There was no question when I was first pregnant, that we would be cloth diapering our new bundle of joy. To be honest, I didn't know anything about cloth diapers. Nothing. All I knew was that disposable diapers were not an option for us. I really wish I knew then, what I know now. I probably would have invested a little differently.
Before deciding on which diapering system, I scoured the internet trying to find diapers either manufactured in Canada or the USA, and made from sustainable materials. This was not an easy task to say the least. Do you know how many different cloth diapering companies there are, and how much they vary?
At some point, I did stumble upon AppleCheeks, a Montreal based company. Perfect. One of my criteria was met, but they use micro-fleece in their liner, and I was not familiar with their system. I skipped over them. I didn't take the time to ask why they chose this material over another. I sorta wish I had.
A few months ago, I was approached by the owner, Amy of AppleCheeks to test out their diapers. Free diapers? Sign me up. Anyone who cloth diapers knows you can never have too many diapers. Ever.
I was pleasantly surprised to receive a nice little bundle of goodies :
- 1- size one diaper with insert
- 1- size two diaper with insert
- 3- bamboo flats
- 1- size one washable swim diaper
- 1- small storage sac
- 1- package of biodegradable disposable liners
- 1- small AppleCheeks Key Fob
This time around, I took the time to ask my questions about their diapering system so I could fully understand how it all works.
AppleCheeks decided on the micro-fleece material in the cover lining because it wicks away moisture, where natural fibers are absorbent which makes these fibers great for inserts. By using micro-fleece, it keeps baby dry, allowing mamas to reuse the unstuffed cover once or twice, while simply changing the absorbent insert. If the lining was a natural, and therefore, absorbent fiber, you would not have these options. Of course, you can stuff the diaper with the insert, but you would not be able to reuse the cover.
They designed the diapers in this fashion to decrease the chances of leakage. The fact that the lining wicks, means that it wicks to the absorbent insert, thus making sure the pee goes and stays where it belongs- in the absorbent insert. Imagine if the lining was absorbent, then the pee would be held everywhere the lining, including around the very edge of the diapers. This would leak out for sure.
According to their site, and a few points about their diapers that I love:
- They have a snug, durable elastic at both the waist and legs for a gentle secure fit.
- Two rows of easy-to-adjust snaps, allowing for a proper fit at the legs and the waist.
- A handy envelope opening, wide enough for daddy`s hands allowing for the option of placing the absorbant inner between the fleece and the waterproof outer layer if so desired.
- A more generous and longer lasting fit than other similar styles on the market (size 1 fits from 7-20lbs, and size 2 fits from 18-40lbs).
- No need to unstuff after usage. The absorbent inserts come right out in the wash.
This all made perfect sense to me, and I was ready to give them a try. I made sure to wash the covers and inserts a few times to get maximum absorbency from them.
I adore all the different colours and prints that they offer, which makes clothing diapering more fun! I did not experience any leakage around the edges of the diapers due to the wicking factor. They are not a bulky diaper at all, they are rather light weight. I like the option of the bamboo inserts touching my little ones bum instead of fleece. This is just a personal preference. The bamboo flats are just so soft and gentle to the touch.
I haven’t tested the swim diapers on my daughter yet, they are presently being used as diapers on all of little E's dolls. According to their site, they have two layers of 100% polyester Canadian-milled mesh allowing for water to comfortably move through the diaper while keeping any solids, should they occur, out of the water.
All in all, I am enjoying the AppleCheeks diapering system. Since I have another one on the way, if I am in need of more diapers, I will definitely be looking at purchasing some apple cheeks.
They have a wonderful frequently asked questions page, where you will find all the answers to your questions, and if not, they have a great customer service team. You can also find them hanging out on twitter and facebook to answer any questions, or just there to say hi. They are a great company like that.
Disclosure: I was sent a bundle of goodies from AppleCheeks. The opinions expressed in this review are my very own.