Church and cloth?

Since the start of my quest for cloth, I have grown more aware of the people that use them. For example at church, I know of two families that use them exclusively, one friend from college is also using the prefolded diapers, with a diaper service (in Vermont). This morning, while working in the nursery (at church), I started talking to a parent who had just started using cloth diapers. Julie recently gave birth to baby #3 and wanted to be more "earth friendly" especially since she has a toddler in diapers too! She decided to use Bum Genius 3.0s because they would fit both children and she liked the reviews that they got....especially for "explosive" poo. Overall, Julie has been thrilled with the diapers, the only negative thing that she said is it takes time to wash them and scrub out the smell that they tend to hold. Julie didn't realize that they sell sprayers for the toilet...and may think about investing in one, to aid with the stinky aspect... she also isn't sure if the stink is due to the type of soap she uses or what.

Speaking of soap, Julie recommended using an additive free soap. I didn't know this, but most detergents leave a layer of film on your clothing and when it comes to these diapers, the layer is not beneficial. So, trying to find an additive free soap is a great alternative. She recommended Charlie's Soap.

I believe that she said that she has 15-20 diapers that she uses and washes them every other day (remember she has 2 kids). I've read that anywhere from 24-36 is good for one baby and washing them once every 3 days.

At this point in the conversation, another nursery worker, came over to talk about cloth diapers too! She has been interested, but unsure where to start. One of her friends loves Mommy's Touch and she thinks that it may be interesting to try... but unsure of the level of work needed.

I'm slightly frightened by the amount of cleaning that the diapers will take, however, it sounds like the older the baby gets the more scrubbing is needed. This may be the time to invest in the flushable liners! :)