When it comes to using cloth diapers on your baby there are numerous options. From a wide range of fabrics to a variety of cloth diaper types, choosing the best cloth diapering option for your baby can be a challenge. Here is some helpful information on the different types of cloth diapers and how to use them on your baby.
Prefold Cloth Diapers
Prefold cloth diapers are the most basic and cost effective cloth diapers. They are simply squares of gauzy cotton fabric with an added layer of fabric throughout the center. Prefold cloth diapers are extremely economical, easy to wash and will dry on the line or in the dryer in record time.
The prefold is a multifunctional cloth diaper with numerous folding options. Prefold cloth diapers can be secured with a Snappi or with cloth diaper pins. A Snappi is a simple little diaper fastener that stretches across the front of the diaper and secures the diaper so it stays together. It is a great option because you don't have to worry about sharp pins when diapering your baby.
Another popular and incredibly easy way to secure a prefold cloth diaper is to take a prefold and fold it in half. Then lay the folded prefold inside a diaper cover. Use a diaper cover such as the Bummis Whisper Wrap or Thirsties because they have Velcro type closures. Once the diaper has been placed inside the prefold all you need to do is diaper your baby as you would using a disposable. This is the easiest way to use prefold cloth diapers.
Prefold cloth diapers can also be used inside pocket diapers or inside all in one diapers for extra absorbency.
Contour Cloth Diapers
Contour cloth diapers are a cross between prefolds and fitted cloth diapers. They are pre-shaped into an hour glass formation for quick and easy fitting. Contours are a cinch to use and are great when working on a budget. Contour cloth diapers can be secured with a Snappi or with cloth diaper pins. Contours require a diaper cover.
Fitted Cloth Diapers
Fitted cloth diapers are snug fitting cloth diapers that come with a snap or Velcro style closure. There is no pinning required and you can adjust the diapers to find the perfect leak free fit for your baby's size and shape. These diapers have gussets at the legs for a slim fitting and leak resistant fit.
Fitted cloth diapers are available in a wide variety of fabrics including cotton, cotton fleece, organic cotton, terry cloth, bamboo, sherpa or hemp. They also require a diaper cover.
To diaper a baby using a fitted diaper simply lay the diaper under baby and secure it as you would a disposable diaper. Add a diaper cover and you are all set!
Pocket Cloth Diapers
Pocket cloth diapers are basically a deluxe diaper cover that has a pocket where you can add layers inside the pocket for added absorption. This allows you to control how bulky or slim the diaper will be as well as how much absorption or diaper liners your baby will need. For example, if you are running out to do an errand with your baby you may opt to use only one diaper liner in the pocket diaper. However, when your baby goes down for a nap you may opt to use three diaper liners for added absorbency.
The inside of a pocket style cloth diaper is usually made of fleece, cotton, Sherpa or some other soft breathable material that will be against your baby’s bum. The outside layer of a pocket diaper is designed with leak resistant fabric to contain wetness and prevent leaks.
Pocket cloth diapers are easy to use and are very quick to wash and dry. These cloth diapers come in a wide variety of patterns, colors and styles which makes it relatively easy to find one that will work for you and your little one.
All in One (AIO) and All in Two (AI2) Cloth Diapers
The all in one (AIO) cloth diaper is very similar in function to a disposable diaper but instead of throwing it out you wash it and use it again and again. An all in one (AIO) cloth diaper is created as one piece with a double or triple layer of cotton or hemp fabric on the inside and a leak resistant fabric on the outside. They secure using either Velcro type material or snaps at the sides.
All in one diapers take a little longer to dry but are overall extremely convenient for parents that don’t want to spend too much time on cloth diaper prefolds, fitteds or covers.
All in twos (AI2) are similar to the all in ones except that the inner soaker material can be detached and washed separately. This speeds up the drying time of the diapers.
One Size Cloth Diapers
One size diapers can increase in size and dimension along with your growing baby. The multifunctional design allows for the diapers to “extend” in length and size to fit your baby as she gets older. With a simple snap or unsnap the diaper will extend in length or width so you can find the perfect fit for your baby.
One size cloth diapers can come in an AIO version so you don't need to add a cover or a fitted version where you do need to add a cover.
Most cloth diapers are very easy to use and come in a variety of sizes including newborn, small, medium and large. The one size is simply one size and there is no need to buy new diapers as your baby grows because the one size are meant for babies from between 8 lbs – 35 lbs.
The convenience with one size diapers is that you do not have to invest in more diapers as your baby grows. You can simply adjust the diapers to fit your baby at each stage of growth.
Cloth diapers come in a variety of fabrics and designs. The type of cloth diaper you choose to use will depend on your cloth diaper budget and preference. If you are unsure of how to use cloth diapers you can always check your local listings to find a local cloth diaper store. Many cloth diaper stores offer cloth diaper information sessions where you can check out the different types of baby cloth diapers and learn how to use them.
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