The popularity of AppleCheeks cloth diapers is undeniable. AppleCheeks fans are loyal and enthusiastic about both the product and the brand. An AppleCheeks new release is always a party and customers are on a first-name basis with owners Amy and Illana. The enthusiasm is contagious and I was excited to try one of the newest Tiffany prints for an AppleCheeks Cloth Diaper Review!
I reviewed my first AppleCheeks cloth diaper in 2010, when Ezra was just a toddler. He is now 7 and that same diaper has rotated through our stash to diaper two more babies. I love knowing that this diaper lived up to its promise to help the environment and our family budget. I’m even more tickled to see how wildly popular AppleCheeks cloth diapers have become over the past six years!
Deceptively Simple
Each time I use AppleCheeks cloth diapers, I think, “This is so simple.” AppleCheeks come in a two-sized system and they do not include the rise snaps so popular on one-size systems. They also only come in the snap system, so you don’t need to learn both an aplix and a snap fit. This means that using an AppleCheeks diaper requires less adjustments than other cloth diapers and is more intuitive, like a disposable diaper.
Don’t let the this “simple” description fool you, though. This diaper may be easy to use, but the design has all of your cloth diapering needs in mind. AppleCheeks diapers include a soft inner liner against baby’s skin, a trim fit, an insert that agitates out in the wash, and comfortable elastic that is gentle on baby’s skin.
The AppleCheeks System
The AppleCheeks cover can be used as an envelope (pocket) diaper or as an All-in-Two (AI2) diaper cover. The envelope system is a one-use before washing and the AI2 option can be use two to three times before the cover needs to be washed. I used to be more reluctant to use a cover without a PUL inner as an AI2, but I’ve discovered that a good insert makes all of the difference. I liked reusing our AppleCheeks cover as an AI2 and felt comfortable using it two times before washing. As with most AI2s, a poopy diaper always meant that the cover needed to be changed, but we only change 1 to 2 of those a day on average.
Luxurious Covers
I clearly loved AppleCheeks covers in 2010, but they are now even softer. The covers feature elastic at the tummy and back, making for a snug, leak-free fit. They are generous in size and fit both chunky and trim babies well (we’ve diapered both). AppleCheeks seem made to comfortably form to baby’s body and I appreciate how no buttons or PUL comes in contact with baby’s skin.AppleCheeks covers also come in a wonderfully wide range of colors to suit a variety of tastes. The patterns are always eye-catching and exclusive to AppleCheeks and their retailers. You won’t find them anywhere else and they are readily available for customers. The Tiffany dragonfly print I received is even prettier in person, with vibrant pops of color, and absolutely suited for boys and girls.
I especially love how soft the elastic is around the legs and how well the covers fit my little guy. Even if you have a current favorite insert or fitted, I suggest considering an AppleCheeks cover over your current choice.
Insert Options
The covers and inserts are sold separately. This allows you to choose the insert style you prefer, as well as the cost. Your absorbency is really going to depend on the insert style and fabric you select. For cost calculations, add $1 to every cover for prints.
- Bamboo Insert 2-Ply – If you go with the 70% rayon from bamboo/30% organic cotton fleece 2-ply insert, you have a surprisingly slim, absorbent option. This insert needs to be folded into thirds and is safe against baby’s skin. If you choose these inserts, you could have one envelope diaper change for $29.25 or up to three AI2 changes for $47.75.
- One-Size Stay Dry Microterry Inserts – These inserts are your most cost-effective option at just $5. These dual sided inserts can slip inside the envelope or be used as an AI2 option. I love the smart design with the red stitching, letting parents easily know which side does not go against babies skin. I saw these at MommyCon Chicago and fell in love with them. If you choose these inserts, you could have one envelop diaper change for $25 or up to three AI2 changes for $35.
- Bamboo Insert 3-Ply – This insert is the same fabric as the 2-ply, but with 3 super-absorbent layers. If find the absorbency of the 2-Ply to be more than sufficient for my toddler during the day and naps. If you have a heavy-wetter, this could be a great option for sleep, instead of stacking inserts. I think most families might buy 3 to 6 of these to rotate through naps and bedtime, depending on needs.
- Your Preferred Insert – Maybe you already have inserts you know work for you. That’s the beauty of the AppleCheeks system. You can change to AppleCheeks covers and use your existing inserts, but be sure you don’t put microfiber up against baby’s skin.
2-Ply Bamboo Insert
We used the cover with a 2-Ply insert for day, naps, and night time. Baby experienced no leaks during any of these times. In fact, I was pleasantly surprised by how dry the microfleece inner layer felt post diaper-change. The inserts do not come pre-shrunk, so expect some shrinkage during diaper prep. Don’t let the tri-fold fool you, either. These inserts are trim, lightweight, and less bulky than many competitors. If you want your insert to fit snuggly in your cover, simply tuck it into the edges of the inside cover.
Inserts agitate out on their own in the wash, so no need to touch soiled inserts before wash. The envelope system is easier to stuff, but can be tricky for a poopy diaper. If you dunk the diaper with the insert inside, you get soaked, wet mess. To avoid this, I recommend making sure you have flushable liners and/or a diaper sprayer handy.
Fit
Once we got the AppleCheeks fit down, I loved it. As I mentioned before, the fit is slightly different from other diapers, but very intuitive. Stretching the elastic at the legs first is very important for a snug, cozy fit. I don’t often give baby’s opinion on a diaper, but I could tell he found his AppleCheeks cloth diaper very comfy. He even grabbed our newest AppleCheeks from the clean stack and asked me to put it on!
To get a great fit with AppleCheeks, do the following:
- Lay baby on flat diaper.
- Stretch the leg elastic first by extending wing before snapping the diaper.
- Pull the extended wing over to snaps.
- Snap the bottom snap on one side.
- Repeat steps 2 to 4 on the second side.
- Snap the top snaps. It is okay for these snaps to be on different settings than the leg snaps.
- The diaper fits correctly when you can get one finger between the elastic and your baby’s skin.
Want to win an AppleCheeks Little Bundle of your own, with a cover and insert? Enter my AppleCheeks Cloth Diaper Giveaway here!
Disclosure: I received product in exchange for this post. All opinions are my own. Affiliate links are included in this post and proceeds go to support my blog. To sponsor a review or giveaway on The Inquisitive Mom, contact Mindy at theinquisitivemom@gmail.com
Amanda Cook says
I just discovered Applecheeks a couple months ago and love them! Thanks for the great review! 🙂
Kat Kerley says
I love Applecheeks so much! Amy and Illana are such wonderful ladies and they always have absolutely gorgeous colors!
Amanda Joosten says
I love the fact that the inserts come out in the wash that is fabulous and their colors r too die for!!!
Wendy says
Terrific review! I love that AppleCheeks can be used as either an envelope diaper or a AI2. Thank you for the step-by-step directions to get the best fit. Any help to prevent leaks is always appreciated!!
Elishia says
AppleCheeks are our favourite brand because of the fit! All the elastics built into them and the lack of awkward “rise flap” makes them fit better than anything else we tried!
Maranda Carlson says
I have only tried one applecheeks . I loved how soft it felt on the inside and the print was awesome but at a size 2 it seemed too small on my 6mo chubster so I gifted it to another. I would like to try again with another size now that my son is over a year now.
Marian says
I love not having to unstuff Applecheeks diapers! I really like the fit of them on my skinny mini son. Their releases are always so fun. They keep their fans involved and excited about what’s coming next.
JoB says
I love my applecheeks! Thanks for the tip on pulling the leg elastics up first – that should help make diaper changes more efficient!
Kristen G says
This is my first baby and my first time using cloth diapers. My friend introduced me to AppleCheeks and I started with the Intro bamboo bundle. I love the way they fit my daughter! I’m glad to learn they have lasted you six years! That’s great value for your money and less waste for the environment!
Megan says
I discovered AppleCheeks 4 months ago. I sold all my other diapers and we are 100% AppleCheeks! I love their trim fit and how absorbent the bamboo inserts are. They are a great product!!
Mallorie Reid says
We love Applecheeks. Tried a few brands initially but always got leaks and my husband begged me to get more Applecheeks. That was 3yrs ago and our stash is onto its second baby! 🙂
Kristen G says
I’ve always used 3-ply bamboo, but I just ordered a few 2-ply bamboo, I’m looking forward to trying them out!
Cheryl Townsend says
Awesome review. I don’t own any cloth diapers yet, but I’m so excited to try Apple Cheeks!
Tera Penton says
AppleCheeks are my favourite cloth diapers so far. And especially love how soft the inner fleece is against babies bum
Alison Maffett says
I’m using applecheeks with my second child now, and love how well they have held up they have the cutest prints/colors.
Kaitlin says
I love the great fit we get with Applecheeks. And the cute ruffles!
CHANTAL CORMIER says
We love applecheeks here. its the only brand we use and prefer them as an AI2
Nicole Huckins says
Love the Tiffany prints!
Tera Penton says
AppleCheeks are my favourite diaper brand love the colours and the fit and just how cute they look and how soft the fleece is on babe bum
Karri says
We LOVE AppleCheeks. They are our night time solution. Found a good sale and added 9 more to our stash. They fit so well and are so adorable.
Karri Dively says
Suddenly Royal is by far my favorite solid color, but I am in love with Irrelephant!!!
kayla sheehan says
i had no idea that you could use them two different ways!
Laura T. says
I really like the simplicity, affordability, and quality of AppleCheeks!
Mallory Wanless says
I love the great prints, and the big size ranges. It means I can use them on both of my boys for longer.
Brittany K says
We love Applecheeks. The fit is great and we love the option to use as a pocket or as an AI2. I love the wide pocket so that inserts come out easy in the wash too!
Madison D says
Great review! We love our AC’s here in our home!
Jordan graham says
I would love to win because I’m just starting to cloth diaper both of my girls and the more diapers I can get the better! We are on a tight budget so it would be a blessing! (:
Winny Marte Morales says
Love my ACs. They are absolutely adorable and provide the best fit for my LO
Angela Steed says
We’re an exclusive AppleCheeks house. The quality, the variety in colours and prints, and the wonderful slim fit on my kids made me head over heels in love with them.
Natalie lariviere says
I absolutely love apple cheeks diapers and designs. Thanks for the review, very informative
Scianda says
Our diaper stash is entirely Applecheeks! The fit is great for my petite baby, and not having to mess with rise snaps.
Louise G says
Without ever tlhaving tried one my first impression of Applecheek is that they look so darn comfortable. They are so soft and that elastic is incredibly stretchy. I think they would be a stash favorite of mine if i owned one
davi ann mueller says
Great review- very honest, down to the tips on how to make it fit best. I love the print you received; dragonflies are some of my most favorite creatures. I LOVE fitted diapers with covers, but am still a bit leary of the sized AI2S. This might be a cd that could convert me. 🙂
Sabrina says
I love the fit, the ruffles, the prints, everything about Applecheeks!
Whitney says
I have been reading up on cloth diapers and wanting to go ahead and buy a few different ones before my little girl arrives. The review was very informative and seems like this would be a good fit for many babies (big or small). I also like the AI2 option. Less and simple clean up!
Megan Lucas says
I like the info you give about the inserts,& how they button!
loveangiex3 says
I just entered these i love your honest review i hope i get a chance to win or try them!
Aishwarya says
I was planning on buying Applecheeks for my son and was looking for blog reviews. Yours showed up on Google and thank you for the sincere review, especially talking about the fit which I don’t see much in other blogs. After reading your review made the plunge and ordered my first Applecheek diapers. Happy Blogging !
The Inquisitive Mom says
I am so excited for you! 🙂
Holly B says
I love their bamboo inserts. And the covers fit so great.
Rachel says
Haven’t tried applecheeks yet. Hope to soon!
Marie Cole says
I’ve always heard good things about AppleCheeks but I prefer one size diapers so I never bought any. I’ve heard that they now make a one size diaper so I might finally give them a try.