It probably sounds strange or even gross to purchase used cloth diapers but it is the most cost effective way to go about cloth diapering. Buying used diapers and selling your diapers when you're done makes cloth diapering extremely wallet friendly. Here is my guide to purchasing used cloth diapers.
() Finding
My two resources for used Cloth Diapers are the Baby Center Cloth Diaper Swap and the Facebook Cloth Diaper Swap.
() Buying Language
PPD means postage is included in the price listed. If you don't see ppd plan on paying additional for shipping.
NIP means new in package.
EUC means excellent used condition.
GU means gently used condition.
VGUC means very good used condition.
() Payment
To purchase and sell cloth diapers you should make a Paypal account to send funds and receive invoices easily.
() Pricing
When comparing the price of a used diaper with that of a retail diaper take into consideration the ENTIRE price. Compare the price of the diaper and the price of the shipping for new vs. used. Also, if you're purchasing natural fiber diapers (cotton, hemp, etc) take into account that to prep those diapers when purchased new they must be washed and dried multiple times. For natural fiber diapers I was willing to purchase used diapers at equal price to new diapers because I didn't have to go through the prepping process.
People do sell used cloth diapers at higher prices than retail at times, usually based on the print. If a print has been discontinued, or has a limited run some are willing to pay more than retail for the used diaper. I have never done that, but to some people having specific prints are worth the extra money.
My general rule of thumb is if the diaper + shipping cost was at least $1 less than what it would cost to purchase retail with shipping it is a good deal. I like bartering with other mommas and helping them out monetarily while saving our family some money.
() Washing
You absolutely want to do a bleach soak on all used cloth diapers you obtain. Bleach kills everything you want to kill on a used diaper. To bleach soak your diapers grab a bucket and put in cold water and 1 tablespoon of bleach for each gallon of water you use. Let the diapers soak for just 30 minutes. 30 minutes will sanitize the diapers but not make your prints fade. After you bleach soak your diapers wash them in hot water with detergent, and give them a cold rinse and you're good to go.
Questions?
