Cloth Diapering on a Budget: How to Start Without Breaking the Bank

Starting cloth diapering doesn’t have to cost a fortune. While there are luxurious products available, there are also simple, affordable ways to get started. In fact, cloth diapering can save you a lot of money over time compared to disposables. Here’s how you can begin your cloth diapering journey with as little money as possible, and still be confident you’ve got everything you need.

The Basics of Cloth Diapering: Luxurious vs. Budget-Friendly Options

There’s no shortage of luxurious cloth diapering products on the market. From designer covers to specialized inserts, these items may look tempting—but they aren’t always necessary, especially when you’re starting out on a budget.

Let’s break down what you really need and where you can cut costs:

• Diaper Covers: High-end covers can cost $20–$30 each, but you can easily use basic, budget-friendly covers for around $10–$15. They still provide a waterproof barrier, which is the most important function.

• Inserts or Prefolds: Inserts typically cost between $3 and $7 each, while prefolds range from $2 to $5, making prefolds slightly more affordable upfront. Inserts are easier to use with pocket diapers or covers, but may require doubling for heavy wetters. Prefolds, though requiring more folding, are more versatile and can be adjusted as the baby grows.

           

• Wet Bags and Diaper Pails: Wet bags are handy for storing dirty diapers, and while you can get fancy ones, a simple bag works just as well and costs less. As for diaper pails, a regular lidded trash can works perfectly fine instead of an expensive diaper pail system.

 

Cost Breakdown: Prefold Systems vs. Pocket Diapers

1. Prefold Systems (Budget-Friendly Option)
Prefold diapers are one of the most affordable ways to start cloth diapering. Prefolds require a waterproof cover, but the absorbent part (the prefold) is relatively cheap.

• Cost:
  • Prefolds: $2–$3 each
  • Covers: $10–$15 each
  • Total cost to start: Approximately $60–$100 for 20 prefolds and 5 covers.

With this system, you can reuse covers throughout the day, only changing the prefold. This reduces the number of covers you need, keeping your initial investment low. OsoCozy has a system that we highly recommend for only $269.00. It includes 7 dozen (84) Prefolds and 12 covers. That’s a deal you just can’t beat!!

2. Pocket Diapers (Mid-Range Option)
Pocket diapers are a popular choice because they come as an all-in-one system. They include a waterproof outer layer and an absorbent insert, which fits into a pocket inside the diaper. This convenience comes at a higher cost. 

• Cost:
  • Pocket diapers: $10–$15 each
  • Inserts: $6-$12
  • Total cost to start: Approximately $300–$500 for 20 pocket diapers.

Pocket diapers are more expensive upfront, but they are convenient and easy to use. The insert stays in place inside the pocket, and the whole diaper is replaced at each change.

 

Comparing Cloth Diapers to Disposable Diapers: The Real Savings

Now let’s compare the cost of cloth diapers to the cost of disposables. On average, disposable diapers cost between $70 and $80 per month. Over the course of two and a half years, that adds up to $2,100–$2,400.

In comparison:

• A prefold system costs approximately $60–$100 to start, and you may spend an additional $100–$200 on extra supplies over time.
• A pocket diaper system costs $300–$500 upfront, with fewer ongoing expenses.

Even if you go with the slightly more expensive pocket diaper system, you’ll still spend significantly less than you would on disposables over the course of your child’s diapering years.

Tips for Saving Even More Money on Cloth Diapers

• Buy Secondhand: Many parents sell or give away gently used cloth diapers once their children are potty trained. Buying secondhand can cut your upfront costs dramatically. You can search on Facebook Marketplace, Offerup, and even baby thrift stores. You might even join a Cloth Diaper Buy, Sell, Trade group and pay to have the goods shipped to you. The choices really are endless.

• Use Household Items as Inserts: Instead of expensive inserts, you can use household items like flour sack towels or even old t-shirts cut into strips. These can be folded and used in place of store-bought inserts.

• Skip the Extras: Cloth wipes and sprayers are nice to have, but they’re not essential. Cloth wipes can be made from old rags or washcloths and using a simple spray bottle filled with water works just as well. 

 

Cloth Diapering on a Budget: The Takeaway

You don’t need to spend a fortune to start cloth diapering. Whether you choose a simple prefold system or invest in pocket diapers, cloth diapering is a cost-effective option that saves money in the long run. By opting for budget-friendly alternatives, buying secondhand, and reusing household items, you can reduce your initial investment and make cloth diapering work for you—without breaking the bank.