When
we were kids, our moms had one choice for cloth diapers. It involved
folding, pins, plastic covers, and a lot of frustration. Many of us
have simply switched to disposable diapers because they’re more
convenient. Well, most cloth diapers today are not only convenient,
they’re also more attractive and sometimes work better than
disposable. The key to using and sticking with cloth diapers is
choosing the one that works best for you. Here are some of the cloth
diaper options on the market.
* All-in-Ones. These are
basically cloth versions of disposable diapers. They come in once
piece and require no inserts or outer coverings; they’re already
built in. You can also get wool versions of these that have a softer
cover layer. These diapers are great for busy parents, but you may
have cleaning problems because you have to wash them as one piece.
* All-in-Twos. These are
just like all-in-ones except the absorbent layer is an extra piece
that fits in the diaper. They are almost as convenient, but they’re
more hygienic because it’s easier to clean the inserts.
* Fitted Diapers.
These look a lot like plastic diapers because they are fitted at the
edges to prevent leaks. Unlike all in ones, they do require a diaper
cover. You can also get contour diapers that are shaped to fit the
baby, but not elasticized to fit tight.
* Flat and Prefold Diapers.
These are basically old fashioned diapers. Many have been made more
convenient using snaps instead of pins, but they still require
folding and aren’t fitted. Prefold diapers provide extra layers of
fabric for better absorption. While these may seem archaic, they’re
the cheapest option for cloth diapering.
* Pocket Diapers. These
diapers are similar to two-in-ones because you can add your own
inserts, but instead of sitting in the diaper, the inserts are put
into a special pocket. This is great if you need varying levels of
protections and absorbency. Another great feature is that you can
use almost any naturally absorbent material to put in the pocket,
including old flat and prefold diapers.
* One-size Diapers. While most diapers need to be replaced as
your child grows, one-size are exactly as they sound: one size fits
all. This means you can not only use the same diapers from infancy
up, but you can also use the same diapers for your older and younger
kids and avoid tedious diaper sorting.
You may think that choosing a diaper type is a big enough decision
for you to make, but there are other variables you must consider.
* Diaper Liners. This is what keeps excrement from getting into the
main fabric of the diaper. These can be fabric, which you wash, or
paper, which you can throw away or flush down the toilet.
* Diaper Doublers. These accessories add extra absorbency to your
diapers.
* Diaper Covers. It used to be you have to cover cloth diapers in
annoying plastic. Now there are new materials being used including
wool. Wool offers the added benefit of being warm. You can also get
wool covers in pant form for a great looking, easy outfit.
* Organics. You now have the option of getting your diaper, liners,
soakers, and everything else, made from organic materials. They’re
better for the environment and for your baby.
So how many diapers will you need?
1) Prefolds or fitteds and covers:
-- Prefolds: 2-3 dozen
-- Diaper covers: 6-8
-- Doublers: 6-12 (optional)
-- Nighttime Covers: 2-3
2) AIOs, AI2s, or One Size
diapers? For washing every 2-3 days, you will need:
-- All in Ones: 2-3 Dozen
While sifting through the many diapering options can be
overwhelming, it’s better to take the time. This way you can find
cheap, environmentally friendly diapers that fit into your life.
