Fluffy Mail Giveaway Hop!

Welcome to the Fluffy Mail Giveaway Hop, hosted by the Blogging Mamas Network!

If you're a cloth diapering Mom or Dad {or plan to be}, you know that one of the most exciting things about cloth diapers is... Fluffy Mail!  There's just something special about opening up a package of adorable fluff!  I've teamed up with over 30 other bloggers to bring you LOTS of chances to get the best kind of Fluffy Mail - a Giveaway Win!  So be sure to hop around to all the other giveaways at the bottom of this post before the event ends on May 15th!

Krazy for Kloth is offering a brand new bumGenius Elemental (BGE) to one lucky winner, provided by the awesome Jack Be Natural! I will have the full review and comparison of the new style BGE to the old one (which happens to be one of my personal favorites) coming in the next few days, but I didn't want to hold out on a giveaway for all you amazing readers! Make sure you stop back for your daily Twitter entries and read the full review! 

MY REVIEW

My technology issues have finally been resolved and now I can bring you the full review of the new bumGenius Elemental (BGE)! I'll be completely honest when starting this, I have been in love with the "old" Elementals for quite some time now. Although B is skinny for his age, he still has good size legs making for a great fit on the old Elementals. I'll do a comparison of the two in case you're like me and want to see what the major differences are.  

One of the reasons I adore the original BGE is because of the layers and layers of organic cotton. Not only are there two layers of organic cotton sewn into the PUL, but the inside of the diaper is also lined with organic cotton. Not the most fun diaper to prep (if you  happen to be impatient like me ;)), but the more you wash and use it, the more absorbent the diaper becomes. This had become my go-to diaper for naps, or car rides, or extended errands where (unless #2 occurs) you may be going 3-4 hours before changing a diaper.

With the new BGE, perhaps the only difference is the glaringly obvious one. There is no inner layer of organic cotton lining the PUL. You'll still get two layers of organic cotton sewn into the PUL, but underneath that is basically a cover. The PUL is exposed everywhere the organic cotton isn't sewn. (I'll talk about some potential benefits to this later).

New BGE (left) and Old BGE (right)

The fit factor:

The snaps on both versions are your standard bumGenius style of two rows across the band. Because of the natural fibers lining the inside of the diaper in the old BGE, the legs holes naturally "roll in" creating a nice seal at the leg without having to worry about gapping from snaps that don't fit "perfectly".  I can honestly say, I have NEVER had a leak in my old BGE's. Because of all of the layers of organic cotton, this tends to be a bulkier diaper. The stereotypical "fluffy bum" is in full force with the old BGE's and you'll most likely need elastic waist pants, or go up a size ;)

With the new BGE, since the inner lining of organic cotton is removed, the legs do not roll in like the prior version. This diaper fits more like a cover with the elastic being in contact with the leg. If you're familiar with the Flip diaper system, this fits similarly in my opinion, only you don't need to "stuff" it with your stay-dry or organic cotton insert the lining is already sewn in. 

See how the leg holes roll in on the old BGE? The new one fits more like a single-gusset cover

Extra Absorbency?

With the old BGE's I never felt the need for an extra insert for daytime or naptime. I did test it at night, and put in a Thirsties hemp/cotton doubler, and it lasted through the night just fine, but I was pretty nervous about the extra bulk creating gapping at the legs with my squirmy sleeping toddler. Since the inner organic cotton layers have a tendency to move you would have to use a material that safe to be in direct contact with baby's skin. (i.e. not microfiber) and you'd want a relatively thin one to be able to fit it between the inner layer and the sewn in organic cotton. 

When it comes to the new BGE's, I did notice some changes from an absorbency perspective. After waking from a nap (a nice 3 hour one! It was a crazy day...) the diaper didn't leak, but if felt noticably wet on the inside. Almost like when I took the diaper off I was expecting a little pool in the PUL. It's something that I think over time as the diaper becomes more absorbent will become less of an issue, but for night time you would definitely need to add an extra insert-whether it be a doubler or prefold. The nice thing about removing the inner layer is that it makes an AIO diaper a bit more customizable. For daytime, if you'd like a trim-yet absorbent-diaper, this will be a good fit. If you want to be able to use it for longer periods of time, you can easily add as many inserts as you need because the space between the inner PUL and organic cotton is much more forgiving. 

Cleaning:

This has been one of my biggest complaints with the old BGE. Because the layers are sewn in and there are so many of them, if you have a particularly messy diaper, there are plenty of "nooks and crannies" for the mess to become lodged. Spraying off the diaper is also an interesting experience because the cotton folds and sits in certain ways that allow for some nice ricochet moments. Definitely one you'll want to make sure the water pressure on your sprayer is low! Because of the natural fibers, it also tends to hold stains a bit longer/easier so sunning is a must if you are obsessive about pristine inner layers like I am. Unless you live in AZ like me, it can take a while for this baby to dry because of the organic cotton. Also, line drying can leave the cotton feeling a bit rough. Once they're about 75% dry, I usually toss them in the dryer to finish drying and soften the fabric back up. 

The new BGE has some of the same cleaning complaints because they layers are still sewn in, but because the inner is PUL and not organic cotton, the cleaning is a bit quicker. I'd still recommend sunning these diapers because the natural fibers are the same and will have the same predisposition of staining, but they do dry a bit faster with that inner cotton layer removed. 

The Verdict:

My overall opinion, is that while the new BGE is not dramatically different from the original, the changes that were made are significant enough to me to treat it like a completely different diaper. I was truly expecting to be disappointed and hate this new diaper because I have such a great admiration for the first one, but honestly, once I gave it a try, I can see how it would a great addition to a stash. It offers the comfort of natural fibers in a nice trim diaper. It gives flexibility to easily be used during the day, while still offering the ability to customize additional inserts for nighttime. The price on the new BGE is the same as the old one at $24.95, which is at the higher end for an AIO diaper, but it is comprised of organic cotton which is a more expensive material, plus you save on shipping when you order from Jack be Natural because shipping is always free! :)

a Rafflecopter giveaway


**I was provided the above item for review purposes. My opinions are solely my own and may differ from your own. According to Jenny, So Easy Being Green, the Blogging Mamas Network, and the Fluffy Mail participating bloggers are not responsible for sponsors who do not fulfill prize obligations.**

Once you're done entering this awesome giveaway, make sure you "hop" to all the other blogs below and enter as many giveaways as you can!

Mama's got a Brand New Babe Review and Giveaway!

Welcome to the Mama's Got a Brand New Babe giveaway event, hosted by Going Green with the Grizls and Sew Fatty! This event will run from April 24th - May 8th and we will finish off with a Twitter party on May 9th from 9-10 PM EST!

Each blogger located on the linky below has put together an awesome prize suitable for either a new parent or baby worth a minimum of $25. =) Be sure to enter to win of TWO fabulous grand prizes!! Each prize is worth over $ and are made up of the perfect new baby and parent gift including prizes from an amazing list of sponsors including Boba, Gen-Y, Bamboobies, Kissed By the Moon, and Bummis!

Be sure to attend the Twitter party on May 9th from 9-10 EST to participate in the live drawing for the grand prizes. There will also be special prizes specifically for the Twitter party. You must tweet at least once during the party to be eligible to win.


Hashtag: #MamasBabe

Hosts: @GreenGrizls & @SewFatty

Now for my giveaway!! 

I'm so excited to write this post, for two reasons. 1) I get to introduce Bumkins' new and improved One-Size (OS) cloth diaper and 2) It includes a giveaway of not one but TWO brand new cloth diapers!

So let's get started. Local retailer, Zoolikins has generously agreed to sponsor the items for review and giveaway. Last year Bumkins revealed their new line-up of diapers which included changes to their sizing. The new cut fits a smaller baby while still fitting most toddlers. I have seen this diaper on a 7lb newborn (I will be able to personally test this theory come August!) and it fits my 23lb 19month old like a glove! I never cloth diapered B when he was a newborn, so I don't have a newborn "stash". As I start to grow a stash for baby #2, I'm noticing that most newborn AIO diapers have a limited shelf life--about 12-15lbs max and then they're ruled out. At $13-$15 a piece, that seems like a lot of money to invest in for such a short time period.  I like the idea that this diaper can fit a newborn and continue to be used as the baby grows, truly the definition of a OS diaper in my opinion.

A side by side of the new Bumkins sized as small as it can go, next to a Lil Joey newborn diaper

This brand new release of diapers reveals a bunch of "upgrades" to its predecessor. It keeps the same sizing for newborns on up, but they've also improved the PUL. This diaper not only has a waterproof PUL but also a TPU layer. (Without getting off-topic too much, here's a great article by my friend Julie about the difference between PUL and TPU). Anyway, this new waterproofing creates amazing leak protection while still being easily maintained. When you run your finger along the inside and outside of this diaper you can actually feel the difference in the material, it almost feels thicker, more secure than other brands, or other releases of Bumkins. Sticking with the outside appearance, Bumkins finally has SOLID colors! You know I'm a print junkie (to satisfy that, they have released Turtles in the new PUL/TPU) as much as the next person, but solids are great for multiple children-keeping it gender neutral.

So soft and thick!

In addition to improvements to the outside of this diaper, the inside had some "work done" too. The inner fabric for their Snap-In One diaper is a super soft cotton/bamboo blend. I love this because it's soft natural fibers against B's sensitive skin. The insert that this diaper comes with is a nice, soft, super-absorbent minky one, so you get the benefits of synthetics with the softness and absorbency of natural fibers right next to baby's skin. If you prefer all natural fibers, Bumkins also makes a snap in bamboo/cotton insert. This can easily be swapped out for the minky and makes this already trim diaper EVEN trimmer.

The snap in minky next to the snap in bamboo/cotton insert

The natural fiber inner makes the leg gussets roll in to create a seal

The fit of this diaper is smaller than most OS diapers, but not "too small" in my opinion to work for my toddler. Because it is made with a natural fiber inner, the legs roll in to create an awesome seal. Naptime, car seats, and a nasty stomach virus have proven to be no match for this diaper. There also is an extra bit of elastic along the top of the front of the diaper. It's kind of hard to see when it's on, but what it does is help the diaper to create a "seal" of sorts around the waist as well to prevent any leaking up the front. A definite necessity for boys and tummy sleepers.

A close-up of the elastic around the tummy

Everything stays nice and tucked! From the belly to the legs

B was lucky enough to be a tester for these diapers (one of the benefits of living in the same town as Bumkins ;)) and I could not wait for these to be released. The natural fibers, the soft inserts, the trim fit and the snug sizing make this my new favorite diaper.

So, now that your excited and ready to go, here's what's in it for you. Simply fill out the Rafflecopter form below for your chance to win 2 of the new Bumkins Snap-In One OS diapers. If you can't wait for the giveaway to end, you can always order yours through Zoolikins online! Oh, and one more thing, the new PUL/TPU also comes in their AIO and Stuff-It pocket diaper if you'd like to try other options as well!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

**Disclaimer: I was provided the product for review purposes. The opinions expressed are solely my own and may differ from your own. No other compensation was received**

Cake! Everybody loves cake!

As many of you know I've started my own business recently. I've created a maternity conceirge service for naturally-minded parents. Those that question the "must-haves" that big-box baby stores tell you "need" for having a baby,  parents that want to be a little more green and eco-friendly but don't really know where to start. Sure, you've heard of a doula, but what do they do? What's a midwife? What's a birthing center? How can I successfully breastfeed? The internet can be an intimidating place for first time parents; not to mention first-time CLOTH parents. There's almost too much information out there, that it's hard to know where to start. That's where I come in.:) I'll tailor (primarily local) resources for your based on your concerns/needs and then help guide you through the unknown.

Anyway, enough about that, here's the fun part. As part of my services, I want to offer diaper cakes for baby showers. Showers inevitably bring an abundance of diapers, wipes, and cute little outfits. Why not make those reusable, and into a fun cake! Buying an entire diaper stash can be expensive, but if you register for one, and have it presented in a fun way, it becomes a great way to introduce others to modern cloth and help steer them away from bringing boxes of disposable products!

This is my quest. I'm still learning and needing to play around a little bit with different shapes and sizes, but I think I'm off to a great start! Here's my first attempt at a cloth diaper cake!

This little beaut is a great first-time cloth option for a parent planning to start cloth in the newborn stage. It contains 23 diapers total! Primarly indian cotton prefolds, but also has 4  Bumkins AIO diapers, 3 Fuzzibunz pocket diapers, a receiving blanket, a t-shirt and a onesie! Oh, and one lonley Thirsties Fab Wipe, but hey, it's just a start! I plan to tailor the cake to what is on the new parent's registry, but thought this could be a good "generic" start!

Any tips from those of you that have made your own? What would you look for in giving/receiving a cloth/green diaper cake?

BLACK FLUFFY FRIDAY

I just wanted to share the details on a Black Friday-Sunday sale for KrazyforKloth readers! My favorite brick and mortar diaper store Zoolikins is authorizing an online sale for all you out of towners that can't make it into the store this weekend. You ready? Here are the details:

20% off ALL Bumkins Apparel

20% off ALL Bumkins Organics

10% off ALL Kee-Ka Organics 

-AND-

ALL BUMKINS CLOTH DIAPERS/COVERS/INSERTS ARE Buy 3 Get 1 FREE!

If you're looking to build a stash, give a stash, get some cute pj's for the older kids you have to check out this sale. It starts at NOON MST and will go through the weekend. 

How it works: 
Add everything you want to your cart. When you checkout there's a box that says "If you have any notes regarding the order enter them here:" That is where you will type KRAZYFORKLOTH. The sales prices will be reflected in a confirmation email, it is only then that your card will be charged. It's such a big sale and a busy weekend that the email will confirm the code as well as your order, so be sure to look for that! That's it! Super easy, super great gifts at a phenominal price!

If you're local:
Stop in on Saturday! I'll be there supporting and helping out all afternoon. I'd love to meet you! 

Just a little reminder of my Bumkins Stash: 

Cloth Diapering a Newborn

One of my few life regrets is not starting B in cloth sooner. I've already admitted my shortcomings and my "pre-mom" judgements and I'll admit, the idea of cloth diapering was very intimidating. But, I now get to live vicariously through my cousin. She is due with her own little "bean" on Christmas of this year and is planning to cloth diaper from day one! I know it's hard to believe but, I'm in her corner 100%! The only issue is she lives cross country :(. So, I'm doing this all via mail, Skype, and letters. 

Not being able to be hands on and show her all the different types of systems that are out there, I figured she should just start with a little of eveything. I wanted her to be able to find out what diapering system she prefers and what's going to fit her little guy best so here's what we're starting with: 

3 BumGenius Newborn AIO's

1 GroVia Newborn AIO

1 BottomBumper Size Small AI2

4 Bumkins newborn covers

2 Rump-A-Rooz lil joey covers

6 Bumkins Infant Contours

12 Indian Cotton Bumkin Prefolds

3 Thirsties Duo Fab Fitteds size one

3 Bumkins OS AIO's (new fit which has been known to fit a 7.5 pounder!)

I think that's it, I could be wrong, but I'm pretty sure that covers everything for the newborn part at least. I'd love to hear your comments or advice for those of you that have used cloth since day one!!

1,000 Fan Celebration!

I still can't believe I'm writing this post. When I started blogging just 7 months ago, I never thought I would actually have people beyond my family and friends interested in reading what I have to say. What I'm most thankful for is the sense of community that blogging has provided me. A sounding board for opinions and advice, a network of like-minded (and sometimes not) people to discuss tips and tricks, learn from, and ultimately grow together.

I wanted to say thank you, not just in words, but in prizes. Because, let's be honest, many of you may have stumbled upon this blog after finding a giveaway or two! I figured it was only fitting to return the favor with a fun THANK YOU celebration! I took some time to put this together because I wanted to really thank you from my heart, so I chose products from a brand and store that I really love and trust and wanted to make sure you guys were getting the best of the best!

Remember one of my first posts about a local cloth diaper/natural parenting store Zoolikins? Well, they teamed up with Bumkins and are sponsoring this AMAZING giveaway! Zoolikins was always my favorite store locally because of caring people that work there. They really know what they're talking about and they stand behind all of the products they sell. This is a HUGE comfort to a newbie parent. We've all been that wide-eyed "now-what-do-we-do" parent a time or two and having people that you can trust to give you the truth and not just sell you a product is a blessing! Zoolikins carries multiple brands across all product lines but one of their biggest sellers (and a personal favorite of mine) is Bumkins brand. They are fantastic because they appeal to all parents, whether you cloth diaper or not. (I know! Some people still don't cloth diaper! Weird! :) )

Anyway...Bumkins were one of the first cloth diapers I purchased and I'll be honest, they weren't my #1 favorite go-to diaper, but here's why I respect the brand and gave them another try. Like the people who work at Zoolikins, the brains behind the Bumkins products care. They listen to feedback, are open to suggestions and are constantly working to serve the best product, for the best price to their loyal customers. Bumkins has made some amazing modifications to their cloth diapers. The new prints are beautiful and the fit can't be beat. They are by far one of the most trim diapers I own! I also love their snaps. B has recently started to pull at his diaper and prefers to go au natural. My floors do not prefer this, thankfully the Bumkins snaps are tough and he has yet to be able to rip them off! And, because I'm quirky, they have cross-over snaps on the right side of the wing tabs. This may not seem like a big deal to others, but if you have a "system" like I do, you always snap the right side first, but then you realize that your baby is having a "skinny day" and have to overlap, well, there's no overlapping snaps on the right wing, just the left, so you have to unsnap the right, then snap the left first, then re-snap the right again, all while trying to keep a wiggling, squirming, flipping one year old to sit still for a diaper change. THANK YOU BUMKINS FOR OVERLAPPING SNAPS ON THE RIGHT SIDE!!  And my final favorite features: the fact that their one-size all-in-ones (AIO's) are made with both fleece AND cotton/bamboo combines the best of both worlds for baby. Their one-size stuff-its (pockets) come with a microfiber insert and have the same great fit as the AIO's.

So, Kristin, I don't cloth diaper (gasp!), I don't feel like this giveaway is really thanking ME. Well, my dear reader friend, this giveaway IS thanking you too! Bumkins does not just create cloth diapers. They have adorable pajama sets, waterproof wipeable bibs and toddler smocks, reusable snack bags, diaper bags, organic burp cloths and hooded towels, and the list goes on. Bumkins is also a official licensee of Dr. Seuss products as well. So not only can you get a great Green Eggs and Ham (another personal favorite) cloth diaper, but you can get the coordinating PJ set, a bib, a lunch box, or other clothes so your child can match their favorite book! What a great way to encourage literacy at such a young age!




Have I psyched you up enough? Are you feeling the love coming from me to you? Please accept my giant THANK YOU and enter to win a Dr. Seuss by Bumkins Prize Pack on the Rafflecopter form below! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway



Disclosure: I received no compensation for this publication. My opinions are my own and may differ from those of your own. www.KrazyforKlothandKids.com is not responsible for sponsor prize shipment.   

Zoolikins!

This store gets their own post. I absolutely LOVE Zoolikins. To make sure I get this right, I'm quoting their website "It's a mother-owned and operated boutique focusing on safe, creative, natural products for baby and beyond; located in Old Town Scottsdale." When I first started with cloth-diapering, I would spend a good chunk of time there. The mommies that work there are not only super knowledgeable, but patient as well!! I'm still learning the CD terminology, and they have a great way of teaching you the necessary vocabulary without making you feel dumb! :) After my first couple pop-in sessions, I came out with a pretty clear understanding of the terminology. This was how I discovered my love for pockets, AIO's and AI2's. I'd almost venture to say (should baby #2 be in our future) I would give pre-folds a try! This is also why my stash is varied. Every time I go in there I get a tutorial on a new or different type of diaper and get inspired to give it a try!

Not only do they have a great selection of cloth diapers to learn about and explore (I'm a hands-on learner myself), but they have a little baby-wearing section too. You can just pop in and ask questions or sign up for any of their FREE cloth diapering and baby-wearing classes. Talk about a great service to the community!! My friend Amie and I have been frequenting the shop in the past couple months and they know us by name, and even when we go separately, they will mention the other person. What great customer service!! Polish Prince likes them too. He tends to get lost in the game/toy section! :) When we popped in yesterday, I promised him it would be a quick trip, I found him looking at all the fun wooden toys and skip hop gear! You know it's a good store when even dad's don't mind going!

I "like" them on Facebook and was excited to see they are offering a FREE baby music class at the end of the month. You can bet I'm going to be there! That will be a review to come later! :). Another note regarding their Facebook page. They are great about answering any questions you have regarding cloth diapering right on their Facebook wall. And if for some small reason they can't troubleshoot what you're going through, you can always call and they'll talk you through it over the phone. 

Long story short: I have no problem spending money at this store and feeling like I'm getting a good product that's been tested and retested and the moms there have personal experience with. You can also buy online and ship anywhere, or buy online and pick up locally. Totally convenient! Zoolikins has no clue that I'm doing this review, but I think I'll share it with them on Facebook just for some free publicity for them. I can't say enough good things about this place! I hope if you're in Scottsdale or cruising the internet for some fluff you'll check them out!!

Finally, some cloth love!

I know I said this blog would be about cloth-diapering as well, so it's about time I do some writing! I'll start by saying "Hello, my name is Kristin, and I'm cloth diaper addict.".

I was first introdcued to the new way of cloth diapering about 5 or so years ago, back when I was still living in Wisconsin. My good friend Kate was (and is) a cloth diapering junkie! DISCLAIMER: I say this because it's true and Kate knows I love her dearly!! At that time I had just gotten engaged and was planning a wedding, I really had no desire to learn about diapers, baby-wearing, co-sleeping etc. But, Kate was so excited, I had to listen, at least with one ear! My take-aways from those early conversations were: Laundry, huge booties on these darling little babies, and a jam-packed diaper bag. Now, this is not to say Kate scared me from the idea, but it was probably my disinterest at the time that focused on some of the "scary" sides of CD'ing. Now, fast forward about 4.5 years.

 I'm pregnant, planning on going back to work, and looking into the idea of a diaper service. there is one, yes one, that comes recommended in this giant city of Phoenix. All pre-folds, there was talk of snappis, and wet pails, and folding different ways. Once again, I find myself in the world of intimidation and time. I didn't feel like messign around learning how to fold a piece of fabric, and I didnt like the idea that you didnt get the same diapers back that you turned in. I also began to worry about chemicals that were used to strip/shock the diapers from goodness knows what other babies had done in those same diapers. Call me a control freak, but this didn't seem appealing to me. So, sposies it is!

We did disposables until early this year, and looking back, I'm kind of glad we did. It made it easier for others to help, easier to get used to having a baby and changing diapers in the first place, easier to not have to worry about a specific laundry routine, and the list could go on. This was working well until we made the decision that I would become a SAHM. In an effort to save money, and because I felt like I would have the time to devote to learning a laundry routine, I scheduled a 1:1 info session with a new friend Amie. She showed me her cloth routine, brands she used and why, and basically made the whole process less intimidating. Next was a phone call to Kate, to humble myself and tell her I was contemplating (let's be honest-one click away from buying out an online diaper store) switching to cloth. You would have thought I told her I won the lottery!

We started little B in cloth around 4 months old. This was great because "little" B is not so little, he could already fit into Medium's in the sized diapers, and hopefully can wear them through potty training. We bought a variety of brands and styles to find what works best. Some of my favs so far are:

• Fuzzibunz. I adore the Perfect Size for daytime-super trim so clothes don't fit weird! Their one-size is great too! Not as trim but not as bulky as many other one-sizes out there. They also are the most stain-proof that I've experienced.
• BottomBumpers. I liked the one size and the sized, again trim and absorbent for daytime, and fun gender neutral prints!
• BumGenius. I like the Freetime and Elemenetals, these are good for daddy, nothing to stuff, no side snaps (which seem to be difficult for my Polish Prince), just toss it in the pail when done
• Thirsties. I like there new AIO, but I'm in love with their Fab Fitted Duo's for overnights. Those with a hemp insert are leak-proof for B
• Rump-a-rooz. I think these are just fun. I love the inner gusset and the fact they come with two soakers. They also have some fun prints. 

Now, because I'm a self-declared "addict", I do have a couple other brands, the Go-Green Pocket diaper and the Grovia AIO. I haven't fully tested these yet, so I'll give my opinion later, but I do have very high hopes!I did try the Bumkins pockets as well. I got sucked in by the Dr. Seuss prints and the fact they were on a 2 for 1 sale! I still use these on laundry day or knocking around the house. They do their job, but they're not my favorite. The pocket has a large gap in the back so the insert tends to "poke" out. The microfiber insert can be harsh on sensitive bums. and I've found there are just some other brands that I prefer more.  

I plan to fill you in more on why I seem to prefer AIO's or pocket diapers as this blog progresses, but thought I would give you a little insight into my back story. I will also share with you some great local places to purchase these lovely goods at!