Review: CuteyBaby Modern Cloth Diapers

When I started cloth diapering months ago, I avoided Velcro like the plague. I had heard the horrors about laundry diaper chains, lint traps. I decided to stick with snaps, and those have served me well. However, when I found out about CuteyBaby diapers, I decided I had to give aplix a chance.

What makes CuteyBaby so different, you ask? These modern cloth diapers merge the functionality of the traditional All-in-One (AIO) such as BumGenius with fashionable, fun fabrics and designs. The shell is soft yet waterproof and the open channel interior design hugs little legs and holds messes in. The insert features a wicking top layer to keep baby's skin dry and four layers of thirsty microfiber to absorb wetness. And it's sewn in so you never have to worry about stuffing! In the wash, the soaker floats out at the front end to facilitate air flow and get clean and dry quickly. When it's time to wear, you just tuck into into the semi-pocket and you're good to go. Did I mention that this is also a one-size diaper that can fit newborns to 30+ lbs? The side snaps allow you to easily adjust the waist for smaller babies.



The most innovative feature to CuteyBaby diapers, however, is the removable Velcro tabs. That's right - you can take them off! Simply unattach the square Velcro tabs before you throw them in the wash and reattach when they are dry. No more snagging means less wear and tear on your dipes!

I was fortunate enough to review a CuteyBaby diaper in the Surf Sharks print.

I was so pleased with the bright print - totally cute for summer! The outer fabric was very soft - almost like a microsuede but more breathable. The fit is more trim than my pockets but just as absorbent, with no leaks after 2+ hours. There were no gaps or pinching; the elastic seems very comfortable and left no marks on his skin. I did find that the front tabs stick out a bit in the front but it was virtually undetectable under clothes.



As for overall performance, it doesn't get much more convenient than this diaper. No sorting and stuffing like with my pockets. The Velcro closure makes it painless to fasten on a wiggly baby and the removable tabs make for worry-free laundering. It is as close to a disposable as you can get, making it a great option for dads and childcare providers.

Check out how adorable my little cutey looks in his CuteyBaby:




I could just eat him up!

The only slight issue I've had is that the Velcro can sometimes chafe my son's belly if I don't attach the tabs correctly. But this is user error and not a defect of the diaper itself. If you are accustomed to snaps like me, there may be a small learning curve until you achieve the best position. Practice makes perfect!

Bottom line: If you want the ultimate in cloth convenience with cute prints to boot, CuteyBaby is for you. Unlike traditional Velcro diapers, their unique closure system ensures the longevity of your diapers.

BUY IT: Want your baby to be a cutey too? You can purchase CuteyBaby OS AIO diapers (ARV $24.95) and other products online at Amazon.com. There are 8 fun prints to choose from!

You can also stay up-to-date on the newest CuteyBaby news by following on Twitter or becoming a fan on Facebook!

Disclaimer: Thank you to ChicExecs for this review opportunity. I received a free diaper from Joni at CuteyBaby in exchange for an honest review. I was in no other way compensated for this post. The thoughts and opinions expressed in my review are solely mine. Your experience may differ.

Review and Giveaway: Nifty Nappy CLOSED

As you might know, we began dabbling in the world of cloth diapers several months ago. All of my preconceived notions about cloth have been blown out of the water. It has been so much more easy, convenient and fun than I could have ever imagined. (How many disposable diapers elicit ooh's and aah's? And how often does something make you excited to do laundry?) My only regret is that I didn't give it a go sooner! Most of my stash consists of pocket diapers - which I love - but I was longing to expand my horizons and try something new.

Thanks to my fairy godmother, a.k.a. Vilate from Nifty Nappy, my wish was granted.

With 6 children (yes, that's right...six!), Vilate knows more than a little about what works when it comes to diapers. Her Nifty Nappies feature a cotton knit shell, organic hemp fleece layer and microfleece inner. All diapers also come with an organic hemp and bamboo lay-in insert for maximum absorbency. Bonus: it also happens to be antibacterial and antimicrobial! Her diaper shape and sewing technique have been perfected over the years to include front snaps, serged edges and encased elastic for a versatile, trim fit. Nifty Nappies are one-size, fitting from birth to potty-training (approx. 7-35 lbs.). They do require a cover but have no fear - Vilate also offers custom wool longies, soakers and wraps!

In addition to her Nifty Nappies, Vilate also sells Peachy Keen pocket diapers and Snappy SwimzEase swim diapers - perfect for summertime!

Vilate generously sent me a Nifty Nappy fitted diaper and Nifty Knickers wool longies to review.

I was very impressed with the fit of the Nappy. It's designed to fit below the belly so there are no gaps or bulges. Unlike our pockets that cause bubble butt, it looks completely natural under clothes. The diaper itself is super soft and cushiony, despite being thin, and the elastic leaves no redness or irritation whatsoever around the waist, crotch or legs. And did I mention the prints are undeniably cute?! (We chose the Ooga Booga Brown Knit but it was a tough decision!)




I was skeptical at first because the rise was so low. I was sure my heavy wetter would pee right out of the top but color me surprised - our Nifty Nappy is crazy absorbent! I've left the diaper on Nate for upwards of 3 hours - without a cover - and there were no leaks. Not even dampness on the outer knit. I also love that it can keep up with my son's active lifestyle. No shifting, sagging or drooping during play.

Many diaper brands loosely claim that they can be used from birth to potty-training. But I truly believe our Nifty Nappy could fit a newborn just as well as my toddler. The overlapping front resin snaps and elastic in the back would make it easy to accommodate smaller babies, and at 28+ lbs., Nate still has plenty of room to grow.

(Here is Mr. Grumpy in all his Nifty Nappy glory. It was nearing naptime so he was in a foul mood and not cooperating for the camera. Still adorable in his dipe, though.)



The only disadvantage I could find is that the fitted takes slightly longer to dry after washing than my PUL pockets. But I know this is only because they are designed to be absorbent throughout. To prevent unnecessary wear and tear, I lay it flat until it is damp and then I dry it fully on low heat. The diaper still looks good as new!

As for a cover, I debated between longies or a wrap and ultimately decided on the Nifty Knickers. I love that they can double as pants for cooler weather. The Nifty Knickers are custom-made from upcycled sweaters, so you simply send your child's measurements to Vilate and she hand-crafts them to your specifications! This is perfect for chunky or string bean babies who have trouble fitting in standard sizes.

I had no idea that wool was so low-maintenance. Unlike fleece or other materials that need to be washed after each use, wool only needs to be washed and lanolized once a month. This is because the lanolin turns urine into saltwater. If the cover gets wet, you simply hang it up or lay it flat and reuse it when dry. Initially, I was intimidated by the thought of lanolizing the wool, but Vilate included step-by-step instructions to guide me through. And really, it's not hard at all. I finally have a use for that tube of lanolin in the back of my medicine cabinet! But Vilate sends her wool covers pre-lanolized so you can use them straight out of the package! The fabric is very gentle - not scratchy - and the longies are roomy so they should fit for a long time. The wide elastic band makes for easy on and off.

While I feel ultra-comfortable using cloth during the daytime, I had not yet braved an overnight endeavor. I had pictures in my mind of Nate waking up in the middle of the night, soaked and seething. *shudder* But as Vilate says, these things are bulletproof! When Nate woke up in the morning, his diaper was soaked through (we need to use another insert or two for my heavy wetter) but his longies were bone dry. I was truly amazed. Our Nifty Nappy and Knickers are our new overnight solution.



I would be remiss if I didn't comment on the excellent customer service I received. For being a cloth newbie, I had no idea what I was in for. I was attached to pockets and afraid to step outside of my comfort zone. But Vilate assured me, informed me of the pluses and minuses and made me feel totally at ease with my decision, which I do not regret at all. She was readily available to answer all of my questions, even at odd hours. I would not hesitate to buy from her again in the future. As a matter of fact, I'm already eyeing the Happy Lobster Swimzeaze for swim lessons this summer.

Bottom line: If you're looking for a true one-size, virtually leak-proof cloth diapering option, you will want to check out these Nifty Nappies and Knickers.

BUY IT: You can purchase Nifty Nappy diapers (ARV $22) and wool covers (ARV $20-22) online at www.niftynappy.com or from any of these fine retailers. She is also having a sale where you can pick up a discontinued flannel Nifty Nappy for just $16!

WIN IT: One lucky reader is going to win a $35 gift certificate to Nifty Nappy!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Visit Nifty Nappy and tell me what print you love most. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile to prevent disqualification!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog and/or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry each)

2.) Follow me and Nifty Nappy on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You can do this daily! You may use the following tweet or come up with one of your own:

#Win a $35 gift certificate to @MyNiftyNappy from @kris10chumley ENDS 6/26 http://bit.ly/bkwd6n #clothdiapers

Just leave me a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry per day max)

3.) Become a fan of Nifty Nappy on Facebook. (1 entry)

4.) Follow the Nifty Nappy blog via Google Friend Connect. (1 entry)

5.) Add the Nifty Nappy webpage button to your site and comment with a link where I can find it. (1 entry)

6.) Add the Nifty Nappy blog button to your site and comment with a link where I can find it. (1 entry)

7.) Add my button to your site and comment with a link where I can find it. (1 entry)

8.) Sign up for the Nifty Nappy newsletter and tell me which email address you used. (1 entry)

9.) Tell me what diaper print/theme you would like to see from Nifty Nappy that is not currently offered. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on June 26, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winner will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: As noted above, I received a fitted diaper and wool longies from Vilate with Nifty Nappy in order to facilitate my candid review. I was in no other way compensated for this post. The thoughts and opinions expressed are purely mine. Your experience may differ.

Update: A Rockin' Makeover!

Remember I told you about how wicked cool Rockin' Green Soap is? Well, the site just got an awesome new makeover!

I am sad to say goodbye to my beloved Grape Soda and I am bummed I didn't get a chance to try the Vanilla Buttercream or Monkey Snacks but there are some yummy, new 100% natural scents that won't be found anywhere else, including:

• Orangevana
• Smashing Watermelons
• Rise Against the Raspberries
• Motley Clean
• The Plain Green Teas
• Lavender Mint Revival
• Bare Naked Babies

(Not sure about you, but the Watermelon and Green Tea scents are at the top of my list to try!)

The packaging has also changed to a recyclable pouch, which uses 75% packaging than before! Not only will that mean less waste, but it will hold the scent of the soap in the bag longer.



Soft Rock and Classic Rock have also had a makeover with new and improved formulas, including all-natural "ammonia busters! They couldn't just let Hard Rock have all the fun.

Some other coolness:

• The sample sizes are now a bit smaller and cost just $.75-$.80 with $1 shipping! There are also expanded shipping options, including USPS Priority and FedEX.
• Rockin' Green Rewards! With each purchase, you'll earn points towards things like wooden scoops, Shake It Up! Pail Freshener or a free bag of Rockin' Green detergent!

I know you're dying to try some, right?! Well , you can use code "makeoversrock" for 10% off everything in the store (limited time only)! And all orders over $75 get free shipping (in the U.S.)!

OR

Click here to win a 45/90 bag from yours truly!

Review and Giveaway: Rockin' Green Soap CLOSED

Thank you to Rockin' Green for participating in the Goodie Goodie Gumdrops Earth Week Event!

Update 4/28/10: The Rockin' Green website has had a makeover! Some of the information in my review is now obsolete so please be sure to check out this post to learn about the changes!

When I decided to walk through the pearly gates into the land of snaps and fluff, I knew I needed a detergent that wouldn't funk-ify my booty-ful new diapers. Being a newbie, I consulted my crunchy mama friends and they all replied with the same recommendation: Rockin' Green Soap.

Rockin' Green Soap, made by a wicked cool WAHM, is true to its name. It's "green" - and it sure does rock! This detergent is made of safe, phosphate-free ingredients which are good for the planet and safe for kids and adults. Best of all, it's completely safe for cloth diapers, so you can kiss repelling and stinkies goodbye. No boosters or softeners or other add-ons needed. Just a few tablespoons for sparkly clean dipes. As a matter of fact, if you wish, you can use it to clean all your laundry!

Some more things to love about Rockin' Green:

• Dye free
• Yummy scents
• No fillers
• No enzymes or optical brighteners
• Vegan
• Great for sensitive skin
• Easy rinsing
• Approved for military use
• Works wonders on microfiber stink
• HE compatible
• Reusable packaging
• Great for all water types
• Economical at $.13/load

On the Rockin' Green playlist are three special formulas:

• Soft Rock - unscented, designed for sensitive skin and/or soft water
• Classic Rock - original formula, scented and unscented versions, for moderate hard water or those battling stinky diapers
• Hard Rock - new release, designed for those with the hardest of water

After hearing about its awesomeness, I decided to order a sample of the Classic Rock formula in Grape Soda scent. I knew I was in for a treat the moment I opened my mailbox and got a whiff. It smelled SO good I didn't know whether I should taste it or clean with it! (No worries, I knew better than to eat it). I loved that my laundry room smelled like heaven but my diapers came out smelling fresh, with no lingering scent. True to its word, Rockin' Green rinsed completely clean. No foamy bubbles = no residue. See for yourself how it compares to the competition:



After a few washes, I did begin to notice an ammonia smell when Nate would pee in his cloth diapers. Having done my research, I knew this was a sign of buildup. So, I consulted Rockin' Green's troubleshooting page and did a mini-strip, which was basically a nice long soak and laundering as usual. As my diapers soaked, I perused the site and discovered a list of specific washing machine models and successful washing routines. Wouldn't you know that my model was listed?! And I found that I hadn't been using enough detergent! I wasn't getting all of the urine out of the inserts - YUCK! I added another tablespoon to my hot wash cycle, did an extra cold rinse and problem solved. No more buildup and no more stinkies! YAY! I would definitely recommend experimenting with about 2 tablespoons (don't be shy!) and adjusting "the volume" up or down depending on your washer model and water type.

As my Grape Soda sample nears its end, I am begging for an encore. I think I may try Vanilla Buttercream or Mango Sorbet next. Mmmm...I can almost smell it already...

Bottom line: If you want a detergent that pampers the planet as well as your ultra-cute cloth diapers, Rockin' Green is where it's at.

BUY IT: You can purchase Rockin' Green Detergent online at www.rockingreensoap.com. 5/10 samples (enough for 5 loads in traditional top-loader or 10 in an HE/front-loader) start at just $2.50 with $1 shipping! You can also purchase diaper pail sprinkles to get rid of the grunge in your pail or wet bag (ARV $6.50).

WIN IT: Kim from Rockin' Green is generously offering one lucky reader a 45/90 bag of Rockin' Green Soap in their choice of scent and formula - up to a $16 value! WOOT!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Visit Rockin' Green and tell me which scent and formula you would choose. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile to prevent disqualification!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count! Remember to leave one comment per entry.

1.) Follow my blog and/or subscribe via reader or email. If you already follow and/or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry each)

2.) Follow me and Rockin' Green on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You can do this daily! You may use the following tweet of come up with one of your own:

De-funk your #clothdiapers with @RockinGreenSoap! Win a 45/90 bag in your choice of scent and formula @kris10chumley http://bit.ly/cEMtMH

Just leave a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry per day max)

3.) Become a fan of Rockin' Green Soap on Facebook. (1 entry)

4.) Add my regular blog button and/or event button to your site and leave a comment with the link to where I can find it. (1 entry/each)

Giveaway will end on May 8, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winners will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: I was offered this giveaway opportunity from Kim at Rockin' Green. The sample I used was purchased on my own and I liked the product so much, I wanted to share it with my readers. I was not compensated in any way for this post. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are purely mine. Your experience may differ.

Review and Giveaway: AppleCheeks CLOSED

When I was pregnant with Nate, I was quite intrigued by cloth diapering. I researched all the various types and brands so I knew the difference between fitteds, pockets and AIO's. I loved that they were eco-friendly, soft with adorable prints and colors, and best of all, reusable! The average family spends $1,800-$2,700 per child on disposable diapers from birth to potty-training. Cloth diapering can cost anywhere from $300-$1,200 depending on the system you choose. That's a savings of $600-$2,400! Not to mention that quality cloth diapers can likely be used on more than one child for even greater savings.

It seemed like a no-brainer. However, as I planned to go back to work and Nate would be in the care of my mom or husband during my in-office days, I had to get their input. They both resisted the change tooth and nail so as not to burden anyone with a potentially complicated diapering system, we went the sposie route. Well, now that I'm a SAHM and changing 99.99% of the diapers around here, I no longer have to worry about how other people feel about our routine. Nate may be 19 months old but I figure it's better late than never. So, at long last, I'm officially dabbling in the world of cloth diapers! And I can't think of a cuter diaper (with a cuter name!) than AppleCheeks for my first foray into cloth.

AppleCheeks are designed and manufactured in Montreal, and were founded by a couple of Canadian WAHM's who are passionate about attachment parenting and natural living. Their products, including cloth diapers, wraps and slings, reflect these values.

AppleCheeks are incredibly versatile cloth diapering system. Their waterproof PUL cover contains a soft microfleece inner layer with a wide envelope-style opening, which enables you to a) stuff an insert or prefold to act as a pocket diaper or to b) lay the insert over the microfleece and reuse the cover as an All-In-Two (AI2). When used as a pocket, AppleCheeks' unique design allows the insert to automatically agitate out in the wash. That's right - no unstuffing soiled inserts! The diapers have snug elastic at both the waist and legs and two rows of adjustable snaps for a secure fit. AppleCheeks are available in two sizes: Size 1 fits 7-20 lbs. and Size 2 fits from 20-40 lbs. They also come in a range of vibrant colors to brighten up any stash.

AppleCheeks kindly sent me one of their Chocolate covers in size 2, a bamboo insert, booster and a Chocolate size 1 Storage Sac to review.

I was so excited when the package arrived, I could hardly wait to tear it open. The color was a beautiful, rich mocha and the leg ruffles gave the diaper a distinct, stylish flair. The microfleece inside was so buttery soft, I couldn't stop touching it! The trifold 70% bamboo/30% organic cotton insert was thick and comfy and the coordinating booster was perfect to boost protection near the front for my little peepot. I really liked that both inserts were unbleached and the bamboo is naturally antimicrobial so I felt this was the healthiest option for my baby's bottom.

My AppleCheeks diaper came with an illustrated instruction and care sheet that made it almost impossible to screw up. Cold rinse without detergent. Hot wash with detergent. Another rinse. Tumble dry low or, to extend the life of your diaper, air dry. I did wash the insert and booster a few more times in hot water to increase absorbency before our first use. They also have a handy video tutorial in case you are paranoid like me and want to double-check your work. Because I only had one insert on hand, I decided to use my AppleCheeks diaper as a pocket style. This also seemed most comfy since the microfiber would be closest to his tushie and could wick away moisture. The generous envelope opening made it super easy to stuff the insert. I couldn't believe how simple it was! Even Daddy was amazed!

I liked the idea of snap closures because they wouldn't snag in the wash as with aplix but I wasn't sure how much of a struggle it would be to fasten onto my little wiggleworm. I was also concerned that Nate would be able to pull his diaper off, as he does with some of his sposies. Thankfully, the snaps took just a few seconds to figure out and while Nate hasn't even tried to fidget with the snaps, I am confident they will stay put. Nate is approximately 28 lbs. and the second to the last setting proved to be the perfect fit, with a little room still left for him to grow. Once on, the diaper gave him a little bulk in the back but I couldn't resist his new fluffy bum. Much sweeter than a stiff, papery Sesame Street character!




Of course, about a half an hour after we tried on the cloth, Nate decided it was time to poop. I was nervous initially since Nate can be a heavy wetter but I am happy to report we had no leaks whatsoever and the mess was completely contained. I just shook off the solid waste into the toilet and put the soiled diaper into the waterproof storage sac for washing. I estimate the size 1 storage sac was big enough to store about 5 larger cloth diapers with inserts. It would be perfect if you cloth diaper part-time or to keep in a diaper bag for trips out and about. It not only controls moisture but also keeps the laundry room fresh. Nate's dirty diaper sat in the room for more than 24 hours but no one could have ever guessed it. There was no nasty odor at all. When it came time to wash, I just turned the sac inside out, dumped the dirty diaper into the washer along with the inside-out sac and began the cycle. Everything came out good as new. Once clean, I hung or laid everything to dry and eagerly anticipated our next cloth adventure.

I was worried about how Nate would take to the change from sposies to cloth but I get the feeling he definitely prefers cloth. With sposies, he would yank at his diaper or scoot around on the floor to itch his butt from irritation or sheer annoyance. I've yet to see any of that with our AppleCheeks! We haven't yet braved going overnight with them but once I purchase some more inserts, I fully plan to double up and give it a go.



The only disadvantage I can find with AppleCheeks is the cost. The envelope covers range from $17-$19 and the bamboo inserts are just under $9. This brings the total of one complete diaper to $26-$28. That is roughly $8 more than other AIO's on the market. However, you can save some money by opting for the AppleCheeks MiniTest Kit, which is $45 and includes 1 envelope cover and 3 inserts. Used as an AI2, this can serve as 3 diapers at $15 each. Much more affordable, IMO.

Bottom line: Whether you are considering a switch from disposables or you are already a crunchy cloth mama, you should add some AppleCheeks in your stash. I love the versatility and plan to purchase more bamboo inserts so I can get more than one use out of my cover. They have held up very well in the wash (love that I don't have to dig the messy insert out!) and I think our AppleCheeks are durable enough to stick around through at least one more addition to our family. They are super absorbent, super easy to use and super cute!

BUY IT: You can purchase AppleCheeks diapers and accessories online at www.applecheeks.com or at other select e-tailers worldwide.

WIN IT: One lucky winner is going to win their very own AppleCheeks cover in the size and color of their choice along with a bamboo insert! WOW! (Note: if you've previously reviewed AppleCheeks or won an AppleCheeks giveaway in the past 6 months, you are not eligible to win. So sorry but we do have to share the wealth!)

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Take a peek at AppleCheeks and tell me which color you would choose if you won. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile to prevent disqualification!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count! Remember to leave one comment per entry.

1.) Follow my blog and/or subscribe via reader or email. If you already follow and/or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry each)

2.) Follow me and AppleCheeks on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You can do this daily! You may use the tweet below or come up with one of your own:

Sick of sposies? Win an @AppleCheeksDipe #clothdiaper in your choice of size and color from @kris10chumley Ends 3/30 http://bit.ly/8Xc5vF

Just leave me a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry max per day)

3.) Become a fan of AppleCheeks on Facebook. (1 entry)

4.) Add my blog button and leave a comment with the link to where I can find it. (1 entry)

5.) As a cloth diaper newbie, I could really use all the help I can get. What is your best tip or piece of advice for someone just getting started in cloth diapering? (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on March 30, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. and Canada. Winners will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: As mentioned above, I received an AppleCheeks cover, insert, and booster from Ilana at AppleCheeks to facilitate my candid review. I won the storage sac in a separate contest via Facebook. I was not compensated in any other way for this post. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are solely mine. Your experience may differ.