How to Compare Cloth Diapers

Using cloth diapers is a great way to save money on baby expenses.

While you may have thought of cloth diapering as something your mom (or even grandma!) did, cloth diapers are making a strong comeback. And for good reason--they are cost effective and better for the planet than disposable diapers. There is a wide variety of types and styles of cloth diapers out there, and choosing one can be a bit overwhelming. Use the guide below both to help you understand the types of cloth diapers available and to aid in your search to find the one that fits your lifestyle best.

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Instructions

- 1
  
  Some diapers require more work than others.
  
  Consider how easy the diaper is to use. Flat cloth diapers require folding, fastening, and leakproofing the diaper with a cover whereas all-in-one diapers require none of these things. Fitted cloth diapers are a little more middle-of-the road and have a fastening system in place but do require a diaper cover.
- 2
  
  Even the most expensive cloth diapers are cheaper than disposables.
  
  Take finances into account. At around eight dollars for half a dozen diapers, prefolds are the most inexpensive. Pocket diapers, which are the easiest to use and also perform very well, are the most costly of the cloth diapers.
- 3
  
  Not all diapers will grow with your baby.
  
  Find a diaper that has good absorbency and durability. Since you will be using these diapers over and over (and perhaps even with more than one child), you want them to last. Though pocket diapers are expensive, they have great absorbency, where as all-in-ones and fitted cloth diapers have some leaking issues. Diapers made with snaps are often able to be used as your baby grows and the size may be adjusted. Velcro fasteners on diapers, though quicker to put on and remove, wear out quickly with washing and don't allow size adjustments.
- 4
  
  Some babies don't like the bulkiness of certain types of cloth diapers.
  
  Think about what will be comfortable for your baby. One of the downsides to cloth diapers is that they are bulkier than disposables. Some types of cloth diapers, such as cotton prefolds, are quite bulky and can be uncomfortable for children to wear--especially if not changed right away. But pocket, fitted, and all-in-one diapers tend to have a trimmer fit.