Spray Pal vs Diaper Diamond

by MyGreenNest | Jul 9, 2015 | Cloth Diaper Accessories

Update: The Diaper Diamond is no longer available. However, you can still see from my review what the Spray Pal is like if you’re investing in cloth diapering products.

I’ll have a better spray shield alternative in the botton of the post below, Keep reading!

Spray Pal or Diaper Diamond? In this short video, I’ll compare the pros & cons of the Spray Pal and the Diaper Diamond spray shields.

They are both cloth diapering accessories that help to contain water and fecal matter inside of your toilet bowl where it belongs!

Affiliate Disclaimer:

This post contains affiliate links. This means that if you click on any of my fun-little-links and purchase something, I'll make a small commision at no extra cost to you. It's a win-win for both of us right?

Click the image above to play the video.

About The Spray Pal

The Spray Pal (Amazon Aff Link) was released on the market in August 2011 and has become one of the most popular sprayer shields. Some of the profit even goes to charity.

The Spray Pal is partially made in the U.S. and is owned by Jen Aprea. The Spray Pal features a large clip for securing your diapers along with collapsible sides that snap together. You can store your pal in a wet bag that they offer or next to your toilet in a bucket.

About The Diaper Diamond

The Diaper Diamond has been discontinued. However, I left my review and info on it here if you want to learn more.

The Diaper Diamond is a sprayer shield that is compatible with any diaper sprayer and responsibly made in China. It is used to keep water droplets and fecal matter within the toilet bowl where it belongs.

The Diamond eases the chore of cloth diapering by allowing you to easily spray the poo off without worrying about making a bigger mess. The Diaper Diamond was created by Bernadette Drew. Her patent was issued in May of 2013 and manufacturing was finished in February of 2015.

Bernadette holds the first patent for the spray shield design. Her diamond originally featured four clips which were then changed to slits that help to secure the gussets. The diaper diamond is the only spray shield on the market that pulls the gussets taught so you can get them completely clean without using your hands.

It’s a little smaller compared to the Spray Pal and folds out flat and can hang behind your toilet.

Spray Pal vs Diaper Diamond

The Diaper Diamond has been discontinued. However, I left my review and info on it here if you want to learn more.

Out of the two I personally prefer the Diaper Diamond’s size over the Spray Pal. However, I really wished it featured a clip as the Spray Pal does.

I think the Spray Pal is just a little bit big to keep out and assembled. I do like the fact that you can fold it up and tote it around in its complimentary wet bag (Sold Separately).

The Wet Bag (Aff link) itself is durable and nicely designed. It’s actually my favorite wet bag I own!

I do wish the wet bag hung from the center so it didn’t tilt so much when storing the Spray Pal. For this reason, I use the wet bag for diapers instead of storing the Spray Pal.

The Diaper Dawgs Sprayer

If you’re looking for a current alternative to the Spray Pal look no further than the Diaper Dawgs Sprayer Collar. (aff link)

I’ve been using it for almost 5 years now and I love it! It’s been my favorite sprayer/shield combo on the market since I’ve started my cloth diapering journey.

You can check out my full Diaper Dawgs Review here.

Do You Need A Sprayer Shield?

You don’t “need” a spray shield to cloth diaper however they are extremely convenient and take a lot of the work out cleaning your diapers.

You can also use a spray shield with flats, prefolds, and soiled baby/toddler clothes!

If you want to learn more about Cloth Diaper Spray Shields you can check out my post.

Why And When Should I Spray My Diapers?

If your child is 100% breastfed you don’t have to spray your diapers you can dump them straight into the wash.

Breastfed poo is 100% water-soluble but after the 6 month period when your baby gets on solids, you will need to discard most of the poo before you stick the diaper in the wash.

I prefer to spray my cloth diapers the entire time because it keeps your diaper pail from stinking and prevents stains. However, you’re free to skip that step.

I hope you enjoyed my post, leave a comment and let me know which one you’re thinking about getting!

If you enjoyed this post please share the love! 🙂

If your interested in learning about the different types of sprayer shields on the market, check out this next post!

All About All-In-One Cloth Diapers!

by MyGreenNest | Mar 8, 2015 | Cloth Diapers

If you’re looking for a no-fuss diaper that has it all, then look no further than the all-in-one cloth diaper!

Also known as the AIO, This diaper is very simple to use and is generally preferred by non-cloth diapering folks, dads, and babysitters.

In this post, I’ll break down the pro’s & cons of using the AIO cloth diapering system and compare a few different options on the market today.

Affiliate Disclaimer:

Click the image above to play the video.

About All-In-One Cloth Diapers

All-in-one (AIO) cloth diapers can be described as their title sounds. They have everything you need “all in one” big happy diaper.

They come with a waterproof outer cover, either aplix (velcro) or snap closures, and comes complete with absorbent inserts or soakers. These inserts can either be removable by snapping in and out or sewn directly into the diaper.

Unlike prefolds or flats, AIO diapers require no folding, additional covers, or extra closures. All-in-one cloth diapers can be washed and dried altogether. Velcro AIO diapers can be put on just like a disposable.

The only difference is, you will wash them instead of tossing them in the trash.

Sizing Options:
Like every other style of cloth diaper, AIO’s come in a huge variety of styles and size ranges.

For busy moms, I suggest going with the standard one-size AIO as you can adjust the snap-rise to fit small, medium, and large. This will generally get you from birth to potty training.

Most one-size (OS) diapers will fit around 10-35 or 40 pounds.

However, if you have extra cash and want a more tailored fit, you can buy sized cloth diapers but you’ll have to keep buying more diapers as your child grows.

If you want to learn more about Sizing Options, check out my post.

Click the image above to play the video.

Advantages of the AIO

I consider the AIO to be a “no-fuss” diaper. If you can use a disposable you can use an AIO, there’s not a lot to it.

Great For Busy Moms:
If you’re a busy or a working mother, I would recommend the AIO diaper with an alpix (velcro) closure because they’re the easiest and the fastest diapers to change.

To be fair, there are advantages to both snaps and velcro, if you want to learn more, check out my post on Snaps Vs Velcro.

Unlike pocket diapers, you’ll not have to fuss with stuffing. You can simply throw them in the wash and dry them. They’ll be ready to go immediately. The other benefit is you’ll have minimal folding since everything is built into the diaper.

Great For Babysitters:
My in-laws were pretty hesitant when I told them I would be using cloth diapers. They wanted to go out and purchase pampers for when I dropped the baby off at their house.

I decided to work my magic and show them just how easy it was to change him with a Thirsties all-in-one cloth diaper in velcro.

Yes, they were intimidated at first, but after a couple of changes, my father-in-law admitted it was a lot easier than he thought it would be!

At home, I use many different types of cloth diapers but when I leave my son with anyone else, I usually leave them with AIO diapers in aplix closures.

Great For Newborns:
Because newborns need to be changed frequently and throughout the night, an AIO makes it easy and fast to do. They are also easy and fast to wash.

For my next child, I plan on using AIO diapers with velcro/aplix closures for my night changes and prefolds with covers for my daytime changes.

Prefolds are an affordable option but require a little bit more work during changing.

Newborn AIO Diapers are more expensive but great for nighttime when mommy is tired and wanting to get back to bed as soon as possible!

AIO Disadvantages

As great as all-in-one cloth diapers are they do have a couple of disadvantages.

AIO’s are usually on the bulkier side because they have all of the absorbent parts built into the diaper. They are also more expensive, averaging 15-35 dollars per diaper.

If your budget is tight, you can always purchase used diapers on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Diaper Swappers at a discount.

FYI: If purchasing used, be sure the elastics and PUL are in decent shape.

I’ve found several used diapers online that I love and some people will even trade with you.

Even though AIO’s are a little more expensive, I would recommend having at least a couple in your stash for babysitters or busy days.

Drying Times May Vary:
Another thing to consider is drying time. Because AIO diapers are usually bulkier, they tend to take longer to dry.

Some AIO diapers dry faster since their inserts or soaker pads can either snap out or unfold (tongue-style inserts) to increase drying efficiency.

A Little Less Customizable:
Unlike flats, prefolds, hybrids, and other styles; all-in-ones are not as customizable since they already have everything built-in.

Again, this is fantastic for busy moms who don’t want to fuss with stuffing, folding or finding the inserts but not as great if you want a more customizable fit. Sometimes your AIO cloth diaper will come with extra boosters for naps, long drives, or nighttime.

If your diaper doesn’t come with boosters, I’ve had great results using the (Amazon aff link) Thirsties Hemp Inserts.

No matter what type of diapering system you go with they will each have an advantage and a disadvantage.

You’ll want to consider which diapering system offers the most benefits to you and your lifestyle.

I hope you enjoyed my post, here is an image you can share or pin!

Here is a review I did on an AIO cloth diaper from GroVia if you are looking for a good diaper to start out with.

10 Alternative Uses For Baby Washcloths!

by MyGreenNest | Feb 23, 2015 | Breastfeeding, Cloth Diaper Accessories

Did you just receive a billion baby washcloths from your baby shower? If you’re not sure what to do with all of them I have a few ideas for you. They may have been one of the most versatile gifts you received!

Affiliate Disclaimer:

I wasn’t sure as a new mom if baby washcloths were worth purchasing but now I use them more than any other type of household cloth.

1. Baby washcloths are perfect for general cleaning. I like to use them on my more delicate things like glasses or tv screens.You can use them to remove makeup or clean off your jewelry.

2. You can use them to clean off your pump supplies. They are the perfect size cleaning rag for getting into the small areas of your pumping parts. This allows for a more thorough clean.

3. I like to use baby washcloths to wipe myself at my pumping station. They are the perfect size for throwing in your purse or bag. When I first began breastfeeding I was very sore and these washcloths were a lot softer than your general cleaning rag.

4. Baby washcloths can be used with or in place of reusable nursing pads.This is great if you are out of disposable nursing pads or just forgot them. Simply whip out your washcloths and fold them in a square and insert into your bra! You can fold them several ways and double up for night time.

5. Quick panty liner! You can use these in place of a panty liner incase you are in a situation and would rather not use toilet paper. A lot of women are starting to use reusable cloth pads to help the environment and cut cost!

6. Baby washcloths make FANTASTIC cloth wipes and they are more affordable compared to purchasing “cloth wipes.” You will save a TON of money and trips to the store if you switch to using cloth wipes, even if you use disposable diapers. I find that baby washcloths get my baby a lot cleaner than the disposable wipes because the fabric grips onto the mess instead of smearing it. If you are looking for a fun way to store your cloth wipes, check out my video on POP YOUR CLOTH WIPES!

7. Reusable toilet paper! Using baby washcloths instead of toilet paper is a great way to help the environment and cut cost. You can have a nice little basket with some fresh cloth wipes next or on top of your toilet and keep a wet bag to place the soiled ones in. Launder them once or twice a week with hot water and use a little bleach every once in a while. Buying reusable toilet paper or “adult cloth” can be a little pricey so I would suggest using baby washcloths instead.

8. Stop using paper napkins and start using cloth! I am not talking about those fancy cloth napkins that look pretty but don’t absorb messes very well either. Baby washcloths are fantastic at cleaning your baby/various messes and they are already the size of your basic table napkin. This makes them the perfect alternative to using paper napkins! Keep them in a wet bag inside of your car with some water in a spray bottle. If one of your kids spill something in the car you can clean it up a lot easier and then toss the soiled cloth in your wet bag.

9. You can use them as baby teethers. Take your baby washcloth, roll it up and add a little clear rubber band and then mist with water. Make a few of these and set them all in a tub and then pop into the freezer. Your baby will love chewing on these and the washcloths don’t have the chemicals that some plastic teethers have. *Just make sure you have a bib on because when the water melts it could get a little messy.

10. Last but not least, baby washcloths make the perfect gift! You can make all sorts of cute decorations for diaper cakes, baby showers, and so on out of them. Even if you do not cloth diaper, I think every mom should have at least a handful of these useful washcloths!

How To Make A Flower out of baby Washcloths!

In this quick tutorial I will show you how to make a cloth flower that will impress your friends and family! They are really easy to make and low cost. You can make these for baby showers, use them as diaper cake accents, and more!

If you enjoyed this post, here is an image you can pin or share!

How To Get Stains Out of Cloth Diapers – Without Sunning!

by MyGreenNest | Feb 14, 2015 | Cloth Diapers

Do you have a cloth diaper that’s sporting a super-gnarly stain? If you cloth diaper or have any experience with it, you’ll ultimately come across stains.

Don’t you worry, I’ll teach you how to save that grungy diaper – that looks like something straight out of a horror movie.

If you’re wondering how to get stains out of cloth diapers and inserts, I’ll show you step-by-step how to do just that along with some great preventative tips!

Affiliate Disclaimer:

Click the image above to play the video.

For busy, working, or on-the-go moms here are some quick spot-cleaning tips!

Prevention:
The best way to combat stains is to prevent them in the first place. An easy way to do that is by simply using a diaper liner.

You can use a Disposable (aff link) or reusable diaper liner. The disposable liner will be more convenient for working mothers and keep most of the poo off of your diaper. However, I do prefer to use Reusable Liners. (Amazon aff link)

That means you won’t have to spray your diaper as often and will help keep your diapers stain-free.

If your baby is 100% breastfed you may want to use a reusable diaper liner. To find out more about the differences and advantages of the two types of liners, you can read my post on Diaper Liners.

Laundry Day – Cleaning Cloth Diapers:
As you’re hanging your cloth diapers to dry or throwing them into the dryer, check for stains or spots and set the dirty ones aside.

I’ll usually find one stupid diaper that has a new stain or smudge.

Grab the diaper (or diapers) that you have set aside and rub a little bit of OxiClean and hot water on them. If the stains have set in, soak it in your sink or a tub for an hour or two.

After your spot cleaning or soaking, toss the diaper into your Diaper Pail (aff link) for the next laundry day. This is a quick and easy way that I keep all of my cloth diapers spotless!

Monthly – Cleaning Cloth Diapers:
Rinse and wash your stained diapers on a light cycle to quickly get them clean. Then proceed to rub the stained areas with OxiClean and a tad-bit of dish soap.

Proceed to soak them in your washing machine (or bathtub) and add a couple of scoops of OxiClean.

Add more scoops if you have a lot of diapers or inserts. After they have soaked, wash them on your normal cycle.

You can also add half a cup of vinegar in place of a softener to help rid your diapers of odors.

Don’t add too much dish soap as it can void the warranty of your machine. Don’t overdo the vinegar either as it can degrade the PUL in your diapers.

Before you sell your diapers – Cleaning Cloth Diapers:
Stains may or may not be an issue with you. Some people will only remove stains when they are pretty bad or they will wait until they are ready to sell their diapers.

If that is the case then you will want to follow the steps in my video below to get them looking brand new again. That way, you make the most bang for your buck when you are ready to list them for sale!

Please note: Your stains will be a lot harder to remove if you don’t spray your cloth diapers or spot-clean them from time to time.

Remember to read each one of your cloth diaper warranties before applying these products.

After 5+ years of cloth diapering, I’ve stuck pretty close to these tips. I like to use this AMAZING natural stain-stick (Amazon aff link) and a plant-based dish soap now but everything else is the same.

Comment below if you have any other questions. You can also use these tips to clean your Cloth Pads or kids’ cloth!

If you enjoyed this post, here is an image you can pin or share!

If you enjoyed my post you might find this one helpful as well. Click the image above to view!

Snappi Vs Boingo!

by MyGreenNest | Feb 7, 2015 | Cloth Diaper Accessories

Are you getting into prefolds and flats but can’t figure out what diaper fastener to try?

After cloth diapering for 5+ years, I’ve had plenty of time to test out both Snappi and Boingo fasteners.

I’ll dive into the differences of each fastener so you can better decide what is best for you!

Affiliate Disclaimer:

Snappi Fasteners

* The Snappi Diaper Fastener (Amazon aff link) secures from three sections of the diaper.

* Snappies are stretchy and have tabs you can use to stretch on each side when securing the diaper.

* They have protective covers that you can use over the combs while not in use.

* Snappi has released a few new colors, and now come in two sizes!

Snappi Cloth Diaper Fastener On Baby Girl

Check out my full review on Snappis Here.

Boingo Fasteners

Check out my full review of the Boingo Diaper Fasteners here!

* You only have to purchase one set. They are a “one size fits all” type of option.

*Boingos (Amazon aff link) come with a three month warranty and you can sanitize them by boiling for three minutes.

* You can extend the use of your prefolds by using these when your snappi will no longer reach.

*Boingos come in a lot of funky colors which include glow in the dark, glitter, and the new Solid Gold color!

A quick video highlighting the differences between the Snappi & Boingo. The Snappi and Boingo are an alternative to using safety pins with your prefolds or fitted cloth diapers.

The Snappi was created in South Africa by a father who was tired of dealing with safety pins. Snappi’s are made of 100% degradable materials and stretch easily to secure the diaper.

The Boingo was created by a mother of 7 children (Stacee Magee) who diapered for over 16 years! You can use the Boingo on prefolds that are almost too small extending the use of them. They are also great for newborns that have a small waste. Both diaper fasteners have their place and advantages.