Choosing the method that will work for you:

We offer a few different cloth diapering systems. Choose the one that best matches your need, or combine the systems. Our Test Drive Program is without a doubt the best way to decide which system you prefer.

The ALL-IN-ONE System: All-in-one diapers are a cotton diaper and waterproof cover in one. This works just like a disposable… lift the bum, slide the diaper underneath, close the tabs and you’re done. This is the priciest but most convenient cloth diapering option. These diapers come in three sizes, so if you like the ultra convenience and want to diaper with all-in-ones exclusively, you would need two dozen in each size. Most people don’t base a diaper collection on all-in-ones, but rather have a few for outings, nursery stays, and for babysitters. These average $15 each.

The Pocket Diapers: When these came out a few years ago, no one really knew what category they belonged in. So they get one of their own. They are currently my favorite type of diaper and I think that if anything brings cloth diapering back to general use, it will be these. Once stuffed, they work like all-in-ones. The synthetic inner layer provides a stay-dry barrier that helps prevent rashes. Unstuffed, they are great swim diapers. The drawback to pocket diapers is that they are all synthetic, and more susceptible than cotton fitteds or prefolds to laundry build-up that affects their absorbency, waterproofing, and odor retention. People who have the most trouble with laundering pocket diapers are those who have very hard water. Extra care must be taken to launder pocket diapers correctly, but otherwise they are a favorite. Inserts must be used with pocket diapers (we ALWAYS include inserts with our pocket diapers - no need to purchase them separately). Most run around $15-$17 each.

The FITTED System: This is the most widely used system. Fitted diapers are shaped like the paper diapers you’re probably already familiar with. They have elastic around the legs, and some have elastic around the waist. While some fitted diapers use velcro, most use snaps because they last as long as the diaper and do not collect lint or hold onto each other in the wash. The quality and price of fitted diapers vary wildly (from around $5 each to up to $20 or $30!), but that offers some choice in how much to spend. Kissaluvs fitted diapers are considered by many to be the best fitted diapers for newborns on the market. Fitted diapers do not have a waterproof layer built in, so you will need a few diaper covers. These are pretty simple; snap the diaper in place and then velcro the cover on. The diaper goes in the pail, but the cover can be aired out and used again. Rotate through three to six covers and wash them when you feel (smell) that they need it - every couple of days. Doublers are available and will add absorbency. For this system, plan on at least two dozen fitted diapers, and three to four covers in each of the small, medium, and large sizes. Also plan to have added absorbency and breathable covers made for night-time diapering.

The PREFOLD System: You just can’t beat the rectangular diaper-service style “prefolds” for absorbency and economy. When paired with good covers they are by far the most economical choice - but take more practice to master and are more intimidating to dads and sitters, which may leave you with the bulk of diapering chores. With the most revolutionary cloth diapering invention ever, the Snappi Nappy Fastener, there’s no more pinning! Prefolds come in infant and premium sizes. One of the surprises to arise from our test-drive program was the number of people who chose to use prefolds after having the chance to try everything. I think people are afraid of these, but our test-drive participants found that it wasn’t as difficult as they had at first believed. If you like prefolds, you will spend the least on cloth diapering. Be sure to visit our prefold tutorial page! They average $2 each.

How do you choose? There doesn’t seem to be much consistency in what people think is “the best” way to go about cloth diapering. I thought that by watching what people choose after using the test drive sets I would see a pattern, but people still choose wildly different styles. You just have to see which YOU like. I’m happy to help you choose based on your budget and expected preferences - just email!

How many do I need? Newborns can go through 12 or more diapers per day. That will change as they grow older, but plan to have AT LEAST 24 diapers and 3 covers at any time.

Are they difficult to care for? Visit our laundering page in our Cloth Diapering University for a cloth care primer. It’s pretty easy, but there are a few things you’ll need to know.

Where do I go for help? I am always happy to help, by email or by phone. I have six years of diaper selling experience, and three cloth diapered children. I spend much of every day improving my cloth diapering knowledge.
It’s best to find other local moms who cloth diaper, if you can. Also, the Real Diaper Association (www.realdiaperassociation.org) is a fairly new national non-profit group that has a free newsletter, a good web site, and links to some online forums to help you find other cloth moms to talk to.