Parenthood is an overwhelming feeling. Your baby deserves the best! However, because cloth diapers require more effort than disposable nappies, many parents are hesitant to use them on their toddlers. However, cloth diapering is an excellent option for the health and hygiene of your little one. There is a range of different types of cloth diapers, like organic cloth diapers, hybrid cloth diapers, and so on, available in various sizes and patterns. Selecting the correct baby cloth diapers can be very confusing.
To make cloth diaper purchasing easy for you, we have created an overview of cloth diapers. Let’s learn more about the various types of cloth diapers, what to look for before purchasing them, and how to decide which is best for your baby.
Types of Cloth Diapers
Plenty of cloth diapers are available on the market. When you purchase baby cloth diapers, you will come across the following common types of cloth diapers:
Flat Cloth Diapers
Flat diapers are the most basic cloth diapers. It comes as a single-layer piece of cloth made from cotton. You have to fold it in the shape of a multi-layered diaper and secure it with clips to fit your baby's waistline. Flat diapers are affordable and come with adjustable sizing.
Prefold Cloth Diapers
Prefold diapers are pre-stitched with more layers in the middle to create a thick center. It comes in various sizes and fabrics like bamboo, hemp, and so on. It prevents leakage with a waterproof outer layer.
Pocket cloth diapers
If you don’t prefer folding baby cloth diapers, then pocket cloth diapers are the ideal choice. These diapers are ready to be used with a waterproof shell and elastic leg holes. To prevent leakage, it contains a pocket inside, which needs to be stuffed with an absorbent insert.
All-in-One Cloth Diapers
All-in-one (AIO) cloth diapers come with an absorbent pad attached to a waterproof cover, just like disposable diapers. It has adjustable closures that fasten at the hip with snaps, hooks, Velcro, or loops. It does not require any additional inserts, like pocket cloth diapers.
Hybrid Cloth Diapers
Hybrid cloth diapers are a crossover of cloth and disposable diapers. It consists of an outer, reusable cover with a disposable insert inside the baby cloth diaper. When the disposable layer gets soiled, you can throw it in the trash and replace it with a new insert.
What to Look for in Cloth Diapers?
The market is flooded with so many options for baby cloth diapers. So, it gets confusing at times. When shopping for cloth diapers for your toddler, look for specific features.
Find the right size
Cloth diapers come in various sizes, such as those for newborns, infants, and toddlers. Therefore, always consider the right size of cloth diapers for a comfortable fit for the baby. You can choose cloth diapers based on your baby’s weight or ones with adjustable snap buttons that fit babies from 3 months to 3 years of age.
Softness and Breathability
Babies have delicate skin that requires a soft touch. Consider the fabric and lining of the baby cloth diapers when shopping. Generally, cloth diapers are soft and breathable, which allows airflow to your baby’s delicate buttocks and helps in preventing irritation, rashes, and infections.
Chemical-free fabric
In addition to softness, check whether the fabric is chemical-free. Baby cloth diapers made from cotton fabric protect your baby from toxic dyes and other chemical components.
Absorbency
Baby cloth diapers must be quick-absorbing. It should come with a lining or soaker pad that can absorb the moisture well and for a longer time. Cloth diapers for newborns should be able to keep your baby dry for at least 4-5 hours while also preventing leaks and odors.
How to Decide Which Cloth Diaper is Best for Your Baby?
Before investing in baby cloth diapers, learn about the different types and styles of cloth diapers to see what works best for your child.
If your baby has sensitive skin, cloth diapers made from cotton, bamboo, or microfleece are ideal. They are durable, soft, and highly absorbent. Baby cloth diapers with one or more inserts are recommended if the baby is a heavy wetter.
Always wash the cloth diapers in hot water before using them for the first time. However, hemp diapers need to be cleaned 8 to 10 times before being well absorbent, cotton needs 4 to 5 washes, and bamboo needs 2 to 3 washes.
Baby cloth diapers are healthier and more hygienic options for your baby.
They have many features and are just as good as disposable diapers. Look for the material, softness, size, and absorbency of the cloth diapers before purchasing the ideal baby cloth diapers. If you are a parent looking for durable, high-quality, and organic cloth diapers, Geffen Baby is the right fit for your baby, as we offer a range of various baby cloth diapers that are made from eco-friendly fabrics. Buy it now!!