Cloth diapers today come in many varities. For a beginner, you're not quite sure which one to choose to suit your baby needs. To help you start on cloth diapering, these facts on cloth diaper will guide you bit by bit. Read on.
The old-fashioned cloth diaper, as known by most parents is a square cloth, folded into layers to suit baby and fastened with a diaper pin (safety pin) and plastic pants is used as the outer layer (cover) to prevent from leaking.
Today, the new improvised cloth diaper is a mix of natural and modern fabric materials which are soft, sturdy, hygienic and most importantly convenient.
There are about four (4) types of cloth diapers: Prefolds or flats, Fitted Diapers, Pocket Diapers and All-in-Ones(AIOs). Once you are familiar with cloth diapers, you can opt for any types of diapers that are most suited for your baby.
Prefolds or flats (more like old-fashioned cloth diaper)
This is like the old-fashioned diaper, a square muslin, cotton cloth, folded to fit a baby and fastened 
with diaper pins. Prefold can be varied by inserting a soaker between the layering for more absorbency. Since these diapers are thin and non absorbent, it requires a waterproof outer layer or covers to prevent leakage.
with diaper pins. Prefold can be varied by inserting a soaker between the layering for more absorbency. Since these diapers are thin and non absorbent, it requires a waterproof outer layer or covers to prevent leakage.Some stores provide improved Prefolds, which are rectangular shaped, and are divided lengthwise in 3 sections. The outer sections usually has a thickness of 4 layers. The middle section can have 6-8 layers. It gives Prefolds absorbency where it is needed most, in the middle.
Fitted Diapers
Instead of the flat and shapeless diapers used by most of our parents/grandparents, fitted diapers are fitted, snug with elastic gatherings in the legs and waist. These diapers are contoured in shape and resemble a disposable diaper. They are fitted with snaps or velcro and require diaper covers since fitted diapers are not waterproof.Some fitted diapers contain pockets for stuffing, just like pocket diapers. It is more convenient and easy to use and drying time is faster compared to AIOs.
Pocket Diapers
Pocket diapers are two-piece of diapering system, basically with a piece of fleece that makes up the inner portion of fabric and a waterproof layer that makes up the outermost portion. An absorbent material, an insert is placed in between the two pieces making the whole system acting as an all-in-one diaper that keeps baby's bottom dry. These diapers are top of the rank preferred by most parents.All-in-Ones (AIOs)
AIOs consists of a built-in diaper cover sewn into the cotton or fleece layer. It fastens with snaps
or velcro closure. It functions on its own without any extra accessories. It does not require a separate soaker material for extra absorbent or a separate cover to contain leaks. AIOs functions like disposable diapers but it can be washed and used over and over again. These types of diapers are favourites among most parents because no extra accessories are needed.
or velcro closure. It functions on its own without any extra accessories. It does not require a separate soaker material for extra absorbent or a separate cover to contain leaks. AIOs functions like disposable diapers but it can be washed and used over and over again. These types of diapers are favourites among most parents because no extra accessories are needed.The only disadvantages the AIOs diaper has is that the drying time is longer than other diaper due to its thickness.
Diaper Cover
Wraps around a fitted or prefold diaper to protect clothing from wetness. It can be fastened with either snaps or velcro. Diaper covers are made from a variety of materials such as PUL polyester, vinyl, wool or fleece. The PUL is a breathable material so it will not be hot for babies.Inserts/Soaker
A layer of material, made from hemp, cotton, microterry cloth, microfiber, microsuede, used in pocket diaper to add absorbency. It can be used to customise absorbency in other types of cloth diaper system.
