Tips and Tricks for Flats Diapers and Handwashing

I am taking part in the Second Annual Flats and Handwashing Challenge hosted by Dirty Diaper Laundry.  For 7 days I will be using only flat cloth diapers and handwashing them in an effort to prove that cloth diapering can be affordable and accessible to all.  You can learn more about the rules and why this challenge was started by visiting the announcement post.  This year there are over 450 participants from all over the world! 

Today is day five of the flats challenge. Only two more days to go! 

If you are curious about using flats or hand washing, I'm here to share some tips and tricks that I've learned this week.

Keep your folds simple. You can find tons of directions and videos on different folds for your flat diapers. I have only used two folds this week. The anteater and the pad fold. I have a squirmy, active 9 month old. Trying to diaper him with a bunch of cute folds just isn't going to happen.  Most of the day I just put a pad folded flat in a cover and I'm done. It's the quickest and easiest fold and it works! 

Swaddlebees flat in a Flip cover

Bored with white flats? Get some cute covers and printed flats. I love my Swaddlebees flat diapers! You could even tie dye your flat diapers.

When hand washing diapers, don't wait too long between loads. I've been washing two small loads twice a day. Each load has had an average of 5 diapers in it. I can't imagine washing much more than that at a time.

The diaper sprayer is your friend! If you want to keep your beautiful diapers looking white, use your diaper sprayer as soon as possible after a poopy diaper. 

Keep your wash routine simple. Only add in extra rinses, soaks, etc. after you discover you need them.  My wash routine is only taking me 20 to 25 minutes per load. It's very simple and I like it! 

I still need to update you on today and yesterday. I promise to get to it soon! I'm too busy enjoying time with my family! Stay tuned!