Smarty Pants Diapers & More

There are several different kinds of diapers. The most common types are prefolds, fitteds (need covers), pockets (no cover needed), and all-in-ones (no cover needed).

 

Prefolds are the old-style diapers that used pins and plastic covers. Today, you can use Snappis instead of pins, and the covers are much softer and more comfortable. Most of today's covers are made of PUL (polyurethane laminate), which is softer and more breathable than plastic. You can also use fleece or wool covers, which are very breathable and soft. If you decide to use prefolds, you should definitely consider using diaper-service quality (DSQ) prefolds--they'll work a lot better and last a lot longer. In general, prefolds are the cheapest way to cloth diaper and have a very classic feel. They're not as convenient as some of the other styles, though, and may be overwhelming to dads and babysitters. Because of their thickness, they also take longer to dry.

 

Fitted diapers are shaped more like disposables, and so are more user-friendly because you don't have to fold them. Fitteds still need a cover, but generally have their own snaps or velcro, so you don't have to fiddle with pins or Snappis. At first, fitteds appear to be the most expensive option, since the fitted diaper may cost the same as a pocket diaper, and then you still have to buy a cover. But keep in mind that you won't need a cover for every diaper--the cover can be reused for several diapers in each laundry cycle so long as it doesn't get messy.

 

Pocket diapers have a microfleece or suedecloth inner layer and a PUL or fleece outer layer with a pocket in between these layers. The inner layer is soft on baby's skin, and the outer layer keeps the mess in, but neither of these layers is particularly absorbant, so you have to put in an absorbant insert. Sometimes the insert is included in the cost of the pocket diaper, and sometimes you have to purchase it separately. Most inserts are made of microfiber, which absorbs quickly, or hemp, which holds a lot, or a combination of both. One advantage to pockets is that they're very convenient and easy for dads and babysitters. You can use more inserts for times when you need more absorbancy, and the inner layer of the pockets is usually a stay-dry fabric, so baby's bottom doesn't feel wet. Because you pull the inserts out before laundering, pockets wash well and dry quickly. Pockets tend to have the trimmest fit of all the diaper types, and you can get one-size pockets that can adjust to fit babies from about a month old to potty training (unless you have a particularly small newborn or a relatively large toddler). Initially, pockets appear to be very expensive--in fact, they do require a large initial investment (as do fitteds and AIO's). In the long run, though, even a diaper stash full of pocket diapers is less expensive than what you would spend on disposables, and you can either save the pockets for the next child, or sell the used pockets to recuperate some of your investment.

 

All-in-one (AIO) diapers are very similar to pockets in form and function, except that the inserts are sewn onto the diaper so you don't have to stuff them. An advantage here is that you won't be sorting through laundry trying to find the right insert. A disadvantage is that the absorbancy is not as adjustable, unless you get a "stuffable" AIO. Also, some AIO's have the inserts sewn in such a way that the diaper doesn't really get clean, and it takes a long time to dry. Some AIO manufacturers have developed designs to address these issues, so keep an eye out for brands that advertise short drying times. AIO's are generally the most expensive type of cloth diaper.

 

There are several hybrids of these types, but generally if you understand these basics, then you'll quickly be able to identify the function of diapers and their accessories.