Cloth Nappies 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 a few UK pounds 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. Fitted shaped nappies need a waterproof or water resistant cover over the top. Cost around £7 to £12 each.
Pros, very easy to use, very leakproof, easy to launder, medium drying time. Reasonably durable, should last through more than one baby, possibly more.
Cons, more expensive than flat nappies, hook and loop fastenings (Velcro/Aplix/YKK) may need replacing for a second baby to use them. All-In-One Nappies
As the name implies, this is a nappy that has the waterproof cover built in. Shaped like a disposable again, it's really like using a disposable, only difference being it will be washed and used again. The nappies 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, one of the most expensive systems, 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. Can be prone to a damp mildew odour if not dried extremely well. Pocket nappy/cover systems.
This is in fact a special kind of nappy cover. The whole inner part of the cover is lined with micro polyester or fleece, 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 £10 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. The birth to potty pocket covers can be both economical and easy to use.
Cons, can be 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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Cuddlebabes - reusable cloth nappies
