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.

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