Cloth Diapers Explained

The world of cloth diapering has changed for the better since the days of traditional Birdseye cotton diaper squares affixed with pins. Cotton diapers remain the tried-and-true trusted oldie, and are a fabulous addition to any cloth diapering collection.

Now, choosing to go cloth is a difficult decision and becomes even more confusing once you start learning about the world of cloth diapers that is now available. We here at Eco Tots are more than glad to help and hope that you find the descriptions below helpful.

When shopping, you will often come across the following cloth diaper categories:

Here’s a rundown of what these terms mean, but if you are still left in a state of confusion, feel free to Contact Us for some one-to-one advice!

Flat and Pre-folded Diapers:

This includes those traditional cotton flat squares we mentioned earlier, and also ‘pre-folds’. These are the same concept as flat diapers, but are rectangular in shape and are made of layered woven cotton, hemp or bamboo. Pre-folds are stitched with a thicker middle layer and thinner layers on the side. All flats and pre-folds require simple folding and can be pinned with the traditional safety pin, or with the modern three prong Snappi . Flat and Pre-fold diapers require a wrap or cover for waterproofing. These diapers provide the most economical solution, and dries most quickly.

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Fitted Diapers:

Like a pre-fold diaper, fitted diapers are usually made of super-absorbent cotton, hemp or bamboo. However, fitted diapers are as the name suggests- made to fit over a little bottom with no extra folding required! Some have a Velcro fastener, some have snaps, and some can be fixed with a Snappi. Fitted diapers provide excellent containment and a neat fit. Fitted diapers require a waterproof cover. Many people use fitted diapers for night time use; the bamboo varieties work especially well because they are so absorbent. An extra doubler for night time may be a good idea, as would a liner to keep the bottom nice and dry.

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Diaper Wraps/Covers:

These are what are required by a pre-fold, pocket and fitted to create a waterproof diapering system. These can be pull-on or have Velcro, snaps, or even ties for fastening. They can be made of PUL (polyurethane laminate), polyester, fleece or wool. Wool makes an excellent diaper cover- breathable, will absorb 30% of its own weight, and naturally anti-bacterial. Getting a good cover is crucial to ‘cloth-diapering’ success, and you may find that certain brands fit your child better than others. You can contact us for fitting advice. As your child grows, larger sizes will need to purchased- but remember, your cloth diapers can be re-used for baby number 2, 3, 4, 5… and have a fair to good resale value depending on the brand. We are talking big $$$ savings now!

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Pocket Diapers:

These are the latest evolution in the world of cloth diapers! It all began with the renowned ‘Fuzzi Bunz’ with its revolutionary original pocket design that allows you to adjust the absorbency of the diaper to fit your needs. The diaper is stuffed with absorbent inserts/doublers (these can be bamboo, micro-fiber, terry, flannel, cotton or hemp) and you can use as many as you need depending on how long your child will wear it. Some people find the pocket diaper is well suited for night-time use as you can figure out exactly what absorbency you require to keep baby dry until morning. Pocket diapers are excellent for keeping little bottoms dry as all the moisture is wicked away from the skin and into the inserts. Of course, Fuzzi Bunz are not the only brand of pocket diapers available on the market anymore, and they can be found with a range of wonderful fasteners, fits, colors and materials.

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All-In-Ones (AIOs):

All-In-One diapers are as the name suggests. They require no folding, stuffing, covers- they are your earth friendly cloth version of the disposable. They are available in a range of fabulously funky designs and materials and without being added to the ever increasing landfills when you’re done with it! Bear in mind though, that AIO diapers tend not to be as absorbent as other types of cloth diapers, but they do provide the perfect solution for out-of-the-house use, daycares and for lazy in-laws and dads!

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One-size Diapers:

The innovative alternative to purchasing 1, 2, 3, 4, or even 5 sizes during your cloth diapering years, one-size diapers have highly adjustable fastenings and are made to fit from birth-to-potty. Fitted diapers, All in Ones, and Pocket diapers can all be found in the One-size variety. One-size diapers can save you even more money, because a set will last your baby right through the diapering years. They can tend to be rather bulky for small newborns though, and may need some extra doublers for toddlers.

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Inserts and Boosters:

These are the diaper accessories that are used inside pocket diapers, or as an extra insert to ‘double’ the absorbency for the bottom! Doublers are especially useful for night-time diapering, heavy wetters and for toddlers.

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Diaper Liners:

Liners usually come in fleece and flushable paper varieties. Fleece liners are excellent as moisture is wicked away through them into the diaper keeping the bottom nice and dry; these would then be washed with the rest of the diaper. Flushable Liners (link to diaper accessories/liners) are convenient for disposing of any poop, and are handy when out and about.

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