Cloth Nappies: Types of Cloth Nappies

One of the things we see a lot from mums who are new to cloth nappies is that the cloth nappying lingo is very confusing and overwhelming. We've all been there, new to cloth nappies and struggling to figure out what each type of nappy really is and what we need to purchase to make it work. We've compiled a basic list to get you started. We won't cover every reusable nappy in existence, but consider it a primer to get you started in the right direction.

Pocket cloth nappy: A pocket nappy is usually made of two layers of fabric sewn together to form a pocket that will hold an absorbent insert. bumGenius 4.0 and bumGenius 3.0 are pocket style reusable nappies. The advantage of pocket style nappy is that they can be as convenient as disposables to put on baby during nappy changes. Pocket style reusable nappies do require an extra step after washing the nappies, placing (sometimes called "stuffing") the insert back inside the pocket.

All In One (AIO) cloth nappy: AIO style nappies have a waterproof outer fabric and absorbent inner fabric, all sewn together to create one piece.bumGenius 3.0 Deluxe All-In-Ones  is an all-in-one style reusable nappy. The advantage of AIO cloth nappies is that they can be more convenient because there is no need to stuff inserts after washing, although these nappies frequently take longer to dry because of their multiple layers of fabric.

Hybrid nappies: Hybrid nappies are a new class of cloth nappies that are a blend of traditional all cloth nappies and disposable options. Hybrid nappies are usually a two piece system comprised of a waterproof outer cover and an insert that can be a variety of materials ranging from cloth to disposable. Our Flip reusable nappy system is a great example of a hybrid. It consists of a waterproof, one sized fits most, cover and your choice of stay dry, organic or disposable inserts. The advantage of hybrid nappies is the versatility of changeable inserts to suit your baby's changing needs.

Covers and prefolds: Covers and prefolds are an economical way to use reusable nappies. Covers are typically a single layer of waterproof fabric. Prefolds are the classic, original cloth diaper. With modern covers, there are no need for pins to keep your prefolds in place. Prefolds are all cotton, with bleached and unbleached options available. Econobum is an economical cover and prefold system, where you can use reusable nappies with your baby from birth to potty training for as little as £49.95.

Another important thing to know when purchasing cloth nappies is about sizing. There are both sized and one-size options in all the categories of cloth nappies mentioned above.

Sized nappies: Each cloth nappy brand has it's own sizing system, so be careful to read the weight suggestions for each size before purchasing.bumGenius 3.0 Deluxe AIO (all-in-one) cloth diapers come in sizes extra small (XS), small (S), medium (M) and large (L).  This is the same for Flip nappies also.

One-Sized nappies: One sized nappies are a shorter way of saying "one size fits most". These cloth nappies or covers are designed to fit most babies from newborn stage (approx. 8 lbs.) through toddler stages (approx. 35 lbs.). The way these nappies grow with baby is by having rows of snaps in the center of the diaper that create an adjustable rise. These snaps do not have to be changed at each diaper change, only adjusted as babies grow. bumGenius 4.0 is a one-size pocket style nappy, Flip is also a one-size nappy cover as is Econobum.

The key to using cloth nappies successfully is to remember that you must have a waterproof outer fabric or cover in addition to an absorbent inner liner or insert and it needs to be the correct size for your baby.

Are you wondering about other reusable nappy terms? Ask in the comments and we'll add to this post.

Caoimhe