Cloth Nappy Overview
From CntWiki
If you are new to cloth nappies you'll probably find all the new jargon a bit confusing, I know I did. Here I've tried to give you an easy run down on what it all means!
Real nappy - Basically another popular general term for cloth nappies. We would love to see an unreal nappy!!
Fitted/shaped nappy - this is the basic modern cloth nappy, it looks like a disposable in shape, can be made from a variety of materials such as terry cotton, hemp or bamboo. They are closed using either poppers, aplix/Velcro (or other hook and loop fastener), or with a snappi nappi/nappi nippa the new alternative to a nappy pin. This type of nappy will have numerous layers of cloth, usually with an integrated booster sewn in. It may be lined with fleece or suedecloth to keep baby's bottom dry, if not you can add a liner. Drying times vary depending on the material the nappy is made from.
Pocket nappy - these nappies have the same shape as a fitted/shaped nappy but at the back there is an opening 'pocket' between the inner and outer of the nappy for you to add your own inserts as required. They generally have fleece or suedecloth on the inside and the outside can be PUL/fleece/combo (in which case a separate wrap is not required), or any other type of cloth (in which case you will need a separate wrap). This is a very quick drying system as all the components are separated to dry.
AIO (All in One) - this is a nappy that again is shaped similarly to a disposable and has the absorbent part of the nappy covered by a waterproof layer all sewn together so all you need to do is put the nappy on as it is. They are fastened by poppers or aplix. As they are all one part this is the slowest drying option.
Terry Square - this is the traditional type of nappy, just a simple square that you fold into shape before putting on your baby. They now come in a variety of sizes, materials and even colours. This is a very quick drying nappy as it is only one layer.
Prefolds - these nappies are rectangular in shape and have extra layers sewn into the centre third of the nappy. They can be folded in different ways and are also great to stuff pocket nappies with. Prefolds are available in various different materials. They dry quickly as they are flat.
Muslins - these are a thin cotton square that many people use on newborns. They are not massively absorbent but fine when you are changing all the time. Can be folded in the same ways as terry squares. Muslins are useful for a million different things once they are no longer used as nappies, mopping up baby goop as the prime example! They dry incredibly quickly.
Wraps (pilchers) - this is what you put over your cloth nappy to protect your baby's clothes from getting wet. They can be made from PUL, fleece or wool. Traditionally they were made from plastic, these are not really recommended as they don't breathe so are not nice for your baby to wear. Wraps are fastened with hook and loop or poppers or they can be pull on pants. Wool wraps are usually pull up.
Insert - these are what you put in a pocket nappy, it’s the absorbent bit! Can be made from terry, hemp or bamboo, can be used as a booster.
Booster - this is to add absorbency to a nappy if you have a heavy wetter or overnight. They are rectangular or hourglass shaped.
