Cloth Diaper Cake – Bad Boy Tricycle Tutorial

by MyGreenNest | Oct 19, 2016 | Cloth Diaper Accessories, Cloth Diapers

Have a pregnant friend who wants to start cloth diaperings and want to get something that will blow the competition away?

Step away from the same old boring baby shower gifts and put that ugly baby blanket and overrated rubber giraffe down.

It’s time to make something that will amaze the pants off of Mrs. preggo! (not literally)

Build the ULTIMATE cloth diaper cake by following my step-by-step tutorial while simultaneously making the other moms jealous of your gift.

I searched the internet for a long time looking for a cloth diaper cake tricycle tutorial and found none; although there were plenty of disposable cake tutorials.

That’s when I decided to create my own and share. After a few months of gathering supplies and testing, I created the cutest cloth diaper cake I have ever made. I’ve even created a girl version too!

This little guy will help any new mom jumpstart her cloth diapering stash in style!

This tutorial is 100% original and created for my blog, MyGreenNest.

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.

Getting Started

Ok, so I am not going to lie… this is a big, expensive, and very involved diaper cake to make but it’s very doable!

The price of making this diaper tricycle is going to cost you anywhere from $150.00 to $200.00 depending on where you get your supplies. You may already have some of the items around the house.

You can go in with a friend or two to cut costs and even make the cake together.

Just try not to drink at the same time or you might end up with something completely different than what I am going to show you!

Diaper Supplies

12 large charcoal Bamboo Inserts (flat style)

12 pack of OsoCozy Prefold Size Medium (13-28 pounds)

One teddy bear or stuffed animal

OsoCozy flats 4 pack, Dark Teal Color (Amazon Aff Link)

Baby Sunglasses (Amazon aff link)

Diaper Dawgs Hot Dawg Sprayer (Aff link)

Diaper Dawgs Finger Guards (Aff link)

Two-Ten packs of dark gray baby washcloths from Hippo Kisses (HippoKisses.com)

One Wet Bag (aff link).

Black Boingos (Amazon Aff link)

Basic Supplies

2 small safety pins (one inch in length)

Pack of small clear rubber bands

1 pack of small clear rubber bands

Several larger rubber bands

Large bread tie (optional)

One paper towel roll

3 toilet paper rolls

1 long 28-29 inch flower from hobby lobby

Wire Cutters

Black plastic snap tape (3 packs, from Hobby Lobby)

Mini flashlight from the dollar tree

4-8 small Gator clips about (3/4 of an inch)

What All Comes In This Cake!

Here is a quick rundown of everything that is included in this bomb-tastic diaper cake and why this cloth diapering mother-to-be will be a lucky lady to receive it!

With this one awesome diaper cake, the lucky new mom will receive a set of prefolds, which can be used as burp cloths or cleaning rags.

*One set of flat diapers which are very versatile and will last virtually forever.

*Six charcoal inserts that absorb amazingly, and are great for stuffing in pocket diapers or just doubling up.

*A diaper sprayer that hooks up to the shower and cleans dirty diapers in the toilet!

*A waterproof bag that holds several soiled diapers for traveling, and can be used for wet clothes, makeup, bathing suits, or whatever!

*Twenty thick baby washcloths that have infinite uses like cleaning dirty spills, faces, and other fun surprises. They can be used as cloth wipes, washing baby, or to clean yourself after pumping.

Check out my full review on the Hippo Kisses Baby Washcloths.

*One set of finger guards that keep fingers from getting dirty when dealing with poopy diapers and pulling out soiled inserts.

As you can see from the list above, the mother is basically going to be set-up for cloth diapering. The only things left she will need to get are diaper covers, a diaper pail/liner, and maybe a few other cloth diapers.

This cloth diaper cake will really help get a jump start on her diaper stash and will probably be one of the cutest and creative gifts at the shower!

I hope you enjoyed this adorable cloth diaper cake tutorial. If you know anyone who loves cloth diapers and DIY, please pin and share this with them.

If you have any questions, please ask them in the comments below. If you create your own cloth diaper cake, be sure to tag me on Instagram (@MyGreenNest) so I can see what you did.

If you liked my post, here is an image you can pin or share!

Click the image above if you want to see the Princess version of this diaper cake!

Charlie Banana Swim Diaper & Summer Gear!

by MyGreenNest | Jul 17, 2016 | Cloth Diapers

Hello Nesties, today I’m going to be going over my big fat stash of Charlie Banana summer gear!

It’s currently July here and it’s definitely HOT in Oklahoma. Thank goodness Charlie Banana sent my two-year-old some reusable swim diapers, training pants, a rash guard, and a jumpsuit to help protect him from the sun!

Sorry, the giveaway is no longer open.

UPDATE: After using these products on Asher and then his sibling Abram, I’ve updated the review below. Also, this blog was never sponsored but I was given these items in exchange for an honest review and feedback.

Affiliate Disclaimer:

Click the image above to play the video.

Charlie Banana Swim Diaper

The Charlie Banana Swim Diaper (aff link) was the first reusable swim diaper I tried. After using these for several years – They are still in great shape!

This particular swim diaper was the one without the snaps. (They offer snap versions and pull-up versions)

Honestly, the green swim diaper seemed to fit too big and was a little poofy. I preferred to use the Training Diaper (Aff link) with the stars as his and his siblings swim diaper.

It was one of my favorite swim diapers I had!

Charlie Bananas’ swim diapers are made with a newer fabric called Tencel. “Lenzing Tencel” is highly absorbent, has natural antibacterial properties, and is currently the greenest celluloid material currently produced.

Does It Work As Good As A Disposable?
Both types of diapers will contain poo but not urine when immersed in water. I’ve actually done a test on this and will link the video once I’m finished with it here!

The elastic in the back actually contains the poo better than a disposable swim diaper!

There are stretchy elastics around the waist, back, and legs.

You can pull the diaper up like regular underwear or disposable. If you purchased the Snap Swim Diaper (Aff link) you can fasten/unfasten through the sides. There are two side snaps on each side of the snap swim diaper.

The swim diapers from Charlie Banana are Sized Diapers and you will need to purchase different sizes as your baby grows. The benefit to this is you are more likely to get a custom fit, especially if you have a rather small or large baby.

How Did They Each Fit?
The Extraordinary Training Pants (aff link) from Charlie Banana fit Asher better than the green swim diaper. The green one was just too big for him at the time.

He’s always been skinny and slim-built. By the time he was able to fit into the other swim diaper he was already potty trained and in regular swim trunks.

The green swim diaper could’ve probably doubled as a trainer too. It wouldn’t have as much absorbency as a regular trainer would though.

Here are a couple pics of when my second son, Abram sported the training pants. (Mainly used as a swim diaper).

He’s a happy kid I promise, but always looks serious!

Abram wearing Charlie Banana Training Pants As A Swim Diaper

Charlie Banana Training Pants As A Swim Diaper

What I Liked:
I really like that Charlie Banana has many options to choose from when it comes to prints and colors. I like that the inner lining (the part that touches baby) is made from organic cotton as some babies have very sensitive skin.

I try to look for more eco-friendly options when I shop to limit the number of pesticides that are used. I would prefer this diaper to be manufactured locally but I am also aware that the cost would go up as well.

Charlie Banana Reusable Easy Snaps Diaper - Sizing Chart

Extraordinary Training Pants

Charlie Banana’s Extraordinary Training Pants (Aff link) are meant to help transition your baby into wearing regular underwear.

They are slightly-waterproof but offer a little padding to help with light accidents. The outside is a waterproof material and the inside is lined with organic cotton.

Organic cotton is great for sensitive skin and it also lets your child feel wet if they do have an accident.

There’s a stretchy elastic around the waist and the legs and you can pull the center drawstring for a better fit if needed.

Update: After potty-training Asher, these pants were a little helpful for light leaks.

These worked well for longer car-rides or if we were going to be out-and-about after he was freshly potty-trained.

The diaper fit Asher perfect in the legs and in the waist but I found it to be a little bit poofy in the center.

I adored the star print trainer they sent me and it was perfect for celebrating the fourth of July! If you watched the video, I actually used this training diaper as a swim diaper and it worked just fine.

Asher had one blow-out in this diaper and everything was contained within the trainer.

I believe that it happened after he was finished swimming but I am confident the trainer would’ve contained the mess, even in the water.

Reusable training pants are so much more economical than disposable pull-ups.

Even if you don’t use cloth diapers, I would recommend these because you’ll save money and you can continue to use them as training-underwear or swim diapers.

Charlie Banana Training Pants - Size Chart

Asher In Charlie Banana Jumpsuit Rash Guard

Rash Guard & Jumpsuit

Charlie Banana also makes adorable summer clothing for your babies/toddlers to wear outside in the Summertime.

The Rash Guard and Jumpsuit Rash Guard (Aff links) are UPF 50 and will help block out a lot of the Sun’s rays and lessen the amount of sunscreen you have to use.

I like this because that means fewer toxic-chemicals you’ll have to put on your kids.

The jumpsuit and the rash guard are both are made from a Nylon/Lycra blend, and provide, warmth, durability, and dry quickly.

They are also both chlorine/fade-resistant and go hand in hand with reusable swim diapers.

Which One Was A Winner?
The Rash Guard was honestly too long in the arms for both Asher and Abram. I guess they would work if you had a very tall kid.

The jumpsuit, however, worked a lot better for us.

These little jumpsuits are perfect for swimming, going out on the lake, going for a walk, or pretty much any type of outdoor activity!

My husband and I love to go kayaking and the jumpsuit is perfect for taking the kids in.

If they get wet it’ll dry quicker and not feel so heavy like wet cotton fabrics would.

I like that it’s all one piece and easy to get on and off. The jumpsuit has a durable zipper in the back so I don’t have to mess with snaps, just zip and go!

They both feature a long neck (a mini turtleneck) which adds extra protection.

The long arms and neck coverage not only help prevent sunburns and also decrease the chance of your child getting mosquito or bug bites! Win-Win, huh?

However, I would prefer them to be manufactured in the US or Canada but I also understand that would cause a price increase.

Overall, I liked my Jumpsuit (Aff link) and recommend if you’re looking for a good outdoor activity outfit and want the added benefit of Sun/bug protection for your child!

If you liked my post, here is an image you can pin or share!

Click the image above to see another post about Charlie Banana!

All About All In Two Cloth Diapers!

by MyGreenNest | Jun 30, 2016 | Cloth Diapers

Are you ready to learn everything you ever wanted to know about all in two cloth diapers!??

Well, hold onto your bums…. cause I’m going to tell you exactly what AI2 diapers are about and how they make cloth diapering easier.

I’ve personally used AI2’s on all of my kids and don’t know what I’d do without them!

Affiliate Disclaimer:

Click the image above to play the video.

All In Two Cloth Diapers

All-in-two (AI2) cloth diapers happen to be one of my personal favorite types of diapering systems.

The diaper is as described. Everythings is in two parts; the diaper shell and the soaker pad.

Normally the insert will snap or partially tuck right into the waterproof diaper cover.

This keeps your inserts from shifting around and makes diaper changes a little bit quicker.

Who doesn’t love efficiency?

Now you might be thinking that using a Prefold And Cover (or similar) could be considered an AI2 system but it’s not quite the same.

With prefolds and flat’s you’re dealing with folds and sometimes having to fasten them with additional Diaper Fasteners.

An AI2 diaper is the simpler version of the prefold / flat and cover.

AKA the idiot-proof version.

You don’t have to learn Exotic Origami Folds or worry about pricking your finger on a diaper pin… You simply snap the insert into the diaper cover and BAM, you’re ready to go.

What I’ve truly begun to appreciate about AI2 systems is how simple they are to put together after washing.

Pockets, yuckkkkk

If you stick around my blog long enough (God bless your soul) you’ll learn that I absolutely loathe stuffing inserts into pocket diapers.

Now I do have several pocket diapers that I have to stuff after every washing. I don’t complain about it … most of the time…

I’d just prefer snapping the inserts in overstuffing because it helps to save time during diaper laundry.

I have more important things to do with my time like blog about baby poop and make tacky YouTube videos, come on!

Using Diaper Inserts (Aff link) over prefolds or flats also save you time because you don’t have to fold them after washing. I also like that the A12 system is so easy to put together.

We have several different pocket diapers and my husband can never remember which inserts go in which pocket diaper but he can snap inserts in like a boss!

All-In-Two’s also allow you to wash and dry your covers separate from your inserts.

This is a nice feature because I like to hang dry my covers and throw my inserts in the dryer.

Sometimes I like to bleach my inserts but not my covers. If you have all-in-one’s (AI0’s) you cannot wash the inserts separately because they are sewn directly into the diaper shell.

Another benefit to using AI2’s is that you can choose the type of insert you want to use with the diaper and mix and match.

I have a lot of Buttons All-In-Two Diapers and I decided I didn’t like using their hemp inserts any longer because they held onto smells.

Instead, I started using my Charcoal Bamboo Inserts (Amazon aff link) with my Buttons covers, and now I have no issues with odors and the bamboo inserts are just as absorbent.

Some all-in-one diapers come with inserts that are microfiber or a material that doesn’t work as well.

Having the option to use whatever soaker that you want is the beauty of the AI2 because every baby is different and there is no “one size fits all.”

Types of AI2 Diapers

There are a few different types of All-In-Two Cloth Diapers (Amazon Aff link) but they all basically function the same way.

Some of the common AI2 cloth diapers include but are not limited to Buttons Diapers, Best Bottoms, GroVia Hybrid (Technically an AI2), and Flip (also a Hybrid).

I use a lot of Buttons and GroVia diapers. Here is a quick video where I compare the different AI2 diaper types and how they each function.

If you want to see my full review of Buttons Cloth Diapers you can click Here and if you want to see my full review of the GroVia Hybrid diaper you can click Here.

Disadvantages Of The AI2 Cloth Diaper

Some of the disadvantages of the AI2 style cloth diapering system is the expense.

Normally it’s going to cost around 15-20 dollars to purchase the shell and the soaker. A lot of times they are sold separately and can even cost more than that.

Cutting Costs:
Buttons Diapers (aff link) are an affordable option and you can buy cheaper inserts if you need to keep the costs low.

You don’t have to buy the same inserts that come with the diaper shell. I personally do though because I like for my inserts to neatly snap-in. I’m picky like that.

To cut costs, even more, you can buy fewer covers and wipe them out and reuse them before washing.

The biggest disadvantage to the AI2 system that I have come across is how difficult they are to clean compared to Pocket Diapers.

Yes, pocket diapers are my least favorite system when it comes to cloth but they do save the day when it comes to spraying off your diapers!

Because the inserts are all exposed in an AI2, runny poo can get all over the inserts, underneath them, and on the covers.

I end up having to spray all of that along with my cloth wipes (while trying not to curse under my breath). Pockets are a flat surface and the inserts are protected under the pocket.

This is why I always liked to put Asher in a pocket in the morning when he’d usually do his “business”.

Overall, I love using my all in two cloth diapers and highly recommend them. There are no perfect cloth diapering systems but the AI2 is very flexible and has a lot to offer!

If you liked my post, here is an image you can pin or share!

To see part 2 and learn everything you need to know about spray shields, click the image above!

All About Flat Cloth Diapers!

by MyGreenNest | Jun 9, 2016 | Cloth Diapers

Your grandma’s cloth diapers are making a comeback, the flat cloth diaper!

Regardless of how intimidating and outdated flat cloth diapers may seem, there’s no denying they’re easy to care for, versatile, and affordable.

In this post, I’ll show you everything you ever wanted to know about the flat and why you may want to give them a second look!

Affiliate Disclaimer:

About Flat Cloth Diapers

Flat cloth diapers are typically made from cotton, hemp, bamboo, or a combination. They are simple flat sheets of material, yet deemed as one of the most complicated diapers to use.

There are a lot of different ways that you can fold a flat, some are super simple (borderline lazy) and some require skills in the ancient art of origami, hence the origami fold.

Flats will need to be secured by a Snappi, Boingo, or a diaper pin and you will need a Waterproof Cover (Amazon aff link) to go over them. There are a variety of flat diapers that you can choose from ranging in size, softness, material, and price.

They Are Cheap!

Flats are one of the most affordable cloth diapering systems, they will normally fit from birth to potty, and will last through multiple children.

You can buy a dozen flats for around 12 -30 dollars and they are easiest cloth diapers to wash.

You can even use flour sack towels which cost about a buck a piece at the store, or you can use your old receiving blankets that are lying around the house and taking up precious space.

Click the image above to play the video.

Sizing & Types

Flat cloth diapers are usually made of 100% birdseye cotton, but some are a blend of 55% hemp or bamboo and 45% organic cotton. Some flats are large and square and some are more of a rectangle.

You can sometimes purchase them in different sizes but the average flat will measure roughly 27″x 27″ or 70cm x 70cm after they have been pre-washed.

Sometimes the dimensions are listed before pre-washing, but be aware that birdseye cotton and hemp both shrink considerably!

I mentioned earlier that you can use flower-sack towels, receiving blankets, and even t-shirts as flats but the higher quality cotton, hemp, and bamboo flats will be more absorbent and durable options. Just keep that in mind before you cut up all of your husbands’ ugly t-shirts that you hate in order to save a buck or two…

Why Flats?

There is definitely a learning curve to using flat cloth diapers but it’s a challenge I have willingly accepted. Yes, I will admit I rarely do any of the fancy folds but I do use flats every day.

You may be asking yourself why anyone would take the trouble to use flats when you can buy diapers that are pretty much, slap-on and go (aka All-In-Ones).

Well before you snub your nose at these simple sheets of fabric, let me school you on why your grandmas’ flats may be a better *fit for you.

When you are expecting a baby, you have no idea what shape or size that baby will be when he or she comes.

They could have super chubby thighs and a small waist or the opposite. Flats are guaranteed to fit because you can custom fold them to the shape of your child whereas other (more advanced) diapers are already cut and sized.

Also, once you learn all of the fancy schmancy flat folds, you can make videos showing off your ninja folding skills like I did. 😛

Flat Cloth Diapers - Boingo Diaper Fasteners

I secured this organic bamboo/cotton flat using a Boingo fastener. Click the image above if you want to see my full post about Boingo Diaper Fasteners.

Flat Cloth Diapers - Snappi Diaper Fastener

Here I secured my diaper flat using a Snappi fastener. Click the image above if you want to see my full post about the Snappi Diaper Fastener.

If your flats start to get a little on the small side, you can even fold them up and stuff them in your pocket diapers as inserts.

Clean Them In A Snap!

We’ve already discussed how affordable flat cloth diapers are but they are also the easiest cloth diapers to wash out of all cloth diapers. The natural fibers don’t cling onto smells as other materials do.

They’re a no-fuss diaper when it comes to washing and you can bleach them every now and then without panicking that you ruined them.

If your washing machine breaks down or you simply don’t own one, flats are the BEST cloth diapers for handwashing. You are not dealing with layers and layers of thick fabric to scrub clean, it’s just a thin sheet of material.

Flats are not only the easiest diapers to wash but they are also the fastest drying cloth diapers! You can cut down on energy by just hang-drying them for a few hours.

You also never know when a zombie apocalypse will strike and you need to be on the move.

Here’s a great video my husband and I did for a campaign called Plan C for a non-profit called the Cloth Alliance. We were bringing awareness of cloth diapering for use in emergency situations.

Click the image above to play the video.

Want to learn how to handwash your flats? Here is another little video my husband and I did for the Cloth Alliance. (Plan C campaign) This will show you how to build an emergency bucket washer and wash your cloth diapers!

Click the image above to play the video.

Disadvantages Of Flat Diapers

Some of the disadvantages of flat cloth diapers are a bit obvious like you will need to purchase additional covers, Snappis, Boingos (Amazon aff links), or diaper pins to secure them.

They can be intimidating to start with and not the best type of cloth diapers to leave for babysitters to use. You will also need to spend time folding them after every wash. That is, unless you are lazy like me and stick with the pad fold most of the time.

Honestly, I don’t have a lot of complaints to list about this type of diaper and I am starting to like flats even more after writing this post! 🙂

Check out my Amazon affiliate link image if you are interested in trying out flat cloth diapers!

If you liked my post, here is an image you can pin or share!

If you liked my post, here is an image you can pin or share!

BYSCO Kids Bamboo Baby Washcloths – Review & Giveaway!

by MyGreenNest | May 31, 2016 | Natural Products

UPDATE: This brand no longer sells this product but I’ve included another brand of comparable baby washcloths that you will love!

I’ve had the pleasure of testing out some thick/absorbent baby washcloths for BYSCO Kids and I can’t wait to tell you about them!

BYSCO Kids sent me their bamboo baby washcloths and a complimentary wet bag.

If you are looking for some very soft and luxurious baby washcloths or facial cloths, you may want to check out BYSCO Kids. I’ll also include a few more washcloths that I’ve tried out and love.

This post was sponsored at the time it was originally published.

Affiliate Disclaimer:

Baby Washcloths That Last!

Even though BYSCO Kids is no longer in business I kept their review which you can read below if you’re super bored.

If you like the review of their washcloths and are looking for something that’s plush, absorbent and lasts then I recommend baby washcloths from GroVia. (aff link)

I’ve used them for several years and they are still holding up like new!

If you’re looking for a fantastic Wet Bag (aff link) you can check out GroVia again as they do make several sizes to fit your specific needs.

I’m still using one of their pail liners going on 5+ years of heavy use. I should probably order another one! You can look at my original Pail Liner Review Here.

BYSCO Kids Baby Washcloths

BYSCO Kids sent me a set of their Bamboo Baby Washcloths which came in a variety of soft pastel colors. The baby washcloths also came packaged inside a mid-sized blue wet bag.

There were 8 washcloths in all and each measured about 10 x 10 inches. I was honestly surprised at how large these washcloths were. They were the largest baby washcloths I have ever used but also the most luxurious.

What I Liked:
They are very soft and have the feel of a really nice bath towel. Because they are a bit larger, they do not double as well for Cloth Wipes because they are not as easy to store as my thinner cloth wipes. Instead, I would recommend using these for bathtime or using them as facial washcloths.

They are almost too nice to use for cleaning and other things, although they would probably make really good dish rags as well. I liked that they came neatly packaged in a nice Wet Bag, (aff link) I thought that was kind of unique.

Wet bags are little reusable bags that are lined with a waterproof material like PUL. They are awesome for storing dirty cloth diapers or washcloths, wet baby clothes, and other odds and ends. I always carry a wet bag and a few pre-wet cloth wipes when I travel with my son.

My BYSCO Kids Review

I love that the BYSCO Kids baby washcloths are made from bamboo. Bamboo is one of my favorite materials because it’s really soft, absorbent, and doesn’t hold in odors like other materials.

I also love how strong the edging is around the washcloths! Most of my baby washcloths have a stitched edging where the thread tends to come loose after several uses.

I don’t believe I will have that issue with these washcloths because of the way they were made. I did find that they shrink up a little bit if you dry them on high heat (you are not supposed to do that), but it didn’t bother me at all.

They shrank up to the size of my other washcloths and still remained soft.

I really like that the BYSCO Kids washcloths came with a decent quality wet bag to tote them in.

However, I’d like to see these baby washcloths in brighter and more color options. I’d also like to see the wet bags come in a few more print and color options.

I like that the washcloths are made from a sustainable source like bamboo. The only thing that would make it better for me is they had an organic bamboo/cotton option and were made in America / Canada.

I personally love supporting locally manufactured products. Overall, I would recommend these baby washcloths, especially if you are looking for something sturdy and super soft.

These bamboo baby washcloths would make for a nice little baby shower gift as well!