Cloth Nappies … Where do I start??

Welcome to the wonderful world of cloth nappies! We are here to make your family’s cloth journey as simple and stress free as possible.  As they say, the best decision is made when we are well informed. So, you are in the right place.

Let’s start! A common question I am asked is:

How does a cloth nappy work?

Well, the best bit of information I received when starting (and I still use today) is that…

All cloth nappies require two parts… an absorbent part and a waterproof part.

It is important to keep this in mind as we go into the different configurations of cloth nappies. Having this information in mind allows to your break down each configuration and see how it would work with your family and baby. This also allows you to have a better understanding of all the different cloth nappies which are available online.

So what configurations are there?

The two parts nappy

Let’s start here! With our advice in mind – All cloth nappies require two parts… an absorbent part and a waterproof part – these nappies all come in two parts. They can be a bit tricker to master at the beginning, but once you have learned how to fold them (which is easier than it seems!) they are the most cost-efficient and flexible option (also very easy to dry, so great for winter or colder areas). There are three different types of two-part nappies; Fitted, Prefolds and Flats.

Fitted

A fitted nappy is completely absorbent (the whole nappy is absorbent!) and is worn around the baby. These nappies can have no built-in closure (like the Bubblebubs BamBam) and require a Snappi which allows you to create a beautiful, custom fit around your baby’s tummy and legs. Others have built-in snaps for closure, like the Bubblebubs Bamboo Delights. These nappies require a waterproof cover to go over the top. These can be Bubblebubs PUL Sized Covers or Seedling Baby Cómodo Wrap.

Prefolds and Flats

I think every household with a baby should have these! They are completely absorbent and so handy, not just as a nappy but a burp cloth or under little bottoms on the change table to name a few uses. Anyway, back to nappies (sorry about that!); both Prefolds and flats require a Snappi and a waterproof cover (like the Bubblebubs PUL Sized Covers or Seedling Baby Cómodo Wrap).

The Prefolds (Seedling Baby Diversifolds or Bubblebubs Prefolds) can be folded many ways but are often folded into thirds and marked with stitching to guide you. Whereas the Flats (Bubblebubs Terry Flats or the old school Terry towels which can be purchased at stores like Target, Kmart or Big W) are handy to have in any stash as they can be folded in a number of ways to suit a newborn, a toddler and any little bottom in between! I will cover how to fold both of these another day. But for now, these are great and will be used from birth until toilet training.

The one part nappy

A one part nappy comes in three different types, All-in-one (AIO), All-in-two (AI2) or pocket nappy.

All-in-one (AIO)

These nappies are the simplest and closest cloth nappy to a disposable. These nappies are one single piece, meaning that the absorbency is permanently attached to the waterproof cover. The most common ways which the absorbency is attached is either all stitched into the cover and can be seen from the inside of the nappy or attached at one end like the Bubblebubs Pebbles. These nappies are super easy for anyone and everyone to use; however, they can be harder to dry.

All-in-two (AI2) (and pocket nappies)

Then we have the All-in-two (AI2) style which is a nappy that comes in two parts. There are a couple of different types of AI2; nappies with snap-in inserts (Bubblebubs Candies); pocket nappies (Seedling Baby Multi-fit Pocket Nappy) or nappies which have both options (EcoNaps Convertible AI2).

With the snap-in AI2 option, if the cover (or shell) is not soiled or dirty, then you can just change the inserts and away you go again. When the pocket nappy is used the complete nappy, it will need to be replaced with each nappy change. The pocket nappies are a great option for unsure parents, grandparent or carers with wiggly babies! Pocket nappies involve stuffing which people either love or oppose. But, once prepped (pre-stuffed) can be used like a disposable nappy.

The last bit of information (for now hehe) before you start deciding which nappies are yes, no and maybe is about… nappy sizes.

Sizes

Cloth nappies can either be sized (newborn, small, medium, large) or a One Size Fits Most (OSFM). The OSFM is more economical as you can use the nappies for a longer time. However, OSFM is often not best on newborns as they can be bulky and not provide a snug fit around their little legs. This often only lasts for a month or two and the OSFM nappies can be used with a great fit on most babies. Sized nappies are great for those first few months or some families like having sized nappies the complete way through. Keep in mind that when a brand claims to last “from birth to toilet training” this is an approximate as each baby is different.

Okay, now we are done! So, grab yourself a cupper and have a think about which option would work well for you and your family. It is a great thing having options as everyone can find the exact fit for them and their family. If you are concerned, confused or have questions, please Contact Us at Critters Creations. We can arrange a time for you to come around (South Australia only) or a video call so we can help you with any questions you have.

Don’t forget to have a look at our Starter and Trial packs for ideas.

Happy nappies!

Nicole, Critters Creations.