Cloth Diapering

After I started cloth diapering I quickly became overwhelmed by all the terminology! Here is what I've learned so far.

Common Terminology

Prefold - The simplest of cloth diapers. It's a rectangular fabric with three panels of equal width. The outer panels generally have fewer layers of fabric than the center panel. For example you might see 4x8x4...this means there are 4 layers on the outer panels and 8 layers on the center panel.  They can be made out of cotton, flannel, bamboo, and hemp. A waterproof diaper cover is needed with these.

http://www.clothdiaper.com/

Flat - These are the old-fashioned diapers that your Grandma probably used. They are a large single layer of fabric that is folded to get a similar effect as the prefold. A waterproof diaper cover is needed with these.

http://www.greenmountaindiapers.com/diapers.htm

                                          

Fitted - These are cloth diapers that are fitted like a disposable diaper...they are easy to use because they do not need to be folded first. They can have snaps or velcro or be pinned together. These will also need a waterproof diaper cover. There are many different varieties and brands and everyone has their favorite!

http://www.greenmountaindiapers.com/diapers.htm

Contoured - These are like fitted cloth diapers but usually do not have a fastener or elastic to help get a trimmer fit. They are still trimmer than a prefold or flat diaper. (These are my personal favorites.)

Kidalog

Diaper Cover - This is a cover that goes over any of the cloth diapers mentioned above. They can come in fitted sizes or a one-size fits most. They come in wool, fleece, or completely waterproof PUL fabric.

Kissaluvs Wool Cover

Various Waterproof Covers photographed by Beginner Beans

(For very thorough reviews by Beginner Beans, click the link above)

Pocket Diaper - These have an outer and inner shell with an opening/pocket either in the back or front of the diaper for an absorbent insert, such as microfiber or even a prefold. They are waterproof and the inner shell is usually made of a soft material. No cover is needed.

Sunbaby Pocket Diaper

All-in-One (AIO) - This is exactly what it sounds like...a diaper that is already put together. No prefolds, pinning, or adding a diaper cover. It's a lot like a pocket diaper but there is no stuffing a pocket. This is just like changing a disposable...just don't throw it away!

OsoCozy AIO

All-in-Two (AI2) - Alot like a pocket diaper, except that the insert attaches on the outside of the inner lining...so it touches baby's skin. Unlike a pocket or AIO, the insert can be changed out and the diaper used more than once. (Unless of course there's a big poo mess!)

Grovia Hybrid/AI2

Hybrid - A hybrid consists of a reusable diaper cover but can be used with either a reusable cloth insert or a disposable insert. (See the Grovia above.) There are different varieties of this as well.

gDiaper with disosable insert

Insert - This is what goes inside a pocket diaper, or snaps onto an AI2 or hybrid. It can also be used as extra absorbency inside an AIO or added to a prefold. Microfiber is the common material for pockets because it is highly absorbent and does not touch baby's skin (it shouldn't touch baby's skin). Other great materials are hemp, bamboo, and cotton.

Kawaii Microfiber Inserts

BabyKicks Hemparoo Joey-Bunz

Doubler/Booster - These are inserts that are used in addition to any diaper system to increase absorbency. If your baby is a heavy wetter this is essential. I use them at night since Immie sleeps 8-11 hours at a time. Any insert can be used for this purpose but there are also some made specifically for this purpose.

Thirsties Fab Doublers

Liners - These are used to line any diaper system, including prefolds. They are generally flushable liners that make cleaning up messes easier. Fleece liners are used to keep baby dry as it wicks moisture away from skin. I made some out of an old fleece baby blanket and I was happy with the results.

Grovia Bio Liners

The world of cloth diapering is dynamic. New designs seem to be created all the time and there are many brands to choose from. Every cloth diapering mommie has her favorites and I think all of us are always looking for the latest, greatest, and cutest diaper out there!
Further Reading:

Prefolds 101: Understanding the Differences
Diaper Definitions from Green Mountain Diapers
Clothdiaper.com has some great information!
http://allaboutclothdiapers.com/
FAQ's answered by DiaperPin