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Thinking about cloth diapering but overwhelmed by the options? You’re not alone. Between flats, pockets, prefolds, and all-in-ones, choosing the right type of cloth diaper can feel like learning a new language.
At Nightingale Night Nurses, we help new parents navigate every part of early baby care—even diaper decisions. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different types of cloth diapers, including pros, cons, and what might work best for your family.
Whether you’re cloth curious or ready to build your stash, we’ve got you covered.
Why Do Cloth Diapers Come in So Many Types?
Modern cloth diapers have evolved to offer options for every parenting style, baby body, and laundry routine. Some prioritize affordability, others convenience or speed. Understanding the differences can help you build a system that works.
1. All-in-One (AIO) Diapers
The closest to disposable. Easy and convenient.
- What they are: One-piece diapers with absorbent layers sewn in. No stuffing or covers needed.
- Pros:
✔️ Super easy to use
✔️ Great for caregivers/daycare
✔️ Minimal assembly - Cons:
❌ Long drying time
❌ Higher upfront cost
❌ Less customizable absorbency - Best for: Parents who want simplicity and speed
2. Pocket Diapers
Customizable and easy to clean.
- What they are: Waterproof outer shell with a pocket to stuff absorbent inserts.
- Pros:
✔️ Dries faster than AIOs
✔️ You control absorbency (day vs. night)
✔️ Stay-dry liners keep baby feeling dry - Cons:
❌ Requires stuffing after each wash
❌ Can leak if not stuffed correctly - Best for: Parents who want flexibility and a faster dry time
3. Prefold Diapers
Affordable and versatile.
- What they are: Flat, layered rectangles of absorbent fabric that are folded and secured with a cover.
- Pros:
✔️ Inexpensive
✔️ Easy to wash and dry
✔️ Can be reused as burp cloths or cleaning rags later - ✔️ Natural materials are less likely to irriatate baby’s bum and are easier to keep clean
- Cons:
❌ Folding and securing takes practice
❌ Less convenient on the go - Best for: Budget-conscious families and newborns and sensitive babies
4. Fitted Diapers
Absorbent diapers that still need a cover.
- What they are: Shaped, snug diapers with elastic legs and snaps or Velcro—but no waterproof layer.
- Pros:
✔️ Very absorbent (great for heavy wetters)
✔️ Excellent leak protection when paired with a good cover - Cons:
❌ Bulkier
❌ Takes longer to dry
❌ Requires a separate cover - ❌ Can be more expensive than other options, often handmade
- Best for: Overnight use or babies who pee a lot
5. Flats
Old-school, but still a favorite for simplicity and speed.
- What they are: Large squares of fabric that you fold and pin or fasten before adding a cover.
- Pros:
✔️ Cheapest option
✔️ Fastest to dry
✔️ Customizable fold for best fit - Cons:
❌ Steep learning curve
❌ Time-consuming - Best for: Minimalist parents, off-grid living, or those with limited laundry access
6. Hybrid Diapers
Mix-and-match cloth and disposable.
- What they are: A reusable shell with the option of cloth or disposable inserts.
- Pros:
✔️ Travel-friendly
✔️ Less waste than full disposables
✔️ Flexible - Cons:
❌ Disposable inserts can be pricey
❌ Not fully eco-friendly - Best for: Families who want the best of both worlds
What’s the Best Type of Cloth Diaper?
There’s no single “best”—only what’s best for you. Many parents use a mix of cloth diaper types depending on:
- Baby’s age
- Laundry preferences
- Day vs. night needs
- Who’s doing the diapering
Quick Comparison Chart
| Type | Cost | Dry Time | Ease of Use | Absorbency | Needs Cover? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| All-in-One | $$$ | Slow | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ❌ |
| $$ | Medium | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ❌ | |
| Prefold | $ | Fast | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ✅ |
| Fitted | $$ | Slow | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ✅ |
| Flats | $ | Fast | ⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ✅ |
| Hybrid | $$$ | Fast | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | Sometimes |
The Nightingale Take: You Don’t Have to Go All In
Many of the families we work with use cloth during the day and disposables at night. Others start with cloth after the newborn phase. Some try a few types before settling on their favorites.
And that’s perfectly okay.
If you’re cloth diapering, our overnight newborn care specialists can help support your system with gentle, respectful routines and guidance. Whether you’re folding flats or snapping AIOs, we’re here to help you rest easy knowing baby is in good hands.
Ready to Build Your Stash or Just Need a Nap?
Whatever stage you’re in, from choosing a diaper to surviving the 2 a.m. feeding, Nightingale Night Nurses is here to support you. Contact us today to learn more about overnight newborn care, customized for your parenting style.
