Cloth Diaper Introduction

When I first became interested in using cloth diapers I was overwhelmed by all the choices. Cloth diapers had come a long way from my mom's time. I knew I wanted to use cloth diapers because not only were they good for the environment they were also very economical. I tried to do some research online but I wasn't able to find anything that was helpful. So here's the 411 on cloth diapers that I have gathered so far.

Prefold Diapers - These are the cloth diapers that your mother probably used. They are rectangular with thick inner layers. You usually fold these diapers in thirds. Once the diaper has been folded to the size you need you must place a diaper cover over the prefold. Prefold diapers are very economical, about $2 -$5 per diaper, and are also available in organic cotton. You can use these prefolds until your child is ready to be potty trained.

Bummis Prefold Diapers

Contour Diapers - These diapers are shaped like an hourglass and usually have a padded middle. Unlike the prefolds you don't have to fold these diapers. You just place a contoured diaper on top of a diaper cover. These diapers usually cost about $6 - $10 each. You will probably have to buy at least two sizes of contours as your child grows.

 Kissaluvs Contour Diapers

Fitted Diapers - These diapers have elastic at the waist and the legs and can be secured by Velcro or snaps. You still have to use a diaper cover over these diapers. These diapers cost about $8 - $20 each. You will probably have to buy two sizes of fitted diapers as your child grows. Some fitted diapers are one size and can be adjusted to grow with your child.

  Sugar Peas Hemp Fitted Diapers

All-in-one Diapers (AIO) - These diapers are the closest to disposable diapers. This is a fitted diaper with an attached waterproof cover. They can be secured with Velcro or snaps. They range in price from $10 - $25 each but a diaper cover is not needed. You will probably have to buy two sizes of all-in-one diapers as your child grows. Some all-in-one diapers are one size and can be adjusted to grow with your child.

Fuzzi Bunz All-in-one Diapers

Pocket Diapers - These diapers have a waterproof outer layer and a soft inner layer, usuallyy microfleece. There is an opening in the front or back of the diaper. You then insert a prefold or special made insert into the pocket opening. They are fastened with Velcro or snaps. No diaper cover is needed. They are about $15 each. You will probably have to buy two sizes of pocket diapers as your child grows.

Blueberry Pocket Diaper

I started with the cotton prefolds and I really loved them. They absorbed very nicely and I had no leaky diapers or any exploding poop issues. They con side to these is they are pretty bulky. I then bought some contoured diapers and I was able to use my existing diaper covers. These diapers weren't bulky at all. It was as if my daughter was wering disposables. The only problem to contoured diapers is that they don't stay in place as well as the prefolds. I also bought some all-in-one diapers so it's easier on me when I go out. It's just as easy as disposable diapers. I use my Bummis Wet Bag to store my dirty diapers until laundry day. It's important to follow the manufacturers cleaning instructions and to use the correct laundry detergent.