Please click "READ MORE" for the full list of helpful tips I've come up with. Learn from my mistakes, be sure to check it out.
1. If you don’t LOVE your cloth diapering experience, try changing detergent/washing differently, or try another type of diaper liner. I'll be posting my own washing instructions soon!
WASHING INSTRUCTIONS & DETERGENT MATTER, both for absorbency and possible skin irritation. Be sure to separate the natural fibers from man-made fibers and research the type of detergent you are using/going to use. Don’t just use any detergent, even if it’s made for babies: some detergents can leave residue on fibers completely ruining their absorbency. I have just started using my own homemade detergent (equal parts: washing soda, baking soda, cheap oxiclean, and Epsom salt), and I'll let you know after a few washes what I think. I have been using it on our clothes also, and so far so good. Be sure to check back later to find out how that goes.
Don’t want poop everywhere? Be sure that the diaper is flat against the baby’s skin. We use polyester pocket diapers with snaps, bamboo inserts, and diaper liners. If available, be sure to use both sizing snaps on the sides of the diaper, tucking in any extra fabric to be as smooth against baby as possible. Avoid bunching, twisting and gaps between the diaper and the baby’s legs or waist.
You will probably notice quickly that you won’t need any diaper rash cream while using the cloth diapers, but if you do, be sure to use one designed for cloth diapers. As well as some detergents, a lot of the current diaper rash creams and ointments leave behind residue on the fibers of the diapers, making absorption nearly impossible over time.