Reusable Diapers

Although we may not remember, reusable diapers with their safety pins and plastic covers kept many of us dry as babies.

Choosing the Right Cloth Diapers

There are some exciting cloth diaper options on the market today that may work with your lifestyle.

• All-in-Ones--As the name implies, reusable cloth all-in-ones come in one piece. Think of these as the cloth versions of disposable diapers. Many are made of 100% cotton and have an inner waterproof barrier with soft-leg elastics for a comfortable fit. You can also get wool versions of these that have a softer cover layer. These diapers are great for when you are on the go, but they may be a little more difficult to clean than other varieties due to the fact that they are one piece.

• All-in-Twos--These are just like all-in-ones except the absorbent layer is an extra piece that fits in the diaper. They are almost as convenient, but they're more hygienic because it's easier to clean the inserts.

• Fitted Diapers--Reusable cloth fitted diapers are typically form-fitted to prevent leaks and secured with either Velcro or snaps. Unlike the two types mentioned above, fitted cloth diapers do require a diaper cover. You can also get contour diapers that are shaped to fit the baby, but not elasticized to fit as tight.

• Flat and Prefold Diapers--These are basically old fashioned cloth diapers. Many have been made more convenient using snaps instead of pins, but they still require folding and aren't fitted. Prefold diapers provide extra layers of fabric for better absorption. While these may seem archaic, they're the cheapest option for cloth diapering.

• Pocket Diapers--Similar to all-in-twos, pocket diapers require inserts, but instead of sitting in the diaper, the inserts are put into a special pocket. Thus you can control the level of protection and absorbency needed. Another great benefit is that you can use almost any naturally absorbent material to put in the pocket, including old flat and prefold diapers.

• One-size Diapers--Believe it or not, these are diapers that can be used from infancy through potty training! So you get the benefit of only having to shop one time for cloth diapers for your baby. For families with more than one child in cloth diapers, you can use the one-size diapers for everyone.

Accessories for Reusable Diapers: There are a few items you may need to complement your cloth diapers.

• Diaper Liners--They keep waste from getting into the main fabric of the diaper. Diaper liners can be made of washable fabric or paper which you can throw away or flush down the toilet.

• Diaper Covers--No, your baby is not limited to uncomfortable plastic! You can now find many new materials including wool. Wool offers the added benefit of being warm. You can also get wool covers in pant form for a great looking, easy outfit.

• Organic Diapers--You can now find reusable diapers, liners, and covers made from organic materials which are better for the environment and for your baby.

Hopefully you are pleasantly surprised at the many options available to you. Cloth diapers and cloth nappies have become much more convenient and are much better for the environment.

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