After using flat diapers for many years, I decided it was time to try something a little bit different – bamboo/cotton flat diapers! My main question was, “are they worth the extra money?” While bamboo flat diapers are not even close to being expensive when compared to fitteds and AIO’s that cost $20 or more, for someone on a very strict budget, the difference between $2 for cotton and $3 for bamboo could be an issue.
I decided to buy my bamboo flats from Diaper Junction. They are the “Diaper Rite” brand and prices are as follows: 1 dozen in size small is $33.95 ($2.83 per diaper) and 1 dozen in size large is $39.95 ($3.33 per diaper).
We’ve had these for over a year now, and they are the same diapers I used in this year’s Flats and Handwashing Challenge. Diaper Rite bamboo flats are made from 55% rayon from bamboo and 45% organic cotton birdseye. Smalls measure roughly 27″ x 27″ before washing, and larges are 32″ X 32.” Because of the natural birdseye fabric, these flats are not going to be perfect squares after you prep them.
My measurements of the large after shrinkage: 25×30.
One of the easiest ways to use a flat diaper is with the pad fold. Here’s an easy photo tutorial for you to follow. Once you’ve folded it, just lay in a cover and put on your baby. Here is a master table of additional flat diaper folds.
Once pad folded, this diaper measures about 13 inches long by 5.5 inches wide, so the dimensions are very similar to a standard bamboo or microfiber insert.
Fit: One of the nicest thing about flat diapers is that they can be folded in many different ways. This customizes both absorbency and fit. Because of that fact, my recommendation is that unless you will be diapering a newborn, or have a very petite baby, go ahead and get size large like I did since you can fold them to fit even a younger infant. Here’s how to fold a flat super small so it will fit in a newborn cover.
These two pictures illustrate how customizable flat diapers are:
Performance: Bamboo flats are noticeably softer than cotton flats. That’s the first benefit I noticed. They also absorb more. While the difference may not be dramatic it is definitely noticeable. For us, that means using less doublers and extra inserts – sometimes none at all. With cotton flats we would have to add absorbency or double up the diapers. But Ingrid can wear one bamboo flat alone for a nap.
Unless you are pad folding, you will need a diaper fastener or pin to secure flats to your baby. Both Snappi and Boingo fasteners work great for this.
Care: Flat diapers are easy to wash and quick to dry because they are only one layer of fabric. Wash as usual with all your other diapers and either machine or line dry. However, keep in mind that bamboo is a bit more delicate than cotton. Diaper Junction recommends only very occasional bleaching, and only if needed. To spot clean your flats, try a stain stick like Buncha Farmers. For very stubborn stains, you can do an Oxiclean soak before washing. Hang dry the diapers in full sun to fade stains even more.
If you don’t have a washing machine or want to avoid the laundromat, here is how I hand wash flat diapers.
Value: I think bamboo flat diapers are definitely worth the extra money, if you can swing it. As mentioned above, they are not just softer, they are also more absorbent, so they can save you money on extra inserts, or having to purchase more flats so you can double up. I think these factors justify the price of a few more dollars. I don’t know of one mother who has purchased these buttery soft and thirsty bamboo flats and regretted it!
You can purchase Diaper Rite bamboo flats at my affiliate, Diaper Junction, and get free shipping on purchases over $39. So if you pick up a dozen of the flats and a waterproof diaper cover to go along with them, you can easily qualify for the free shipping.
Giveaway: CLOSED I’m giving away 1 dozen bamboo Diaper Rite flats! Winner chooses size (small or large). This giveaway is open to both US and Canadian residents and ends on August 17th. Good luck!
