Cloth Nappy Adventures - The Types Available

The basic types of nappies

• Flat nappies (terry squares and prefolds) and Shaped nappies – these require separate waterproof wraps and can also be called ‘two part systems’. The inner nappy part represents the absorbency and the outer wrap the waterproof barrier.

• Pocket nappies – these nappies have a ‘pocket’ in the back where you stuff an insert (or a variety of inserts) for absorbency as needed. The outer of the nappy is waterproof and so does not require a separate wrap.

• All In One nappies – these nappies are most similar to a disposable nappy as they come in one piece. They require no separate inserts or wraps.

Flat nappy facts

• The most economical way to nappy your child
• Some people find the notion of ‘folds’ as overwhelming, however the ‘degree in origami’ theory is a MYTH!
• Fast drying as they can be ‘spread out’
• No pins any more: use a ‘nippa’ or the wrap to hold in place
• Good at keeping pooh explosions in – two lines of defense along with wrap!
• Good as stuffing for pocket nappies later
• Wrap can be wiped down and re-used if not soiled, plus take no time at all to dry

Shaped nappy facts

• Good at keeping pooh explosions in – two lines of defense along with wrap!
• Easier to use that flat nappies as no special folds needed
• Wrap can be wiped down and re-used if not soiled, plus take no time at all to dry
• Drying time varies depending on material and size of the nappy

Pocket nappy facts

• These are said to be one of the easiest kinds to put on a wriggly baby at changing time
• Can be pre-stuffed ready for days out, nurseries etc.
• Easy to boost
• Quite slim-line
• The most popular style of reusable overall

All In One nappy facts

• The easiest type of nappy to use – if you can put on a disposable and take it off, you can manage these!
• More expensive as there is no chance of reusing this nappy once soiled, it must be washed, therefore you need more of them or to do more frequent washes.
• Can be slow drying, however new versions known as ‘All In Two’s or Snap In One’s’ break apart to speed drying (but are colour coded to be foolproof!)