Page 64 - South Mississippi Living - April, 2016

HEALTHY LIVING baby q&a
MATERNAL INSTINCT
NATURAL PARENTING BOUTIQUE
story by Kelsey Sunderman photos by John Stricklin
When Hallie Waldrep couldn’t find the natural baby products she needed, she opened her own boutique
last August in Pascagoula. She is the only Certified Babywearing Consultant and Educator in Mississippi and is accredited by the Center for Babywearing Studies. The owner of Maternal Instinct Boutique answers frequently asked babywearing and cloth diapering questions:
303 Delmas Ave. Cottage C, Pascagoula, MS 39567 228.762.2801 www.maternalinstinctboutique.com
HALLIE WALDREP
What is the best carrier on the market? This is based solely on your personal preference! There are many different carriers, so it’s all about which style and fit works best for your curves, as well as those of the little one you’re carrying. We have options in every price range for any size, from petite to plus size.
What types of carriers do you offer in your store? Am I allowed to try them on? At Maternal Instinct, we carry soft-structured carriers, wrap conversions, woven and stretchy wraps, ring slings, and hybrids. We also have options for babywearing apparel. You are able to try on any of the styles in our store.
Who is babywearing ideal for?
Babywearing is ideal for anyone in a parental role. Mothers, fathers, grandparents, and adoptive parents can all benefit from babywearing
through the fostering of the bond between parent and child.
Bonus Tip: If you’d like to try before you buy, Maternal Instinct hosts the largest lending library in Mississippi with more than 40 carriers available to try and more added every month.
What are the different kinds? How will I know which to choose? Cloth diapers can be broken down into three basic categories: Covers, Pockets, and All-in-Ones, All-in-Twos (AI1/AI2)
- Covers are an ideal, cost effective option as only the insert of the diaper needs to be changed during (most) diaper changes. Pockets and AI1/ AI2 function very similarly to disposable diapers and are completely changed at each diaper change. Your choice comes down to your budget, your child’s shape and body type, and your personal preference.
Do I need a special detergent for washing cloth diapers?
Absolutely not. We recommend
using a strong detergent such as Tide original that has no added whiteners or brighteners. You will also want to forgo using fabric softeners and dryer sheets as they can cause buildup,
which will repel liquid and cause leaks.
What accessories do I need to have to use a cloth diapering option? You’ll need something for storing the diapers on the go and at home. Most people choose to use specialized “wet bags” with a waterproof interior. A diaper sprayer and shield are optional but nice to have!
Are there options for potty training, older children, or children with special needs? Yes, there are a variety of options for potty training including cloth pull-ups, hybrids, and training pants. We also have styles available for older children up to 6 years of age, with the ability to order for children up to 13 years of age.
Bonus Tip: If you’re planning to breastfeed and cloth diaper, you will not have to rinse the diapers as long as the baby is exclusively breastfed!
64 SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living • April 2016
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