Cloth Diaper Terminology: Types of Cloth Diapers

When making the switch from disposable to cloth diapers, the immense number of different kinds of cloth diapers can be intimidating. How can you choose the right kind of cloth diapers for your family if you don’t understand the differences? While some of the terminology can be confusing at first, most of the different diaper types are fairly self-explanatory once you know a little about them.

Flat cloth diapers

Flats are the oldest form of cloth diapers. They consist of a large square or rectangular piece of fabric that must be folded to fit. While flat diapers can be a little complicated at first, they are extremely versatile, and will work for a large range of sizes. Flats diapers require the use of a waterproof cover.

Prefold cloth diapers

Prefold diapers are essentially a flat diaper that has been “prefolded” into a smaller square, with more layers in the center third of the diaper. Different types of prefolds are available, but a good choice is one that is 4x8x4 — four layers on either side and eight layers in the middle. These tend to work better than 4x6x4 diapers for heavier wetters, but can be a bit more expensive. Prefolds are a popular option among cloth diaper users as they are inexpensive, effective, and fairly easy to use. Prefold diapers still need to be folded somewhat in order to fit, but are a little less complicated than flats. These diapers require the use of a waterproof cover.

Contour cloth diapers

Contour diapers are shaped much like a typical disposable diaper. They do not have elastic at the waist or legs, and usually require pins or a Snappi to fasten. Contour diapers are easier to use than flats and prefolds, but can be a bit more expensive. Contour diapers require the use of a waterproof cover.

Fitted cloth diapers

Fitted diapers are similar to contour diapers, except that fitteds have elastic at the legs and waist, where contours do not. Fitted diapers also tend to fasten with Velcro or snaps and do not require pins. Many parents prefer fitted diapers over contours because the elastic tends to help hold in blowouts a bit better, but some babies with sensitive skin may find the elastic irritating. Fitted diapers require separate waterproof covers.

Pocket cloth diapers

Pocket diapers have — well, a pocket, where an insert can be used for absorbency. Pocket diapers are generally pretty useless without an insert, as they have no absorbent material in and of themselves. Most pocket diapers do, however, sport a built-in waterproof cover, making them more convenient than some other options. The removable insert makes for faster drying time as well.

AIO (All-in-one) cloth diapers

AIO’s are a popular option among cloth diapering parents. Touted as “dad-friendly,” AIO’s operate in a similar fashion to disposable diapers. They usually fasten with Velcro at the waist (some use snaps), and have a waterproof cover built right into the diaper. No folding or inserting necessary. But you will pay for the convenience — AIO’s have a tendency to be on the pricey side.

AI2 (All-in-two) cloth diapers

AI2’s are similar to AIO’s, with one very significant difference: they are in two pieces. AI2’s have a removable doubler to provide added absorbency. This adds an extra step when diapering your child, but the removable doubler significantly cuts drying time by reducing wet bulk in the dryer.

One-size cloth diapers

One-size cloth diapers are just what they sound like: they are diapers that are designed to fit all sizes, from newborn up to potty learning. However, just as not all babies follow the same growth curve, not all one-size diapers will work for all babies. Most one-size cloth diapers will not fit premature babies, and many will not fit toddlers who are large for their age or late potty-learners. While one-size diapers are more cost-efficient and convenient than sized diapers, many parents do find that they can be bulky on smaller babies.

Now that you have the different types of cloth diapers figured out, go shopping! For more information on choosing the right type of diaper for your family, please refer to my article How to Choose the Right Cloth Diapering System for Your Family. Happy diapering!

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