Gone are the days when all cloth diapers were simply pieces of fabric that had to be fastened with pins. From prefolds and flats to fitteds, pockets, and all-in-ones, here are the terms you’ll need to know.
Prefolds
Prefolds remain one of the most popular types of cloth diapers because they’re inexpensive, easy to use, and widely available. Prefolds are made up of layers of fabric, usually cotton or hemp, with extra layers in the middle section for absorbency. You’ll often seen prefolds described with a number, such as 4-8-4, meaning that there are four layers of fabrics on the sides and 8 in the middle. Although many stores sell cloth prefolds for use as burp cloths, you’ll want to make sure to get diaper service quality (DSQ) prefolds when using them as diapers. To hold prefold diapers in place, you’ll need to use pins, fasten the diaper with a Snappi, or use a wrap-style diaper cover.
Flats
Flat diapers are the ultimate in old-fashioned diapers, since they’re simply a square (or rectangle) of fabric. Birdseye flats, made of cotton, are the most common, but you can also find flats made out of cotton gauze, flannel, or hemp. You can fold flats to make the diaper just the size and shape you need for the baby, or layer two or three flats together for a more absorbent diaper. Flats are the least expensive, and quickest drying, type of diaper, but they do take extra time and practice to use.
Fitted
Fitted diapers come with elastic around the leg openings, and have a front closure with snaps or hook and loop tape (also known by the brand names Velcro or Aplix) which eliminates the need for Snappis or pins. Fitteds are especially popular for newborns because they help contain runny messes. However, they’re more expensive than prefolds, and you’ll need keep purchasing larger sizes as the baby grows. Like prefolds and flats, fitted diapers require a diaper cover.
All-in-Ones
These diapers are the ultimate in convenience for people who want cloth diapers that work the most like disposables, since they combine an absorbent lining with a waterproof cover so they can be put on in one step. Daycare providers, babysitters, and people who might be intimidated by cloth diapers are often willing to try all-in-ones (AIOs). These diapers are usually the most expensive type of cloth diapers, and they can take significantly longer to dry. All-in-twos are similar to all-in-ones, but have a snap-in liner that detaches for quicker washing.
Pocket diapers go on the baby in one step, like convenient all-in-ones, but use a removable insert you can stuff into the pocket. Although you do need to take the time to stuff pocket diapers, this allows you to take apart the diaper for quicker, easier washing, and add extra inserts for increased absorbency during naps or nighttime. Although some pocket diapers are available as one-size diapers, which use snaps to make the diaper smaller or larger depending on the size you need, most require you to buy bigger sizes as the baby grows.
When choosing a cloth diaper type, you’ll want to consider the cost and convenience, as well as how easy they are to wash. If you’re still not sure what type would be best for you, you may want to sample a few of each and see how they work for your baby. Keep in mind that you may find one type of diaper works best with a newborn and a different type works better as your baby grows. You may also want one diapering solution, such as prefolds, for home use, and a more convenient cloth diaper, such as an all-in-one or pocket, for babysitters or times when you’re on the go.
