Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our program, cloth diapering, donations, and more. Don't see your question? Contact us.

About Our Program

Who is eligible for the cloth diaper loan program?

Families facing financial hardship who would like to use cloth diapers but cannot afford the initial startup cost are eligible. We serve families across the United States and military families overseas. There are no income documentation requirements — we operate on a trust-based model.

How do I apply for a loan kit?

Complete the contact form on our website and select "Apply for a Loan Kit" as the subject. A volunteer will reach out to you within 3-5 business days to walk you through the application process and match you with a local chapter if one is available.

Is there a cost to participate?

No. Our program is completely free for participating families. There are no application fees, no program fees, and no shipping charges for families who need to have their kits mailed.

How long can I borrow the diapers for?

Standard loan periods are one year per child. If you need the diapers for longer than one year, please contact your chapter to discuss an extension. We understand that every family's journey is different.

What comes in a loan kit?

Each starter kit includes enough cloth diapers for 2-3 days between washes (approximately 18-24 diapers), plus waterproof covers if applicable, wet bags for storage on the go, cloth wipes, and a comprehensive guide to cloth diapering. Kits may vary slightly by chapter based on donations received.

About Donations

What kinds of cloth diapers do you accept?

We accept clean, gently-used cloth diapers of all styles: prefolds, covers, pocket diapers, all-in-ones, fitteds, and hybrid systems. Diapers should be free of stains, tears, and mildew. We also accept diaper covers, wet bags, cloth wipes, diaper pails, and cloth diaper safe detergents.

Can I donate disposable diapers?

Our program focuses exclusively on cloth diapers, as our model is built around the reusable loan concept. However, we recommend contacting your local food bank, diaper bank, or social services agency if you have disposable diapers to donate.

Are my donations tax-deductible?

Yes. The Rebecca Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Monetary donations are tax-deductible, and in-kind donations may also be tax-deductible. Please consult with a tax professional for guidance on your specific situation.

About Cloth Diapering

Will my daycare accept cloth diapers?

Many daycare centers now accept cloth diapers, especially the all-in-one style that works just like a disposable. We recommend checking with your specific daycare provider about their policies. Some states have laws prohibiting daycares from banning cloth diapers. We can provide you with resources to help start the conversation.

How many diapers do I need to get started?

For full-time cloth diapering, we recommend 18-24 diapers for a newborn and 12-18 for an older baby. This allows for washing every 2-3 days. Our loan kits include enough diapers for most families to get started.

What about the laundry? Isn't it a lot of work?

Most families find that cloth diapering adds about one extra load of laundry every 2-3 days. The total time per week is usually 1-2 hours, including folding. Many of our families report that the routine quickly becomes second nature and is well worth the savings and benefits.

Do cloth diapers cause more diaper rash?

Actually, many families report fewer diaper rashes with cloth diapers. This is because cloth diapers are typically more breathable than disposables and don't contain the same chemicals and fragrances. The key is changing diapers frequently and using a good laundering routine. If you do see a rash, we can help you troubleshoot.

What do I do with the diapers when my child outgrows them?

If you received your diapers through our loan program, simply return them so another family can use them. If you purchased your own stash, you can pass them along to a friend, donate them to a local cloth diaper bank, or sell them to help recoup some of your investment.

About Volunteering

Do I need experience with cloth diapers to volunteer?

Not at all! While some of our volunteer roles benefit from cloth diapering experience, many do not. We need help with sorting donations, administrative tasks, event planning, social media, photography, graphic design, and more. Whatever your skills, there's a place for you on our team.

How much time do I need to commit?

That's completely up to you. Some volunteers help with a single event or one-time project. Others commit a few hours each week or month. We will work with your schedule and interests to find the right fit.