Dropps Laundry Detergent

I tried Dropps laundry detergent because it is more environmentally friendly than your average laundry detergent. The packaging alone makes it "greener" as it does not use as much plastic and therefore has a smaller carbon footprint. (Reference this diagram for more information on the eco-friendliness of Dropps). The laundry detergent is also 6x concentrated as opposed to the standard 2x concentrated because they do not use water in the detergent. Not only that, it is much more convenient to carry a small, light package of Dropps than a standard heavy plastic container of detergent. I also like that they come in the pre-measured pacs for no mess laundry-ing.

This product was very easy to use. Simply toss one pac in the washer for a regular load or two pacs for a heavy load, pile in the clothes, and turn on the washer. No measuring, no mess. And my clothes came out clean and fresh. They are compatible with standard and HE washing machines and can be used with all water temperatures.

Dropps come in three different kinds -- 1. fresh scent; 2. scent & dye free; and 3. baby - scent, dye, & enzyme free. The kind that I tried was the scent & dye free.

Dropps can be purchased from their website at www.dropps.com with a price ranging from $1 for a trial 2-load pouch to $24 for an 80-load pouch. I have also seen these at some local stores, including Meijer.

Nubunz Pocket Diapers

Nubunz Diapers were the third type of cloth diaper that I tried and the majority of the cloth diapers we owned for our son. They are a one-size pocket diaper that is very similar to the BumGenius diapers that I previously reviewed, only they were cheaper to buy. They come in either velcro or snap closures so I originally bought 1 of each kind to try. Once I decided I liked them, I stocked up on an almost even number of each, with slightly more snaps. I am glad I went that route.

Nubunz Diapers are very reasonably priced, at only $9.50 a diaper (currently on sale for $8 each) I also loved that they are USA made diapers.

These diapers come in a variety of colors and are made with a soft fleece inside and a waterproof PUL outer shell. Each diaper comes with two microfiber inserts. These also make good swim diapers! They don't bulge out when we put them on our son in the pool.

Buying a cheaper diaper comes with some risks. Of course you can't expect them to be the highest quality. I have had a few issues with these diapers. The velcro has simply wore out over time. It took about a year for it to wear out, they really held up well until then. If I knew more about sewing I could probably fix them but I just don't. I also had some problems with the snaps coming off. When this happened, I contacted the company and they had me mail the diaper back, they fixed the snaps, and mailed the diaper back to me. They also reimbursed me for my shipping charges. I have to say I have been very impressed with their customer service. Not only for taking care of my few snap problems but they also have an email address and personally and promptly answer any questions through that.

You can check out www.nubunz.com for more information or to order these diapers. You can also find them on facebook here

Bumgenius 3.0 One Size Cloth Diapers

This review will be null and void in a few days but I couldn't pass up an opportunity to write about my very favorite cloth diaper so far. I am sad to say, though, that I found out yesterday these diapers are being discontinued.

Bumgenius was the very first cloth diaper that I wanted to try but it ended up being the second cloth diaper that I actually did try. What I was attracted to about the diaper -- the fun, bright colors, the absorbent inserts, and the fact that, once stuffed, it was all one piece -- are what I still love about this diaper. Not only that, but it has stood the test of time... being the only velcro diaper that hasn't stopped sticking yet. And I have had it for about a year now.

Each Bumgenius diaper comes with two inserts -- a thick microfiber insert that can be adjusted to 3 different sizes, and a smaller newborn insert which can also be used as a doubler for overnight use or any other time you may need extra absorbency. These inserts easily fit into the built in pocket which has a flap that folds over, protecting baby's skin and keeping the insert in place. The shell of the diaper also has 3 size variations to adjust to fit a baby from approximately 7 to 35 lbs.

This diaper is the only diaper I would trust overnight on my son and also the only one we haven't had any leaking problems with ever (not even when we were early learners of all things cloth!)

Like I mentioned earlier, the Bumgenius 3.0 one size diapers are being discontinued (because the makers have a new diaper coming out later this week) but there is still time to get some while supplies last. I just ordered 6 new diapers today and I can't wait for them to arrive!! Click here to buy 5 and get one free!