Troubleshooting

• Help my baby has a diaper rash!

  A diaper rash is inflamed skin. It can be very alarming for parents, although usually more of an annoyance to baby! Causes can include dirty diapers, introduction of new foods, irritation from product ingredients, bacterial or yeast infections, teething, and clothes or diapers that are too tight.

  We recommend keeping a good wash routine with a cloth diaper-safe detergent. Please refrain from using any products containing ingredients such as bleach, fabric softeners, brighteners, enzymes, dyes, and fragrances. Our cloth diaper detergent of choice is, of course, our very own Thirsties Pre-Wash and Super Wash! Thirsties wash solutions contains probiotics which actually introduces good bacteria-the only wash of its kind! Our washes are entirely non-irritating (will not cause diaper rash) and they do more than just clean your cloth diapers. Thirsties Pre-Wash and Super Wash work hard to reduce odors and naturally whiten and brighten your cloth diapers. Follow these links to learn more...
  http://www.thirstiesbaby.com/prewash.htm
  http://www.thirstiesbaby.com/super_wash.htm

  Our diaper rash cream of choice is All Natural Rash Magic Diaper Cream, http://www.rashmagic.com, which is safe for use with cloth diapers. This soothing salve is lovingly handmade, using only quality and natural ingredients! We have also compiled an in-depth article on diaper rash, using many trusted sources. If you would like a copy of this article, please e-mail us at support@thirstiesbaby.com.

• I would like to use cloth diapers, but I cannot afford the up-front investment. Do you offer donations or low-income assistance?

  It can be tough initially to make the leap to cloth diapers. But you can save over $2000 by choosing reusable diapers over disposables over the course of birth to potty. Purchasing cloth diapers is an wise investment!

  Here are a few tips for making cloth diapering as affordable as possible:
  

  1. We do donate a significant number of diapers every month to Miracle Diapers. Low-income families may apply and qualify for FREE reusable diapers through this amazing organization!
  2. You may also find some great deals in our outlet store.
  3. You can save big by purchasing used diapers from Diaper Swappers.
  4. When your baby grows out of one size, resell your own cloth diapers fee-free at one of the great resources listed above. May times you will be able to resell them for a return of 50% or more of your original investment! Turn that money around to help purchase the next size up.

  
  
• I have been using the same Thirsties diapers for months without any problems. In the past week, we seem to be leaking more often. Why is this?

  Usually this is an indication your baby is growing and so is his/her bladder. Infants tend to urinate frequently and in smaller amounts. As your baby develops, he/she will begin to reserve urine and release it all at once. At this stage in development, you may need to increase the absorbency of your usual system by adding an insert such as Thirsties Hemp Insert. On occasion, leaks can be an indication of detergent or mineral build-up which causes your diapers to repel liquid. Please review our wash and care information to be sure you are properly caring for your cloth diapers: https://www.thirstiesoutlet.com/kb_results.asp?ID=12.

• I really don't think my diapers are leaking. I think the waterproof barrier is defective. What should I do?

  We have had a few very rare cases where the waterproof lamination is actually snagged, cracked, or pulling away from the fabric and causing leaks. Most often the diapers are just leaking. When this happens, it does seem as thought the liquid is coming straight through, but it is not...it is just wicking along the reverse side of the fabric. In this case, please see these tips for stopping leaks: https://www.thirstiesoutlet.com/kb_results.asp?ID=14.

  There is an easy way of checking to be sure the lamination is intact. Flip the diaper inside out to reveal the laminated side of the exterior fabric. Examine the lamination to see if you see any separations or cracks in the places where you have noticed leaks. Next, place a light absorbent pad within the diaper or cover. Try pouring a slow stream of water onto the dry cover or diaper to simulate a pee. Do you see the liquid coming through the fabric? If yes, then the lamination has been compromised. But 99.9% of the time, the liquid is properly suspended and the problem is actually wicking due to leaks. Please read these tips or contact our customer service team so we can troubleshoot a solution with you: https://www.thirstiesoutlet.com/kb_results.asp?ID=14.

• Why are my diapers leaking?

  Your diapers are leaking, have no fear! Leaks are not completely unusual when first starting out. With a little bit of troubleshooting, we are confident you will join thousands of other families around the globe who have found Thirsties Cloth Diapers as the very best in leak-proof protection.

  Below we offer a few of the most common reasons for leaks & their corresponding solutions:
  

  • Using the wrong detergent can lead to build-up and will make your diapers repel. Thirsties Pre-Wash and Super Wash have been specifically formulated for washing cloth diapers. Read our Care and Use info for complete washing instructions.
    Solution: Strip your diapers by replacing your detergent with 1-2 Tbs Dawn dish soap. Switch to Thirsties Pre-Wash and Super Wash which effectively clean your diapers and leave no residue behind.

  • Hard water ridden with minerals can also lead to build-up and will make your diapers repel. Thirsties Pre-Wash and Super Wash have been proven effective in even the hardest of water conditions. Read our Care and Use info for complete washing instructions.
    Solution: Strip your diapers by replacing your detergent with 1-2 Tbs Dawn dish soap. Switch to Thirsties Pre-Wash and Super Wash to effectively clean your diapers.

  • Fabric softeners and diaper rash ointment can coat the fibers of your diapers and make them leak.
    Solution: Strip your diapers by replacing your detergent with 1-2 Tbs Dawn dish soap. Discontinue using fabric softeners and diaper rash ointments that are not advertised as cloth diaper friendly.

  • The diapers may be worn for too long between changes.
    Solution: Cloth diaper changes need to be more frequent than disposables and on average will need replacement every 2 hours. If you need to go longer than that, you will need to add a good cotton or hemp doubler or insert.

  • The diaper does not meet the absorbency needs of your baby.
    Solution: As your baby grows, so does his/her bladder. Infants will urinate frequently whereas a toddler will reserve his/her urine and release it all at once every couple hours. Therefore, as your baby develops you may need to add more absorbency to a diaper that used to work sufficiently on its own. Consider adding a Thirsties Hemp Insert to your regular cloth diaper system.

  • The waterproof lamination on your diaper or cover needs to be resealed.
    Solution: An occasional tumble in the dryer on high is actually beneficial to the waterproofing layer.

  • And finally, if you have a baby boy, be sure to point his privates downward when changing his diaper. If he is aiming to the side or up, he will leak out of the diaper or cover.

• Why do my diapers smell?

  Odor is most often caused by bacteria. If you have stinky diapers after they are washed and dried, chances are they are not thoroughly cleaned. Odor can also be caused by build-up; either detergent build-up or mineral build-up. Thirsties Pre-Wash and Super Wash has been specially formulated for washing cloth diapers. The cleaning power of our wash is not affected by hard water, nor does it leave harmful and stinky residues. Thirsties Super Wash is the only detergent on the market that actually introduces GOOD bacteria which eliminates odor-causing bacteria. In addition, try hanging your diapers out in the sun to dry whenever possible. The sun will disinfect naturally and will also lift stains.

  Please read below for detailed washing instructions...
  diaper changing station...
  Shake solids into toilet after each diaper change. Store your soiled Thirsties Cloth Diapers in a DRY diaper pail. A standard 52-quart garbage pail with a lid works great and can be purchased at your local department store. Be sure to line your pail with a Thirsties Diaper Pail Liner to avoid having to clean your pail on every laundry day. Stow your stash of Thirsties Fab Wipes in an accessible location to your changing table along with some fresh water for wipe dipping. Toss soiled wipes into your pail along with your diapers.

  pre-wash...
  For optimum cleanliness, limit the size of your load to no more than 18 diapers and wash every other day. Use COLD water for the pre-wash cycle with 1/2 ounce Thirsties Pre-Wash solution to help pre-clean your diapers. If you do not have a pre-wash cycle on your washer, a short or quick wash cycle will work just as good.

  wash...
  Choose a HEAVY cycle and wash on HOT for the main wash. Use 1/2 ounce Thirsties Super Wash per load. Thirsties Pre-Wash and Super Wash is HE safe and has been custom formulated for use on cloth diapers. Avoid all soaps, many "Free & Clear", and popular baby detergents. Most detergents on the market will leave a residue on your diapers that will affect the absorbency and will cause odors and diaper rash. Be sure not to use bleach or fabric softeners either. OxyClean Baby is safe for occasional use, but is not necessary when using Thirsties Super Wash in combination with HOT water. Thirsties Super Wash is uniquely formulated to naturally brighten and eliminate harmful bacteria.

  dry...
  Hang your cloth diapers to dry or dry in dryer. Add a dry towel to the dryer to speed the drying process. Drying in direct sunlight is the very best method for drying and disinfecting. Hang drying also helps to preserve the textiles of your diapers and is great at getting rid of stains. Cotton and hemp diapers will be somewhat stiff when hung to dry. One option to soften sun-dried textiles made from natural fibers, is to use the dryer for the last 15 minutes.

  stripping...
  Even if you follow all the rules above, you still might end up with occasional stinky and less absorbent diapers due to water mineral residue. Simply replace your regular detergent with 1/4 cup Calgon water softener (found at your local grocers) or 1-2 Tbs Dawn or Ivory dish soap. This process is often referred to as diaper stripping. Strip your diapers as often as needed, but not at every wash as it is a bit harsh for your diapers and your baby's skin.

• I have received a defective Thirsties product...what do I do now?

  Defects are rare, but they do occasionally occur and we apologize wholeheartedly if you have received a defective Thirsties product. We stand behind our products 100% and are happy to hear of your problem so that we can work together at a resolution so that you can start using your Thirsties item again!

  Our Warranty:
  

  • Your product is under limited warranty for possible return for up to 90 days after the original purchase date.
  • Defects include loose stitching, holes discovered upon arrival, broken snaps, etc.
  • Staining, fading, holes that develop with use, and potential build-up are all considered normal 'wear and tear' and does not suffice for repair or replacement purposes.
  • Leaks are not considered a defect. Please search our database for detailed instructions in battling leaks or call us and we will be happy to troubleshoot with you to ensure successful cloth diapering.

  
  How to Proceed:
  Please send an email to support@thirstiesbaby.com
  Include all the following information in your email. We are not able to process your request unless we have all the information below:
  

  1. EMAIL SUBJECT LINE: Thirsties RMA
  2. Provide your name & complete shipping address
  3. Email Address
  4. Phone Number
  5. Defective Product: (product name, size, color, & LOT number)
     PLEASE NOTE: If a replacement item is deemed necessary, we will send the same color and size of the defective diaper. We will not SIZE-UP. No exceptions!
  6. Problem you are having
  7. Detergent used
  8. Date of original purchase
  9. Place of original purchase

  What to Expect Next:
  Once you e-mail us with complete info above, your Return Merchandise Authorization information will be reviewed and a customer service rep will be in touch with you shortly. Defects covered under the warranty will either be repaired or replaced at no cost to you. If we decide a repair or replacement is what is needed in your case, we will e-mail you a prepaid return label in which to mail your defect to us.

  What to do Beyond 90 Days:

  • Your product is under limited warranty for possible return for up to 90 days after the original purchase date. After 90 days, your Thirsties products may still qualify for complimentary repairs.
  • Defects include loose or broken stitching, broken snaps, and defective hook & loop tabs.
  • Staining, fading, holes that develop with use, and potential build-up are all considered normal 'wear and tear' and does not suffice for repair.
  • Leaks are not considered a defect. Please search our database for detailed instructions in battling leaks or call us and we will be happy to troubleshoot with you to ensure successful cloth diapering.

  Please return your repairable diaper/cover to us with instructions for repair and your return shipping address:
  Thirsties Repairs
  429 S. 9th St.
  Cañon City, CO 81212

  Please note:
  We are not responsible for lost parcels. As a reminder, we are only able to repair the following problems: loose or broken stitching, broken snaps, and defective hook & loop tabs. Thank you!

Laundering Tips

• At what temperature should I wash my cloth diapers?

  We advise pre-washing your cloth diapers in COLD water prior to a full cycle wash to help lift stains and rinse away waste. Ideal washing temperature is WARM or HOT: between 85-120°F. Water temperature in your washing machine depends mostly on your hot water heater settings. An easy way of making sure your water temperature does not exceed the maximum recommendation is to adjust your hot water heater to no more than 120°F. Alternatively, you can use a candy thermometer to check the water temperature in your machine.

• Can you recommend a detergent for washing cloth diapers?

  The only detergent we recommend with 100% confidence that it is safe for your diapers, your baby, and the planet we share is our very own! True, Thirsties Pre-Wash and Super Wash is a bit more costly than store brands, but other detergents come free with a headache (will cause stink and repelling) and can actually ruin your diapers! Play it safe and go with an option that is tried and true and you will not regret it!

• Do I need to wash my diapers before using them for the first time?

  Yes! All Thirsties diapers must be prepped before use by washing and drying at least one time before use. Please wash and dry our hemp products at least 3 times before use. Hemp fibers contain natural oils in them that need to be rinsed away in order for your diapers to absorb properly. You will notice your hemp diapers will continue to increase in absorbency for up to 8 washes.

• How do I wash my Thirsties cloth diapers?

  Print a copy of our care instructions. Hang a copy next to your washing machine to encourage the whole family to help with the laundering!

  before wearing...
  Wash all diapers at least one time before use. Washing and drying your hemp and natural cotton diapers at least 3 times before use will wash away the natural oils that inhibit absorption.

  diaper changing station...
  Shake solids into toilet after each diaper change. Store your soiled Thirsties Cloth Diapers in a DRY diaper pail. A standard 52-quart garbage pail with a lid works great and can be purchased at your local department store. Be sure to line your pail with a Thirsties Diaper Pail Liner to avoid having to clean your pail on every laundry day. Stow your stash of Thirsties Fab Wipes in an accessible location to your changing table along with some fresh water for wipe dipping. Toss soiled wipes into your pail along with your diapers.

  pre-wash...
  For optimum cleanliness, limit the size of your load to no more than 18 diapers and wash every other day. Use COLD water for the pre-wash cycle with 1/2 ounce Thirsties Pre-Wash solution to help pre-clean your diapers. If you do not have a pre-wash cycle on your washer, a short or quick wash cycle will work just as good.

  wash...
  Choose a HEAVY cycle and wash on HOT for the main wash. Use 1/2 ounce Thirsties Super Wash per load. Thirsties Pre-Wash and Super Wash is HE safe and has been custom formulated for use on cloth diapers. Avoid all soaps, many "Free & Clear", and popular baby detergents. Most detergents on the market will leave a residue on your diapers that will affect the absorbency and will cause odors and diaper rash. Be sure not to use bleach or fabric softeners either. OxyClean Baby is safe for occasional use, but is not necessary when using Thirsties Super Wash in combination with HOT water. Thirsties Super Wash is uniquely formulated to naturally brighten and eliminate harmful bacteria.

  dry...
  Hang your cloth diapers to dry or dry in dryer. Add a dry towel to the dryer to speed the drying process. Drying in direct sunlight is the very best method for drying and disinfecting. Hang drying also helps to preserve the textiles of your diapers and is great at getting rid of stains. Cotton and hemp diapers will be somewhat stiff when hung to dry. One option to soften sun-dried textiles made from natural fibers, is to use the dryer for the last 15 minutes.

  stripping...
  Even if you follow all the rules above, you still might end up with occasional stinky and less absorbent diapers due to water mineral residue. Simply replace your regular detergent with 1/4 cup Calgon water softener (found at your local grocers) or 1-2 Tbs Dawn or Ivory dish soap. This process is often referred to as diaper stripping. Strip your diapers as often as needed, but not at every wash as it is a bit harsh for your diapers and your baby's skin.

• What are the ingredients in your Pre-Wash and Super Wash cloth diaper detergents?

  PRE-WASH INGREDIENTS:
  Sodium Bicarbonate
  Acid Neutralizer
  Endosperm of corn kernel extract
  Citric acid
  Natural flower nectar
  Purified Water

  SUPER WASH INGREDIENTS:
  White Camellia Sinensis
  Cetyl Alcohol
  Ascorbic Acid
  Saccharomyces/Lysate Extract
  Other natural and organic ingredients

  Thirsties Pre-Wash and Super Wash removes residue, stains, and odors, and has been proven to work better than anything else on the market without harm to the environment or to humans. Once the product is activated with hot water, it cleans and dissipates to nothing. It is truly as harmless as rainwater and 100% toxin-free!

• Why is it against Thirsties' recommendations to use oxygen bleach at every wash?

  An oxygen bleach additive, such as OxyClean or Biokleen, is OK for an occasional deep clean. But extended and frequent use will yellow the velcro and elastic of your diapers and more importantly, will deteriorate the waterproof lamination of your diapers. Rather than using an oxygen bleach, we recommend using Thirsties Pre-Wash and Super Wash and try and hang dry your diapers in the sun as much as possible. Our washes are completely safe for everyday use and for your baby and will achieve the same effects as an oxygen bleach.

Sales & Support

• Are Thirsties products PVC (vinyl), phlatates, and latex free?

  Yes!

• Can I tuck my prefold diaper under the flap of Thirsties Diaper Covers?

  The flap is a facing and is designed to cover the stitching holes of the tummy velcro. Tucking a diaper beneath the flap may cause wicking through the holes created by the stitches.

• How long will my Thirsties products last? Can I expect my reusable diapers to last through multiple children?

  We take care to choose high-quality USA-made fabrics and components that have been proven to withstand the test of time. Purchasing reusable diapers is an incredible investment that will rack up thousands of dollars in savings over disposables. However, as with any apparel item, nothing lasts forever. Reusable diapers go through a considerable amount of use and abuse and are laundered far more frequently in comparison to other attire items.

  A fair life expectancy of Thirsties diapers is approximately 200-250 washings. This translates to about 18-24 months when laundering your diapers every 2-3 days. You can extend the life of your reusable diapers by laundering with a very gentle yet thorough detergent such as Thirsties Pre-Wash and Super Wash. Drying in the dryer will hasten the retirement of any apparel item, therefore we always recommend hang drying whenever possible.

• Can you recommend a good 'starter kit'?

  Here are a few bundling options that provide a good stash to start out with for a newborn:

  Bronze Package: Most affordable
  24 Prefolds or 24 Inserts
  6 Duo Wraps
  1 2-pk Hemp Inserts
  1 Value Pack Wash
  30 Fab Wipes
  1 8 oz. Booty Luster
  1 4 oz. Booty Luster
  1 Diaper Duffle
  1 Diaper Pail Liner
  1 13 gallon (52 quart trash) pail (available at your local department store)

  Silver Package: Mid-range:
  24 Thirsties Fab Fitteds
  6 Duo Wraps
  1 2-pk Hemp Inserts
  1 Value Pack Wash
  30 Fab Wipes
  1 8 oz. Booty Luster
  1 4 oz. Booty Luster
  1 Diaper Duffle
  1 Diaper Pail Liner
  1 13 gallon (52 quart trash) pail (available at your local department store)

  Gold Package: Most convenient
  24 Duo Diapers
  1 2-pk Hemp Inserts
  1 Value Pack Wash
  30 Fab Wipes
  1 8 oz. Booty Luster
  1 4 oz. Booty Luster
  2 Diaper Duffles
  2 Diaper Pail Liners
  1 13 gallon (52 quart trash) pail (available at your local department store)

  If you are purchasing for an older baby, you can reduce the overall number of diapers and covers in rotation based on the following:
  Diapers:
  Newborn: 20-24 diapers
  6-12 months: 14-18 diapers
  12-24 months: 12-16 diapers
  Potty Learning: 4-8 diapers

  Covers:
  Newborn-9 months: 1 wrap for every 3 diapers
  9 months-18 months: 1 wrap for every 4 diapers
  18 months to potty: 1 wrap for 5 diapers

• Do I need a cover for every fitted diaper in rotation?

  Fitted, contoured, prefolds, and flat cloth diapers are not waterproof. But you do not need a cover for every diaper. We recommend 1 cover for every 3-6 diapers in rotation. You can use the same cover several times and wipe it down between uses before it will be fully soiled. During the newborn stage, you will find you need more covers in rotation because your baby will soil them more often. For the first few months, 1 cover for every 3 diapers changes is the minimum recommendation. Once your baby is 18 months old, you will likely get away with only 1 cover for every 6 diapers in rotation. The number of covers you will need also depends on the type of diaper you choose. For instance, a fitted diaper provides very secure fit. Therefore your cover will stay cleaner and can be used more times before a full laundering will be necessary. You will need more covers in rotation if you choose a prefold or flat diaper which doesn't provide quite the same secure coverage.

• How many covers/wraps do I need in rotation?

  A single Thirsties Duo Wrap or Thirsties Diaper Cover can be wiped clean and reused several times before requiring a full washing.
  Newborn-9 months: 1 wrap for every 3 diapers
  9 months-18 months: 1 wrap for every 4 diapers
  18 months to potty: 1 wrap for 5 every diapers

  Please Note: Not all diapers require a cover. Many diapers include a waterproof shell. Diapers that do require a separate cover include Flats, Prefolds, Contoured, and Fitted.

• How many diapers do I need in rotation?

  Newborn: 20-24 diapers
  6-12 months: 14-18 diapers
  12-24 months: 12-16 diapers
  Potty Learning: 4-8 diapers

• Should I fasten my prefolds with pins or Snappi before covering with your cover?

  You do not have to use pins for your prefold diapers...we do recommend Snappis when pairing a prefold cloth diaper with Thirsties Diaper Covers. When using Thirsties Duo Wraps, you can choose to fasten your prefolds or simply trifold them, lie them in the wrap, and fasten around your baby. Thirsties Duo Wraps are trimmer fitting than our original Diaper Covers and will hold a trifolded prefold in place without shifting and sagging.

• What type of dyes are used in the Thirsties products?

  We use low impact reactive dyes and processes that are eco-friendly. Our textile dying processes meet or exceed criteria set forth by the European Union. No heavy metals, toxic substances, or environmentally destructive practices are used in dying our fabrics.

• Where are Thirsties products made?

  100% of Thirsties products are manufactured in Denver, CO, USA! We do not stop at just making our products in the USA. We go through great lengths to find sources of fabric and components made in the USA, as well. To date, over 90% of our fabric and components are also manufactured domestically! Even our new hemp jersey fabric is knitted in the USA...which was a hurdle and an accomplishment we are so proud to have achieved! Thirsties is committed to fair and sustainable labor practices, providing people in our own communities with much needed jobs, and doing our part in boosting our local economies!

• Do you offer wholesale sales to co-ops?

  No, we sell wholesale only to fully registered businesses with storefront or online stores only.

• Do you sell seconds?

  We do occasionally come across a slightly defective diaper or cover. When we do, we list it in our outlet store: https://www.thirstiesoutlet.com. All the diapers listed in our outlet store are fully functional. Most often they have a slight mis-stitch or spot on them.

• How can I order Thirsties Products?

  You may purchase from any of our fine retailers located throughout the world: http://www.thirstiesbaby.com/retailers.htm. We have over 300 locations worldwide so you are likely to find one near to you! Nothing beats getting a hands-on feel for modern cloth diapers. But if you cannot find the products you are looking for, please give us a ring and we can process an order over the phone for you: 1-888-315-2330.

• Our retail sales policies
  
  
  

  • Prices are as shown at www.thirstiesbaby.com
  • Standard shipping is always FREE and orders ship within 48 hours
  • You must call in with your order: 1-888-315-2330
  • We are open to accept orders during regular business hours: Monday-Friday, 8 am-5 pm MST
  • Credit Card payments accepted
  • You may exchange an item but returns are not accepted

  About our Outlet Store:
  We do occasionally come across a slightly defective diaper or cover. When we do, we list it in our outlet store: https://www.thirstiesoutlet.com. All the diapers listed in our outlet store are fully functional. Most often they have a slight mis-stitch or spot on them.

  About our Retail Storefront:
  Visit us in Colorado, USA:
  Monday-Friday, 9-4 pm
  Thirsties, Inc
  429 S. 9th St.
  Cañon City, CO 81212
  719-315-2333
  1-888-315-2330

• I'd like to resell Thirsties products. How do I receive information on opening a wholesale account?

  We appreciate your interest in carrying Thirsties in your own business. Please apply for wholesale information here: http://www.thirstiesbaby.com/wholesale.htm. Your company must be fully established and registered with your state or province before applying for an account. We will not disclose our policy and pricing information until we can verify your business status with a Resale Tax ID. Here is a great resource with information on how to start your own baby/cloth diaper business: http://www.diaperdecisions.com.