what do i need when i start using cloth nappies?

[shelsco]

I'm new to reusable nappies (although I'm expecting DC4) and quite like the sound of the bumgenius. I'm a bit confused as to what i need though! I don't really understand what the inserts are and if the nappies come with them already. I thought I might buy one to try it and then buy more when I've seen what i think. The suppliers seem to say that they are okay on newborns but I don't know if I just buy the nappy do I need to buy inderts as well! Or do they come with them? Help!!

Hi there!
I'm not an expert, but I have used BG version 3 Onesize Pockets on our LO and they're great. I've also found them to be very DH friendly, if that's any help to you .
Our first one was in a trial pack from the local council, and I've just bought a lightly used pre-loved one. Both the new and the used one came with two microfibre inserts: A shorter single one for newborns & small babies, and a longer one that can be folded and poppered if the nappy is being used on a smaller rise setting; they can also be combined for max absorbency.(I believe the two inserts is a new thing with the V3. 1 & 2 were just one insert, I presume the larger adjustable one).
They are pricy, but I would say worth the money. Some suppliers do deals if you buy multiples (one of whom posts on here, but I'm not sure if I'm allowed to give their name, sorry).
There's a thread about BG for newborns on this section of the forum, where people have said they are suitable, but if you can get one to try, then at least you would know if the size/shape suits your LO. If you're able to get a trial pack (either from a supplier or local council) you'd be able to see what else is out there, and find out if there are any cheaper alternatives that might work for you.
I have been very happy with Bimbles (shaped terry with fleece lining & a flap out booster) & Motherease wraps (excellent at containment, my only leaks with these have been due to user error!), and am now moving onto some birth to potty nappies which were just tooooooo big for her at the start! All of these are pre-loved & many from mumsnetters

Good luck. Be warned, it's very addictive

BG are fab. My only complaint would be that they fade quite easily so look quite worn after a while, but if you don't mind that then I would go for it. They do come with inserts when new, so you wouldn't need to buy anything. But if you buy second hand - make sure you ask as some do, some don't.

Have you got other children in nappies? Just thinking you could get one to try on them to get an idea of them.

JoLucy - would second that about it being addictive.
Shelsco - you seem to have the basics although there is so much choice! The main types are
Pocket Nappy - Can adjust level of absorbency by using inserts or other absorbent materials e.g. folded terry towelling nappy.
All in Ones - Convenient but take longer to dryer
Shaped Nappy - Normally get a good fit but always need a wrap (cover),
MN is a good way to find out what types work as I had never heard of BG or itti bitti before MN? Buying preloved is a good way to see what works. I bought Cotton Tots Bots at first on Amazon as were fairly cheap (price gone up now) but they are a bit bulky. I like Motherease Sandys which I bought preloved. Whilst pregant , I went to a Nappy exhibition but they only showed about 4 types of nappy and seemed to be saying Wonderoo were one of the best which is not what you hear on here!!
I'm amazed how many DH's refuse (mine included) to change cloth nappies but apparently Bumgenius are most likely to change these refuseniks!! I am waiting for the arrival of a BG!!

I find DH invariably reaches for nappies in this order:

Tots Bots Easyfit
BumGenius one-size
Itti Bitti
Greenkids
Blueberry Minky

My ordering is rather more random.

Of all of those, I found BGs best on a newborn when my DS wad 7lb and under but the others soon came into their own.

Shelsco, the v3 are made to suit approx 7-35lb, they come with 2 inserts so you do not need to buy them seperate. Alot of my customers have succesfully used them from newborn and they are DH friendly which is a bonus .

They are a onesize pocket nappy. There are a few other onesize pocket nappies onthe market also like swampster mentions. BG are goooood.

Well i think i'm converted! My other 3 DCs are older now and i only ever used disposables thinking that reusables would be unmanageable in terms of washing etc but must be chilling out in my old age cos now i'm really keen to give them a go. think will get a couple of BG to start with and see how i go. Thanks everyone.