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What Goes Into Making A Good...

...Reusable Diaper

By Betsy Thomas, Bummis

Why would someone want to sell reusable diapers?

Because everyone’s looking for them these days – because they make so much sense!

And why would someone want to use reusable diapers?

• Because they are so easy to use – old fashioned pins and plastic pants have been replaced by easy to use closure systems with velcro or snaps. High tech fabrics with super absorbency or waterproof qualities pair up with soft and natural textiles like cotton and wool to create comfortable and extremely functional products and systems. Cloth diapers are breathable and soft on baby’s bum.

• Because washing cloth diapers now is a breeze! Flushable liners have revolutionized cloth diapering. No rinsing, no mess.

• Because cloth diapers are extremely affordable! They can cost thousands less than single use diapers.

• And because each baby in cloth diapers will generate at least one ton less garbage destined for landfills.

Components of a Successful System

The components of a successful reusable diapering system are adequate absorption, effective waterproof qualities and a good fit. A snug fit around the legs and tummy to prevent leaking is essential! Too big, baggy diapers will fall down and be ineffective. Too small and the diapers will leak! Velcro-type closure systems are a wonderful innovation in diapering because they make a snug fit possible on any baby.

Very important as well are the long-term durability of the product, the washability, and the ease of use. Make sure you know about manufacturers’ warranties, etc. A diapering system should last for at least one baby, if not more. How many diapers does the manufacturer suggest per baby? Too few diapers washed too often will not last as long as 2 – 3 dozen diapers washed twice a week. Plus – using cloth diapers should not be slavery. Make sure your customers buy enough diapers so that they are washing only 2-3 times per week with a newborn, and less often as the baby grows.

Make sure you offer diapers and accessories that are able to withstand machine washing and normal temperatures. Some clients will be willing to take the time to handle more fragile fabrics with care, but for many that will be out of the question.

Types of Reusable Diapers

There are tons of options! Here is a very basic rundown of the different product types.

TWO PIECE SYSTEMS: FLAT, PREFOLD, CONTOURED AND FITTED DIAPERS USED WITH A WATERPROOF OUTER SHELL

A two-piece system consists of an absorbent diaper and a waterproof diaper cover with Velcro or snap closures. The trick is to have a good quality, absorbent diaper and a great fitting and very effective diaper cover

The different types of diapers are:

• Old fashioned flat folding diapers – very big, thin squares or rectangles of flannel, gauze, etc. These have traditionally been the least expensive option. They can be folded up and placed inside a Velcro or snap closing waterproof cover. Basic and very simple!

• The more high tech pre-fold diapers. These come in different qualities – look for those that have layers of 4X6X4 or 4X8X4. Birdseye diapers are not very absorbent, and it is easy to find the nicer 100% cotton pre-folds from India, Pakistan or China. These are the diapers most commonly used in diaper services, and you can be certain that diaper service quality pre-folds will stand up to lots of wear and tear, and last a long time. The unbleached cotton versions are gorgeous and more environmentally friendly. These should be used with Velcro or snap closing waterproof diaper covers. Make sure you sell this product with clear and detailed instructions from the manufacturer - otherwise you and your staff will need to be able to show your clients how to fold and place the diaper inside the cover. This is a slim and trim and very versatile system of diapering. Not rocket science to use and very affordable!

• Contoured diapers. This is a diaper that is designed to fit perfectly inside a Velcro or snap closing waterproof diaper cover. It is not necessary to fold them. Make sure that the ones you sell are very absorbent and have enough layers of really thirsty fabrics, or they will not be able to do the job, as there is very minimal coverage.

• Form-fitted diapers. These come in a range of fabrics and quality, and can have Velcro or snap closures. New and very absorbent fabrics make this a real premium and easy to use diapering system that will wash and wear beautifully. Look for unbleached cotton fleece, hemp and bamboo form-fitted diapers. Price can go from moderate to steep as you get into the more premium fabric choices, but they are still inexpensive compared to disposable diapers. Traditional flannel used for diapers is not always the best option these days. Over time the flannel can wear down, lose its nap, and become less absorbent. Also – too many layers of plain cotton can increase drying time enormously. Form-fitted diapers can be used with either a Velcro or snap closing diaper cover or a pull-on pant or soaker.

Waterproof diaper covers are essential to a 2 piece diapering system. They are widely available now in some exciting new fabrics – a huge improvement over the old vinyl or “plastic” pants! Make sure you sell covers with proven track records. They should be top quality, as they are the key to leak proof diapering. But be aware that even the best diaper cover will not work without an adequately absorbent diaper! And make sure to provide thorough washing information with all the covers you sell.

• PUL covers are a popular type – basically a polyurethane laminate that is bonded to easy care polyester knits, poly cotton blends or even cotton knits. Generally they can be machine washed. Some covers feature a layer of fabric and lamination, some have the lamination sandwiched inside the fabric. Covers made from PUL can be sturdy and long lasting, depending on the thickness and quality of the lamination. These diaper covers should be washed and rinsed thoroughly or they can develop a detergent residue problem (which will make them stinky and ineffective). Be proactive by distributing good washing information with each sale and even by selling residue free washing products. PUL covers are generally very reasonably priced and offer great value for the money.

• Coated nylon covers are also widely available. In particular this is an excellent choice for lightweight pull-on pants. Note that washing instructions will be different for nylon products.

• Polar Fleece is a fabulous fabric for diaper covers, slightly more deluxe in price. It is very breathable – in fact it is often called the “poor man’s wool”, and is ideal for keeping baby comfortable! There are pull-on style polar fleece covers and Velcro and snap closing fleece covers. You can find single or double layer polar fleece covers, laminated or non-laminated covers. Laminated polar fleece may be slightly less breathable, but you won’t have any of the “compression wetness” that is sometimes associated with non-laminated products, especially when a baby sits down in a wet diaper.

• Wool covers are great! They are pricey, but a beautiful deluxe fabric that is very comfortable and very effective. We don’t sell a lot of them in our own store, but we always keep them in stock for people who want to go completely natural at any cost.  You can find them in pull-on style or with velcro-type closures. There are some full leg models as well, which double as wool pants. In our store we sell a recycled sweater version of these that is lovely. It is important with wool covers that you distribute washing information with them. Wool needs special care and handling, and must be washed with lanolin occasionally to retain its water repellent qualities.

INTEGRATED SYSTEMS: ALL-IN-ONES AND POCKET DIAPERS

All-in-one diapers (AIOs) are very easy to use. They feature an absorbent inner layer with a waterproof shell attached. They are as convenient as disposable diapers. Some have 100% cotton interiors, and some come with groovy new super absorbent and quick drying fabrics like microfibre. Be careful that the model you choose to sell in your store has a long lasting waterproof shell that can withstand many wash and dry cycles. It should be at least as sturdy and long lasting as the cotton inside. AIOs are usually pricier than other diapering systems, and you want to be sure that they will last a long time – at least one baby! Synthetic fabrics like microfibre are extremely absorbent and will not take as long to dry. Some parents will prefer to have a more natural fabric like cotton against their baby’s skin. It really depends on your clientele.

The much talked about pocket diapers are very similar to AIOs except that they feature a “stuffable” pocket. Theoretically they are a 2 piece system, but in actual fact they are as convenient as AIOs - hence we consider them to be an integrated system. The stuffable nature of these diapers means that you can adjust the level of absorbance you need depending on the time of day, the particular baby, the baby’s age, etc. Interesting fabrics like hemp and microfibres constitute the liners that you stuff with. Diapers can be stuffed in advance and then pocket diapers are as easy to use as AIOs! They are about the same cost as AIOs, far less expensive than disposable diapers. Parents love the seamless and soft fleece inner layer of the pocket diapers, which feels comfortable and dry to baby, and makes clean-up easy for parents.

Typical Client Questions

One size fits all or size specific?

There are some ingenious diapers out there that will grow with your baby. And then there are some that claim to but will not. Looking at a sample is often the best way to tell. A tiny 6 lb baby will not always fit into a diaper that goes up to 35 lbs!

Which system suits which parent/baby?

Make sure that parents buy the system parents that will suit their needs. A decision based on price alone can sometimes be disastrous. Remember to explain the cost benefits of reusable diapers over the 2.5 years of diapering. Even a super deluxe system of cloth diapers will cost at least $1000 less than disposable diapers!

Accessories

Flushable liners  are a “must have” item in your store. Often this will make the difference between people using cloth or not. No more rinsing poopy diapers in the toilet. Pull out your flushable liner, throw it into the toilet, throw your diaper into a pail until you are ready to wash. So easy! An alternative to the flushable liners are reusable liners made of microfleece. These soft and cozy but thin layers will wick moisture away from baby’s skin – and make clean-ups easier.

Snappis are very cool little gadgets that replace pins. Simply stretch and stick in your diaper to transform a flat, pre-fold or contoured diaper into a form-fitted diaper.

Washing products. Selling washing products in your store ensures that your customers will have easy access to the residue free washing products so important for success with cloth diapering. Also, it brings customers back into your store on a regular basis (as do flushable liners). And while they are there … a new diaper cover, a hemp insert? A half dozen new pocket diapers, maybe that baby carrier they have had their eye on ….! Sell a powdered soaking agent like Oxy-Clean, a residue free detergent such as Charlie’s Soap, Country Save, or Sensi-Clean.

Transitional Diapering System: gDiapers

Although not a completely reusable cloth diaper, the  new gDiaper system does have a reusable component – which is why it is included here. Basically this system consists of a washable and waterproof outer shell – the diaper cover (or “little g” pant), and a disposable insert. The inserts do have an absorbent gel inside, but they are flushable. They make a great alternative to disposable diapers and are way more eco-friendly – although they do generate more waste than cloth diapers.

If you use this system exclusively, it will cost about the same as using disposable diapers. Some parents will want to use this system in conjunction with cloth diapers. For instance, traveling with gDiapers could be a convenient option.

...Glider Rocker

Tereza Camara, Dutailier

There are many glider rocker manufacturers to choose from in today’s competitive market place. A glider rocker investment on the material side can be as little as $199 or as high as $699. When a customer is paying these prices, he should receive a product of lasting enjoyment to realize the value.

Engineering and Design
Rocking gliders should be made with quality, durability, and good design. To meet the needs of today’s demanding consumer, the secret is in precision and quality construction. More than thirty different parts are used to assemble a glider rocker, which is why professional designers and engineers, supported by sophisticated computer design programs and special templates, will design products so that exact uniformity will provide quality and stability. The best glider rockers are made from a solid state construction process that knurls, glues, and locks each piece into a tight-fitting and perfectly engineered connection. Knurling is the process by which many small grooves are embedded into the surface of the wood. This guarantees that the glue will cover all surfaces and that a perfectly tight and solid fit will result.

Quality cannot be manufactured. A large amount of hands-on craftsmanship goes into a rocking glider. Holes should fit tightly and go together with the accompaniment of glue. Joints should be tight fitting as well as glued, screwed or stapled, which guarantees stability and durability in a well-engineered connection. The product should be properly sealed and finished to repel moisture (which will loosen the joints due to expansion and contraction) and add extra beauty to the rocker.

Balanced Gliding Motion
The gliding system is what makes glider rockers unique from regular rocking chairs, and balance is critical in order for a glider rocker to function correctly and comfortably. The ultimate system provides not only a smooth rocking motion but also, superior rocking comfort. Perfect configuration will ensure balanced and effortless movement and will not produce a side to side gliding motion effect.

Padding and Cushions
Quality cushions are a result of demanding technical and visual requirements. Foam must be CFC-free and should meet California flammability standards, the highest in North America. The higher the density of the cushion, the longer it will retain its shape. This guarantees lasting appearance, warmth, and comfort.

The seat decking-or webbing- that supports the cushion should be made of only the best material (such as Sytex) and tested to thousands of cycles, which will not only guarantee comfort, but strength as well. Some manufacturers use no stretch springs on the deck which will not sag after time if they are well-attached to the wood frame.

Selection of Fabrics and Finishes
An endless selection of fabrics and finishes are available to make a glider rocker fit into any room decor. After all, it is a piece of accent furniture.

You have dozens of beautiful, rich fabrics from which to choose: cotton, vinyl, leather, and more. Be sure to pick a fabric that is protected with a fabric protector, and is flame retardant.

The styles and finishes available in today’s glider rocker offer you an abundance of choices. These include contemporary, traditional, country (manufactured from wood and metal).

The important features to look for in the protective finish are thickness and solidity. If it is thin and easily scratched, the protective finish will fade. The thicker protective finishes have a larger number of solid particles. The easily-scratched finish has more volatile particles, which will dissipate into the atmosphere causing the protective finish to fade. All formulas should be environmentally safe and non-toxic. If the varnish is UV proof, it will not yellow.

Matching Ottomans
A glider rocker is not complete unless it has a matching ottoman. A matching ottoman will add beauty and warmth to the room as well as optimize the motion of the glider rocker. The ottoman should ideally be the same style, finish, and fabric as the glider. For best use and maximum comfort, the ottoman should also have the same quality gliding system that is found on the glider rocker.

...Stroller

Bob Monahan, Uppa Baby

Strolling with your child is one of the most wonderful experiences for any parent. In addition to old-fashioned transportation, strolling offers a fresh-air opportunity for stressed out parents, a good source of exercise, and often some welcome “nap time” for junior. There really is no down side, but choosing the right stroller can be a challenge. A Rule: Generally one needs two strollers. One lightweight to keep in the car for small trips and a larger one for walks and longer trips such as the park to the mall etc.

There have never been so many strolling features, categories, and brands to choose from. This can be overwhelming, yet, for the educated consumer, finding a perfect match has never been more likely. The most important word is “fit”. The stroller will need to fit the:

• baby/child (how old? how many?)
• parent (tall/short, personal style, budget)
• environment (smooth/bumpy, crowded, sandy…)
• lifestyle (athletic, urban, suburban, on the go)

To keep your customers happy and reduce returns it is important to help a customer to make the right choices. Here is a summary of what features go into a good stroller and how to best “fit” a stroller to a potential customer.

Safety
Safety is the most important feature of any stroller. Be sure that each model is either JPMA certified or has passed American Society Test Methods (ASTM) F 833. These standards were developed to address stroller incidents that have been identified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The primary factors tested are: brakes, weight loading, overall stability and the restraint systems.

Quality & Warranty
Look for manufacturers that will honor at least a one-year warranty. Anything less is a concern as they may have customer satisfaction or quality problems that they are trying to avoid. Good manufacturers should replace defects quickly or have a trained repair person available in your area.

Convenience
Folding: Better strollers will have simple, one step folding operations, automatic locking, and require a minimum of bending over. Taking apart a stroller before folding will frustrate many customers and could drive returns. Some strollers will even stand when folded which keeps them out of the dirt and makes storage convenient.

Reversible Seats: Many new modular type strollers feature reversible seats. This is handy as the parent has the option of looking at their baby or allowing them to see where they are going. Another benefit is that the child can be turned to face away from the sun. The tilt feature should be easy to use and intuitive. If the stroller comes with a bassinet option, be sure that the customer knows this and understands all that is entailed when switching modes.

Fit
Height Adjustments: A nice feature on better strollers is a higher handle height or a handle height adjustment feature. Having a stroller be too short is typically more of a problem than too tall. Better strollers have an adjustment that works from one or two buttons. Be careful when selling strollers where the handle bar rotates up as this will actually bring taller customers closer to the stroller and make them more likely to stub their toes on the lower frame. The best adjustments are actually telescoping handles that can be adjusted with a simple click of a handle. This makes the handle higher and moves taller parents further away from the stroller so they won’t kick it.

Bassinet Feature: Some of the newer strollers offer a bassinet that can convert your stroller frame into a pram. This is great as it allows the customer to use the stroller as a pram immediately from birth. There are also strollers that offer enough recline in the seat to deliver fairly similar benefit. Look for strollers that also adapt to transport a car seat to further enhance their functionality and value during the early months. Most will agree that a bassinet is most comfortable for a newborn as it offers the most room for a baby. Fully reclining seats can accommodate a newborn provided that they have infant head protection.

Wheels
A fundamental element; the wheels determine much of the stroller’s personality.

• Size: Smaller wheels give a rougher ride but can be better for a customer on a budget or where portability is a priority. Bigger wheels are a must if your customer is dealing with often bumpy roads but typically take up more trunk space. Wider wheels and tires go over soft or sandy terrain better.
• Tires: Foam (EVA) tires are associated with smaller, less expensive, lightweight strollers. They are adequate but on outdoor surfaces can have a bumpier, louder feel and do wear out. Air filled bicycle type rubber tires offer a smooth ride but take up more room and can go flat. Some new strollers offer rubber tires with foam cores that won’t go flat.
• Bearings: Higher end strollers will have sealed bearings that are more durable and will roll very smoothly and quietly, like a roller blade wheel.
• Swivel: Be sure that customers understand how front wheels are locked on jogging strollers and some prams. This is nice for going over bumps but it can be tedious to constantly have to lift the front wheels to steer the stroller.
• There are stroller models with quick release wheels that are easy to take off for more storage space

Aluminum Frames
Aluminum frames reduce a stroller’s weight by about 20% on average and they look nice with their anodized silver appearance and large tube cross sections. Welded aluminum frames add strength at the joints in place of plastic. The only drawbacks with aluminum are higher cost and scratches. They also do not rust.

Fabrics
Woven polyester is the primary choice for most strollers. It is tough and inexpensive but can be harsh to the touch. Some of the better strollers use higher grades of fabric like nylon, fleece, and micro-suede. These fabrics will give the material a nicer feel and warmth.
Denier is the thickness of the thread in the fabric (not a thread count like sheets); a higher denier will typically mean a more durable fabric. Smaller strollers will typically use a 100 Denier (D) to 200D thread. Larger strollers will typically have a 600D thread and some can go as high as 1000D, which is a luggage-grade toughness. All fabrics should be at least hand washable and ideally machine washable.

Conclusions
Safety, quality and ease of use are the essential characteristics of any a good stroller. What makes a stroller great is the right fit with the consumer. A strong buyer should be able to find many good strollers to carry, and a strong salesperson will lead the consumer to a stroller that will be a great fit.