Printz 'n Patternz Fact Sheet
Cloth Diaper Know-How

This is a collection of terms/types of diapers you will come across when researching or shopping for cloth diapers.  Familiarizing yourself with these things will give you a head start on finding the right diaper for your family and will help you avoid unnessasary purchases.

Types of Diapers
Prefolds:  These are the folded diapers that are traditionally associated with cloth diapering and are still by far the most commonly used system. They can be pinned with diaper pins, snappi'd (see below), or folded into a liner.  They can also be used to stuff a pocket diaper.  Prefolds come in many varieties ranging from those you can buy at Walmart or Target to prefolds averaging $3.00 each.  There are only 2-4 sizes (depending on brand) of prefolds and the diaper is made to fit any size baby by the way it is folded.  If prefolds are your primary system, I recommend 2-3 dozen Chinese or Indian Prefolds in the regular size.  I also recommend that everyone have 6-12 prefolds to use as back up changing pads, burp rags, or emergency diapers.

Contours:  Used the same ways as prefolds, but designed so they don't need to be folded.  Most varieties do not need to be pinned in any way, many have snaps or velcro incorporated into the design.

Wraps or Covers:  This is a waterproof cover to put over a prefold or contour to keep the moisture/mess inside the diaper.  Covers are available from a variety of sources.  Some disposible diapering moms use covers with their diapers to keep from having leaks!

Pocket Diaper:  This is a diaper that has a pocket that can be stuffed with 1 or 2 prefolds, or special stuffers to adjust absorbancy.  The inner layer (closest to baby's skin) is usually made of fleece or flannel.  Fleece acts to wick moisture away from baby and into the diaper, keeping baby drier for longer.  There is then an interior waterproof or water resistant layer and an outer cover.  Because of their one-time use, this is more expensive system to use full time (as compared to standard prefolds with a wrap/cover. 

All In One:  This is a liner and cover all rolled up into one diaper!  These diapers have all the ease of disposables.  The disadvantage is that they are very time consuming to dry and if one gets stained beyond repair your are throwing away a large investments.  This style diaper is also expensive as a full time system.

Diapering Accessories
Liners:  Available in cloth or disposable varieties, liners serve to absorb extra moisture and help minimize messes.

Tote:  It is important to consider what you will do with dirty diapers when you are travelling with baby.  The easiest solution is to purchase a waterproof bag with a drawstring to carry home your diapers.  They are available in a variety of sizes and colors.

Snappi:  This is a plastic T-shaped hook used in place of diaper pins.  They are relatively inexpensive, but tend to wear out in about six months if used full-time.

**Printz 'n Patternz specializes in custom made covers and pocket diapers.