Are you having a hard time trying to figure out the difference with all of these cloth diapers? Cloth diapering and all its definitions might be intimidating at first, but once you learn a little bit about each type of diaper it will be rather easy to figure out. Here is a list of some of the most common diapers and diapering systems.
All in Ones – AIO – The absorbent inner part of the diaper and waterproof outer are combined. They close with a snap system or a hook and loop system similar to Velcro, called Aplix. All in Ones are one piece diapers that do not require a cover. They are very trim. These diapers are very similar to a disposable diaper, and make a good diaper for a daycare setting. The advantage of these diapers is their ease of use and trimness. However, one will be sacrificing quick drying.
All in Two – AI2 – These diapers are similar to an AIO diaper with the exception that the soaker in an AI2 is separate from the diaper. A pro of the AI2 diaper is the soaker and diaper itself separate, which means quicker drying. With an AI2, you can change the soaker and keep using the diaper itself for several diaper changes.
Contours – Contour diapers are very similar to prefolds with one major difference, they do not need to be folded. Contour diapers have an hourglass shape, which makes them trimmer in the crotch and a faster drying diaper than fitted diapers or all in ones. Contour diapers do not have elastic in the legs or waist and have no attached closures, so they must be closed with either a Snappi or a diaper pin. Contour diapers are not waterproof and need to be fitted with a diaper cover.
Diaper Covers – Diaper covers provide the waterproof layer you need with certain types of diapers, such as contours, fitteds, prefolds, and flats. PUL, wool, and fleece are some of the more popular waterproof materials that diaper covers are made out of. Diaper covers either come in “one-size,” which means they will fit your baby from birth to potty training, or you can choose a “sized” diaper cover, which will provide a trimmer fit. Diaper covers will either have an Aplix or snap closure. A diaper cover paired with a prefold will provide you with low cost cloth diapering.
Doublers – Doublers are added to the diaper to increase absorbency. Most parents choose to add a doubler for long trips, naps, and nighttime. Liners are
Fitteds – Fitted diapers are similar to contour diapers, but these diapers close with either snaps or a hook and loop system. Some fitted diapers are not waterproof and need to be fitted with a diaper cover.
Flats – These are probably what most people picture when they hear the word cloth diapers. Flats are one-layer and they are usually made out of 100% cotton gauze. These diapers must be closed with a diaper pin or Snappi and will need a diaper cover since they are not waterproof. One advantage of flats is they dry extremely quick.
Inserts – Inserts are the absorbent material you put inside a pocket diaper. You can choose from a variey of sizes, fabrics, and styles. You can adjust the absorbency of your child’s diaper by adding or removing inserts. Prefolds, flats, or hand towels can also be used as inserts for your pocket diapers.
Pocket Diaper – Another type of diaper is called the pocket diaper. They have a layer of fleece sewn to a cover and have an opening either in the front or back so the diaper can be stuffed with absorbent inserts of your choice. One advantage of a pocket diaper is you can adjust the absorbency by simply adding or removing inserts. Most parents use these as nighttime diapers due to the ability to adjust the absorbency.
Prefolds – These are similar to flats, but instead of having just one layer, they have multiple layers and have more layers in the middle. Prefolds are one of the most popular options. They need to be fastened with a diaper pin or Snappi, or you can fold them to fit into your favorite diaper cover. You can find them with many different options, such as bleached or unbleached, Indian or Chinese, and there are several different fabric options available as well. Prefolds come in a variety of sizes from newborn to toddler.
