Cloth Diapering: Types of Dipes

We've been cloth diapering for almost 6 months now, and we're still going strong!  A lot of people have said, "Teach me," so I figured I would do a few posts on some of the basics.  But hey, cut me a break because we're still learning too :)

I thought about starting out with a post that describes the benefits of cloth diapering.  It can be much more cost effective, it's environmentally friendly, and it's generally better for babies.  However, there are already other blogs and sites that will even do a cost breakdown comparison of disposables vs. cloth diapers, so I figured I don't have to.  Hey, if it ain't broke, don't fix it!  Besides, if you are reading this, you are probably already convinced.

When thinking about what type of cloth diapers you want to buy, it's important to consider your needs. Are you going to CD (cloth diaper) full time? Are you looking for the least expensive option? Do you want a diaper that will grow with your child, or would you prefer sized diapers?  All of these things will help determine which type of diaper is best for you.

There are 4 main types of cloth diapers.  I have them listed from most primitive (and generally cheapest) to the fanciest.

Prefolds and Covers:  In short, these are probably the kind of diapers that your grandma used.  They look like big burp cloths until you pre-wash and dry them several times, which makes them appear more thick and quilted.  The prefolds themselves can be folded a variety of ways.  Although people used to use pins to fasten the diaper, snappi clips have generally taken their place.  Once the diaper is fastened, a waterproof cover (snap or velcro) goes on top.

Fitteds and Covers: These diapers are made of the same absorbent material as prefolds, but they require no folding! That's because they're already shaped as a diaper with fasteners.  However, they still require the use of a waterproof cover.

Pocket Diapers: Pocket diapers are a step above fitted diapers because they don't require the use of a waterproof cover.  Instead, the diaper has a microfiber inside that draws moisture away from the baby's skin.  A diaper liner, which is a narrow strip of absorbent material, goes inside a pocket that is built into the diaper.  The diaper may be double-stuffed for nighttime usage.  These generally keep your baby feeling more dry than a prefold or a fitted diaper would as well.

All-In-Ones: "AIO" diapers are really just glorified pocket diapers.  The main difference is that there is no stuffing involved.  The liner that would normally go inside a pocket in a pocket diaper is attached to the diaper.  (It is often referred to as a soaker.) I think most of them do have a pocket opening for additional "stuffage" (new word).

So there you have it! These are the very basics of cloth diapering.  So far, we have used prefolds/covers and pocket diapers.  I'm planning to do some more posts about cloth diapering, but if you have specific questions that you want answered, just leave a comment!