Cloth nappies have changed beyond all recognition since around 1990. Ask most people what a cloth nappy looks like and they will describe a flat square of terry towelling. In fact there are a wide variety of cloth nappy types available now, starting with the simplest of flat terry squares, up to the shaped All-In-Ones that are just like using a disposable, only difference being, you will wash and use it again and again. The average modern cloth nappy consists of a system like that below, a waterproof cover, probably velcro fastening, and an absorbent nappy inner, probably shaped and fitted with elastic and velcro or popper fastening. You may use a booster at times when your baby needs additional absorbency. Finally, you may like to use a one way liner, either flushable, or reusable. The whole system closes to make a neat looking and leak proof nappy. No folding is required to use the vast majority of modern cloth nappies, but you can save a considerable amount of money if you choose a system that does require some folding.

This is a very brief introduction to the styles of cloth nappy available in the UK.

Cloth Nappy types fall into four basic categories. Flat, Shaped, All-In-Ones and Pocket systems.

Flat Nappies

These are terry squares, prefolds, muslins and tie ons. They each need folding before putting on the baby, and with the exception of tie ons, they all need something to hold or fix them on. They all need a waterproof or water resistant cover over the top. Mostly only one size needed.

Pros, very cheap, from £1.60 each, very easy to launder and dry, versatile, durable, should last through several babies.

Cons, can be a bit fiddly, but practise makes perfect, not as leak proof for faeces as some other systems.

Shaped Nappies

These are the next step up. Made of various cotton fabrics, these nappies are shaped for a better fit with elastic at the legs and often the waist as well. They fasten with velcro or poppers and some open out slightly for easier washing and drying. Some shaped nappies require several sizes to be bought, some come in a size adjustable design, that means the same nappy will fit from birth to potty. These need a waterproof or water resistant cover over the top. Cost around £6 to £12 each.

Pros, very easy to use, very leakproof, easy to launder, medium drying time. Reasonably durable, should last through 2 babies, possibly more.

Cons, more expensive than flat nappies, velcro may need replacing for a second baby to use them.

All-In-One Nappies

As the name implies, these are a nappy that has the waterproof cover built in. Shaped like a disposable again, these really are like using a disposable, only difference being they will be washed and used again. They fasten with velcro or poppers. The whole nappy goes in the wash each time. No extra waterproof cover required. The ultimate in cloth convenience. Cost from around £9 to £13 each.

Pros, extremely easy to use, no additional waterproof cover required. Good for occasional babysitters to use.

Cons, the most expensive system, not as durable as the others, generally will only last one baby as the waterproofing is washed each time with the nappy, take a long time to dry.

Pocket cover/nappy systems

These are in fact a special kind of nappy cover. The whole inner part of the cover is lined with micro polyester, and an opening at the rear allows you to stuff the cover with whatever you want as your absorbent part of the nappy syste. Once stuffed, this is just like using an All-In-One nappy, but you can separate the parts for easier washing, drying and greater durability Very easy to use and overcome some of the All-In-One drawbacks. Cost from around £9 to £13 each.

Pros, extremely easy to use, dry faster than All-In-Ones and more flexible. Fleece lining keeps skin much dryer. Good for occasional babysitters and nurseries to use.

Cons, one of the most expensive systems, need to wash cover after each use, not as leak proof as a true two part system.

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