Grovia Trainers Giveaway

So you think it's easy?

Many people would think that having a second child would be easier as you would have the required experience in dealing with those 'innocent little monsters'... well, not exactly. For those of you who'd asked and for those of you who are wondering... here's my story

Right from pregnancy itself, my journey with a second child is what one would call different, compared to when I was expecting my first. With Arthur, pregnancy was bliss and I could work til the very last week before EDD. With Adrian, the Doctor ordered bed rest... that was only the beginning.

As we get to know him better, we realise our younger one not only looks different from his big brother... He is indeed very different in character, temperament, personal traits... 

Breastfeeding... was a bliss right from the star with Adrian, our little one... he even 'rewarded' us with the breast crawl. Hubby was certainly amazed. With his big brother, breastfeeding was literally a total struggle as we had to work out why his little walnut-sized tummy needs to be refilled every hour or so...

Babywearing... unlike Arthur who used to ask for it almost every day... he'd even point to the pouch, Adrian is indifferent to babywearing... similar to how I perceive a car is simply for transport and need not be made a statement of. To Adrian, it is OK if you put him in a carrier... or not. He doesn't mind. He doesn't have a preference. Having achieve toddlerhood, of course he'd prefer freedom of walking around etc... it's still OK to wear him when we are in crowded areas or when Momma needs extra hands... yes, he is indifferent and he somehow understands the functionality and practicality of the carriers.

Cloth Diapering... This is weird... I'd started Arthur on Cloth Diapers cos he had very bad rashes from disposables that cloth diapering seem to take care of. Yet, with little Adrian, it is cloth who made him feel uncomfortable. NO, we did not share their diapers... Adrian had his own brand new ones as a baby (though we did think of letting him have his big brother's share when he's older). That put us back to using disposables... that said, Adrian is the one who could tell us when he needs a poop since day 1...

Cloth Diapers for sale

Potty training no.2 so these are no longer necessary... All are used and in good condition (unless stated otherwise). Please email me at peekaroobaby@gmail.com if you would like to have them or if you have any further enquiries.

Handmade flannel inserts from Ebay USA - RM10 for all 3

Baby Cheeks (New Zealand) One Size Pocket CD. Brand new and never taken out of packaging. Inserts NOT INCLUDED -  RM 35

Happy Babes One Size Pocket CD from Ebay Australia. Microfibre inserts included - RM35

Starbunz Size XL. Hemp insert included - RM25

Itti Bitti Fitted - Size L - Inserts included - RM25

Freshbots Fitted - Inserts sewn in - RM10

Baby Beehinds Bamboo Fitted - Complete set with inserts - RM25 each  (orange or green)

Drybees Pocket - Size L - WAHMies one size insert included  - RM25

Mommy's Touch One Size - Sewn in insert - RM20

Ella's House Fitted - Sewn in insert - RM20

Grobaby AIO- Full set with inserts - RM25

Bumwear Pocket One Size - Inserts NOT INCLUDED - RM20

Bum Genius Full set with inserts - RM25

Drybees Pocket CD - Size L - Insert NOT INCLUDED - RM15

Blueberry One size Hemp insert - RM10
(please note manufacturer's defect near label... does not affect asorbption)

Blueberry One size Hemp/Microfibre insert - RM8

(please note manufacturer's defect ... does not affect asorbption)

GAD One size Hemp Insert - RM8

Blueberry One size Hemp/Microfibre insert - RM10
(excellent used condition)

Blueberry Minkee One Size snaps- Inserts NOT INCLUDED - RM 10
Please note this CD has loose elastics that might need to be replaced for it to function 100%. I did not bother with it , though.

Blueberry Minkee One Size Hook&Loop - Inserts NOT INCLUDED - RM 10
Please note this CD has loose elastics that might need to be replaced for it to function 100%. I did not bother with it , though.  

Drybees Pocket - Size L - Inserts NOT INCLUDED -  RM10
Please note this CD has loose elastics that might need to be replaced for it to function 100%. I did not bother with it , though. 

Itti Bitti Snap In All in One - Size L - Full set with inserts - RM15 each (green, orange or blue)
Please note these CDs has loose elastics that might need to be replaced for it to function 100%. I did not bother with it , though. 

Bumgenius - Full set with inserts - RM15
Please note this CD has loose elastics that might need to be replaced for it to function 100%. I did not bother with it , though. 

Baby Cheeks One Size Pocket - Inserts NOT INCLUDED - RM10
Please note this CD has loose elastics that might need to be replaced for it to function 100%. I did not bother with it , though.  

Blueberry Microfibre/Hemp Insert - RM10

Stacinator - RM8

Lambypants wool cover (to use as a waterproof barrier with fitted diapers) -  RM 15

Lambypants wool pants (to use as a waterproof barrier with fitted diapers) - size L - please note stain on pants - does not affect functionality (only buy if it's ok with you) -  RM10  

Lambypants wool pants (to use as a waterproof barrier with fitted diapers) - size L  - RM15

Itti Bitti Snap In AIOs insert set... Brand new and NEVER washed -  RM 20 per set (there's 4 sets available)

GroBaby on Sale!

We are clearing off our Grobaby products to make way for new ones on the way. Check them out now before it's all gone!

Quick Overview

Natural, Innovative and Affordable.

Truly one size, grows with baby. Soft Organic Cotton Inner, reusable outer shell, snap in soaker pad

Unique proprietary closure system that is secure and will not scratch your baby's soft skin.

Absolutely leak proof and the lay in insert system means you will have a smaller load of laundry to do! Plus it's a more affordable way of cloth diapering (buy a few covers and a lot of inserts, interchange the covers when using and you're set)

Come see what all the fuss is about!

Product Description

No dioxins, 100% organic cotton inners, smaller laundry and drying loads and a cheaper system (if you're using it solely).

What's not to like?

Find out why the Grobaby has exploded onto the US cloth diapering scene and is fast becoming a favorite straight out of the box.

High quality YKK snaps, a proprietary Never Pill hook tab with soft loop fabric that doesn't scratch and built in laundry tabs.

This system is great for travelling because you only need to take multiple snap in soakers instead of entire diapers.

Try one, and you'll see just how easy cloth diapering has become.

Each Shell set comes with :

• 1 x Shell
• 1 x organic cotton Snap in Soaker pad
• 1 x organic cotton Booster

Use

Change outer shell twice a day and inner as needed

Washing

Organic cotton inners must be washed/dried on hot 3 times prior to first use and WILL NOT reach it's full absorbency until approximately 6-8 washes.

• Wash hot, tumble dry before use
• Remove as much solid matter as possible.
• Place soiled soaker pads in a dry diaper pail - no soaking is necessary.
• Wash every 2 days.
• Start with a cold rinse.
• Wash in hot water with half the amount of recommended detergent.
• Do an extra rinse if desired.
• Tumble dry or hang outside for extra freshness and to remove stains.
• Do NOT use bleach, enzyme cleaners or fabric softeners.

DO NOT BLEACH!

I am not a bleach user buy Mom swears by them to keep clothes stain-free.

Thing is, if you are babywearing and/or cloth diapering, you would definitely want to keep your carriers and/or your cloth diapers away from bleach!

In Cloth Diapering, it is a widely known fact that bleach is bad. How many babywearers know this for their carriers, though?

While bleaching is good to keep your whites, white... most of the time, bleaching somewhat breaks the composition or the construction of the fabric. I still remember the day the back of one of my favourite white shirt of mine literally broke apart just as I was bending to pick up something from the floor. It was barely a year old and made of 100% cotton. The culprit, I suspect, is bleach as Mom loves bleaching all whites before washing.

Where babywearing is concerned, BLEACH IS A NO-NO, too! You certainly do not want what happened to my shirt happen to your carrier, do you?

The next question will then lead to... what about softener? Well, personally, I will stay away from that, too.

Better than CDs?

Calling all CD addicts! Now that you love CD-ing sooo much, have you ever thought that there could be something that is even better than CDs?

Using CDs to cure my little Arthur's nappy rashes, I must admit that I was amazed at the results and in no time at all, turned into a CD addict. Then again, given the price of CDs... yes, it would save you money in the long run but we must agree that not everyone have the amount of money required to start off full on CDs... it wasn't really easy.. especially when you can be easily addicted for your little one to look cute ;p

Anyway, have you heard of Elimination Control? Do you think it would work?

What is Elimination Control?

"In a nutshell, Elimination Communication is about the Communication.

• It is about helping your baby to go 'to the toilet' somewhere other than a nappy, some of the time, then more of the time as they grow!
  
• It is about learning to observe baby's bodily rhythms, body language and practicing responding in such a way that your connection is enhanced, benefiting your whole relationship.
  
• It is about sometimes anticipating the needs of a pre-verbal human being and experiencing their joy that you understand them. We strive to improve our bond.
  
• It is about gently supporting their instinctual awareness of their body and attempting to understand them, and helping them feel 'relieved'.
  
• It is about using nappies as a tool rather than a necessity.
  
• It is about reducing the 'ecological footprint' of waste generated by a brand new human.
  
• It is about enhancing your connection and understanding of your baby's needs - often into other areas of their care, and this is really empowering!
  
• It is not toilet training, it is not 'coercive' nor is it impossible! It is gentle and responsive, or it is not EC. YOU can do it!

With EC we help the baby stay clean and dry until they gain independence in their own time, at their own pace - gradually.

Is it a better way? No, it is another way of addressing a baby's hygiene needs over full time use of nappies and changing dirty nappies for years. A parenting option.

Think of EC as another skill you can learn, another baby care option."

Extracted from http://www.tribalbaby.org/ECindex.html.
Find out more from here.

All I am saying is... for those who really want to ditch those disposables but not able to afford CDs... why not try Elimination Control (EC)?

Disposables... worse for little boys?

At the mention that disposables are worse for girls than boys in my CD Review 2, I did get questions where I got that information from and whether it is a trusted source.

Finallly, I've found the page where I've read about how disposables could contribute to "increases in infertility and testicular cancer of the last 25 years... as disposables makes it 1 degree hotter the average temperature of a boy's testicles in a disposable nappy". Where is this from??

Along with other facts and figures through research, check out the Facts & Figurespage on the Australian Nappy Network.

Hilighting some that got my attention...

"Every disposable nappy ever dumped still exists today as they take centuries to break down."

• Those disposables, however breathable, are more like our plastic bags than we are willing to accept...

"Washing/hanging out/putting away nappies for a bub in cloth full time takes 7 minutes a day - less time than it takes to go to the store and return home with a box of disposable nappies."

• How true this one... Using CDs have taken off my alertness on sales and discounts on Disposable Diapers. I still remember how I used to keep looking out for discounts on them.. it's the diapers section I check first everytime we were at the supermarket... then, I'd go to another supermarket to compare the prices... who knows how much the going around comparing costs! Just glad the phobia is all over now... I can walk past the disposable diapers aisle without giving it a second thought now ;p

"100 intestinal viruses leach from untreated human waste at rubbish dumps, contaminating ground water at land fill and creating risks to sanitation workers."

• Think, parents, think! Think about what the future will hold for our babies... Did you want them living on a landfill where their nappies are buried?
• Something close to my heart since school age... "We did not inherit the Earth from our ancestors... We borrowed it from our children"

"50% of total household waste will be disposable nappies, in a household with 1 baby using disposable nappies full time."

• This would be very true to those using disposables full time. I was only using it on Arthur for outings (at home, he uses the lampin... still does) and already, it was like needing to clear the rubbish every other day. Probably cos we got out very often... Even then, he would sometimes need 3-4 changes at night... we would have changed him to a disposable diaper to get ready for bed... he would poo in it... then, change again... poo a litle bit more.. change again... got that? Sometimes, the nanny even clean the little poo off the diaper to reuse... cos diapers are like more than RM0.50 each... it's like throwing away money! Then again, I don't much like the idea of reusing it though her intention is to save me money.

"3.5 Litres of water needed to make each disposable nappy."
"1 Litre of water required to wash a cloth nappy (depending on machine, and how many nappies are washed in one load)."

• These two is enough for those worrying about how using CDs will increase the water bill. If environment is first on your list, you wouldn't mind so much who's paying for water, would you? Overall, it saves water!

Cloth Diapers Review - Part 2 **updated with pic on Ella House

Following up on the first CD review, here's the second part, which covers all that I have now. Depending on my roving eyes and itchy hands, there could be a Part 3 ;)

Again... Beforehand, please note that this review is solely based on my personal experience with them on my little Arthur. It might or might not work out to be the same for you or your baby though I do hope this helps out in your decision-making process as in which one to buy.

"Wash & Care" is simplified. If you know CDs, you'd know there are many, many ways to care for them. Mine is not the detailed version simply because by the time I started using them, my little one seldom poo in the nappy already...

I do not get paid for these reviews and even if I do get paid, they will be the same honest reviews. "Get it from" simply provides references on where I got them from. There could be others in Malaysia selling them... at any time, you can just google them up ;)

The ratings (e.g. *****) are from * (1) to ***** (5), where ***** (5) is the highest possible rating for any particular product. ;)

Ella's House fitted




Description : Call this weird, call this special, call this unique... this is the only one CD that I have where the prints are meant to be on the inside. Why? The prints on on the fleece, the fabric that is meant to absorb moisture away from the baby's bum.
Material : The body of this nappy is made entirely from hemp/cotton fleece with aplix. It is a fitted with a pocket that has a hem booster inside, and you can add on extra hemp booster into the pocket fitted diaper. Simply soft and absorbent.
Absorbency : Very absorbent. Used with a longie, can last Arthur through the night (Arthur is a mega heavy wetter) and still keep him dry as the entire inner layer is fleece, though the outside will be dripping wet. What's more, you cn always add on inserts/boosters.
Drying time : Longer than pockets but generally faster than most fitted as there is an 'insert' that can be taken out to dry.
Fit : Not so pro-Ella's House here... if you look closely at the picture, you will see that the aplix are sewn much to the inside compared to others... in a way, the closure is not very well enclosed... sort of flabby, if you get what I mean. Fit is a bit loose on the bottom. Huge aplix strap... which I don't really like.

See how the tabs are flapping?

Wash & Care : Easy wash, easy care. The printed inner layer makes tough stains almost invisible. Just the same as most modern CD. Just rinse off messes and put into WM
Prints : Cute prints, though remember, the prints belong to the inner layer. So, when it is on, you won't see those prints.. all you see is the beige colour.
Overall Rating : *** (everything but the fit is good about this nappy)
Get it from : http://www.babysashanmom.com/

Bumwear One Size Pocket


Description : Don't know why but this particular CD never appealed to me. It was indeed never my intention to get it... it was a result of an exchange of a faulty product. Anyway, since I am into CD, I thought I'd just try this out, too. Briefly, a pocket diaper (known for its batik prints) with soft fleece inner.
Material : PUL outer with batik prints and super soft fleece inner
Absorbency : Again, as in Part 1 of my CD review, this very much depends on the inserts.
Drying time : Very fast... remember, this is true for the Pocket outer only... you need those inserts!
Fit : Poor fit. period.
Wash & Care : Simple and easy as the soft fleece inner can easily be rinsed off.
Prints : Again, known for it's batik prints... though batik does not appeal much to me.
Overall Rating : **(the very poor fit has made me put it aside as a nap time nappy... not good for outing, not good for active activities while my little one is awake... the CD drops sometimes when he gets too excited. Put it on a tighter setting? No... it will then be too tight that it leaves marks on my little Arthur. Also, the PUL outer somehow seem different and a bit off compared to Drybees and others.)
Get it from : As I did not get satisfactory customer service from the vendor, I am not recommending them here. Please look this up yourself and hopefully, you do not get it from where I got it from.

Bum Genius 2.0 One Size pocket

Description : This is my favourite pocket CD by far as I simply love everything about it! What more can I wish for? Perhaps, for the sizing to be more generous so that it can last longer (most one size will not last through toddlerhood as their fittings are usually 'just right')? Then again, more generous sizing might mean a poorer fit?
Material : PUL outer and suede inner. Somehow, this PUL outer is a bit thinner than the rest and in a way more breathable, I feel. And, no, it does not make it leak sooner. Just a note here, PUL are usually categorised into how waterproof they can be in terms like 1 mil, 2 mil so on. Most PUL for CDs are in the 2 mils. Also, love those stretchy tabs! Go to their website to watch the brief video clip on how this feature helps ease the CD experience. It worked exactly the same way for me ;)
Absorbency : Depends on the inserts. The insert that came with it can last quite some time. For an outing with Arthur, usually at least 3 hours before we change him. Longer, most of the time.
Drying time : Very fast, true with pocket diapers
Fit : Main reason why I love this so much is due to the not-so-bulky fit. Compared to the rest that I have, this one allows me to put pants on Arthur without him looking like a duck with a big, hidden, bottom. **LOL**
Wash & Care : Easy wash, easy care. It's a pocket CD!
Prints : Not many choices. In fact, no prints at all. Just those lovely pastel solid colours.
Overall Rating : ***** (this deserves a full rating as this is my favourite pocket CD to date! Let me know if you prefer any other over this!)
Get it from : http://www.miabambina.com/

Itti Bitti AIO

Description : This is the first from the left in the picture (solid blue). The claims are true... "...itti bitti snap in AIO's are ultra trim, quick drying All In One nappies that don't need a cover. These snug fitting nappies really do fit just like a disposable, perfect for wearing under clothes, that don't usually fit cloth bums. They have the high cut front and slim crotch, too" Unlike any I have experienced to date, these (all 3 of them from the pic) looks so small you'd wonder it'll fit. They do! In size L, there's even room for growth for Arthur!
Material : PUL and fleece for the outer layer. Super absorbent bamboo boosters! Very interesting system used here. Something like Baby Beehinds but with a wider coverage for the topmost layer, which is constructed of a fleece layer on top of a bamboo layer. All included in the package (scroll down for the photo for itti Boo's... similar system , different material. notice that they even colour code the snaps to make sure you know what goes where!)

Absorbency : Very, very absorbent. Just to try it out, I had it on Arthur for 8 hours and it was still holding well (no leaks) though I know it should so be changed after 8 hours!!
Drying time : The system is just so good. It dries much, much faster than all other AIOs/fitted that I have. Briefly, it can all be taken apart.
Fit : Very, very, very good fit. Something like how low cut hipsters had overtaken the high-waisted jeans.... (can I put it in any better terms? hehehe..)
Wash & Care : Easy wash, easy care. Much more so with this as you can even just take away the top most liner when it is soiled and continue using it with another liner if it's not wet (... don't you just hate those times you need to change the whole nappy just minutes after putting it on your baby simply because there's a little mess in it?)
Prints : Prints not available for the AIOs but the colours available are simply to die for.
Overall Rating : ***** (Isn't it beginning to sound like I am getting paid for this or that I am selling it? Fact is, NO to both. I just want to express how happy and satisfied I am with this CD! Might just get more... and more... and more...)
Get it from : not available in Malaysia at the moment (will soon be ;). No.. not through me...). I got it straight from the Australian site from the above link.

Itti Bitti Bitti Boo's

Description : This is the middle one in the first picture (Lemon coloured). The claims are true... "bitti boo's are designed with the super trim itti bitti fit, so they really do fit just like a disposable, they are super soft and sooo pat-a-ble and they stay that way, wash after wash. They have the high cut front and slim crotch, too" Unlike any I have experienced to date, these (all 3 of them from the pic) looks so small you'd wonder it'll fit. They do! In size L, there's even room for growth for Arthur!

Material : an outer layer of colourful, snuggly soft, cotton/poly velour, an inner of bamboo velour. Itti bitti snap in hemp boosters with the hourglass booster also topped in silky soft bamboo velour (so all that is touching babies bum is lush, soft bamboo velour) Ohh... so soft.. like the Blueberry minkee.. even better as this is breathable... soft on the inside and the outside, too.

Absorbency : Very, very absorbent. No problem at all with night diapering. Have to go with a longie, though. Then again, unlike the other fitted CDs I use for night diapering, this is not dripping wet the next morning. Just wet all over.

Drying time : Like the AIO, the system is just so good. It dries much, much faster than all other AIOs/fitted that I have. Briefly, it can all be taken apart.

Fit : I'll say it again...Very, very, very good fit. Something like how low cut hipsters had overtaken the high-waisted jeans.... (can I put it in any better terms? hehehe..)

Wash & Care : Easy wash, easy care. Much more so with this as you can even just take away the top most liner when it is soiled and continue using it with another liner if it's not wet (... don't you just hate those times you need to change the whole nappy just minutes after putting it on your baby simply because there's a little mess in it?)

Prints : No prints... just drool over the many selections of colours available.. believe me, you'll have a hard time choosing.

Overall Rating : ***** ( I know... But, really, I am so not selling them or getting paid for this...)

Get it from : www.lildanzell.com

Itti Bitti Knit and Cotton Print fitted

Description : Third from first photo... Above photo taken with Arthur to show you how fitting they all are! Anyway, for this one, let's just say that they are indeed very honest to let us know that these fitted are "...good but may need to boost for heavy wetters and the durability of it is... Knit and cotton quilting fabrics wash up very well, although like all cotton based fabrics, can fade over time, inners of microfleece, suedecloth and velour look good for a long time.."

Material : "...6 layers of hemp in the wetzone for absorbency. The outer layer is a cotton, cotton/poly or cotton/lycra print, with a hidden layer of flannel and an internal soaker of 3 layers hemp terry/fleece. The inner will be a coordinating lush velour or stay dry microfleece/suedecloth." The inner layers are much smaller than those of the AIO and the Bitti Boo's. Imagine just two strips as wide as your menstrual pads (even trimmer)...

Absorbency : Not as good as its counterpart. Good for day use only.

Drying time : Good.

Fit : I'll say it again and again...Very, very, very good fit. Something like how low cut hipsters had overtaken the high-waisted jeans.... (can I put it in any better terms? hehehe..)
Wash & Care : Easy wash, easy care though not as easy as it's counter parts in terms of removing just the soiled part. As the extra layers are very trim, chances are, once it's soiled, the whole CD will be soiled.

Prints : Cool and attractive prints. This was the main reason I had to get this one, too!

Overall Rating : *** ( I know I was forewarned that it will not be as good as it's counterparts... still, with this particular one, let's jsut say it's not my favourite in terms of absobenecy and durability... then again, this is the ONLY ONE CD that Arthur has ever shown any interest in.. must be the prints.. he will point at it asking to wear it.. really!)
Get it from : not available in Malaysia at the moment (will soon be ;). No.. not through me...). I got it straight from the Australian site from the above link.

Looking at the number of blogs I have put in for CDs and also at reviews like this one, many have suggested that I go into selling CDs, too. Well, let's just say that for now, I am not ready for that kind of commitment and not ready for the taxes. More so, I believe that those on the market are already very good in the CD department. Then again, if more and more are giving me the pressure to provide them (mostly because they want to get all the stuff from one seller to save on shipping etc.,I presume...) I might just do it one day... not now...

It is so the nature loving part in me that made me write all these reviews and blogs on CDs. Just trying to reduce those waste and save our babies' bums, if you know what I mean. Also, for the benefits for my pregnant friends...

Until the next CD review, hope you find all these useful. Drop a comment on any particular brand you want a review on and who knows, I might be crazy enough to try it out just to post the review.

Mind you, though... I DO NOT get paid for these reviews... just trying to do my part. The feeling of transforming someone from Disposables to CDs... priceless!

The woolies are great!

After trying out the woolies for about a month, I must say that I am indeed pretty impressed. Not into any brand in particular (have only tried one, after all) but impressed with what woolies can do to in this CD world of mine.

Yes, the claims are right:

"Wool is antimicrobial, can hold 30% of its weight in moisture and still feel dry to the touch, is breathable, easy to maintain, and GREAT for cloth diapers!! (and little bums!) It acts as a thermostat, cool in the summer and warm in the winter, never too hot or too cold! Its an amazing fabric. What we love about wool is you dont need anything over them, such as pants or shorts. The cover does it all!!" LambyPants

Above all, it is my solution to night diapering. My little one is a heavy wetter. Even disposables got overflooded! So, with a woolie and a good and absorber fitted, it works wonders!

Smell? Did I mentioned it kept smell away more than anything else. With the PUL AIOs and pocket diapers, our air-conditioned room did smell of urine in the wee hours of the mornings (especially if Arthur had a go at onions that day). With woolies and fitted... we almost have none of that smell. ;)

Problem with woolies? Yes, there's one... my Little Arthur just cannot stop pulling out the wool to put into his mouth.

CD Mamas, definitely give woolies a try. Just to highlight again, if you do make a purchase with Lambypants, they are made of recycled wool yarn. It is totally ok.

While I like the idea of recycled anything... some of you might not be up for it. Thought I'd let you know.

p/s: I do not get paid for putting links to Lambypants. It's just a courtesy to my blog readers.

Finally, I've made a CD!

Yes! I've finally made a CD! Double yes! It is out of recycled T-shirts. Cotton T-shirts are good...

I know I've missed out on some photos... too bad I didn't realised it until the CD is done. Arrrghhh... I so should have taken the photos of the worn out T-shirts I used. Used one of mine and one of DH's.

To my pleasant surprise, the fit came out to be nice.. I was actually just trying it out and yes, this is the very FIRST CD I made. Quite happy with myself...




Anyway, this fitted CD is constructed with a total of 12 layers of the cotton T-shirt material - 4 layers for the casing and 8 hidden layers for the soaker... results? Still not as absorbent as those on sale though it is still much better than the lampin.

All I can say is.. No.2 will sure benefit from this ;)


See my proud little one?

Wet bag of Recycled material

Call me stingy but really, let's just say I'd rather use the money for a wet bag on a CD. I know they must have their worth but I'm just not willing to part with the money for a CD for a wet bag. After all, mine will not be used to contain dripping wet swimsuits or CDs. Just need one that is good enough to keep odour at bay.

Ok, it all started with this:

In search of a cheaper option to a wet bag, I bidded and won the above item from ebay at less than USD 6, postage included. Quite happy with the win, I received the above item only to find that it is nothing like the laminated PUL for the CD... (not quite sure if a wet bag's PUL is meant to be laminated, though). Initially, I must admit that I was a bit disappointed. Then again, after trying it out, I am happy with it. It did keep odour at bay!
I tried pouring water directly into it... no leaks, too! So, it was a good buy, after all, dismissing the uneven stitches...

I'm not sure what a wet bag should look like as I never owned a proper one (is there such thing as a proper one?) or, I never owned one sold by those selling CDs but this one is simply an outer layer of fabric sewn with something like canvas for tents as the inner, waterproofing layer?

Anyway, it was working for me with my CDs. I was about to bid on it again for smaller ones to contain my cloth pads when I came across this lying in my store room:
It is a broken indoor pool. How it broke... ask my little Arthur... I just knew I could use it for something... Anyway, inspired by my ebay purchase, I tried my hands on making a mini wet bag out of the bottom layer (waterproofing) material.

It works! Happy!

Cloth Diapers Review - Part 1

Ok... so, here it is. The long awaited cloth nappy review. Sorry it took so long.. I was hoping to get nice pictures to display ;).

Beforehand, please note that this review is solely based on my personal experience with them on my little Arthur. It might or might not work out to be the same for you or your baby though I do hope this helps out in your decision-making process as in which one to buy.

"Wash & Care" is simplified. If you know CDs, you'd know there are many, many ways to care for them. Mine is not the detailed version simply because by the time I started using them, my little one seldom poo in the nappy already...

I do not get paid for these reviews and even if I do get paid, they will be the same honest reviews. "Get it from" simply provides references on where I got them from. There could be others in Malaysia selling them... at any time, you can just google them up ;)

The ratings (e.g. *****) are from * (1) to ***** (5), where ***** (5) is the highest possible rating for any particular product. ;)

So, here goes...


The Lampin/ Muslin wrap/ Traditional cloth diaper
Description : This is the one I started with. I didn't know enough about modern CDs then but I read that disposables are simply bad for health especially to boys. Also, just trying to do my bit for the environment, I tried hard to use this most of the time. As long as we are home or even in someone's house (i.e. not out and about), Arthur was in these... until I discovered modern CDs!
Material : Cotton Muslin
Absorbency : Only good for one wetting
Fit : As most of you would know, this is just a big piece of cloth that you fold into a nappy. Depending on how you fold it, it could provide a good fit that will prevent the messes from falling out. Check out how I fold it here.
Wash & Care : Simply just toss mess-free nappies into the Washing Machine (WM).
Drying time : Super fast. That's main reason why I still continue using them most of the time when we are at home eventhough we've pretty much built a CD stash now
Prints : Shop around. Though I prefer the simple whites, there are lots of prints available in the market
Overall Rating : *** (love the fact that it dries very fast)
Get it from : Available in most places (brick and mortar stores) that carry baby products. Brands like Anakku, Johnson's, Pureen etc..


Drybees Pocket

Description : The One that started it all... for the CD craze in me. What amazed me most was how dry it kept my baby's bottom even after the insert is soaking wet. This is something I've never experienced with the lampin.
Material : PUL outer (waterproof barrier) and suedecloth inner (absorbs the dampness away from baby's bottom
Absorbency : As with most pocket diapers, this depends a lot on the kind of inserts used (will be reviewing inserts in due time). That is the main beauty of pocket diapers, anyway - you control the level of absorbency you want.

Drying time : Very fast! Most pocket diapers dries very fast... that's another beauty of them
Fit : Not bad... though I am still trying to get over how the inner fabric is meant to roll out. Generous fit.
Wash & Care : Not difficult at all especially with the suedecloth inner. Messes can easily be rinsed off. Definitely much easier care compared to the lampin
Prints : All I can see is there are so many choices available that it is not easy to choose at all.
Overall Rating : *** (great but not my favourite due to the inner fabric rolling out. Also, a bit bulky to go underneath pants on outings)

Get it from : http://www.miabambina.com/

Drybees Pocket - Trial version

Description : This is the same as Drybees Pocket, with a leg casing sewn wrongly for this style of diaper. Available at a bargain price and know what? I love this sewing much better than if it was sewn correctly.

Material : PUL outer (waterproof barrier) and suedecloth inner (absorbs the dampness away from baby's bottom
Absorbency : As with most pocket diapers, this depends a lot on the kind of inserts used (will be reviewing inserts in due time). That is the main beauty of pocket diapers, anyway - you control the level of absorbency you want.
Fit : The inner fabric does not roll out, giving a better overall fit
Wash & Care : Not difficult at all especially with the suedecloth inner. Messes can easily be rinsed off.
Prints : Sadly, only one colour left at the time this review is written. And, know what? There won't be anymore like this as it was sewn wrongly to begin with. Grab it while you can!
Overall Rating : **** (additional * for this as I prefer how the casing is sewn here ;))

Get it from : http://www.miabambina.com/

Blueberry Minky One Size Pocket

Description : The diaper has two rows of snaps for adjusting the size as your baby grows. An outer layer of laminated minky keeps wetness in, and an inner layer of high quality microfleece keeps baby’s bottom dry. An absolute favourite due to it's print and feel of minky on the bottom. Honestly, made some friends of mine wish they own it, too ;)
Material : An outer layer of laminated minky keeps wetness in, and an inner layer of high quality microfleece keeps baby’s bottom dry.
Absorbency : Again, this very much depends on the inserts. Must just add here that the Microfibre/Hemp combo insert from Blueberry that came with it is my favourite by far.
Fit : Very good fit. Just nice for my little one. Though at 18 months and almost 12 kg, he is about to outgrow it
Wash & Care : Microfleece is just as easy to care for as suedecloth inner. No, the minky outer does not make it more difficult to dry.
Prints : Look it up and drool over the prints available (that's what happened to me, anyway hahah...)
Overall Rating : **** (minky is soft and plush but this could just be the cause to it having a thicker laminate compared to others. This thicker PUL sometimes make Arthur's bum sweaty. As a result, as much as I'd like to show Arhur off in this nappy, I'd need to check where we are going to, first... air-conditioned places - ok. Market - no. Also, while it's good to have a One Size, the big strap of velcro in front does look a bit off)

Get it from : http://www.lildanzell.com/

Blueberry Minky Side Snaps

Description : Similar to the Minky One Size only this one comes in sizes. While I wanted to save a bit with a One Size (hoping that it will last for longer for No.2), I just have to get one of these to check them out, too. It does look much better with snaps than with velcro!
Material : An outer layer of laminated minky keeps wetness in, and an inner layer of high quality microfleece keeps baby’s bottom dry.
Absorbency : Again, this very much depends on the inserts.
Fit : Very good fit. Fit is according to the sizing chart. More generous fit compared to it's One Size counterpart
Wash & Care : Microfleece is just as easy to care for as suedecloth inner. No, the minky outer does not make it more difficult to dry.
Prints : Just the thought of it is luring me to buy more... lucky Arthur is already a size L when I discovered it ;)
Overall Rating : **** (again, a bit put off by the thick PUL)

Get it from : http://www.lildanzell.com/

Freshbots Easi Fitted

Description : While it claims that it is an all-in-one diaper, it is not. It is just a fitted and it requires a cover. Made in Malaysia, too!

Material : The outer layer is made from cotton jersey with inner terry fabric. A hidden soaker and waterproof layer are sewn inside the diaper
Absorbency : Very good absorbency. Very thirsty
Fit : Good fit
Wash & Care : Just the same as most modern CD. Just rinse off messes and put into WM
Prints : Just a couple to choose from
Overall Rating : *** (my favourite daytime CD with Arthur when we are at home as I'd just put it on him without the cover. Love the material. Love that it breathes better than pockets but it's just sooo hard to dry)

Get it from : As I did not get satisfactory customer service from the vendor, I am not recommending them here. Please look this up yourself and hopefully, you do not get it from where I got it from.

Bella Bottoms One Size Fitted

Description : Cute, very stretchy and very comfy fitted. Please note that this is the improved version on what you'd find from Bella's Bottom site.

Material : constructed with a cream color microfleece layer to give you dry feeling on baby bottoms on top of a thisty layer of 100% cotton knit terry and additional 3 layer soaker inside with super-absorption. The fitted cloth diapers outside layers are made from adorable 100% cotton flannel solids or prints.
Absorbency : Not as absorbent as other fitter that I have tried.
Fit : Claims to fit babies from about 8-35+ pounds. Must add that I believe it will as the elastic is just so flexible and comfy. Looking at it, it's rather small but there sure is more strecth left to go further than where Arthur is at now (12kg).
Wash & Care : Just as others but this particular inner layer of microfleece is super soft and just super easy to wash off messes. Usually, with the rset that I have, I'd need to spray a bit harder or handwash a bit to clear them of messes. With Bella Bottoms, just spraying normally works well
Prints : Cute prints available
Overall Rating : *** (just love how soft and stretchy it is. Would be a great replacement to the lampin as it is just a breathable and just as comfy)

Get it from : http://www.babysashanmom.com/

Baby Beehinds Bamboo fitted One Size

Description : Just love it! Love it's system - a fitted nappy that dries fast! Love the colour - bright yet not an eyesore

Material : Bamboo fibres, blended with pure organic cotton, and a smidge of polyester to provide a luxuriously soft and ultra absorbent nappy

Absorbency : Claims to be super absorbent! How true! This is what gets Arthur through the night (with the help of wool longies)

Fit : Very good fit

Wash & Care : By now, you should know that I pretty much care for all my CDs the same way... so far so good, though some swears that different fabric requires different care

Prints : No prints but the colours are just to die for

Overall rating : ***** (Yes! This one deserves the full rating for a fitted though it is a tad pricey than the rest)

Get it from : http://www.babysashanmom.com/