This post is about everything cloth diapers for beginners.
With the growing popularity of cloth diapers and people looking for ways to minimize their expenses and waste, there has become a need to create posts like this one where a parent can gather all the information they need to cloth diaper their baby.
When I first brought up to my family that I was thinking of cloth diapering my daughter, I was looked at like I was crazy. I believe my mom even said something along the lines of how I keep wanting to live like I was at a farm without any innovative items.
But my main motivator for cloth diapers was that they did not have the toxins disposable diapers do and that they were better for the environment.
I could just not get over the fact that ONE disposable diaper takes 500 years to decompose. I did not want to contribute to the never ending waste we humans produce on a day-to-day basis just by simply existing.
Regardless of what your motivator to use cloth diapers is, I hope you stick around to have all your cloth diaper questions answered below!
Cloth Diapers for Beginners
In this post, you will find everything you need to know to cloth diaper your little one. This post is meant to be your one-stop shop for everything a beginner needs to know about cloth diapers.
With the different types of cloth diaper systems, inserts, accessories, wash routine…. yeah, I get it, it can be an overwhelming amount of information to digest in one sitting.
Save this post so you can come back to reference it should any other question come up throughout your cloth diapering journey!
Cloth Diapers for Beginners: What are the Benefits of Cloth Diapers?
The benefits of cloth diapers are that they are:
1. Cost-effective. Cloth diapers can be reused multiple times, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run. By investing in cloth diapers, you can save money on continuously purchasing disposable diapers.
2. Environmentally friendly. Cloth diapers are reusable, reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. By choosing cloth diapers, you can contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle.
3. Healthier for babies. Cloth diapers are typically made from natural materials, such as cotton or bamboo, which are gentle on a baby’s sensitive skin. They are less likely to contain chemicals or irritants that can cause rashes or allergies.
4. Help reduce diaper rashes. Cloth diapers allow for better airflow, which can help prevent diaper rash. Additionally, some parents find that cloth diapers, when changed frequently, can help reduce the occurrence of diaper rash compared to disposable diapers.
5. Allow for customizable absorbency. Cloth diapers often come with adjustable inserts or liners, allowing you to customize the absorbency based on your baby’s needs. This can be particularly helpful for overnight use or for babies with heavy wetting.
6. Adorable with unique designs. Cloth diapers come in a wide variety of cute and stylish designs, allowing you to have fun with your baby’s diaper fashion.
Cloth Diapers for Beginners
Types of Cloth Diapers
1. Pocket Diapers
Pocket diapers are perhaps the most popular type of cloth diaper. They consist of a waterproof outer layer (PUL) and a pocket inside where absorbent inserts are placed. The inserts can be made of microfiber, cotton, bamboo, hemp, and/or a mixture of any of these. You can also read more here on the Different Types of Cloth Diapers Inserts Explained.
Pocket diapers are adjustable in size and offer customizable absorbency. They are easy to use and quick to dry. They also, for the most part, come in One Size, ranging from 8 lbs to 30 lbs.
Our family started cloth diapering with a set of 7 cloth diapers from Nora’s Nursery. We highly recommend them as they are highly affordable and of good quality to last 2+ years (at least! We have yet to put them to the test with a second child)
2. Fitted Diapers
Fitted diapers are contoured diapers that come with elasticized leg openings and waistbands. They provide a snug fit and are available in various sizes. Fitted diapers require a separate waterproof cover to prevent leaks. They are known for their excellent absorbency and are commonly used overnight.
Essembly is one of the most popular brands that sell both fitted diapers and covers.
READ MORE: How to Use Cloth Diaper Covers in 5 Different Ways
3. Prefold Diapers
Prefold diapers are rectangular-shaped diapers made of multiple layers of fabric. They require folding and fastening with pins or snappis, and then you put on a diaper cover. Prefolds are highly absorbent and versatile, making them suitable for newborns to toddlers. They are also cost-effective and easy to clean.
READ MORE: Everything You Need to Know About Using Newborn Cloth Diapers
Additionally, prefold diapers allow for the parent to fold the diapers in ways that are beneficial to either a boy or girl. This way, they can get the absorbance where needed in order to prevent leaks.
4. All-in-One Diapers
All-in-One (AIO) diapers are the most convenient option as they combine the absorbent layer and waterproof cover into a single piece. AIO diapers are similar to disposable diapers in terms of ease of use. They are perfect for busy parents or daycare settings. However, they may take longer to dry compared to other types.
For this reason, we recommend line-drying outside. This will also help with poop stains as they appear on the diapers throughout use. Here you can read more on Benefits of Line-Drying Cloth Diapers.
5. All-in-Two Diapers
All-in-Two (AI2) diapers consist of a waterproof shell and snap-in inserts. The inserts can be changed without changing the entire diaper, therefore making them cost-effective. AI2 diapers are versatile and allow for customization of absorbency.
They are also quick to dry. Many parents prefer this as opposed to AIO because it offers the liberty of adding different inserts.
6. Hybrid Diapers
Hybrid diapers offer the flexibility of using both cloth and disposable inserts. They have a waterproof shell that is used with either a cloth or disposable insert, depending on the situation.
Hybrid diapers are convenient for travel or when cloth diapering may not be feasible. Many parents also choose to begin their cloth diapering journey with hybrid diapers since they are most accessible as of this article being written.
While they can also be found on Amazon, they can be found locally in either Walmart or Target.
Cloth Diaper Absorption (Inserts)
1. Cotton Inserts
Cotton inserts are a popular choice among cloth diapering parents due to their natural and breathable properties. They are highly absorbent and soft against the baby’s skin.
Cotton inserts are durable and can withstand frequent washing. They are an excellent option for daytime use and are readily available in various sizes.
Another cotton insert that can be used are literal flats and prefold. Flats and prefolds are typically made of 100% cotton. They can be folded in threes and with that you have a 9-layer 100% cotton insert. We use ozocozy prefolds.
2. Hemp Inserts
Hemp inserts are known for their exceptional absorbency, making them ideal for heavy wetters and/or overnight use. They are made from the fibers of the hemp plant, which are naturally antimicrobial and resistant to mold and mildew.
Hemp inserts are trim and become more absorbent with each wash. However, they may take longer to dry compared to other materials.
3. Bamboo Inserts
Bamboo inserts are highly absorbent and have excellent moisture-wicking properties. They are made from bamboo viscose or bamboo charcoal, which is known for its antibacterial and hypoallergenic qualities.
Bamboo inserts are soft, breathable, and gentle on sensitive skin. They are a great choice for babies with allergies or skin sensitivities.
4. Microfiber Inserts
Microfiber inserts are made from synthetic materials and are known for their quick absorption capabilities. They are highly absorbent and can hold a significant amount of liquid. Microfiber inserts are affordable and dry quickly. However, they may not be as durable as other materials and can sometimes feel bulky.
Our family started with Nora’s Nursery cloth diapers that come with microfiber inserts. We outgrew these inserts after 8 months of use. They would also cause compression leaks. Please note that there is a reason why microfiber inserts are cheap and widely available. We upgraded to cotton and cotton/hemp inserts.
How Many Cloth Diapers Do You Need
This is a personal choice. The answer to this question depends on the age of your child and how often you will be doing laundry.
I began cloth diapering when my daughter was 3 months old and could fit the one-size cloth diapers. We started with a stash of 25 cloth diapers. We have kept that same stash of cloth diapers and do laundry every 3 days. 25 cloth diapers for a newborn would be about 2 days-worth, and therefore require laundry more often.
If you want to do laundry less often, you’d need more diapers (5-8 per day). If you don’t mind doing laundry more often, you’d need less diapers (5-8 per day).
How to Wash Cloth Diapers
You cloth diaper wash routine is very individual to your circumstances. This depends on your washer, type of water, laundry detergent, and how many cloth diapers you have.
Rule of thumb is: Prewash cycle with hot water and no detergent. Main wash cycle with your cloth diaper-friendly detergent of choice. And an Extra Rinse cycle with hot water.
Cloth Diapers Cost
Cloth diapering is perfect if you are looking to save money in the long run. You can begin cloth diapering for less than $100, and those same diapers can last you multiple children. (Read more on Can I Save Money with Cloth Diapers? Actual Cloth Diapers Cost.)
Cloth Diaper Accessories
In addition to diapers, you may need accessories such as wet bags, inserts, liners, and fasteners. These can add an extra cost of around $50 to $100, depending on the quantity and brand.
Cloth Diapers for Beginners
This post about cloth diapers for beginners covered all areas where people have the most questions and concerns.
What other questions to do you have concerning cloth diapers?
Head on over to the Cloth Diapers FAQ to see if your question has been answered already! If not, comment below how I can help you!
P.S. If you would like to have some DIY baby wipes to go alongside your cloth diapers, read more on the Best Homemade Baby Wipes Recipe to create your own cloth baby wipes!
Other Cloth Diapering Posts:
- How to Remove Stains From Cloth Diapers in Cloudy/Cold Areas
- Different Types of Cloth Diapers Explained
- Pocket Diapers vs Cover Diapers: Pros and Cons
- Can I Save Money with Cloth Diapers? Actual Cloth Diapers Cost
- How to Use Cloth Diaper Covers in 5 Different Ways
- How to Store Dirty Cloth Diapers + 6 Storage Ideas
- The Best Cloth Diaper Storage Ideas for Small Spaces
- Everything You Need to Know About Using Newborn Cloth Diapers
Other Posts You May Like:
- Fixing Postpartum Hormone Imbalance After Childbirth & Breastfeeding
- Gifts for New Moms for Every Occasion
- Nursing Cart Essentials
- Baby Registry Must Haves (Free Checklist Printable)
- What are Toddler Play Schemas and Why Do They Matter?
- 17 Must-Have Breast Pumping Supplies
This site contains product affiliate links. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links.