Using cloth diapers at childcare - How to make it work and how to talk with your daycare provider

April 20, 10:25 PMFrugal Family ExaminerMelissa Newby

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Photo: www.snootybootydiapers.com

We thank Michelle from Snooty Booty Diapers for this article on some pointers for using cloth diapers at daycare.
 

There are many reasons to use cloth diapers, with the environment and saving money at the top of many lists. Yet there are many interested parents who don’t cloth diaper or only use cloth part-time due to daycare concerns. Many parents assume that cloth diapers are not allowed at daycare, but this is not often the case.

Some daycare facilities say they “can’t” use cloth diapers. This is personal policy rather than law. States have varying regulations on diapering procedures, but cloth is rarely, if ever, prohibited. A daycare’s refusal to use cloth may stem from a misunderstanding of regulations, unfamiliarity with modern cloth diapers, or the perception that cloth diapers are more work.

What should you do if you want to use cloth diapers at daycare? Here are some tips:
 

• Find your state’s regulations on diapering at daycare. Plan how you can make it easy for your daycare to follow the regulations. If your state requires that all diapers soiled with fecal matter be put into plastic bags, for instance, then offer to supply the plastic bags.
   
• Show your daycare provider how easy cloth can be. Bring easy diapers to use-pocket diapers or all-in-one diapers often have velcro closures and are very similar to disposables. If your daycare provider has the idea of complicated folds and pins, these innovative diapers may change his/her mind.
   
• If cloth diapering for health reasons, make sure to provide a doctor’s note.
  
   

In short, present cloth diapering is a positive way and bring samples of the diapers you plan to use. Show your provider how easy cloth can be and how you will help follow state laws. If your daycare provider can feel confident using cloth and knows that all regulations are being followed, you will have an easier time of convincing him/her to try cloth.