Cloth Diapers ARE NOT complicated! Really!

I don't really have time to write a blog post (okay, I DO, but I should be spending the time in other ways), but I need to sit down for just a moment before attacking the next item on my list and I just HAVE to share this. It slays me! Okay, so we use cloth diapers. We chose a system that involves prefolds and covers. They're called "prefolds" because each diaper has multiple layers, unlike a flat diaper that needs to be folded into layers before using. We chose prefolds because, let's face it, it was the least expensive CD system (CD=cloth diapers). They are not the simplest system. Even though they're called prefolds, you have to fold the diaper before putting it on the child, and then you have to use something to secure it, either pins or a snappi, and then you need a waterproof (or water-resistant) cover to keep clothes dry. (Please tell me you understand the concept of "wicking"). (I'd link each of those italicized words, but I don't want to spend the time. If you'd like more definition than I gave, try http://www.diaperpin.com/dictionary.asp. For "snappi", check out http://www.snappibaby.com/products/snappidiaperfastener.html)

Here's the problem: care-givers are often confused by cloth diapers. I can even walk someone through a diaper change, step-by-step, when I drop Z off, but when I pick him up, I can expect to see some strange, less-than-effective, attempt. I usually find it humorous. I can't blame them for having trouble. So, with our new little D, I was ecstatic that our increased salary allowed for a little bit in the budget to pick up some pocket diapers. These combine a waterproof cover with a fabric layer, leaving an opening. You stuff something absorbent (like microfiber, or even a prefold diaper) in the "pocket" and the diaper is just like a disposable: pull it out of the bag, put it on the child, secure the velcro or snaps, and you're done! No folding, no pins/snappi - Easy!

THE POINT OF MY POST:
So today I went to bible study. I explained that Z is in cloth diapers, but that they're very easy, just like a disposable. And then I left, completely confident that all was well as far as Z's heiny was concerned (he barely said goodbye to me, he was so busy already, so I was also confident that he was going to enjoy himself). Fast forward a couple hours: we're back at home, I'm trying to get D out of his seat before he COMPLETELY loses it, Z is hanging on me and whining for something (you know, the usual scene) and something about the back of Z's pant waist catches my attention. I was so startled, I stopped unbuckling the car seat and pulled Z's pants down. You will not believe what I saw: THE DEAR LADIES AT CHURCH THIS MORNING HAD PUT Z'S DIAPER ON INSIDE OUT. INSIDE OUT!! How can one possibly confuse the inside of a pocket diaper with its outside?? One side is soft and comfy and the other is...the outside. The waterproof outside. And it has snaps! They had the snaps against his skin! I think I died laughing. (Which Z probably didn't appreciate "Mommy, my pants are on the ground and you're laughing so hard you're crying...")

I'll still try to have a pocket diaper on hand whenever I have to drop either boy off with someone, but I think I'll spend just a moment to pull the diaper out and explain how it works ;-)