Yoselin This post is about the pros and cons of pocket diapers vs cover diapers.
Pocket Diapers Vs Cover Diapers. This is the one question every cloth diapering parent will have to make at some point. When it comes to cloth diapering, parents have a variety of options to choose from.
Two popular choices are pocket diapers and cover diapers.
In this article, we will explore the differences between these two types of cloth diapers to help you make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences.
Pocket Diapers
Pocket diapers consist of a waterproof outer layer 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. Here are some key features of pocket diapers:
1. Customizable Absorbency: Pocket diapers allow parents to adjust the absorbency by adding or removing inserts. This makes them suitable for heavy wetters or overnight use.
2. Quick Drying: Since the inserts can be removed from the pocket, pocket diapers tend to dry faster compared to other types of cloth diapers.
3. Easy to Use: Pocket diapers are relatively simple to use. (There is a reason why they are perhaps the MOST popular type of cloth diaper variety!) The inserts can be pre-stuffed into the pocket, making diaper changes quick and convenient, giving the feel of ease as a disposable diaper does.
4. Custom Fit: Pocket diapers often come with adjustable snaps, allowing for a snug fit around the baby’s waist and legs.
READ MORE: DIFFERENT TYPES OF CLOTH DIAPER INSERTS EXPLAINED
Cover Diapers
Cover diapers, also known as diaper covers, consist of a waterproof outer layer without any built-in absorbency. They are designed to be used with prefold diapers, fitted diapers, or flats. Here are some key features of cover diapers:
READ MORE: HOW TO USE A CLOTH DIAPER COVER IN 5 DIFFERENT WAYS
1. Versatility: Cover diapers can be used with various types of absorbent inserts, giving parents the flexibility to choose the material and thickness that suits their baby’s needs. For this reason, cover diapers and pocket diapers can be used interchangeably.
2. Cost-Effective: Since cover diapers can be reused multiple times before washing, they are a cost-effective option compared to all-in-one or pocket diapers. This is also a reason why many parents choose to go with cover diapers when they are on the fence on cloth diapering. Beginning to cloth diaper with cover diapers can be as cheap at $50 up front cost for one baby!
3. Breathability: Cover diapers allow for better airflow, reducing the chances of diaper rash and keeping the baby’s skin dry.
4. Longer Lifespan: Without built-in absorbency, cover diapers tend to last longer as they do not undergo as much wear and tear during washing and drying. (But if they do, worry not! Damaged cover diapers are perfect for the summer as swim diapers!)
Choosing the Right Option: Pocket Diapers Vs Cover Diapers
The decision between pocket diapers and cover diapers ultimately depends on personal preference and specific needs. Here are a few factors to consider:
1. Convenience: Pocket diapers are generally easier to use and require less assembly compared to cover diapers. Overall, pocket diapers offer a faster diaper change thanks to their inserts being inside the pocket. Cover diapers can either be used with flats, preflats, fitted diapers, this adds an extra step to your diaper changing time.
2. Budget: Cover diapers are often more cost-effective in the long run, as they can be reused with different inserts and eventually reused as swim diapers once their PUL has given up.
3. Drying Time: If quick drying is a priority, cover diapers are the preferred option, as they are just a waterproof cover. I have personally not found much of a difference between these two in terms of drying time. Pocket diapers have a thin layer of material that makes up the pocket, but overall, it does not take much time to dry it either.
READ MORE: Can I Save Money with Cloth Diapers? Actual Cloth Diapers Cost
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Both pocket diapers and cover diapers have their own unique advantages. Due to their similarities, choosing either or can depend on the individual. As the parent, you can choose what is overall more convenient for you.
Stuffing the pocket diapers might not be for everyone, and that is totally okay! Just as maybe using preflats and/or folding flats to use with a cover diapers is not everyone’s cup of tea.
Read more on the Different Types of Cloth Diapers to make an educated choice after reviewing the most popular types of cloth diapers on the market!
Other Cloth Diapering Posts:
- How to Store Dirty Cloth Diapers + 6 Storage Ideas
- The Best Cloth Diaper Storage Ideas for Small Spaces
- Benefits of Line-Drying Cloth Diapers
- Everything You Need to Know About Cloth Diapering a Newborn
- Can I Save Money with Cloth Diapers? Actual Cloth Diapers Cost
Other Parenting Posts:
- Nursing Cart Essentials
- Fixing Postpartum Hormone Imbalance After Childbirth & Breastfeeding
- Gifts for New Moms for Every Occasion
- Baby Registry Must Haves (Free Checklist Printable)
