Changing Table |
A changing table is a must-have if you use cloth diapers. This doesn't mean that you need to run out and buy an expensive designer changing table. We have a $12.00 changing table that we got at the thrift store. Or you can use any available desk or table. If space is tight, you can use the crib as a changing station. I have also seen fold-up changing tables that mount to a wall. A great option is to use your bathroom vanity if it has enough counter space. The important thing is to have a designated area to change your baby, and to have every item you need within reach (you can't leave your baby on a table while you dart across the room to grab a clean cover). If your table does not have built-in storage, put a shelf unit or dresser right next to the table. And keep your changing station well stocked! | 
Changing Pad |
It is a good idea to have a waterproof changing pad. We have several smaller ones that get tossed in the pail with the diapers whenever they are soiled. They are very thin, so we put a thick blanket under the pad to make a soft changing surface. If you have a pad with a vinyl surface, you can just wipe it clean with a rag. A wool changing pad is another great option. Although it needs special care in the wash, it can go a long time between washes (just like wool diaper covers). | 
Cloth Wipes |
You will find that cloth wipes perform MUCH better than their expensive disposable couterparts. Cloth wipes are so easy to use if you are already using cloth diapers, just toss them in the pail to be washed with the diapers. You can buy a pack of wash cloths from any store. Or you can cut up old towels to make your own wipes. If you want to get fancy, you can purchase special hemp or organic cotton velour wipes, etc. Try keeping moistened wipes in a covered container on your changing table. Moisten them with a special wipe solution (recipes here), or use plain old water. | 
Wipe Warmer |
A wipe warmer is a good way to keep your wipes warm and wet. It's kind of like a mini crock pot for wipes. Pour plain water on your wipes, or use a wipe solution. You can buy wipe warmers at places like Babies'R'Us. | 
Squeeze Bottle |
A squeeze bottle is an easy way to moisten your wipes. Fill the bottle with water or a special wipe solutuion. You can purchase solutions, or make your own out of ingredients like water, baby shampoo, baby oil, essential oils, etc. Squeeze the solution on a dry wipe before you use it, or pour some over the wipes in your container or wipe warmer. You can buy nice squeeze bottles at restaurant supply stores, or just use something like an old ketchup bottle. | 
Diaper Pail |
You will need a diaper pail that is large enough to hold about three days worth of dirty diapers. Don't worry about trying to find a special certified diaper pail; any garbage can or five-gallon bucket with a lid will work. Try to get one that is easy to clean! | 
Small Laundry Bag |
If you use wool covers or other items that cannot be washed with your regular diapers, don't throw them in the diaper pail. You could sort them out on laundry day, but that is not a fun job. Get a small laundry bag or basket to keep the dirty covers that have special washing instructions. We have a mesh stroller bag attached to the changing table. That's where I throw the wool covers that need washing. I only have to wash wool covers about twice a month. | 
Bucket |
A bucket is a very useful item to have next to your diaper pail. When you have a diaper that needs to be rinsed out, just drop it in the bucket. After changing the baby, take the bucket to the toilet to rinse out the diaper. Then put the diaper back in the bucket and dump it in the diaper pail. This simple trick keeps you from dripping dirty diaper water all over the floor. It's also a good place to leave the diaper for a moment if you can't rinse it out right away (the kitchen is on fire, the bath tub is overflowing, etc.). I also use the same bucket to soak and wash my wool covers. | 
Drying Rack |
You will need a place to hang up your covers to air out. Covers can be used many times before you need to wash them, but it does help to air them out before you use them again (especially your wool covers). A quilt rack makes a wonderful drying rack for covers. You can also use a towel rack or a lingerie hanging rack. Or just use the edge of your changing table or crib. I have a rope strung around the edge of my changing table that is used as my clothesline for airing covers (they are held on with clothepins). It works well and doesn't take up any extra room. | 
Rubber Gloves |
If you detest the thought of getting your hands wet (or poopie!) while you are rinsing out a diaper, try this simple trick. Keep a pair of rubber gloves in the bathroom and slip them on each time you need to rinse a diaper. Wash the gloves with soap each time you use them, then hang them up to dry. | 
Mini Sprayer |
A mini sprayer attached to your toilet is not necessary, but it makes diaper rinsing MUCH easier. Not only does it do a great job of rinsing, it allows you to properly rinse a diaper without dunking or getting your hands in the toilet water. What a relief! You can purchase a mini sprayer online at places like www.clothdiaper.com. If you are handy, you can make your own out of a kitchen sprayer and other attachments from the hardware store. | 
Potty Pail |
A Potty Pail is also nice to have in conjunction with a sprayer for rinsing out soiled diapers. It rests on your toilet and contains the over spray (no more washing poop off the bathroom wall). Once again, if you are handy, you can make your own out of parts from the hardware store. | 
Wet Bag |
A wet bag is another useful item. Wet bags are usually made from PUL, but I have also seen them made from wool. You can buy a large waterproof wet bag to use as a liner in your diaper pail; just wash it each time you wash your diapers. You can also buy smaller wet bags to use for stowing away dirty diapers in your diaper bag. If you don't have a small wet bag in your diaper bag, just use a large Ziploc bag or any other plastic bag. | 
Diaper Bag |
Don't forget to have a fully-stocked diaper bag when you are out and about. Some people choose to use disposables when
they are out, that way they can just throw the diaper away instead of bringing it home. I think it is easier to put the
dirty diaper in a waterproof wet bag and toss it back in my diaper bag than it is to search for an acceptable place to
dispose of the horrible plastic diaper. You can use the free diaper bag you got at the hospital, purchase a nice designer diaper bag made especially for cloth diapers, or just use any old bag or purse. The choice is up to you. You will want to stock your bag with cloth diapers & covers, cloth wipes, a small squeeze bottle full of water or wipe solution, a wet bag, a changing pad, and any extra fasteners that you might use on your diapers. |