In Depth Baby Product Reviews Led by a Pediatrician

bumGenius Freetime Review

An easy-to-use diaper that's perfect for first-time cloth users but has a bulkier fit
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bumgenius freetime cloth diaper review
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Price:  $22 List
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Manufacturer:   Cotton Babies
By Abriah Wofford & Juliet Spurrier, MD  ⋅  Mar 23, 2023
61
OVERALL
SCORE


RANKED
#5 of 13
  • Absorbency - 35% 6.0
  • Fit/Leakage - 30% 6.0
  • Comfort - 20% 5.0
  • Ease of Use - 15% 8.0

The Skinny

The bumGenius Freetime is one of the easiest-to-use diapers in our best cloth diaper review. If you are hesitating to dive into cloth, this could be the perfect product to get your feet wet. Using this diaper is a breeze, from the placement of the inserts to the double row of snaps. The simple assembly is almost as easy as using disposable diapers and is nearly impossible to do wrong. Even for a seasoned cloth diaper user, having a few of these in your stash may be worthwhile for those rare moments when someone else is changing your baby. Read on to find out if the Freetime diaper fits your diapering needs.
REASONS TO BUY
Assembly free
Option for extra inserts
Quick absorbency
REASONS TO AVOID
Non-removable bulk
Single gusset
Line dry only
Editor's Note: We updated the bumGenius Freetime gear review on February 28, 2023. With new products added to the cloth diaper review, we checked to ensure that this gear review still reflects how the bumGenius Freetime compares.

Compare to Similar Products

 
bumgenius freetime cloth diaper review
This Product
bumGenius Freetime
Awards Top Pick Award Editors' Choice Award Best Value Award Best Value Award  
Price $22 List$24 List
$25.95 at Amazon
$20.00 List$15.00 List
$11.95 at Amazon
$6.50 List
$6.17 each at Amazon
Overall Score Sort Icon
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70
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52
Star Rating
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Pros Assembly free, option for extra inserts, quick absorbencyHighly absorbent, soft fabric, no leakageTrim fit, easy assembly, easy to get good fitAbsorbent, soft lining, large pocketInexpensive set, extra bamboo inserts, good fit
Cons Non-removable bulk, single gusset, line dry onlyBulky, requires stuffingFree floating liner, single gussetBulky, difficult to adjust, requires stuffingNot for heavy wetters, tight pocket
Bottom Line An easy-to-use diaper that's perfect for first-time cloth users but has a bulkier fitA high-quality pocket diaper with absorbency superpowers, but requires extra effortEasy to use, easy to clean diaper perfect for on-the-go cloth diaperingA no-frills pocket-style diaper that is bulky but has a strong absorbency performanceA cheap system of cloth diapers that's lower quality but gets the job done
Rating Categories bumGenius Freetime Rumparooz Pocket Flip with Stay Dry... Imagine Baby Pocket... babygoal Reusable
Absorbency (35%)
6.0
9.0
7.0
8.0
5.0
Fit/Leakage (30%)
6.0
9.0
7.0
5.0
6.0
Comfort (20%)
5.0
8.0
7.0
4.0
5.0
Ease of Use (15%)
8.0
4.0
7.0
6.0
4.0
Specs bumGenius Freetime Rumparooz Pocket Flip with Stay Dry... Imagine Baby Pocket... babygoal Reusable
Style All-in-one (AIO) Pocket Hybrid/AI2 Pocket Pocket
Tested Material Diaper Synthetic Fiber: Polyester, Nylon, Spandex Synthetic Fiber: Polyester, Polyamide Synthetic Fiber: Polyester, Nylon, Spandex Synthetic Fiber: Polyester, Nylon Natural & Synthetic Fiber: Bamboo, Polyester, Polyurethane
Weight Range 8 to 35 lbs 6 - 35+ lbs 8 to 35 lbs 8 to 35+ lbs 7 to 33 lbs
Gusset Single Double Single Single Single

Our Analysis and Test Results

In 2005, bumGenius appeared on the scene. Cotton Babies manufactures the bumGenius brand, plus other cloth diaper brands, including Flip, Econobum, and Elemental Joy. They believe every parent and baby is unique, so they have designed each brand to reach a different market and various needs. The bumGenius brand offers a selection of options. The Freetime diaper is their all-in-one style that's more practical for parents who are newcomers to the cloth diaper bandwagon.

Performance Comparison


bumgenius freetime cloth diaper review - the bumgenius freetime is one of the easiest diapers to use.
The bumGenius Freetime is one of the easiest diapers to use.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Absorbency


The bumGenius Freetime is slightly above average in our absorbency tests.


A start-to-finish view of our absorbency testing for cloth diapers in the GearLab in-house lab.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

The bumGenius Freetime is an all-in-one (AIO) style cloth diaper with two semi-attached (meaning only one end is sewn into the diaper) microfiber inserts, and another layer of microfiber fabric is sewn into the diaper's shell. The top side of the inserts has a lining of stay-dry fabric that keeps the baby from feeling soggy. Despite all this, the bumGenius Freetime is slightly above average in our absorbency tests. During our hands-on testing, it was always sufficient, and thanks to the way the inserts are sewn in, it can accept additional layers of inserts when needed.

The semi-attached inserts can overlap or fold in a few ways to maximize absorption in the right spot. If it's still not enough, a pocket is sewn into each insert's underside, and you can place an extra insert or prefold inside without sacrificing the soft stay-dry lining.

bumgenius freetime cloth diaper review - the freetime diaper was near the middle of the pack in our...
The Freetime diaper was near the middle of the pack in our absorbency tests.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

The picture above displays the result of our in-house absorbency test, showing an average amount of green. The inserts have a smooth, wicking fabric on top and terrycloth-like microfiber underneath. We like that it is impossible to place the wrong fabric against the baby's skin by accident because they are fastened with the right side facing up. This feature is just one more on the long list of conveniences added to help keep the process simple and foolproof.

bumgenius freetime cloth diaper review - the single gusset felt snugger than some of the other diapers we...
The single gusset felt snugger than some of the other diapers we tested.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Fit/Leakage


Compared to the competition, the bumGenius Freetime scores slightly above average for this metric.


As a one-size diaper, this diaper can fit infants from 8-35 lbs, and maybe even longer if you have a thin baby. The leg holes did get a bit snug on our 20 lbs baby tester, and we had to experiment to find the most comfortable fit for her. Because of this, we think it is unlikely that the diaper will last beyond the 35 lbs mark.

bumgenius freetime cloth diaper review - we are big fans of the double waist snaps and the stretchy fabric on...
We are big fans of the double waist snaps and the stretchy fabric on the snap tab.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

The Freetime has various snap positions to help create and customize a great fit. It has three snap positions for the rise and four snap positions for the waist. The double row of waist snaps helps to keep the diaper flush against the baby's belly and prevents leaks or waist gapping. Elastic wraps around the back edge of the diaper, and the snap tabs are stretchy and flexible, adding to both the comfort and security of this diaper. While testing this product, we did not encounter any problems with leakage.

bumgenius freetime cloth diaper review - stretchy in all the right places, the bumgenius freetime was...
Stretchy in all the right places, the bumGenius Freetime was comfortable for our active baby tester.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Comfort


With no notable elements for comfort, the bumGenius Freetime is average.


It has an unusually slender profile for an AIO diaper, seeming less bulky than all other AIOs in our review. The polyester lining is not as soft as some others, but there were no rough spots or itchy fabrics that may irritate the baby's skin. The cover fabric is silky smooth, and the elastics around the legs and back of the diaper are not stiff. We appreciate that there are stretchy tabs where the diaper snaps at the waist. You can get an extra snug fit without the fear of digging into the baby's belly.

bumgenius freetime cloth diaper review - the bumgenius freetime stands out from the competition thanks to its...
The bumGenius Freetime stands out from the competition thanks to its ease of use features.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Ease of Use


With a high score in this metric, the bumGenius Freetime stands out among the competition. It's one of our favorites for ease of use, making cloth diapering even easier.


This diaper has the ease of an all-in-one with the versatility of a hybrid, making it a lazy cloth diaper user's dream come true. There is absolutely nothing to snap, stuff, tuck, or fold. The semi-attached inserts are impossible to lose or place incorrectly while still allowing you to dictate the area of maximum absorbency. Although, in all honesty, we just laid the inserts flat over one another and had no problems. Snap the nappy around the baby's waist, and you're good to go. This process is ideal for first-time cloth users. Many parents choose to keep a few AIOs around for the odd babysitter or visit at grandma's, even if they build the rest of their stash from a different style. It operates so similarly to a disposable that you can hardly go wrong.

The Freetime inserts are highly customizable, so you can get extra...
The Freetime inserts are highly customizable, so you can get extra absorbency right where you need it.
Laid flat over one another, the double inserts worked great for our...
Laid flat over one another, the double inserts worked great for our hands-on use.

Laundering is where this all catches up to you. Like any other AIO, you must wash the entire diaper, cover, and insert after each change. We recommend using a baby detergent that works for cloth diapers, and the best baby detergents review can offer recommendations. It can be tumble-dried on a low setting, but it can take longer than those with removable inserts as everything is attached. The benefits of the unfoldable inserts of the Freetime are seemingly endless, as they can be more or less separated for drying, helping speed up the process a little. This feature makes it a good option for those looking for a faster-drying AIO. Although it is okay to machine dry this diaper, we recommend line drying. It extends the life of the diaper, particularly elastics and snaps, and helps maintain the integrity of the waterproofing.

bumgenius freetime cloth diaper review - there are many things to consider before making your final decision...
There are many things to consider before making your final decision about cloth.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Should You Buy the bumGenius Freetime?


The bumGenius Freetime earned a top-pick award for its first-rate ease-of-use features and is one of our favorite AIO diapers in this review. While it is typical for this style not to perform as well as a pocket diaper or AI2, it may be enough to suit your needs. It is beneficial during the first months of the baby's life when less absorbency is needed, and keeping things simple is key. If you are trying to be more environmentally responsible but aren't ready to sacrifice your time and convenience, this may be the right product for you. The bumGenius falls in the middle of the pack regarding price. We think it is a quality diaper, but it is somewhat snug and may not last throughout your child's diaper days. This system is ideal for those new to cloth diapering, but we think it is worth some investigation as it may not be the most cost-effective choice. An all-in-one system is the best way to ease into more economical (and more complicated) styles that will carry you through to the end.

bumgenius freetime cloth diaper review - the bumgenius freetime is similar to disposable diapers, meaning you...
The bumGenius Freetime is similar to disposable diapers, meaning you use it and take it off.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

What Other Cloth Diaper Should You Consider?


While this option is super easy thanks to an assembly-free design, it might not be the best option depending on your diapering goal. If finding a great absorbing diaper you can use up to 40+ sounds attractive, the Rumparooz Pocket is a potential contender. This top-ranking option requires a bit of preparation, but it has superior functionality and can be used through the diapering years. Alternatively, the Flip with Stay Dry Insert is a great hybrid diaper with above-average results and can be used for up to 35+ lbs. It has a lower price and saves you money as you can use it for years, and once you buy your stash, you are good to go.

Abriah Wofford & Juliet Spurrier, MD
 

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