In the era of green = cool, cloth diapers are very hip. So for what may the first time ever in my life, I am doing something "cool". Anyway - when I was busy growing my baby I spent a lot of time researching cloth diapers. Different types, brands, etc. I always found blogs with actual people reviewing the products and pictures of real babies wearing the diapers to be very helpful.
In an effort to hopefully help some other person in search of cloth information I figured I would post some info about my experience. Granted it's only been 11mos but I have cleared the newborn and overnight hurdles. I hope the next year-ish continues this smoothly until I get to pack up the dipes for good.
A brief overview:
- Basic types of diapers
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| Prefold with angel wing fold held together with a snappi |
Prefolds/flats, a flat is basically a big square of cotton that is folded to fit the baby. A prefold is a piece of cotton sewn into a smaller square with a thicker middle or a "pre-folded" part (still requires minimal folding onto baby). Both require pins or a snappi to hold onto the baby and are very basic diapering, cheap, efficient and relatively easy to use once you get the hang of folding. Flats/prefolds require a waterproof cover.
Fitteds, are typically cotton or combination cotton/bamboo/hemp/etc. are shaped to fit the baby and have elastic along the leg. Some have snaps to hold it onto the baby, others do not and require pins or a snappi. Another easy diapering option, however the type and pricing can vary greatly. There are women who make specialty fitteds that go for a lot and there are basic unbleached cotton ones that are quite inexpensive and everything in between. Fitteds require a waterproof cover however a lot of moms let their kiddos wear a fitted around the house without pants to let the bum air out a bit. The fabric is breathable but it still offers protection from baby pee over just being naked. Some fitteds are incredibly absorbent and can be worn overnight, but none are fully waterproof.
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| PUL cover |
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| Wool Cover |
Covers, there is a huge range of different diaper covers out there. From wool to PUL. There could be a whole post about wool covers, and PUL come in snaps or aplix. With a variety of designs and prints the options are seemingly endless. These have replaced the "rubber pants" of the days of yore.
Pockets, these diapers are a waterproof shell with a liner, typically either suedecloth or microfleece, and are stuffed with absorbent materials. A lot of the pockets come with microfiber inserts some come with bamboo or hemp inserts, a person can easily buy/use either. They are pretty straight forward, in that the diaper has an open pocket. A lot of people like that pockets can be stuffed with extra material for added absorbency for things like long car rides, overnight, etc. Pockets are waterproof and do not require a cover but do require stuffing.
All-in-One, like the name implies this is all the pieces in one diaper. The outside is a waterproof shell, however the absorbent material is sewn into the diaper under a liner and it is all one piece. There is no need to add anything. To make things confusing, some AIOs have a pocket to add additional absorbency if desired. No cover, no stuffing, no folding, these are widely considered pretty much as close to disposable as possible. Drawbacks include long dry time and limited ability to adjust absorbancy, and some people find they don't get as clean since the diaper is all sewn together.
All-in-Two, similar to the AIO/pocket, these have an outer shell that is waterproof. However instead of a sewn in liner like the pocket, the absorbent material is placed/snapped/secured into the shell and can be changed out without dirtying the shell. People find these useful since they can buy less shells since they can be reused between washings. These also wash/dry easier since they are separate pieces. Some AI2s can accommodate disposable inserts which people feel is a better alternative to full disposables especially for travel type situations.
- Basic types of inserts
Microfiber, cheap and absorbent and relatively thin, microfiber is a widely used insert for pockets/AIO diapers. This cannot be placed against baby's skin because it is very drying. Some people do not care for microfiber because it's not a natural fiber and some have reported it can smell over time.
Hemp, very absorbent and thin, hemp is very popular for people looking for a trim insert. A lot of people use hemp as a "doubler" to add absorbancy for longer wear such as overnight or long car trip. People who seek to use natural fibers hemp is a popular insert/doubler. Hemp a lot of fluid but is slower absorbing than microfiber.
Bamboo, similar to hemp, bamboo is very absorbent and thin. Another great option for a trim insert or as a doubler. Many people report bamboo absorbs quicker than hemp but I've never tested the theory.
Both hemp and bamboo can be placed inside a pocket, cover, or AI2 since it's fine to have against baby's skin. However, most people prefer to place something, like microfleece, that wicks moisture away from baby's skin as a liner directly touching baby.
Prefolds can also be used as inserts in any diaper. While bulkier than hemp or bamboo, a cotton prefold is very cheap, absorbent and is a natural fiber.
That covers the basic overview of diapers. At some point I'll make a post with different brands, what I like and dislike
