Cloth Diapering

Ahh, cloth diapers: cute, cost effective, environmentally friendly, easier on the skin...there are so many reasons to use cloth diapers. Have I mentioned they're cute?!

I cloth diapered my first son and am now doing the same with the second. I have been asked many times to share the differences in diaper types, washing routines and other tips. So I decided to try and put it all here...in one post. Let's see how this goes...

If you're trying to figure out what type of diaper will best suite you, you should first consider WHY you are using cloth in the first place.  Is it to save money? Is it to help the planet? Cuteness factor? These will all factor in to what kind diaper you choose. Before I get into the types I just want to say this. Don't limit yourself. If you're pregnant with your first baby, the worst thing to do would be to go out and buy a complete stash of one kind of diaper. First off, you don't know for sure that it's going to be the type you will prefer and second, diapers, just like clothes, will fit all babies differently. What might work on my son, may not work on yours. Hey, you might end up loving what you buy, but you might not. So don't limit yourself.

Types

Flats and Prefolds (old school!) - Flats are like a big sheet that you fold up so that multiple layers of fabric are in the wet zone. Prefolds are many layers sewn together. They, too, need to be folded a bit. Both flats and prefolds are either pinned in the front or you can use a snappi which is like a stretchy Y with claws on the ends. Both types are NOT water proof and will need a cover. These are great options if you're looking to save money. Some people also like the fact that they can change the fit by changing how they fold the diaper. My husband calls them the "Transformer of the diaper world."

Fitteds - These do not need pins or snappis. They do not need to be folded. They are already diaper shaped and are generally secured with snaps or aplix (strong velcro). These, like the types above, need covers.

Pockets - These are diapers that you need to stuff. The outer shell is waterproof so there is no need for  a separate cover. You simply stuff the pocket with the appropriate insert (typically comes with the diaper when you buy it) and it's ready to go. These are secured with snaps or aplix. What's nice about these is you can add more inserts for more absorbency if needed. Some people don't like them because you have to remove the insert before tossing the soiled diaper in the diaper pail or wetbag and you also have to stuff the diapers after every wash. However, once stuffed, these function just like a disposable diaper, so they are husband and babysitter friendly!

All-in-Two (AI2) - These diapers have two separate parts, the waterproof shell and the absorbent inner. Unlike a pocket though, there is no stuffing. Typically the inner will attach to the shell by a snap.
 Pros: No stuffing and dry faster than an AIO. Cons: May cost more than previously mentioned types.

All-in-One (AIO)- These look just like a disposable diaper. Everything is there. No pinning and no stuffing. For some people those are big perks. However, you cannot adjust the absorbency on these like the others and they will take the longest to dry out of all of the types.

Now if you recall, flats, prefolds and fitteds all require covers. What's a cover? A cover is a waterproof "shell" that you would put on over the diaper. Think back to the old crunchy pants used back in the day. Don't worry though, they aren't like that any more! The most popular ones are made out of polyurethane laminate or PUL for short. It's basically a fabric that has been treated to have a kind of plastic coating on one side. This makes it waterproof. PUL covers come with snaps or aplix, in one size versions and sized. Tons of options! (PUL is also used on pockets, AI2s and AIOs.)

Another popular cover is wool. Wool? Yep, wool. It's a natural fiber. It breathes, it repels moisture and also absorbs a ton! Wool covers need to be carefully cared for and treated with lanolin to hold onto their wonderful properties. Many people use them as part of the baby's outfit. They are lovingly referred to as shorties and longies.

Storing and Washing

There are many ways to store your soiled diapers. You've got your dry and your wet systems. I personally prefer a dry system. Here's what I do. I have a "wet bag" (means waterproof bag) hanging on the back of the door. If the diaper has been peed in, I remove the insert and toss it all into the bag. If it's got poop I toss the poop into the toilet, remove insert and toss into bag. (If it's messy poo I have a sprayer attached to the toilet. Breastfed poo can go right in the bag with no rinsing.)

When it's time to wash, I start with a regular rinse with nothing added. Then I'll do a hot wash with a little detergent. Usually regular Tide or All Free and Clear. You typically want a simple detergent. No additives and NEVER any fabric softeners!!!! They will cause your diapers to repel after a while.  Then I'll have it do two rinses. (So I'll turn on the extra rinse feature.)

If it's a nice day out I will hang them to dry. The less time PUL is in the dryer the better. Heat tends to break it down after a while. The sun is also a great way to combat stains!

Then just fold or stuff your diapers and put them back on the changing table or where ever you store them! Easy peasy!



I know there are a TON of other topics I could cover with regards to cloth diapers, but I just wanted to touch on the basics. I have really enjoyed cloth diapering both my sons and I wouldn't have it any other way!