When we do Cloth Diaper 101 Workshops in the Greater Vancouver area, one of the handouts that often renders long gazes and quick mental calculations is our cost comparsion sheet. Off the bat, it sounds like cloth diapers are a luxurious, expensive venture.  But when it comes down to it, they can save you money, and lots of it! 

Regardless, you are laying out some bucks and want to make sure that you are wise with your spending.  Our friends over at ParentingbyNature.com inspired us to consider how we help New & Green Families keep their diapers in tip-top shape and fend off those nay-sayers that say it's too much money! At New & Green, our top 10 recommendations to get the most out of your cloth diaper investment are:

• Have enough diapers in rotation so that your diapers aren't getting excessive wear and tear.  We recommend 24 for newborns, 16-18 for older infants.  If you are using a One-Size solution and expect to use your diapers for upwards of 2-3 years, we suggest you add 6 onto these numbers to ensure their longevity.
• Use appropriate detergent - we highly recommend Nature Clean Powder and Wonderwash Detergent.
• Do not use bleach on your diapers - they will prematurely wear and break down.
• Wait until your diapers have "cooled" out of the dryer before restuffing them or stretching the elastic - it is a great stress for elastic to be stretched when it is hot.
• Hang to dry when able - especially your pocket shells, covers and tote bags.
• Close those velcro tabs to prevent the hook velcro from catching on other fabric and snagging it.
• Do not use fabric softeners in the washer or dryer - this will decrease the absorbency and performance of your diapers
• Do consider re-selling your diapers when you are finished with them.  Craigslist Vancouver is a great place to re-coup some of your initial investment by selling your "no longer needed" diapers to other families.
• Do use a microfleece liner inside your diapers when using a bum cream to avoid coating the diaper with moisture repelling creams/ointments.
• Use a "dry pail" to store your dirty diapers to laundry day and wash those diapers every 2-3 days.

With this insurance policy, you are set to get the most out of your cloth diapers! What are your best tips to keep your diapers in great shape?