Getting Started with Cloth Diapers
What are all these types of diapers?
How do I choose?
What about one-size diapers?
How many do I need?
Can I really save money?
What are all these types of diapers?
My assessment of the cloth diaper marketplace is that there are four main diapering "systems":
Option A, prefolds, is the most economical way to go. And really, every cloth diaperer should have at least some prefolds- they provide a foundation to build on, plus they can be used as inserts for pocket diapers, as doublers in any kind of diaper, and as burp cloths. Prefolds are the most durable diapers - as long as you get Diaper Service Quality prefolds, they will last through 8 children plus make good cleaning rags for another 10 years! Also, covers have come a long way from 20-30 years ago, so you no longer have to use pins with your prefolds, just fold into a rectangle, lay in the cover, and fasten the cover around baby. Or you can fasten with a Snappi and they will work in any type of cover.
Option B, pocket diapers, is, in my opinion, the biggest innovation in cloth diapering in the last 20 years. Pocket diapers are responsible for a resurgence in using cloth as the general public discovers them! They consist of an outer layer of waterproof material and an inner layer of microfleece or suedecloth, which keeps baby feeling dry and helps prevent diaper rash. In between those layers you stuff whatever material you wish, to customize the level of absorbency you need. They're so easy to use, and easy to wash! AND they're generally adorable. It is more expensive to use pocket diapers exclusively, so some people use a combination of systems, reserving their pocket diapers for going out, or for daddy, grandparents, babysitters, etc.
Option C, fitted diapers, is a nice compromise between prefolds and pocket diapers. Fitted diapers include elastic and a fastener (either snaps or velcro - no pins or Snappi needed) and do require a separate cover. They are very comfortable for baby, and provide the best protection against leaks and blowouts, if they fit well and include the right amount of absorbency for your child. Fitted diapers also offer the option of using highly breathable diaper covers of fleece or wool.
Option D, all-in-ones, is the most convenient to use, but I have to say it's the one I like the least. When washing and drying all-in-ones, I often wish I could "take them apart." So I use pocket diapers instead, that you can take apart!
How do I choose?
What will work best for you depends on your priorities.
Are you using cloth diapers primarily as a way to ? Then prefolds and covers are your best bet. Many people have asked if the diapers available at places like Walmart will work just as well. Based on the experience of everyone I know who has tried both, it will be worth your money many times over to get good quality diapers and covers. Yes, Bummis covers cost more than plastic pants. They also last longer and are more comfortable for your child. When looking at prefold diapers, the most important thing to watch out for is anything that says "polyester padding" - the biggest farce in the diapering world. It makes your diapers look like diapers, but they absorb, well, like fishnet.
If you want to be kind to the environment and your child, but still want and quick diaper changes, go with Pocket Diapers. Pockets are a little more complex than a true All-in-one diaper, but in my opinion that is more than made up for in that they rinse easier and dry much faster.
If you don't mind a longer drying time and having two pieces to put on at each diaper change, but you want to absolutely minimize blow outs, then go for fitted diapers and covers.
If you are committed to using all natural fabrics, you'll be happiest with fitteds (or prefolds) and wool covers.
Many people use a combination of the different systems, because of the fun factor (and the addiction factor). But I hope this gives you an idea of where you want to start!
So what do I recommend? What do most people do?
- Use fitteds or prefolds (depending on budget) with covers for newborns, when you change diapers fairly often. Also have 6 or more pocket diapers for night, outings, and babysitters. This also gives you a chance to try out different types of diapers, so when you go to buy the next size, you'll know what you like best.
- For mediums and larges, most people I know use pocket diapers. They make diaper changes quick while your child is squirmy. I even do a sizable percentage of diaper changes with my kids standing up, catching them "mid-run." And since kids wear these sizes for a longer time, you will be money ahead over disposable diapers with just one child.
What about one-size diapers?
One-size diapers, are a great addition to the marketplace. So, if they're so wonderful, why would anyone use anything else?
The answer involves how many children you want to use the diapers for. A one-size diaper, used from about 10 lbs through potty training (for most children), is pretty much "used up" or worn out after one child. So if you're only planning on one child, or this is likely your last child, then one-size diapers are a perfect choice. If, however, you want to use the same diapers on multiple children, then I recommend getting sized (small, medium, large) diapers. They're simpler to use, and while it costs more upfront to buy the different sizes, you'll come out even in the long run.
Even if you're primarily using sized diapers, it's not a bad thing to try a few one-size diapers. If you have more than one child in diapers, these can be a lifesaver in the diaper bag, able to be used on whichever child needs extra changes. And some of them, like Blueberry Minky, will be your favorite diapers so you'll be thrilled that they grow with your child!
How many will I need?
These numbers depend on how often you plan to wash diapers. A few people wash every day, most wash every 2 or 3 days. Keep in mind, diapers should not go more than 3 days without washing, otherwise you could end up with smelly, stained diapers. Also keep in mind that the more diapers you have in rotation, the longer they will last, since they will be washed less often. For example, if 2 dozen diapers will last for 2-3 years of continuous use, then 1 dozen diapers (washed twice as often) could be expected to last 1 to 1 1/2 years.
Option A: Prefolds and Wraps
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12-18 fleece liners to wick moisture away from the skin (optional but recommended)
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6-10 doublers for naps/nighttime (optional but recommended)
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Option B: Pockets and Inserts
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For newborns & infants, 20-30 pockets and for toddlers 15-24 pockets. These numbers are if you plan on using pocket diapers exclusively. Otherwise I recommend 6-10 pockets to be used in combination with other systems.
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Option C: Fitteds
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3-4 covers (because these diapers hold in messes better, you can reuse your covers more times before washing)
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