What’s a Cloth Diaper Swap?

Is it somewhat shocking I haven’t been to a cloth diaper swap before? Well, there was a small one in 2011 at the Great Cloth Diaper Change at Sloomb. But at the time I was not in the market to buy or sell so I didn’t peruse much.

Last Saturday I participated in my first cloth diaper swap hosted by Bean Tree Baby. So…

What will you find at a diaper swap? 

New and used diapers of every variety and print. These will generally be in good condition but always inspect! You may come across some brands that are new to you!

Diapering accessories like disposable liners, detergent, and wipes (I found a couple rounded, serged-edge flannel wipes I couldn’t resist getting for the boys!).

Breastfeeding and babywearing items – depending on what is allowed at each swap, you may find these items, along with amber necklaces, essential oils, and more.

Other cloth diapering mamas! I got to meet several moms I have only chatted with online. A swap is a great place to make connections, ask questions, and get support for your cloth diapering!

Can you really sell used cloth diapers?

Yes! It’s a great way to make back some of the money you spent creating your stash, making cloth diapering less expensive!

In the past, I have sold a few diapers on Craigslist, but that has been hit or miss. At a diaper swap, you’ll have a room of ready-to-buy potential customers. I sold about half the diapers I wanted to destash. It was exciting to see diapers I have loved go off to enjoy a second life!

What are the benefits of buying at a diaper swap?

At a good sized swap, you’ll find a huge selection and a group of very motivated sellers! (Bring cash, not every seller is willing to take a check. Although some have Paypal on their smartphones! Smart!).

If you know what you are looking for and retail values, you will be poised to snap up good deals. Prices will be all over the place, so definitely know what you want and what you’ll pay. If you’re willing to wait till the last fifteen minutes of the swap, that’s when negotiating will serve you well as sellers don’t want to take their diapers home again!

Buying and selling used diapers is a way to keep the savings going – both for the mom who gets back some of her investment, and for the mom who gets a good deal while building their stash. But one more thing, it’s extending the life of the cloth diaper and reducing the waste (in money and garbage) of disposable diapers!

Have you ever been to a cloth diaper swap? What was your experience?