Monday, September 26, 2011

(Closed) Mama-To-Be Gift Guide: "Changing Diapers: The Hip Mom's Guide to Modern Cloth Diapering" by Kellys Wells! Review & Cloth Diaper Giveaway! Ends 10/9




I'm so thrilled to share this must-have item for all new moms who plan to, or are interested in cloth diapering! Changing Diapers: The Hip Mom's Guide to Modern Cloth Diapering by Kelly Wels is a newly-released, comprehensive guide that discusses every aspect of this eco-friendly, reusable option. This beautiful little book was written by leading modern cloth diaper expert Kelly Wels, and is certainly great at dispelling the myths of cloth and eases the minds of parents who are looking into joining the modern cloth diaper movement. 

I was so skeptical and scared of all the complexities there seemed to be when I first looked into cloth diapering over 1 1/2 years ago. As an experienced cloth diapering mama, I now know there doesn't need to be that fear or anxiety about it, and this book will surely get any parent in the right direction without having to search the internet for hours, days, and months like I did! I wish this book was available back then!

I LOVE this book! My favorite chapter is actually Chapter 1: Why Choose Cloth Diapers? This seems to be the number one question I get from people who find out that I use cloth, so I've enjoyed reading more about Kelly's thoughts on this. She gives 5 reasons for why you should choose cloth, one of which is my #1 reason also: It's best for baby! This section even goes through what's in a disposable diaper, and breaks down the yucky chemicals inside. I'm so glad she includes this!

In fact, I switched to cloth after a disposable diaper's "new" version gave my son a full-body rash for 3 days when he was about 15 months old. This horrifying experience brought the reality of the harsh chemicals used in disposable diapers to light, and my hubby (yes, I have my hubby to thank!) mentioned trying cloth diapers. I never in a million years would have thought that cloth could be fun, and come with such a wonderful cloth diapering community that has such a beautiful camaraderie full of helpful advice and support when you need it. It's truly amazing.

I also really enjoyed Chapter 2 which covers the basics "cloth diaper talk". At the beginning of my cloth journey, I wanted to run in the other direction many times just because there is SO much information out there about cloth diapering. The terms are confusing, there are so many styles, brands, and materials to consider, and the overwhelming task of it all could potentially discourage any parent. Kelly does an especially amazing job at covering all the ins and outs of every style of cloth diaper, with illustrations included. The basics no longer have to be confusing! You can begin to easily understand everything you need to know about accessories and different materials in this chapter too. Kelly has made this all so easy!

Changing Diapers has random facts, quotes, and testimonials from moms throughout the book. It makes the entire book a very easy read, and makes it fun. I'm not a book-reader (although I wish I were!), BUT, this book is absolutely enjoyable. It also includes tips, tricks, and advice for going back to work, cloth diapers and daycare, and cloth diapering multiples. Learn how to even wash your cloth diapers properly, and learn how to troubleshoot issues like build-up, ammonia smells, and leaking diapers. There's even a whole chapter dedicated to dads and diapers, and some words of wisdom from dads who love cloth too. I'm so glad my hubby didn't need convincing though! :)

The pregnant Mama-To-Be's perspective (my sister-in law!): 

We are fortunate now a days to have so many options in cloth diapering but to the new mom it can be a little overwhelming.  With the book Changing Diapers: The Hip Mom's Guide to Modern Cloth Diapering, you can figure out just what you'll need to start yet another new adventure.  This book teaches you all you'll need to know about cloth diapering. From the new language you'll need to learn to the best way of treating stinky diapers. I know this will be a go-to in the future when our cloth diapering adventure begins in about a month and I am truly thankful to have it. I recommend this to any parent who is interested in cloth diapering. It will help a lot!

Price: $17.95 (totally worth it!), BUT, get 50% off with code REYNOLD at checkout through the link below! Code expires October 22, 2011. 

The Verdict:
This is the PERFECT gift to educate and help moms who are unsure of cloth diapering for any number of reasons that do, and will occur. It includes every aspect of cloth diapering you could imagine! From the ins and outs of cloth diapering, to the benefits to your wallet and the planet. As a proud cloth diapering mom, I LOVE and adore this book too!

Buy It!

Buy Changing Diapers today!
Use code REYNOLD for 50% off through October 22nd!



Win It!
One winner will receive their choice of a OS Fuzzibunz diaper OR a OS Rumparooz diaper (Winner can choose brand, but not color)! The winner will also receive an eco-friendly temporary tattoo that says, "I’m a Hip Mom and Love Cloth Diapers"!

How to Enter:
In the Rafflecopter form below, simply click on "Click for Instructions", complete the task, and then click "I Did This." Then enter your name and email address. Do this for each task you wish to complete! You must enter through the Rafflecopter form below. Comments are only accepted as a form of entry if an entry option requires a blog post comment.






Disclosure: I received the above mentioned product(s) to facilitate this review. No other compensation was received. This is my completely honest opinion above and may be different from yours. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook. This post contains affiliate links.

100 comments:

Mommy34567 said...

I have never used a cloth diaper but, I would like to and see what it is all about.

Mommy34567 said...

kristybodle@hotmail.com

Chrissy Panter said...

Invest in a diaper sprayer! It is so helpful once baby starts solids.

~Kristen Fritsche~ said...

I'm new to cloth diapering but am determined to try it with my second child who is due on Christmas Day. The main reason why I am choosing to cloth is the cost factor of disposable diapers. Cloth diapering is way more economical!

krisfritsche@yahoo.com

Chany said...

Try different brands to see what works best for you and your baby!

Rachel said...

I would say to just try it. There are plenty of stores that do trials for a minimal fee ($10/$15 usually), if you're too scared to invest and fail, get a diaper sprayer, and enter blog giveaways! Much of our stash was funded by giveaways and it's a great way to try lots of different brands!

dakotaring at yahoo dot com

Anonymous said...

My advice would be to try several different diapers before you invest in a big stash of one certain type. It takes trial and error to find the best diapering system that will work for you and your baby. :)
smoo06 at yahoo dot com

Cass said...

Just do it. :) Once you try it, you might like it, even if you were hesitant at first.

acvanslyke@gmail.com

cupcake mama said...

I would say go with One Sized, it is more economical. I would also say to try a few different brands to find the one you really love. Also I would say, Warning: Cloth is addictive!
mmjohnson555@gmail.com
GFC: Mechele Johnson

steffie said...

this will be our first time using cloth, but we are super excited about it, and have created a stash of several different kinds to determine which one we like best, our baby boy is due in november, so we are needing all the advice we can get!! LOL

Attila & Tamara said...

My best advice would be to get a sampler pack of diapers to try out to see what you like. You can always sell the ones you don't like (or keep them for later. Some of the ones I didn't like initially are in regular circulation now).

szogediek at yahoo dot com

Unknown said...

Don't buy only one type of diaper before you try a few different brands. Prefolds/covers might work wonderfully for one baby/family, but for another family it might be easier to use Pockets.
mummytocharis at yahoo dot com

jennifer NL said...

my best advice is to try many different brands. you don't need a whole stash right from the get go so don't be afraid to try different brands. we were so certain bumgenius would be perfect for us, and while i do love them, it would be awesome to be able to expand our horizons.

Melissa said...

I choose cloth because it is eco-friendly, budget-friendly, and so cute!

Fiddlin' Dandi said...

I'm new to cloth, but I chose to do it to save money.

myricksl6 said...

I'm new to cloth and want to try it because the chemicals in disposable diapers really scare me!
myricksl6 at hotmail dot com

Hannah said...

I'm new to cloth as we have our first on the way. We are choosing to use cloth mainly for the cost savings, but I also don't want all those chemicals next to my baby.

Anonymous said...

I am new to cloth. With my first on the way I'm trying to be as health conscience as possible. I always like trying new eco-friendly items and I'm excited to use them for my baby!

brittany.hepworth@yahoo.com

Lori Thomas said...

Cloth is sooo much better, cheaper too!!!

Hannah said...

I am new to cloth diapering and I chose it because paper diapers were giving my daughter rashes!
hrhersch at yahoo dot com

Becca said...

get a variety of diapers so you can have some that fir at all ages and stages!

JLJMommy said...

My best advice is to try out different kinds and styles of diapers. Keep a variety Pockets, pre-folds, fitteds, covers, because as your baby grows their needs change and your preferences may change as well.

Gena @ Life With Captain Fussybuckets said...

My best advice is to get the one size diapers because babies grow fast!!

gena1982 at yahoo.com

Gena @ Life With Captain Fussybuckets said...

I forgot to put my GFC name! Oops! Gena - Life With Captain Fussybuckets
gena1982 at yahoo.com

Holly Wilson said...

My best advice is this: Don't give up if don't fid the perfect solution right away. Don't be afraid to change your routine and try new things. If one diaper leaks, try something else. Not every options works the same for every baby.

boyzrule said...

my best advice is to rinse diapers well before putting them in the pail and lleave the lid open. helps to keep the stinkies away. :)

debbie m
dmoretti1967 at yahoo.com

Andi B said...

It's always a good idea to rinse your cloth diapers after they get soiled.
andrealeighb at live dot com

Jena said...

Best advice--Try not to be overwhelmed; start with prefolds (newborn, if you're still expecting), a couple of Snappis, and about half a dozen covers.

graceInk said...

My best advice is to invest in a trial program (many cloth diapering shops/websites have these) and see what works best for your child!

Carolyn H
graceink at yahoo dot com

Felicia R said...

My best advice to parents new to cloth diapering would be to do a trial program. It's a great way to try a few things out and see what you like without being committed to anything. I would also suggest to buy gently used to save money in the beginning.
fmgrice2(at)yahoo(dot)com

bubblema said...

I've been CD'ing for 3weeks now and I love it! I decided to CD my son when I was about 15weeks along after many weeks of research. It's just much better for my baby's bottom and has a much better impact on mother earth!

Laura said...

My advice would be to try as many different styles/brands as possible. There are great deals to be found on For Sale or Trade forums, where you can buy a variety of used, and sometimes new, diapers to try out. You might be surprised at what styles end up working best for you!

Amanda said...

My advice would be to not buy all one brand. Try out different ones until you find one that you love! Also get a diaper sprayer!
tvpg at aol dot com

Jess and the boys said...

Just jump on it! It is really super easy and you'll love it! :)

venturesofsahm at yahoo dot com

Michelle Willis said...

My best advice... Before cloth I had to fight my son to change his butt but now he picks the fun cloth diaper he want s to wear. and Good luck!

Kim said...

My best advice would be to research the different styles and brands and try a few before building your whole stash from one type. I never thought I would use the old school flats that I received at my shower but now I use them everyday!

Sarah Hull said...

My advice would be to try a few of one brand/style before you invest in buying all of your diapers. You may be surprised to find that the diaper you least expected to work will be best for your little one. Be willing to learn and ask for help when you need it! Don't let yourself get intimidated or overwhelmed either!

SHull2319 at gmail dot com

Carrie Phelps said...

As a grandparent to cloth diapered grandchildren I wasn't happy about the decision to convert to cloth diapers BUT it's not as bad as I thought it would be & because recycling has always been a part of my life I'm proud my daughter does this.
carriedust@yahoo.com

Jessica W said...

I would tell parents to research, read, watch/read reviews. Every baby is different so try a variety of diapers.

Michelle F. said...

My advice would be to try a variety of different diapers. Certain diapers will work better on your baby and even at different times (naps, bedtime, out and about, etc.) So instead of purchasing a bunch of all the same diaper, try a few different types and brands and find out what works best for you and your baby.

Alex Liz R. said...

We do not have children yet, but hopefully soon and i know i want to cloth diaper from doing my own research.

Maia G said...

I want to try cloth because it saves so much money!

Madeline said...

My advice is to avoid buying an entire stash in one diaper because you can't be sure what you'll like!

Shop N Mom said...

I'm trying cloth because I'm sick of throwing ten disposable diapers a day in the garbage

Jess said...

I am going to use cloth because it's great for baby, great for the environment, great for the pocket book.

Kate said...

I am going to be using cloth because it's a good financial decision, good for the planet...and super cute!

Becca said...

My tip is this: As gross as it may seem at first, throw your newborn cloth diaper right in the wash (poop and all) The newborn poo is water soluable and comes out just fine. Don't waste water, time, and effort, rinsing out the poo first

Julie G. said...

My tip would be to do a cloth diaper trial before buying... this way you get to try many types of diapers before making the big investment :)

Nikki said...

My advice would be to try several brands and styles -- even the ones you don't think you'd like! And a diaper sprayer! ngiraldi at gmail dot com

yuukiimi said...

I'm going to be a FTM in December and I really want to try cloth diapering to save money and also reduce diaper rash/irritation. So let's hope I stick to it!

simplymerry said...

my advice would be to start off small! not to buy a whole stash of one particular brand sight unseen. It's ok to take a month or two to transition to cloth as you figure out what you like and use.
mary michaud
simplymerry at gmail dot com

damiesmom said...

i am new to cding and i chose to use cloth to save money but the enviromental aspects keep me doing it
damiesmom at ymail dot com

Sabrina B Radke said...

My best cloth diapering advice is to not use microfiber but only natural fibers!
sabrina radke
sradke1024 at gmail dot com

Anonymous said...

I'm new to cloth diapering. I chose it since I didn't want to spend a ton of money on disposables with two babies in diapers again. As for Advise, to cut down on leaks Check your child's diaper at least every hour to see if they need changing.
Melynda
ranchlamb at peoplepc dot com

Gladys Parker said...

I cloth diapered when cloth was only for poor people but I mentally thought of all that money I was saving our family that we could use for more things like heat and food. My advice would be organization is the key to smooth cloth diapering. If you can't afford them put them on your list of needs for your baby shower then buy 1 each week. Soon you will have enough and not have to pay that awful expense!
Gladys P
sps1113 at yahoo dot com

Amy V said...

best advice- try a bunch of diff kinds/style to see what works best for you!

annae07 at aol dot com

Unknown said...

I've only been cloth diapering for about a month and I love it! I chose to do it mainly to save money, but I love all the other added benefits; especially that it's fun!

Happy Camper said...

The major benefit to using cloth diapers is saving a lot of $ but it's also nice to save the environment. :)
Dana Beeman: danabeeman(at)gmail(dot)com

Amy D said...

New to cloth diapering! So excited to try it! Major benefits!

asd42116 at yahoo dot com

Then Comes Baby K said...

I like cloth because of the amount of waste I am not producing with disposables.
materialgirlgreen at gmail dot com

Leanne said...

I'm not a mom, but several of my friends cloth diaper since it's better for the environment and saves money!

leanniegehrke at hotmail dot com

Cindy Stone said...

Best advice I could give is to get on craigs list and try to get some gently used or even new diapers. You save a bundle, and its an easy way to get some nice cloth diapers for less money!

MV said...

My advice is to buy one or two diapers in a few different styles to see what you prefer before spending a ton of money on just one style/brand.

Regan said...

My best advice is to try at least a few different brands and types instead of getting a stash of all one kind. My favorites change all the time depending on the stage and weight my baby is in and also depending on my own personal preferences.

Kaye C. said...

I would say, get a diaper sprayer, and try a cloth diaper trial pack before buying one kind for your whole stash!

J. said...

I chose to cloth diaper to cut costs and be more green!

Anonymous said...

I am just getting started with cloth, but I already love how soft and cozy they are. Plus, I feel so much better about not filling up the landfills.

kzoo said...

would love to try a rumparooz.

Raquel said...

What everyone else said! :-P Seriously though, don't invest in a bunch of one diaper until you have tried it (and other brands). You may be surprised to find that you like something that you thought you would hate. Also, it may take time to get a good fit with certain brands. My daughter was within the weight range for some diapers but it was almost impossible to get them to fit properly, and now they fit beautifully. They may not be my favorite of the stash, but they do the job.
If it's your first baby and you're having a shower, put them on your registry! Lots of them! I wish I would have had that foresight! :-)
onliquidice at gmail dot com

Danielle P said...

I didn't use cloth with my first son, but I was turned onto the ease of it by a co-worker. I have been reading a lot of information and still feel overwhlemed on where to begin.

Vanessa C. said...

I chose to use cloth because I stay home and have the time to deal with washing his CD laundry. Though, now that I'm doing it I see it's totally doable even for working parents.

vnsscarv {at} gmail {dot} com

Jenni Jones said...

Jenni Jones
jenni_jones428(at)yahoo(dot)com

Retro ReDesign said...

I am about to be a new cloth diapering mama - I want to do it because it is eco-friendly, better for baby & such cute prints!
larajarrette at gmail dot com

Nancy L. said...

I use CD's to keep my baby from being wrapped in chemicals day and night. Do lots of research and try out different brands before purchasing a stash.

Naomi said...

My advice is to try a variety of types and brands of cloth diapers to figure out what works best for you and your babe

Unknown said...

Would love to have this book to give to a friend who is interested in CDing. I am so glad I made the switch!

Monica said...

I am relatively new to cloth diapering but made the switch for environmental reasons. The cost factor and the cute factor are really close seconds. I am still trying to work on convincing my friends to make the switch.

skgaff said...

My best advice would be to do what works for you when it comes to your laundering technique. Everyone has a different routine and there's no one way to do it, so find what works and stick with it rather than trying to adhere to what someone else does.
glass.stephanie(at)gmail(dot)com

Kate Rogers said...

Start out small! Don't dump a ton of money in to one product at the start. Get one or two of several different kinds of diapers and see what you like best.

Sheena said...

Sheena Rose

sheenamekia @ yahoo.com

Jessica said...

I plan to start to cloth diapering when my baby gets here in February because I don't want to put nasty chemicals on brand new baby skin and I love to save money
jjak2003 at gmail dot com

Cori and Ben said...

I am new to cloth diapering and started it due to money saving as well as environmental effects. But I would also recommend to anyone who chooses to start cloth diapering to use cloth wipes from day one because they are super easy to use (unlike what I originally thought).

Hannah Avery said...

My advice is to get some feedback from other moms about what they like, also talk to some moms online or on forums etc. Diaper Swappers is a great place to get good priced diapers sometimes. Especially if you know what you want. Be sure you are getting a good deal though. Have the basic pamphernilia before you get started so you won't get so frustrated. Its hard to go wrong with prefolds, covers, and a snappi at first. Get two or 3 wetbags also. Thats my advice!

hannahavery85 at yahoo dot com

S said...

Get newborn sized dipes for the beginning. Even big Newborns just don't fill out one size dipes and the leaks will make you crazy! -Sharon M
Costumer83 at hotmail dot com

lulu said...

We haven't started cloth diapering yet, so I love hearing all the opinions from different mommies

lulio163 at hotmail dot com

zealandsmom said...

best advice? : TIDE DETERGENT! Spent hundreds on other brands and trying to strip ammonia buildup. Tide works best!

Christina said...

I am new to cloth and love it because I produce less trash and my baby's bum looks cute in cloth!

cmcosman@yahoo.com

SuperMom3128 said...

My advice is to not get overwhelmed. There is s much info out there it can be daunting. You don't have to know everything to get started, just pick a few diapers you think will fit your needs and go for it. Also don't be afraid to buy second hand, it can save a lot of money.

swedEnesefamily said...

new to cloth: I wanted to keep chemicals off baby's bottom.

Tandy and Jeff said...

Hmmm, my best advice... It's really not as "hard" as it might sound! Cloth dipes can be just as easy as disposable, except you wash 'em instead of throw them away. Try different brands & types to find what you like best. Don't be afraid to try "old school" methods. After 2.5 years of cloth diapering, I just tried out some flats with my second baby and realized I actually like them! If using one-size ones, they won't fit super great on a newborn. Keep you washing routine simple - rinse, wash, rinse. Have fun with it! Get a couple cute prints=)

Vicky C. said...

I'm new to cloth diaper and I want to try it to save money and the planet. Also they are so cute!

Laura Grace Andry said...

I am new to cloth diapering and want to do it because it is good for the environment and my pocketbook. That and they are absolutely adorable.

Maria Ivey said...

I am new to cloth diapering and want to try it b/c the thought of all those disposable diapers ending up in a landfill is heartbreaking.

Sheena said...

It's easier than you think!! Go to cloth and eliminate those late night diaper runs :)

Kerry said...

My best advice is to just go for it. Cloth is just as easy as disposables these days. And don't just bulk buy one kind of diaper, because you may have preferences after trying a few different types out.

alsatia23 at hotmail dot com

Alesha said...

I am choosing to do cloth because of the health of my baby, the cost, and the cuteness :)

Tawnya said...

My advice: Try several brands; don't stock up on all one kind until you know what you like and what fits your baby the best. Also, you'll need to plan for a larger diaper bag to accomodate the added bulk.

Christawr said...

I am new to cloth diapering, I have been doing it for 8 weeks (since my son came home from the hospital) I decided to do cloth for the financial savings and to become more green!

Ps Mamae said...

Link to Tweet 10/9:
https://twitter.com/#!/PsMamae/status/123112308946894848

Krystyn @ Really, Are You Serious? said...

I'm going to use cloth because I've always wanted to, but now I can because we won't be using daycare...save money and better for the environment.