All-in-One Diapers (AIO)
These diapers can be as convenient as disposable diapers.
Like disposables, these diapers have all the absorbent
layers within it and stand alone as a diaper. In other
words, it is a one step process. They either fasten with
hook and loops (like Velcro) or snaps. The main drawback
to this style is the longer time it takes to dry. Fortunately,
brands like GroVia have addressed this issue and have
their layers sewn on one side and allow for quicker drying
time. They also separated their absorbent layers, so that
the diapers are able to get cleaner. Another drawback
is the price per diaper. They are usually more expensive
(than prefolds and covers for example) because they are
used one time before needing to be washed.
All-in-Two
Diapers (AI2)
Similar to the AIO, these diapers have an added soaker
material that often snap into the middle of the diaper
cover. This helps cut down the drying time and the soaker
doesn’t need to be stuffed inside the diaper. It
can more economical than all-in-one diapers because the
outer shell can often be reused a few times during the
day. Our GroVia Hybrid diaper is this style.
Contour
Diapers
These diapers are hourglass shaped and need to be fastened
with a Snappi. Similar to prefolds, they do not have elastic
around the legs. They are less bulky than a prefold, however,
they are not as versatile as prefolds which can be used
as burp cloths, changing pads, etc.
Diaper Covers
This is when many people think of those old rubber pants!
Diaper covers fold over prefolds and fitted diapers to
make the diapers waterproof. They are now made with breathable
fabrics, such as cotton, fleece, wool, and breathable
yet waterproof Polyurethane Laminate (PUL). The breathable
materials allow air to circulate inside, which helps prevent
diaper rash and maintain a comfortable body temperature.
At the same time, the clothes and sheets stay dry. I particularly
like covers that have the leg gussets like Thirsties Diapers
because they create an extra seal along the leg to prevent
leaks. Covers can come in 4 sizes from XS-XL, 2 sizes
like Thirsties Duo Wraps, and one-size covers like GroVia
shells. They come in all colors and lots of new fun prints,
along with the traditional white.
Fitted Diapers
Fitted diapers are used instead of prefold diapers. They
look like a cloth diaper only they aren’t waterproof.
After they are either snapped or fastened with hook/loop
(Velcro), a waterproof cover is needed. They can be more
economical to other diapers like all-in-ones and pockets
because they cover can be reused again and again. The
price of a fitted is less than those diapers but more
expensive to a prefold. Fitteds tend to take longer to
dry but go on quicker than prefolds and are easy to put
on.
Doublers
Also referred to as soakers, these have absorbent materials
made with micro fiber terry, hemp or can even your own
prefolds. They can be put inside pocket diapers, folded
inside a prefold, or placed inside one-size diapers to
add more absorbency to the diaper. These are great for
nighttime diapering!
DSQ (Diaper
Service Quality)
This refers to a high quality prefold diaper. These are
made to withstand high temperatures and long-term use.
These prefolds are double the absorbency than other standard
prefolds because they have more layers sewn together.
Our prefolds are DSQ and we expect them to last until
you are using them do dust when you are a granny! The
prefold diapers or “flats” you purchase at
the box stores like Target (Gerber Brand) work best as
a burp cloth. They are thin and tend to fray at the edges
quickly.
Flats
These one-layer diapers, generally made out of 100% cotton
gauze, are the most "old-fashioned" choice.
They dry quickly and fit a large range of sizes. They
are purchased as a long sheet of cotton, so folding and
pinning are required. The ones found in box stores are
not a recommended option for use as a cloth diaper but
rather as a burp cloth.
Liners
Liners are thin layers of cloth or paper-like material
that are placed inside the diaper to aid in the cleaning
of solid waste from a soiled diaper or to keep the baby’s
skin dry. In the case of paper liners, the solid waste
collected on the liner can be removed from the soiled
diaper and either thrown away or flushed. Cloth liners
must be washed, but help prevent staining. These are also
helpful when the baby needs to use an ointment that could
coat and ruin the diapers. It works as a protective barrier.
One-Size
Diapers
These diapers are basically AIO or pocket diapers with
lots of snaps to adjust in the waist and legs. The pros
are the cost savings of only purchasing one diaper versus
3-4 different sized diapers. They also have the convenience
aspect of the AIO/AI2/Pocket diapers. There are a few
cons. First of all, they are initially very pricey compared
to prefolds and covers. They also receive a lot of wear
and tear. If the diaper is worn every 2-3 days for about
2 years, that would be around 250 washes for one child.
I don’t think I would expect any of my “quality”
clothing to withstand that! Additionally, many complain
that they don’t quite fit at birth or all the way
to potty training. Finally, some claim they are a bit
confusing with all the snaps. Overall, these are impressive
diapers, despite my skepticism. If you are seriously contemplating
going with only one-size diapers as your investment, I
would recommend purchasing a larger quantity. I believe
it will extend their shelf life and quality, while still
saving you money (compared to disposables).
Pocket Diapers
These diapers are constructed with a micro fleece inner
liner and a waterproof outer layer. In order to be absorbent,
an additional middle layer must be stuffed in between
(see the doublers section for more information).
This diaper is great
for nighttime because it can be double stuffed with doublers
for a lot of extra absorbency. Also, the diaper dries
quickly even if line dried, which is a great advantage.
The biggest complaint about this diaper, however, is the
necessity to remove the soiled middle layers before washing
them and then having to restuff them again when it’s
ready to be used.
Prefold
Diapers
1. http://www.diaperpin.com/clothdiapers/article_prefolds101.asp
This is a great comprehensive site for learning all the
details for prefolds.
2. http://www.thediaperhyena.com/diaper_folding101.htm
This site helps you learn all the variety of ways to fold
prefolds and the pros/cons of each fold.
3. Also check out our prefolds products for more information
specifically related to the ones we carry.
4. Snappi’s: http://www.diaperpin.com/clothdiapers/howto_snappi.asp
This is the amazing replacement to diaper pins. No worries
about sticking baby or you. It comes from Africa and is
made with stretchable plastic.
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