Cloth Diapers Facilitate Elimination Communication

Some parents who practice EC never use any diapers, but many parents do use part-time or full-time backup while practicing elimination communication.

Many parents look at the term "Diaper-Free" more as a state of mind than a literal interpretation as never using any diapers.  There are plenty of families who practice EC full-time while using backup full-time.  There are also those who practice EC part-time, and use backup diapers part-time.  It is generally recommended to give your baby some diaper-free time consistently.  But its okay to use diapers when a caretaker needs a break, or is having a bad day, or is getting upset if pee gets on the floor, or Grandma is visiting, or any other reason.  Whatever you need to do to make it work for you, is fine. 

At EC Wear, we believe that cloth diapers give mutliple advantages over disposable diapers, overall, and for practicing EC. 

• It is better for the environment to buy one reusable item that can be used again and again, rather than throw-away items that use up non-renewable resources, use water and fossil fuels to be transported repeatedly, and which never biodegrade in a landill. 
• Cloth diapers are much more affordable. 
• Using cloth diapers results in much earlier potty independence. 
• Cloth diapers allow your baby to feel wet when they pee, so your baby can maintain his awareness and understanding of his bodily functions.
• Cloth diapering gives you the option to eliminate the waterproof barrier that prevents you from knowing when your baby eliminates, so you can learn your baby's patterns and cues, and communicate to your baby about it.

Reusable cloth diapers are the best choice for your baby, the environment, and to facilitate your elimination communication.  They are also easier on your budget!

Cloth diapers can be used for multiple children, so your upfront investment will pay for itself over and over.  Modern cloth diapers are easy to use, easy to wash, and very cute.

For those wanting to get started with potty training or elimination communication, switching to cloth diapers is a practical choice. Babies will be more aware of "going" in cloth, and non-waterproof diapers enable parents to be able to know immediately. This will enable you to cue your baby when she goes, with your designated sound or word.  Changing the wet diapers right away helps baby become accustomed to feeling dry.  Waterproof diapers  or covers are helpful for long car trips, night times, or other times when you need to keep baby's clothes or the surrounding environment dry.

Not sure how to wash cloth diapers? Its easier than you think! 

Washing Cloth Diapers

• Store.  Until wash day, keep the dirty diapers in a dry, closeable container until you are ready to wash them.  (We use a small Sterlite trash can from the local discount store.)
  

• Wash.  Use a cold water rinse first, then wash on the regular cycle with about half the usual amount of detergent.  You can wash with cold or hot water, depending on your preferences.  If the soap isn't completely rinsed out, do an extra rinse cycle.  We recommend Charlie's Soap or other natural laundry product. 

• Dry.  You can use a dryer or hang to dry.  Hanging has the benefit of conserving electricity and the sun can bleach out stains, if any.

• Don't use a bucket of water to soak your diapers before washing.  This is a drowning hazard, will cause odors, and will make your diapers less clean.

• Don't dunk diapers in the toilet before washing them.  However, you will want to shake any solid pieces into the toilet.

• Don't use detergent with enzymes, brighteners, or perfumes.  Even the "Free and Clear" variety will reduce diapers' absorbancy.
  

• Don't use bleach or fabric softeners.  These will also make your diapers less absorbant.