How it Works

First Published 08/25/2022.  

Contrary to popular belief, cloth diapering does not have to be a time consuming task. This article will quickly summarize the world of cloth diapers and how you can quickly get started.

In this post I'll cover questions like...

  • How does a cloth diaper function?
  • Properties of cloth diapers
  • What are the different types of cloth diapers?
  • What is the best type of Pooters cloth diaper to buy?
  • How to start cloth diapering

 

How does a cloth diaper function?

Like disposable diapers, all cloth diapers have 3 parts - a shell, inner core, and outer waterproof cover.

   

Properties of cloth diapers

  1. SHELL - A shell that wraps around your baby to trap the poop
  2. INNER - An inner core that absorbs the pee
  3. OUTER - An outer, waterproof layer to keep your clothes dry

   

What are the different types of cloth diapers?

There are roughly 6 different types of cloth diapers, but they can put into 3 groups. For this article, I'll call the groups Type I, II, and III.

   

  • Type I: All in One cloth diapers have all 3 parts (shell + inner core + outer layer) sewn together in one diaper. These diapers are best used during the daytime and when your baby is a newborn.
Pro: Great for daycare because they're easy to figure out.
Con: Because the layers are sewn together, they can be hard to clean.
Con: They can only hold up to 16 ounces
  
  • Type II: All in Two and Pocket cloth diapers only have 2 parts (shell + outer layer) sewn together. The inner core is separate.
Pro: Great for daycare because they're easy to figure out
Pro:  Inner core can be removed = easy to clean
Con: Inner core must be removed and then added back to the diaper after washing. This can be time consuming.
Con: They can only hold up to 16 ounces
  
  • Type III: Fitted, Pre-fold, and Flat cloth diapers only have 1 part - the shell. The inner core and outer layer must be bought separately. 
Pro: Perfect for nighttime use.
Pro: You can add multiple inserts to hold up to 37 ounces.
Pro: Easy to clean.
Pro: More durable. These diapers will last months, if not years, longer than Type I and Type II diapers.
Con: More expensive than Type I and Type II diapers
Con: Not as easy to figure out as Type I and II diapers. I would not recommend for daycare use.

   

What is the best type of Pooters cloth diaper to buy?

At Pooters, making a diaper that is guaranteed not to leak is our number one priority. For that reason, we only sell Type III Fitted diapers - the most absorbent type of cloth diaper. To buy our Fitted diapers, you'll need to first choose your shell, the inner core, and then your outer cover.

   

Step 1: Choose a Diaper SHELL

We sell two types:

    • Hemp Fitteds:
      • Made from 6 layers of hemp
      • Holds 18 ounces of pee
      • Includes snaps to make it easy to put on and take off
      • Choose this shell if your baby is a heavy wetter (20 ounces or more), or nurses through the night
      • Snapless Fitteds: 
        • Made from organic cotton
        • Holds 8 ounces of pee
        • Does not include snaps. You must use a Snappi to secure this diaper around your baby
        • Choose this shell if your baby has chunky thighs, is long and lean, or if you're on a budget.

         

      Step 2: Choose an INNER Core

      At Pooters, we sell 2 types of inner cores (aka inserts or boosters). These inner cores help to boost how much pee your diaper shell will hold.

        • Stay-dry Hemp:
          • Made from 7 layers of hemp jersey
          • Holds 13 ounces of pee
          • Includes a fleece layer to make your baby feel dry even when they're wet
          • Choose this inner core if your baby is a heavy wetter, nursing through the night, or is sensitive to wetness.
        • Hemp Diaper Booster Pad: 
          • Made from 6 layers of organic knit hemp terry
          • Holds 2.5 ounces of pee
          • Choose this inner core to add absorbency to your diaper shell during the day when you're changing the diaper every 2 to 3 hours. This inner core can also be used to increase absorbency in Type I and Type II diapers, as well as disposable diapers.

            

          Step 3: Choose an OUTER Cover

          Your Pooters diaper is going to be super absorbent, but you'll still need a waterproof cover to ensure that when the diaper gets wet, it doesn't wet your clothes. At Pooters, we sell 2 types of outer covers.  

            • PUL
              • Comes with a lifetime warranty
              • Fits babies 6 to 40 lbs
              • Color-coded snaps make it easy to use and get a leak-free fit
              • Machine washable
              • Choose this outer cover if you're on a budget, or if you don't have time to hand wash.
            • Wool:
              • Made from 100% Merino Wool
              • Fits babies 6 to 45 lbs
              • Perfect for babies with sensitive skin
              • Perfect for heavy wetters (babies who pee more than 27 oz a night)
              • Must be hand-washed
              • Holds up to 5 ounces
              • Choose this outer cover if your baby has sensitive skin, or if they are a heavy wetter.

                  

              How to Start Cloth Diapering

              Below is a rough guide for what you'll need to start cloth diapering The suggestions below will help you be able to cloth diaper for 2.5 days before needing to wash them.

              Using merino wool isn't as hard as you think - use our 5-minute guide

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