Cloth Diaper Types

What Works For You?

No matter what the scenario, there is the perfect cloth diapering system for you and your babies needs and preferences. This page breaks down all the details you need to make an informed decision.

All In One Diapers

Overview:

One-piece system consisting of a waterproof outer shell and attached absorbent cloth interior. Inserts can be added to increase absorbency. Available in natural fibers and microfiber. Also available in both snap or hook and loop closures.

Pros:

✔︎ Convenient 
✔︎ Easy to Use
✔︎ Great for Caregivers

Cons:

𝗫 Longer dry time
𝗫 Can be more expensive
𝗫 Entire diaper must be changed after use

Suggested Accessories:

- Wet Bag
- Diaper Liner
- Doubler

Pocket Diapers

Overview:

Waterproof outer shell with an opening for inserts, flats, or prefolds to be placed inside. Generally pockets are sold with microfiber inserts; however there are some options that offer natural fiber inserts. Available in both snap or hook and loop closures.

Pros:

✔︎ Easily adjust level of absorbency
✔︎ Generally very absorbent
✔︎ Easy to Use

Cons:

𝗫 Diaper must be changed after every use
𝗫 Stuffing the pocket requires extra work
𝗫 Can be bulky

Suggested Accessories:

- Wet Bag
- Doubler

All In Two / Hybrid Diapers

Overview:

Waterproof outer shell with separate insert. Soiled insert is changed out and cover can be reused over multiple changes. Inserts and covers are generally sold separately. Good rule of thumb is to have 3 inserts for every 1 cover. Inserts are available in natural fibers and microfibers. Available in both snap or hook and loop closures.

Pros:

✔︎ Covers are reusable over multiple changes
✔︎ Trim Fit
✔︎ Take up less space in diaper bag
✔︎ Easy to Use

Cons:

𝗫 Not all inserts are compatible across brands
𝗫 Can be pricey
𝗫 Size up inserts as baby grows

Suggested Accessories:

- Wet Bag
- 3 inserts per shell
- Diaper Liner

Cloth Diaper Covers

Overview:

Waterproof outer shell to be used over flats, prefolds, fitteds, or inserts. Available in both PUL/TPU and wool. PUL/TPU covers are available in pull on style, snap, or hook and loop closures.  What is PUL / TPU? PUL stands for Polyurethane Laminate, which is a polyester fabric. TPU stands for Thermoplastic Polyurethane, which is the laminate making the cloth waterproof. 

Pros:

✔︎ Versatile
✔︎ Trim Fit
✔︎ Reusable over multiple changes
✔︎ Wool options

Cons:

𝗫 Steep learning curve
𝗫 Difficult for caregivers

Suggested Accessories:

- Wet Bag
- Flats, prefolds, fitteds, inserts 
- Fasteners 

Fitted Diapers

Overview:

Contoured absorbent cloth shaped to fit your baby - no folding required. Different closure options available including snaps, hook and loop, or snap less (which will require a fastener). Fitted Diapers are made from natural fibers.

Pros:

✔︎ Very absorbent
✔︎ Can be an overnight option
✔︎ Allows airflow to skin if used without a cover

Cons:

𝗫 Long dry times
𝗫 Difficult for caregivers
𝗫 Bulky fit

Suggested Accessories:

- Wet Bag
- Cloth diaper cover
- Diaper liner 
- Fasteners 

Prefold Diapers

Overview:

Rectangular shaped cloth generally made up of three panels of various layers of fabric. Can be trifolded and laid into a cover or folded and closed with a fastener. Available in cotton, bamboo, hemp, and organic options.

Pros:

✔︎ Versatile
✔︎ Fast drying
✔︎ Very affordable

Cons:

𝗫 Size up as baby grows
𝗫 Difficult for caregivers
𝗫 Bulky fit

Suggested Accessories:

- Wet Bag
- Cloth diaper cover
- Diaper liner 
- Fasteners 

Flat Diapers

Overview:

Large single layer of fabric. Can be pad-folded and laid into a cover or folded and closed with a fastener. Available in cotton, bamboo, hemp, and organic options.

Pros:

✔︎ Versatile
✔︎ Easy to hand wash and dry
✔︎ Very affordable

Cons:

𝗫 Needs to be folded
𝗫 Difficult for caregivers
𝗫 Steep learning curve

Suggested Accessories:

- Wet Bag
- Cloth diaper cover
- Diaper liner 
- Fasteners