How to Convert Cloth Diapers Into Pull Ups

When it's time to start potty training, many parents turn to training pants the toddler can pull up and down by herself. If you've been using cloth diapers, though, chances are that you don't like the idea of purchasing something that you'll simply be throwing away later. You can still use your cloth diapers during the potty training process by converting your cloth diapers to training pants.

Things You'll Need

  • Diaper cover or pocket-style diaper
  • Absorbent material such as flannel or microfiber

Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a diaper to convert. If you've been using a polyurethane laminate cover that either snaps or uses fabric fasteners, you can simply cover a child's underwear with these. That way, when the child has to go to the bathroom, he simply unhooks the cover, pulls down his underwear and goes to the bathroom.

      Children can also use pocket-style diapers to cover underwear or to act as underwear. Pocket diapers have an outer layer made of PUL and are stuffed with an absorbent material. Using a fabric-fastening pocket diaper will allow a child to simply unhook it and then put it back on. The child can either use the pocket diaper without its stuffing as a cover for her underwear, or if she is more advanced in her potty training, she can just use an empty pocket diaper as her underwear. If the child has a bowel movement in the pocket diaper, you'll easily be able to remove the diaper without worrying about the contents falling out.

    • 2

      Stuff the converted diaper with some kind of absorbent material. The amount you use will vary on how adept your child is at using the toilet and also the type of diaper you're using. If you're just starting out, using a regular pocket diaper that you've stuffed will allow you and your child to have easy access. Beginners can use the diaper cover method with some of the absorbent material---flannel and microfiber both work well---to be between the child's skin and the diaper cover.

    • 3

      Teach the child how to pull the homemade training pants up and down. Pediatrician Dr. William Sears' parenting website says that children need parental guidance in all stages of potty training and to get control of their bodies. This is particularly true for parents who choose to use cloth diapers as training pants. Though the children will easily be able to get them off, they will likely need help hooking the diaper back together. Stay near your child while he's using the toilet and assist him when he's done.

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