Cloth Diapering 101: Types of Cloth

​​Every family has a system or combination of systems that works best for them. It really depends what you want from your diapers (for example, economy, ease of use, cuteness). Here is an explanation of each system with their features.

Prefolds

Prefold diapers are rectangular pieces of absorbent cloth that have several layers. Most prefolds are either 4x6x4 or 4x8x4, which indicates the number of layers on each side and in the super absorbent thicker strip down the middle of the diaper.

Prefolds can be secured either with Snappi diaper fastener, or simply folded and laid into a diaper cover, which is then fastened onto the baby. Prefolds require a cover because they are not waterproof.

• Prefolds are one of the most economical ways to diaper. 
• Some would argue they are the easiest to launder as they do not need any special care like folding or the removal or stuffing of inserts. They also dry quickly.
• You can choose which type of cover to use, PUL or wool (read on…)
• Prefolds are a two-part diapering system meaning you need to use a diaper and a diaper cover.
• Prefolds don’t have a lining to wick moisture away from the baby’s skin, although you can add a micro-fleece liner inside the diaper for this purpose.
• Prefolds are pretty plain as far a cloth diapers go, although some people like to dye or embellish them.
• Prefolds are available in preemie, infant, and toddler sizes.

Using Prefolds:

Start by prewashing your prefolds at least a few times in hot water. They will quilt up, and become more absorbent with each wash.

There are many ways to fold prefolds:

Tri-fold and place inside a snug-fitting diaper cover. Then fasten onto your baby. The cover will contain any poop blowouts.

The poop-pouch fold - lay the prefold on the table and place baby on top. Fold the front of the prefold up between baby's legs letting the diaper bunch up between baby's legs to form a pouch. Fasten with a Snappi or pins. Use a cover to make this system waterproof.

Cover prefold with a diaper cover for a waterproof system. Some parents of older babies like to use a prefold Snappied without a cover to let the bum get some air - just change your baby once he/she feels wet.

Washing prefolds couldn't be easier! Shake solid poop into the toilet and toss it in the dry pail (exclusively breastfed babies' poop can go straight into the pail). On laundry day dump them in the washer - then either tumble dry or hang in the sun to get stains out and save energy. There is something so serene about a clothesline full of prefolds drying in the sun!

Here's a little video to learn how to fold prefolds. I've used this myself. I refer the jelly roll fold for my little guy.

Fitted Diapers

Fitted diapers are contoured cloth diapers which generally resemble disposable diapers in that they have a contoured shape and have gathered edges around the legs, and fasten with either Aplix (velcro) or snaps. However, as with prefold diapers, a waterproof diaper cover is necessary.

• Fitted diapers typically cost $10-20 or more a piece, depending on the style and material. Fitteds can be made from cotton, bamboo, or hemp.
• Fitted diapers tend to be better at containing messes and preventing leaks than prefolds due to elastic leg casings. Many people use fitteds for overnight for this reason
• Fitteds are a two-part diapering system meaning you need to use a diaper and a diaper cover. You can choose which type of cover to use: PUL, wool or fleece.
• Some fitted diapers don’t have a lining to wick moisture away from the baby’s skin, although you can add a liner inside the diaper for this purpose if you prefer.
• Fitted diapers are available in sized or one-size designs.
• Fitted diapers are available in plain, coloured, or printed designs.
• Many parents will put a fitted on their baby without a cover or pants while at home and then change whenever they become wet. This is a great way to let baby’s bum get some air (like on hot summer days!) and can help prevent or cure a diaper rash.
• Fitted diapers often take longer to dry in your dryer or on a clothesline than prefolds - although many have soakers that snap or flip out to decrease drying time.

Pocket Diapers

Pocket diapers are a two-piece diapering system typically with a piece of fleece that makes up the inner portion of fabric, and a waterproof outer layer. An absorbent material (such as an insert or a prefold) is placed inside of the two pieces, making the whole system act as an all-in-one system that keeps babies dry. Pocket diapers are available with Velcro or snap closures, depending on your preference.

• Most pocket diapers require that you remove the insert before laundering.
• Pocket diapers are available in sized (XS, S, M, L or Size 1/Size 2) or one-size versions which can fit babies from birth to potty learning – these can be a great way to save money. See our FAQ on choosing between One Size and Sized Diapers for more info.
• Pocket diapers are available in many cute colors and prints!
• The absorbency can be customized to suit your baby’s needs. For example, a great nighttime solution is to double stuff a pocket diaper with two inserts for extra absorbency. Others like to add a doubler to the pocket to boost absorbency when needed.
• Pocket diapers have a quick drying time since the absorbent insert is removable for laundering. It's easy to extend the life of your pocket diapers by hanging the empty pockets to dry while drying the inserts in the dryer. This preserves the integrity of elastics and Aplix closures.
• Pocket diapers are very babysitter and grandparent-friendly! They can be pre-stuffed out of the dryer so they are ready to use at changing time.

All-in-One Diapers

All-in-one diapers are exactly that: A waterproof outer and absorbent inner all in one! These are available with snaps or Velcro fasteners. These diapers are ideal for out-of-home use, as they are very similar to disposables.

• The absorbent material is sewn directly into the diaper – no need to stuff pockets or remove inserts before laundering.
• All-in-one diapers are very babysitter and grandparent-friendly.
• All-in-one diapers take longer to dry in the dryer or on a clothesline than pocket diapers
• Some All-in-one diapers do not allow for customizable absorbency, although you can add a diaper doubler to the inside if you like. Many brands have a pocket opening to add extra absorbency if needed! 

*Some Diapers are really "All in Two" Diapers which means that the absorbent soaker is removable. This helps cut down on laundry plus saves money because more soaker than covers can be purchased and you can re-use the cover when changing the diaper (just change the absorbent part)!