Cloth Diapering 101: Tools of the Trade

Types of Diapers
(most definitions from http://www.diaperpin.com/)

Prefolds:

(pictured: prefolds from http://www.jamtots.com/ ) Pre-fold diapers are rectangular shaped diapers that are divided lengthwise in 3 sections. The outer sections usually have a thickness of 4 layers. The middle section can have 6 or 8 layers. This gives pre-folds absorbency where it is needed most, in the middle. You will often see prefolds defined as 4-6-4, 4-8-4 or more rarely 2-4-2. These numbers refer to the layers of cloth in each section from left to right. Pre-folds are the cheapest alternative in diapers. They can be enclosed in a velcro or snap fastened diaper or they can be pinned with safety pins or snappi fasteners.

Fitted diapers:

(pictured: Kissaluvs Fitted diapers, available at http://www.kissaluvs.com/ and other retailers)Fitted diapers resemble disposable diapers. They have a contoured shape and have gathered edges around the legs. Instead of tape, they are fastened with either velcro or snaps. A waterproof diaper cover is necessary when using fitted. Fitted diapers are more expensive than pre-folds ranging from $4 to $11 each. However they are much easier to use. If you purchase those with velcro closures, look for wide velcro strips.

Diaper covers: (Pictured: Thirsties cover available at http://www.diaperjunction.com and other retailers)

Like diapers, covers come in many forms. Like fitted diapers they may be contoured shaped and can fasten with snaps or velcro. Some covers resemble underwear. Either are made of polyester or vinyl to prevent wetness from getting on baby's clothing. These are ideal for covering your child's diaper during the daytime.
For the baby with sensitive skin there are also wool and polar fleece diaper covers. These too may be contoured shaped with snap or velcro fasteners. Others come in "boxer-like" shape. Some prefer these covers for night-time use because they breathe.

Pocket Diapers:

(pictured: Knickernappies 2G pocket diaper, available at http://www.bumcovereddiapers.com/diapers/pocket-diapers.html and other retailers)

Pocket diapers are the newest type of diapers to hit the cloth diapering world. The first pocket diaper, Fuzzi Bunz created by Tereson of Mother of Eden in 1998. Pocket diapers are two piece diapering system typically with a piece of fleece that makes up the inner portion of fabric and a waterproof layer that makes up the outermost portion. An absorbent material is placed inside of the two pieces making the whole system act as an all in one system that keeps babies dry.

Inserts: (Pictured are the Knickernappies LoopyDo and microfiber inserts, available at http://www.bumcovereddiapers.com/ and other retailers)

Inserts are the absorbent piece of a pocket diaper and are placed in the "pocket" of a pocket diaper to keep babies dry. Inserts are made of many materials, with the most common being microfiber and hemp.

All-in-one diapers: (Pictured is the bumGenius 3.0 All-in-one (AIO), available at http://www.bumcovereddiapers.com/diapers/all-in-one-diapers.html and other retailers)

Also known as AIO's, all-in-ones are fitted diapers that have an outer waterproof layer and a built-in soaker (insert). These are the diapers closest to disposables, and will probably be the easiest to use for parents who are new to cloth.

Liners: (pictured are Bum Covered Fleece Liners, available at http://www.bumcovereddiapers.com)
Liners are thin material used between a baby's bottom and the diaper itself. Most liners are used to keep stool away from diapers for easy clean up. Many cloth diaper businesses carry flushable biodegradable liners which are the perect fit for this purchase. As an alternative you can use flat diapers to keep costs down and still keep natural soft fabrics against your baby's skin.
Another type of liner which is fast becoming popular is the polar fleece one. These are thicker than their paper/flat sheet counterparts and are great for keeping the baby's bottom dry.