Types of Cloth Nappy
Types of Nappy
Want to know more about the different types of cloth nappy? You're in the right place!
If you want to know more, come and see us for a FREE cloth nappy info session
All-In-One (AIO)
An all-in-one nappy (also called AIO) contains attached absorbency that cannot be replaced. They are most like a disposable in that they whole nappy must be washed once soiled.
This can be:
* fully sewn in (Little LoveBum Everyday)
* have a tongue which can be tucked in (Modern Cloth Nappies Pearl)
* a combination of both (TotsBots Easyfit)
They vary in the type of material and may not all be absorbent enough for every child as they come. Most AIOs can have extra absorbency added in the form of a booster, either added under the layers or into the pocket.
They often also take a fairly long time to dry.
Look for: hemp/cotton mix for heavier wetters (e.g. MCN Pearl or LLB Everyday
All-In-Two (AI2)
All-in-two nappies (also called AI2) contain an absorbent part that can be attached & removed.
The idea is to then wipe down the outer shell and replace the insert with a clean one.
However there are some brands where this is not possible!
Some examples are:
* thick layers/wipe clean (Tickle Tots AI2)
* thinner inserts/fleece backed (Close Pop-In)
* choice of poppered inserts (Buttons)
AI2s can be a very economical way of using cloth nappies full-time. This is possible because you need less shells to inserts. Generally, any type of insert can be used to create an absorbent layer
Look for: multiple choices with adaptable options (Bells Bums Z-swap or Buttons Diapers - known as true AI2 options)
Pocket
Pocket nappies consist of an outer shell and insertable absorbent layers. They are often lined with fleece or other wicking materials and some have an internal elastic to aid fit around the legs.
They are a popular type of nappy due to their ability to be completely adjustable to your baby's needs.
Some examples are:
* bamboo/microfibre mix inserts (Baba+Boo)
* hemp/cotton/bamboo inserts (Poppets)
* bamboo double layer (Little Lamb OSFM)
Pocket nappy shells dry very quickly compared to the inserts, so it is possible to buy extra inserts vs shells to minimise on the number you need for full-time use
Look for: adaptable or additional inserts with extra capacity (Poppets or Bells Bumz)
Fitted/Night
Fitted nappies are the modern day equivalent of terry towels, but with velcro and poppers rather than nappy pins!
They are fully absorbent shaped nappies which are NOT WATERPROOF. They need a wrap or cover on top to provide an outer layer
They may come in adjustable OSFM or sized options, and can be used in the day time too. A lot of parents choose them as a night option due to their high capacity. Some come with boosters but they can have more added to further increase their longevity. They often seem quite bulky due to the amount of layers involved.
Some examples are:
* Little Lamb (sized, non-adjustable)
* Modern Cloth Nappies Fitted Pearl
* TotsBots Bamboozle (sized but adjustable)
* CherryBottoms Stay-Dry Fitted
These types of nappies often take a long time to dry especially in the colder months, but can usually be tumble dried on low to speed this up as they have no waterproof component.
Wrap/Cover
Usually referred to as wraps or covers these are an outer layer that can be used in conjunction with inserts, fitted, flat or prefold nappies to provide waterproofing.
If not soiled, they can be reused a number of times by wiping over and putting in a fresh absorbent inner of your choice.
They are similar to the shells of an AI2 but often are a little roomier to allow for bulky fitted nappies underneath.
Some examples are:
* Fiyyah
* Little Lamb (sized, non-adjustable, velcro)
* Bells Bumz Z-wrap
* Pumkin & Pickle pull-up
These covers can be used in the day or at night and can form part of a very financially economical cloth nappy system.
Flat/Preflat/Terry
A flat nappy is any nappy that needs to be folded. This includes prefolds, trifolds, muslins or terry squares.
A preflat is a shaped flat nappy that can be folded before putting it onto your baby.
These come in various different materials and can easily be boosted. Much like fitted nappies, flats are NOT WATERPROOF and will need a wrap over the top.
There are various different folds that can be used. If you would like to know more about folding flat nappies, please get in touch.
Booster/Insert
Not sure about the difference?
Well, let us assure you; there isn't one really!
Boosters and inserts are basically two words for the same thing - fabric that adds extra absorbency to a nappy. This could be in the form of a specific shaped layered piece or simply a folded flannel. You can buy various different types made from many different materials with different absorbent capabilities.
We tend to think of it like this:
an insert comes with the nappy and is either attached in some way or put into a pocket
a booster is something extra you add to a nappy to give it more capacity
Liner
A liner is a piece of fabric that acts as a wicking layer to draw the moisture away from baby's bottom.
Liners do not have any absorbency and are only used as a removable layer to aid dryness and to enable poo to be removed more easily (especially at the weaning stage).
Most liners are made of fleece, but you can also get ones from athletic wicking jersey. Hypoallergenic silk ones are also available if required.
Another option is disposable liners made from paper or bamboo. Please note these should NEVER be flushed down the toilet and should be disposed of in a bin.
Other nappy accessories you might need
Swim Nappies
Contain no absorbency; purely used for catching poops in the pool.
Some swim schools ask for double layers.
Wetbags
Good for storing nappies out and about. Come in a variety of different sizes, some with double compartments for wet or dirty items
Nappy Pail
Large storage for dirty nappies. Users often choose between this or a bucket for keeping nappies in between wash days.
Bucket
Buckets with lids are a popular option for storing dirty nappies between wash days. Some have clips to keep the lid secure.
Reusable Wipes
Reusable wipes are a great idea for babies of all ages! Not just for nappies, they make quick work of weaning messes too
Nappy Nippas
These are the modern day equivalent of a safety pin and are used to fasten flats and muslins around babies.