose total cost could be around a maximum of $1,000.00. This type of budget represents the most convenient one piece type of cloth diaper systems - the top of the line models with all the bells and whistles.
There are of course products that will fall in between the spectrum of both so families can choose which ones suit their overall budget and completely tailor their choices to their exact needs.
What happens when you find what appears to be a Cadillac model of cloth diaper at a bargain basement price? Is this the Mother-of-all-deals? Or is it just a lemon made to look like a sweet cherry that will leave a sour taste in your mouth about cloth diapering? This is what we really want to address with new and prospective cloth diaper users. What kind of value are you getting for your cloth diaper dollars?
There are cheap, overseas made diapering products readily available in the marketplace today. This is not unlike any other product from shoes to clothes to toys to electronics; the list goes on and on. That being said, the quality of these items can be so poor that the performance is greatly compromised. For a new family just starting on their cloth diapering journey, this can spell disaster. Countless experiences of frustrated purchasers actually end up quitting cloth diapering because of these types of products - that's very sad.
Another thing to consider is the location in which products are manufactured. There are some factories that have fair trade practices. There are also many that do not. We've all seen the news reports regarding the appalling working conditions in these factories. Have the products been tested for lead and other potentially harmful chemicals? Do they adhere to any minimum safety standards for children's products?
As a business we support Canadian, US and European made products as much as possible or at least confirm with manufacturers that the country of origin is NOT located in an area with questionable practices. As a parent, knowing where the products are made that I'm going to be using on my child is very important to me and we know it's equally important to our clients and their families.
The old adage is true - you get what you pay for. If you want high quality products that will last, then spending a few more dollars to get that will provide you with a great deal of peace of mind. If you also value that they are sold to you by a business that fully supports you after the sale with whatever and how ever many questions you may have, then shopping with your local expert is an important factor to consider as well. The math is simple, no matter what type or style of cloth diapers you choose, you WILL save money in the long run.
Whether they are good quality, sustainably made products can also save you money as you won't have to replace them when they don't last even for your first baby. We also believe your time and satisfaction level is worth something too. If you're constantly frustrated with cloth diapers because of these inferior products that's costly as well. Who needs extra stress as a new parent? There are enough things to worry about, we want your cloth diaper experience NOT to be one of them.
A decade of cloth diaper experience and direct product experience is very important when helping families choose a cloth diaper system. If you want to learn more, attend a workshop. If you've ever got questions or wish to decrease your frustration with inferior diaper products, contact us - we love to help!
We sincerely hope this helps to shed some light on the benefits of choosing sustainable cloth diapering products and what factors determine the type of deal you get. Here's to nothing but sweet cherries for you!
Baby Luv Boutique
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