More and more parents are making the switch to cloth diapers — and for good reason. They're eco-friendly, cost-effective in the long run, and gentler on baby's sensitive skin. But with so many styles and systems available, it can be hard to know where to start. Here's your complete guide to choosing the right cloth diaper system for your family.
Why Choose Cloth Diapers?
- Eco-friendly — significantly reduces landfill waste compared to disposables.
- Cost savings — a full cloth diaper stash can save thousands of dollars over a baby's diapering years.
- Gentler on skin — natural fabrics like cotton and bamboo are soft and breathable.
- Adorable designs — cloth diapers come in beautiful prints and colors!
- Reusable for siblings — a good stash can last through multiple children.
Explore our Cloth Diapers & Baby Accessories collection to find the perfect system for your family.
Types of Cloth Diapers
1. All-in-One (AIO)
The easiest cloth diaper to use — everything is sewn together, just like a disposable. Great for beginners and daycare settings. No stuffing or folding required.
2. Pocket Diapers
A waterproof outer shell with a pocket you stuff with an absorbent insert. Customizable absorbency and quick-drying. Very popular with parents.
3. All-in-Two (AI2) / Hybrid
A shell with a snap-in or lay-in insert. You can reuse the shell and just change the insert between changes, making it more economical.
4. Prefolds & Flats
The most traditional and affordable option. Requires folding and a separate waterproof cover. Excellent absorbency and very durable.
5. Fitted Diapers
Shaped like a disposable but made of absorbent fabric. Requires a waterproof cover. Great for heavy wetters and overnight use.
How Many Do You Need?
A good starting stash is typically:
- Newborns: 24–36 diapers (they go through 10–12 per day)
- Older babies: 18–24 diapers (6–8 per day)
Plan to wash every 2–3 days to keep your stash fresh and ready.
Essential Cloth Diapering Accessories
To make cloth diapering as easy as possible, you'll also need:
- Diaper pail or wet bag — for storing dirty diapers between washes.
- Diaper liners — make solid waste cleanup much easier.
- Cloth-safe diaper cream — avoid creams with zinc oxide, which can damage cloth diapers.
- Wipes — pair your cloth diapers with our Baby Wipes & Holders for a complete diapering system.
- Diaper caddy — keep your changing station organized with our Baby Diaper Stackers & Caddies.
- Portable changing pad — for on-the-go changes. Browse our Baby Portable Changing Pads.
Cloth Diapering On the Go
Cloth diapering away from home is easier than you think! Pack a wet bag in your Baby Diaper Bag for dirty diapers, and bring a portable changing pad for clean changes anywhere. A well-organized bag makes all the difference.
Still Using Disposables Sometimes? That's Okay!
Many families use a hybrid approach — cloth at home and disposables when traveling or at daycare. If you use both, our Baby Disposable Diapers collection has you covered for those times when convenience is key.
Keeping Baby Comfortable
Whatever diapering system you choose, keep baby comfortable with:
- Soft, breathable clothing — browse our Baby & Toddler Clothing (note: cloth diapers are bulkier, so size up in bottoms!).
- A cozy sleep space — explore our Baby Bedding collection.
- Organized storage for all your diapering supplies — see our Baby Storage & Organization solutions.
Final Thoughts
Cloth diapering has a small learning curve, but once you find the system that works for your family, it becomes second nature. Start with a small trial stash of different styles before committing to one system — every baby and every family is different!
Shop our full range of cloth diapering essentials at Cub & Cradle — making sustainable parenting simple and stylish. 🌿💛