Types of Cloth Diapers

So last week, we talked about some of the reasons people use cloth diapers. Now, I’m going to discuss probably one of the more confusing parts of cloth diaper shopping: the many different types of cloth diapers. One of the things that makes this so confusing is that each cloth diaper company has different names for their types of diapers. But in reality, there are three basic types of diapers, each with different variations based on company. Remember that a diaper has two basic elements: absorbent stuff on the inside, waterproof stuff on the outside. Each different type of diaper is simply a variation of these two elements.

All-in-One Diapers

All-in-one diapers are exactly what they sound like: a diaper that is all one piece. The diaper is made up of multiple layers of absorbent materials and an outer waterproof shell, all sewn together into one piece. These diapers are available in both natural and synthetic materials. During diaper changes, these are the most like disposable diapers: you take the diaper off, put it in your diaper pail, and put a new diaper on. The downside of all-in-one diapers is that they have many layers of fabric and can take a long time to dry. Some brands say you can machine dry them, while others say to line dry them to prolong their usable life. Also, some people report that their all-in-one diapers build up a stink over time. This can be fixed, but please check the manufacturer’s recommendations on this so you don’t void the warranty, if there is one. These are also typically the most expensive cloth diaper option.

Click here and here for examples of all-in-one diapers.

Pocket Diapers

Pocket diapers are essentially a waterproof outer shell with a pocket sewn into it, which you stuff with your desired absorbency, usually an absorbent pad. You can stuff your pads into the pockets right after washing and drying, in order to save time at diaper changes. The downside is that you may have to un-stuff the pockets before laundry time (yes, that’s right, with a dirty diaper), although some companies state that their pads naturally un-stuff themselves during the wash cycle, which is less gross. Pocket diapers are typically made with synthetic materials.

Click here and here for some examples of pocket diapers.

Hybrid Diapers

Let me start by saying that this is the type of diaper we use, but I’ll try not to be too biased. Hybrid diapers, also known as covers, shells, or all-in-two’s depending on the company, are probably the most versatile cloth diaper out there. You start with a waterproof outer shell, and simply place or snap in your absorbency. Click here for some examples of covers that we like to use: GroVia, KangaCare, and Buttons. One of the major benefits of using hybrids is that you can reuse the outer shell for multiple changes (unless it’s a dirty diaper), making hybrids a more economical option.

The following are the different types of absorbencies you can use in a hybrid.

• Prefolds: These are rectangular pieces of cloth with predetermined creases for folding, usually made of cotton, with a double layer in the middle. (Think of those old school burp cloths that everyone uses.) These can be either fastened around baby, or folded and placed in the cover. The benefits of using prefolds is that they are simple to launder, and generally inexpensive. Click here and here for some examples of prefolds. Click here for a great tutorial on the different ways you can use a prefold.

• Flats: Flats are exactly what they sound like: a flat piece of fabric. It’s a single layer of fabric, usually rectangular in shape and made of cotton. Like prefolds, they can be fastened around baby or folded and placed in the cover. They require a little more work on the changing table, but are very easy to launder. Because they are only one layer, it is unlikely that they will ever build up a smell. I should note that we primarily use flats and are very satisfied with it. Again, this is a very inexpensive option. Click here and here for some examples of flats. (Side note about the Gerber flats from Target: most cloth diaperers turn their noses up at these, but I thought they were a good starting point for us because they’re cheap, we could put them on our registry, and they’re small enough to use on a newborn without being too bulky. However, they probably won’t be good for an older baby or toddler.) Click here for an example of one way to fold a flat, although there are many options.

• Inserts: Inserts are soaker pads made specifically for the purpose of being placed in a diaper cover. Most companies that sell covers also sell inserts to go with them. They are available in many different sizes and materials, both natural and synthetic. Some are made to snap into the diaper cover, while others are simply placed in the cover. Many companies make thicker options for nighttime and heavy wetters. Click here, here, and here for some examples of inserts.

• Fitted: Fitted diapers are highly absorbent diapers that fasten onto baby with snaps or hook and loop (Velcro), and have leg and back elastic for a snug fit. Fitted diapers are typically more expensive than other absorbency options. Some people find them useful for nighttime or heavy wetters. Here is an example of a fitted diaper.

• Disposable: Some companies make disposable inserts to be placed in their covers. Obviously these are not as cheap or as green as cloth options, but could be useful for traveling, especially if you will not have access to laundry. Here is an example of disposable inserts.

• Other: You can use just about anything in your diaper covers. Some people use flour sack towels, old t-shirts or sweatshirts, old hand towels, burp cloths. You name it. Just do your research.

We sometimes use a flat diaper and an old towel insert at nighttime for extra absorbency.

In conclusion, this is not an exhaustive list. My hope is to get you started with the basics so that you can have a starting place to do your own research. And if you made it to the end of this post, kudos to you! You deserve a sticker! But since I can't give you one, enjoy this cute diapered baby instead, and come back next week to learn about the ins and outs of getting started with cloth diapers!

Unicorn bum!!

This is part two of a series. Click here to read the rest of the series!

Part one: Why We Use Cloth Diapers

Part three: Getting Started With Cloth Diapers