Cloth Diapering 101: Hybrids, Pockets, All-In-One's

Hybrid Diapers are fairly new on the market. Basically, they consist of a waterproof (PUL) cover or shell, and an absorbent insert. Some have traditional reusable cloth inserts that you would wash, and some offer disposable inserts that are bio-degradable and can be flushed or composted. Some people also use a prefold that is folded into thirds to lay in the inside of the shell making this pretty much the same as using prefolds and PUL covers. The most popular brands of hybrids are the Flip System and gDiapers. It seems that hybrids are best for those wanting to try cloth diapers, but not too fond of the idea of washing poo. Also, they seem to be popular for traveling when washing and drying isn't an easy option.

Pictured here is a gDiaper

Pocket Diapers are quite popular. A pocket diaper is a single diaper made with a PUL outer with snaps or velcro closures, a single layer of "stay dry" inner fabric with a pocket opening in the front or back where you "stuff" an absorbent insert. This insert may be rectangular or contoured depending on the manufacturer. Some people just use washcloths, prefolds or even microfiber towels from the automotive department of Wal-Mart. Pocket diapers are easy to use because you are just putting on one diaper instead of dealing with a diaper and cover. Also, they dry quickly because the insert is separate. The downside to pockets is that you have to stuff the inserts either on laundry day or at the changing table. Also, you have to unstuff them before they are washed and that can be gross. Some makers claim that their inserts come out in the wash without unstuffing them first. Definitely a plus! One of the most popular brands of pocket diapers are FuzziBunz. (Update: Pocket diapers are now my favorite! Click here to read more.)

Pictured here is a FuzziBunz One Size Pocket Diaper

All-In-One's are exactly as they sound. No inserts, no snap in soakers, no covers, no pins or snappi's. They are as easy to use as disposables and are often referred to as "Daddy diapers". They are made of a waterproof (PUL) outer fabric with snaps or velcro closures, a stay-dry inner fabric, and several layers of absorbent fabric in between. The downside for these is the longer drying time because they are very thick with no way to separate layers for drying. They can also be a little on the expensive side at around $25 each. The most popular All-in-One diaper is the BumGenius.

Pictured here is a BumGenius All-In-One

This completes my explanation on the types of cloth diapers. Of course, people are always inventing new things so I'm sure that there are some types I did not cover, but these are all of the tried and true favorites of cloth diapering mamas. I suggest you try out the different ones and see what you like best. A lot of the diaper websites have sampler packages that allow you to try out the different styles. Or like me, you can check out Diaper Swappers or your local Craigslist to buy them used and then turn around and sell what you do not like.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment and I will do my best to answer.

Still to come in this series...

• How to store dirty diapers
• How to wash cloth diapers 
• Cloth wipes and homemade wipe solution
• Miscellaneous tips and tricks

Always, 

Amanda