cloth diapering 101: part two – fitteds, pockets, AIOs/AI2s

Okay, we’ve discussed prefolds, flats and covers – so now let’s talk about fitteds, pockets, all-in-ones [AIO] and all-in-twos [AI2].

fitteds: these are basically cloth diapers that look like disposables, have snaps and/or velcro, but are not waterproof, so they would need a cover just like prefolds and flats. This is where you can get your fix of patterns and prints if you so desire, but it’s pretty much only for you, because you can’t go outside of the house in fitteds without a cover. And it can get very overwhelming because there are about 742 different brands of fitted diapers, and each one of them fits and works differently. I won’t even get into my favorite brands, because they really are so different – it’s just trial and error.

Fitteds do require covers, so you can choose to use any of the types of covers I mentioned in the last post – I prefer wool or fleece over our fitted diapers.

pocket diapers: they consist of an outer layer of waterproof material and an inner layer of microfleece or suedecloth, which keeps your baby feeling dry and helps prevent diaper rash. You can “stuff” whatever you want in between the layers to customize absorbency.

I prefer BumGenius 3.0 one-size pocket diapers for Emma, because they fit from about 7lbs until 35lbs.

I really liked Fuzzi Bunz in the newborn stage, too.

Since they have an outer layer of waterproof material, they do not require a cover. So once you stuff the diaper with the absorbent insert and put it on the kid, you are good to go.

all-in-one [AIO]: this is similar to a pocket diaper, but the absorbent material is built-in to the diaper, so you don’t have to stuff the diaper – all you have to do is put it on the baby! I actually have no experience with these diapers, so I don’t have any personal pictures or recommendations. I’ve heard great things about BumGenius AIOs and Bum-Ware AIOs.

all-in-two [AI2]: this is similar to a pocket diaper, except instead of stuffing the absorbent material in between the layers, you snap an absorbent soaker into the waterproof diaper cover. I have had a very positive experience with Baby Softwraps AI2s.

photo courtesy of Baby Softwraps

Well, now that we’ve discussed all the different types of cloth diapers and covers, you’re probably VERY overwhelmed and still wondering what system is right for you. I wish I could magically tell you what will work best for your baby and your lifestyle, but I hope that these definitions and pictures will help at least narrow down your choices.

up next … cloth diaper accessories