The undesirable task of changing a diaper was made a little more bearable on Saturday as Kelowna parents and babies attempted to set a Guinness world record for most babies simultaneously changed into cloth diapers.
“It’s a worldwide event at 300 locations in 16 different countries,” said Michelle Muhlbach, owner and operator of Tidy Tushees Diaper Service.
“Last year was the first year and worldwide just over 5,000 babies’ diapers were changed. We’re looking at breaking that record this year.”
According to Muhlbach, the purpose of the Great Cloth Diaper Change was to raise awareness of cloth diapering benefits.
“Everybody here is passionate about cloth diapering, the environment, health benefits and the economics behind it. It motivates them to get out and be counted.”
A total of 44 babies’ cloth diapers were changed at 9:30 a.m. at the Laurel Packinghouse. Muhlbach said that the turnout was very similar to last year.
“We weren’t sure what to expect; we had about 50 last year. We needed 25 babies to qualify for our event and we’re well over that, which is fantastic.”
Muhlbach said that Guinness’ rules for the world record attempt are “very regimented.”
“Babies have to be under 39 inches tall in order to qualify; they have to be changed into a cloth diaper that is commercially available; they have to be changed at exactly 9:30 a.m. PST.
“We also have to have two witnesses, one with community standing and one (has to be) a cloth diaper expert.”
Along with the Great Cloth Diaper Change, an eco-baby fair, featuring 20 green and baby-oriented businesses, was also set up in Laurel Packinghouse.
wpaterson@kelownacapnews.com
