How to Choose Which Cloth Diapers Are Right For Your Family

There’s a surprisingly large variety of cloth diapers to pick from, so it’s worth sampling a few and seeing what is best before shelling out money for something that doesn’t work with your family’s lifestyle, habits, and bank account. Not sure where to start? Check out this chart from Diaper Jungle that breaks down cloth diapers according to a mom’s personal priorities.

Basic Types of Cloth Diapers

All-in-ones

The most similar to disposable diapers because they’re one piece – no inserts or separate covers. They self-fasten with snaps or Velcro. These are the way to go for babes in daycare or with caregivers who want cloth diapering to be easy. Because you’ll need different sizes as baby grows, these also cost more.

Prefold Diapers

Prefolds are what you may commonly think of when you think cloth diaper. These are the thicker-in-the-middle rectangles of cloth that diaper services deliver and wash. Prefolds are known to stink the least if left sitting in a diaper pail, so if you don’t have regular access to a washer, these might be your best bet. They are also comparatively inexpensive.

Diaper Covers

You’ll need diaper covers if you use prefolds, flats, or fitteds. Covers create a waterproof barrier between the cloth diaper and your baby’s clothes.

Flat Diapers

A flat piece of fabric that can be folded according to your baby’s size. These are old school. They require fasteners. They can also be very handy to have around as in-a-pinch blankets, nursing covers, etc.

Fitted Diaper

Fitted diapers have elastic at the legs and waist so you don’t have to fold. You still need a cover though, because they’re not waterproof.

One-size diaper

These grow with your child thanks to folding options and lots of snaps. Usually easy to use, like all-in-ones, but they may also be two-part systems, with an adjustable cover and inserts.

Pocket diaper

You guessed it: These diapers have pockets for cotton inserts. The pocket acts as the diaper cover, protecting clothes.

A Few of the Popular Modern Cloth Diapers and How to Put Them On