Your Guide to Cloth Diapers

For many people the thought of cloth diapers conjures up images of diaper pins, stinky pails and plastic pants.  But cloth diapers have come a long way!  And the benefits of cloth diapers are trendier than ever.  They come in designer prints and colors.  They have a dramatically smaller impact on the environment than disposable diapers.  And they are gentler on your babies bottom,  preventing rashes and irritation.  Also, some experts believe that wearing cloth diapers can help children potty train earlier.  Perhaps you are ready to switch, but are utterly confused by all of the new products.  Here is a run down of the different cloth diaper options on the market today.

• Prefolds, Flats and Covers (most economical) – Inexpensive and easy to care for, prefolds are absorbent cotton diapers that are pinned with a Snappi around the baby.  A cover goes over the prefold and is secured with velcro.  These are a lot like disposable diapers.  Cotton diapers should be changed and washed each time they are worn, but covers will not have to be replaced unless they are soiled.
• Fitted Diapers with Covers – Instead of a prefold, you use a cloth diaper that has velcro or snaps to hold it in place.  These are just as easy as a disposable, except that you have to diaper twice each time by putting on the diaper as well as a cover.  Many of these diapers have special linings to keep wetness away from the baby.  Covers may be used multiple times.
• Pocket – These diapers have a stay-dry lining and a waterproof cover sewn together and come with a stuffer that is placed between the two layers to absorb all the moisture.  Solids easily roll off the fleece or suede cloth liner into the toilet.  The stuffing is easily removed and replaced for efficient washing and drying.
• AIO (All in One) – For an AIO the lining, absorbent layer, and waterproof cover are all sewn together.  They are just like disposables, only more attractive, comfortable, and cooler.   The downside is that it can be hard to get all those layers of fabric really clean and they take a very long time to dry.  Many AIOs are not very absorbent.
• Pocket AIO – This is a mix of the two.  It has a pocket to stuff but it is not necessary.