The Ultimate Guide to Cloth Diapers: Exploring Your Options

Cloth diapering can feel overwhelming at first, but once you understand the different types of cloth diapers available, it becomes much more manageable. This guide will walk you through the most common types of cloth diapers—flats, preflats, pocket diapers, prefolds, covers, and a few others. We’ll discuss the ease of use, cleaning and drying, and the costs associated with each to help you make an informed decision.

1. Flats

Flats are the most traditional type of cloth diaper, often referred to as “old-school” diapers. They are single-layered, large squares of fabric that need to be folded to fit your baby.

• Ease of Use: Flats require some practice to master the various folding techniques, but once you get the hang of it, they’re quite versatile. They can be secured with pins, Snappis, or simply tucked into a cover.
• Ease of Cleaning and Drying: Flats are one of the easiest diapers to clean because they unfold completely, allowing for thorough washing. They also dry quickly, making them ideal for air drying.
• Cost: Flats are among the most affordable options, and because they are one-size-fits-all, you can use the same diapers from birth to potty training.

  24 Flats with 6 Covers

  • Flats (average $2.50 each): 24 x $2.50 = $60
  • Covers (average $12 each): 6 x $12 = $72
    Total Cost: $132
  

2. Prelfats

Preflats are a modern twist on flats. They are usually made from two or three layers of fabric and come in a pre-cut shape that’s easier to fold around your baby.

• Ease of Use: Preflats are easier to fold than flats because they come in a shape that requires minimal folding. They still need to be secured with a Snappi, pin, or cover, but they offer a balance between the traditional flat and more structured diapers.
• Ease of Cleaning and Drying: Like flats, preflats are easy to wash and dry quickly. They can be hung to dry or thrown in the dryer without much fuss.
• Cost: Preflats are slightly more expensive than flats due to the extra layers and shaping but are still an affordable option, especially considering their longevity.

  24 Preflats with 6 Covers

  • Preflats (average $8 each): 24 x $8 = $192
  • Covers (average $12 each): 6 x $12 = $72
    Total Cost: $264

3. Pocket Diapers

Pocket diapers consist of a waterproof outer layer and an inner layer with a pocket opening. You insert an absorbent pad, like a flat, prefold, or microfiber insert, into the pocket.

• Ease of Use: Pocket diapers are user-friendly, especially for caregivers unfamiliar with cloth diapering. Once stuffed, they go on and off like a disposable diaper. However, they do require the extra step of stuffing and unstuffing the pocket.
• Ease of Cleaning and Drying: The pocket design means that the diaper and insert are washed separately, allowing for a thorough clean. They dry relatively quickly, especially if you remove the insert before washing.
• Cost: Pocket diapers are mid-range in cost. The price varies depending on the brand and the type of insert used. Some people find it worth investing in more expensive brands for their ease of use and durability.
  • Pocket Diapers: 20 x $14 = $280
  • Inserts: You need 2 packs of inserts (each pack contains 10 inserts), so 2 x $60 = $120

  Total Cost: $280 + $120 = $400

4. Prefolds

Prefolds are rectangular diapers that have been pre-sewn with more layers in the center, making them more absorbent in the middle. They require folding and a cover to be used effectively.

• Ease of Use: Prefolds are easier to use than flats because they don’t require as much folding, but they still need to be secured with a pin, Snappi, or a cover. Once folded and secured, they are quite secure.
• Ease of Cleaning and Drying: Prefolds, due to their multiple layers, take longer to dry than flats or preflats. However, they are still relatively easy to clean, and many parents find them a good balance between absorbency and convenience.
• Cost: Prefolds are inexpensive, especially considering their absorbency and longevity. They are often used as the next step up from flats in terms of cost and convenience.

  24 Prefolds with 6 Covers

  • Prefolds (average $3 each): 24 x $3 = $72
  • Covers (average $12 each): 6 x $12 = $72
    Total Cost: $144

5. Covers

Covers are waterproof layers that go over flats, preflats, prefolds, or fitted diapers to prevent leaks. They don’t have any absorbency on their own but are essential for keeping everything contained.

• Ease of Use: Covers are easy to use once you’ve gotten the hang of using the diaper underneath. They typically fasten with snaps or Velcro, making them quick to put on and take off.
• Ease of Cleaning and Drying: Covers are very easy to clean since they usually don’t get soiled like the inner diaper. They dry extremely fast, often in just a few minutes of air drying.
• Cost: Covers are relatively inexpensive, and you don’t need as many of them as you do absorbent diapers. You can use the same cover multiple times between washes as long as it isn’t soiled. 1 Cover: $12

6. Fitted Diapers

Fitted diapers are shaped like a disposable diaper but made entirely of absorbent fabric. They have elastic around the legs and waist and typically need a cover.

• Ease of Use: Fitted diapers are easy to use because they don’t require folding. They go on just like a disposable, with snaps or Velcro. They’re particularly good for nighttime or heavy wetters.
• Ease of Cleaning and Drying: Fitted diapers are more challenging to dry because they are thick and absorbent. They can take a while to air dry and might need extra time in the dryer.
• Cost: Fitted diapers are on the higher end of the cost spectrum due to their shape and absorbency. However, they are very effective and can be worth the investment, especially for nighttime use. 1 Fitted (average $18 each): $18

7. All-in-One (AIO) Diapers

AIO diapers are the closest you can get to a disposable diaper in terms of ease of use. They have an absorbent inner layer sewn into a waterproof outer layer, making them a one-piece diapering solution.

• Ease of Use: AIOs are incredibly easy to use—just put them on your baby and go! There’s no folding, stuffing, or separate cover required, making them ideal for caregivers new to cloth diapering.
• Ease of Cleaning and Drying: AIOs are more challenging to clean thoroughly because the absorbent layers are sewn in. They also take longer to dry, which can be a downside if you don’t have a large stash.
• Cost: AIOs are the most expensive type of cloth diaper due to their convenience and ease of use. However, their simplicity can make them worth the investment, especially for busy parents. 1 All-In-One (AIO) Diaper: $20

8. All-in-Two (AI2) Diapers

AI2 diapers consist of a waterproof cover and a snap-in or lay-in absorbent insert. They are similar to AIOs but with the added flexibility of being able to replace just the insert if it’s wet.

• Ease of Use: AI2s are almost as easy to use as AIOs. You just snap or lay in the insert, and the diaper is ready to go. They’re a good compromise between the convenience of AIOs and the flexibility of covers and prefolds.
• Ease of Cleaning and Drying: Since the absorbent insert separates from the cover, AI2s are easier to clean and dry than AIOs. The covers dry quickly, while the inserts take a bit longer.
• Cost: AI2s are less expensive than AIOs but still on the higher end. However, because you can reuse the cover multiple times before washing, they can be more cost-effective in the long run. All-In-Two (AI2) Diaper: $18

Conclusion

Cloth diapering offers a variety of options to suit different lifestyles, budgets, and preferences. Whether you prefer the simplicity of AIOs, the affordability of flats, or the versatility of AI2s, there’s a cloth diapering solution out there for everyone. By understanding the pros and cons of each type, you can find the perfect fit for your family and make the switch to cloth with confidence. Happy diapering!