Cloth Diaper Options

Cloth Options
Getting started with cloth can be a daunting task; there are a ton of options, everyone has his or her personal favorites and at first there might even seem to be a secret language. This page will give you an overview of popular cloth diaper styles and define some of the terminology related to these wonderful products.

Diapering with cloth is easy, fun and flexible. You can mix and match styles and manufacturers or stick with one diaper that you love. Please use this information to find your perfect diapering system and let us know if we can help you Discover What Works For Your Family.

Pocket Diapers
Pocket Diaper: built with a waterproof outer layer, an inner layer of fleece and a pocket opening. The two layers are sewn together all the way around except the center of the upper edge in back, this opening creates a pocket that can be stuffed with various items (inserts, doublers, even prefolds) to offer the desired level of absorbency. Pocket diapers typically close around baby`s waist with snaps or Velcro-type tabs and have elasticized leg openings.

Insert: multiple layers (typically three) of microfiber terrycloth or hemp sewn in a rectangular shape and stuffed inside a pocket diaper to absorb liquid. The liquid is pulled through the fleece layer of the pocket diaper, into the insert and away from baby’s skin.

Doubler: constructed just like an insert however it is typically two layers. These are used in addition to an insert to offer extra absorbency when needed, like overnight or for naptime. Please note that a doubler is usually thinner than a regular insert. (This was fairly confusing for me at first.)

AIOs (All in Ones)
AIOs (All in Ones): built like a disposable diaper only they’re reusable. These have elasticized leg openings and close around baby at the waist with snaps or Velcro-type closures. They consist of a waterproof outer shell and soft inner including a layered, absorbent soaker for absorbancy.

Soaker: multiple layers of fabric (typically microfiber terrycloth, sherpa or hemp) sewn in a rectangular shape and used inside an AIO to absorb urine. These can be permanently sewn in or can be added by simply layering inside or secured in with snaps or Velcro-type tabs.

Covers and Prefolds or Fitted Diapers
Covers: provide the waterproof outer shell when used in conjunction with an absorbent diaper. These have varying leg openings (elasticized, cuffs) and methods to secure around baby's waist (snaps, Velcro-type tabs, ties). Covers are typically made of PUL laminate, fleece or wool.

Prefolds: A prefold is a flat diaper that has been prefolded and sewn into a rectangular shape. The folding of the flat diaper into a prefold typically offers more absorbency in the center. When shopping for prefolds you will find the layers described in each area of the prefold. For example, a 4-8-4 premium prefold has 4 layres in the outer sections and 8 layers in the center. Overall prefold dimensions vary to offer different size options like preemie, infant, premium and toddler.

The prefold provides the absorbency but it is not waterproof and will need to be used with a cover. Prefolds are secured around the baby using a snapi or pins (just like our moms used to) or they can be used in conjunction with a great fitting cover by folding in thirds and layering inside the cover. Prefolds are typically cotton, flannel, bamboo or hemp.

Fitted Diapers: are similar in shape to a disposable diaper with elasticized leg openings and Velcro-type tabs or snaps to secure around baby at the waist. These absorb urine and are used inside diaper cover. On their own, they are not waterproof. Fitteds are typically cotton blend or hemp.

Liner: thin layer of fabric placed in between baby and prefold or fitted diaper to protect against staining.