A Cloth Diaper Primer, part 2

This series is intended to simplify the vast amount of information available on cloth diapers.  Cloth diapering “newbies” may be overwhelmed at first, but cloth diapers really are easy!  Did you miss the other post in this series?  Click here to read part one.

Some More Terminology

Insert: This refers to the portion of a diaper that is stuffed inside the pocket.  It is the absorbent core of the diaper.

Doubler/Booster: This is a piece of absorbent material added (usually to the pocket) to give extra absorbency.  A cotton/gauze doubler, hemp doubler, or bamboo doubler are great options.  They give extra absorbency without extra bulk.  You could also choose to use two microfiber inserts, but this will likely be very bulker.  (Read more about fabrics tomorrow).

Liner: This is a thin piece of material placed between the baby and the diaper.  A stay-dry liner wicks moisture to keep the baby dry.  A flushable liner makes it easy to clean the poo off a diaper – just flush the liner and all of the solids on top of it.  You can also use a liner to protect your diaper in the case when your child needs a special diaper cream, etc. that may cause build-up.

Soaker:  Soaker could refer to two things.  First, it is another name for the insert or absorbent core of a diaper.  It could also refer to a wool diaper cover.  Wool is also highly absorbent, and when used as a diaper cover it soaks up any excess moisture.

PUL: this stands for poly-urethane laminate.  It is a fabric (often polyester) that is bonded with a laminate to make it waterproof.  Most pocket diaper or diaper covers have a PUL outer layer.

Diaper Cover:  This is a waterproof cover that is placed over a non-waterproof diaper (such as a fitted diaper, a prefold diaper, etc.).  A diaper cover may be sized or one size.  It can be made of wool, fleece, or PUL.

This prefold is tri-folded and laid inside a diaper cover

Snappi Fastener: This is a t-shaped elastic strap with little “claws” on the ends.  It has replaced diaper pins.  It is easy to use and safe – no more poking yourself or your baby!  It holds a diaper securely closed underneath a cover.

 

WAHM Diaper:  In the last post we discussed the major types of diapers.  I gave examples, from main-stream cloth diaper manufacturers.  I neglected to mention that there is a whole other world out there – the WAHM (work-at-home-mom) diapers.  These handmade items are as unique as each individual person.  In an effort to keep things simple, I wanted to highlight the big brands first.  I have not been brave enough to try WAHM diapers yet, but I may do so soon!  Find WAHM diapers on Etsy (as a starting place).

{Read Part 1}
{Read Part 3}