There are many types of cloth diapers on the market today.  I hope that these breif explanations will clear up confusion for the cloth diaper newbie :-)

Prefolds

Prefolds are typically made with soft 100% cotton fabrics, but can also be made with hemp fabrics.  They can be used with pins or a snappit or can just be folded into thirds and layed into a cover or AIO shell.  I would recommend the infant sized prefolds if you will be using them as soakers for AIO's.  The best prefolds are the DSQ style (Diaper Service Quality) and are 4x8x4's.  This means that there are 4 layers of cotton in each of the outer panels and 8 layers of cotton down the middle.  These are the most absorbent type of cotton prefolds.  When fodled into thirds they offer a total of 16 layers of absorbency.  DSQ prefolds are known for their softness adn can withstand even the rigors of industrial washing.  Brand new prefolds must be washed prior to their first use.  Prefolds must be used with a cover when worn under clothing.



Fitted Cloth Diapers

Fitted cloth diapers are easier to use, less bulky, and contain bm's better then prefolds.  They have a closure of some kind so that pins and snappis are not necessary.  They also have elastic for a more 'fitted' fit then a prefold.  The best fitted cloth diapers will not have internally sewn in soakers.  Separate snap in style soakers will make the fitted much easier to get completely clean and will cut drying time way down.  Fitteds with sewn in internal soakers take forever to dry and are hard to get completely clean becoming an ideal breeding ground for bacteria.  Fitted diapers must be used with a cover when worn under clothing.



AIO's - All-in-Ones

   AIO's or All-in-One cloth diapers offer the ultimate in convenience combining the ease of use of a fitted diaper without the need and expense of separate covers.  AIO's can even be more econmical then  purchasing separate diapers and covers.  AIO's with a 2 part design (have a separate shell and snap in style soaker) are superior to AIO's with sewn in internal soakers for a number of reasons:    1.  They are easier to wash and dry much faster;  2.  Absrobency is easily customizable;   3.  They are more economical since if the shells are not wet or soiled you can change the soakers only.  This will bring your cost per diaper change way down.  Their ease of use puts AIO's at the top of the list for babysitters, day care providers, daddy's, and mommy's.



Covers

Covers can be made from breathable and non-breathable fabrics.  Any cloth diaper that does not have a waterproof barrier fabric must be worn with a cover with cover if the diaper is to be worn under clothing.  Only AIO's eliminate the need for separate covers.

About the author:  Hello :-)  My name is Jennifer and I am the owner/creator of Little Lambs, a store featuring high quality One Size AIO's, premium hemp products,  baby slings & gear,  crib bedding sets,  classic baby/kids apparel, and Items for Mom .  Check out our Bargain Boutique for specials,  FREE Shipping Items Category,  and  Package Deals for incredible savings on cloth diapering layettes.  We have daily auctions that start at a penny!