Past generations only had one choice for babies – cloth diapers.  Parents had to know how to fold the diaper just so, how to pin it, use plastic covers to keep leaks from happening.  When disposable diapers came along, they were much more convenient.  However, cloth diapers are making a come back.  Many parents find them easier to use as well as attractive.  Some even find they work better than disposable diapers.  If you are interested in trying cloth diapers, the key is finding the ones that work best for you.

There are several different versions of cloth diapers on the market today:

• All-in-Ones – These diapers come complete in one piece, so there is no need for inserts or plastic outer coverings.  There are also wool versions of all-in-ones that have a softer cover layer.  These diapers work great in some situations, but they do sometimes present problems when you clean them because it does come as one piece rather than separate items.
• Fitted Diapers – These cloth diapers are fitted at the edges, so they look a bit like disposable diapers.  This helps prevent leaks, however, you do still need a plastic cover.  If you are worried about the edges being too tight for the baby, you can get fitted diapers that are contoured rather than elasticized.
• Flat and Prefolded Diapers – These are the diapers most people think of when they think of cloth diapers.  But, even these have been improved upon.  Some use snaps rather than pins, so you don’t have to worry about the baby getting poked.  However, they are not fitted and you still need to fold them.  The prefolded diapers do provide an extra layer, which provides for better absorption.  Because these are the basic, old-fashioned cloth diapers, they are the cheapest alternative.
• Pocket Diapers – These cloth diapers offer a specific pocket for inserts.  This allows you to use thicker inserts when the baby is younger, but use thinner as they begin to potty train.  You can even use old diapers as inserts for the pocket.
• One-size Diapers – One problem with cloth diapers is you need to increase the size of the diaper as your child grows.  One-size diapers solve that problem.  You can use the same diapers when the child is a baby as you can when they get older.  This is a great option if you have several children of different ages because you don’t have to worry about sorting the diapers by size.

There are also other things to keep in mind when considering cloth diapers:

• Diaper Liners – These are great for keeping excrement from getting on the main fabric of the cloth diaper.  The diaper liners come in many varieties including those you can wash, those that are made of paper, and those that you can throw away or flush.
• Diaper Covers – Diaper covers now come in wool, meaning they are warmer.  In fact, there are even wool covers in pants form.
• Organics – Are you interested in something that is great for both the environment and your baby?  There are now organic diapers, liners, and soakers made of organic material.

Take the time to look over all the options for cloth diapers before you begin to make purchases.  You will find that the cloth diapers are not only inexpensive, but also environmentally conscious and easier to use than ever before.