What Does the Jargon Mean?

So we've already gotten started on cloth diapers and how convenient and comfortable they can be, but, what does the jargon really mean?

Here, I'll break down the names of each cloth diaper and how they are used.
First up you have your ol' school

1. Flats/Prefolds: These are the flat white cloths Mommy's used back in the day, held with safety pins. As with all fabrics, these can be purchased as organic/inorganic, bleached/unbleached etc. With these a waterproof (WP) cover is needed.
2. Contour Flat/Prefolds: Contours are the same as the above with the exception of it being cut in an hourglass or "V" format to allow a better fit through the crotch area with extra freedom to kick those chubby little legs. A WP cover is needed.
3. Fitted Diaper: This is your cloth diaper with elastic divisions in the legs and waist. The absorbency layers are sewn into the diaper so extra absorbency isn't necessary, although, parents may choose to add more. A WP cover is needed.
4. Pocket Fitted Diaper: This diaper maintains elastic divisions in the legs and waist. At the back of the diaper a pocket is featured to add as many or little absorbency layers as you please. A WP cover is needed.
5. PUL/WP Cover: A waterproof cover is commonly made with a fabric called polyurethane laminate (PUL). Fleece may also be used to act as a WP cover. This layer is needed with diapers when it is not a part of the diaper itself. 
6. All in Two (AI2): This diaper is similar to the pocket fitted diaper except the PUL/WP layer is a part of the diaper.
7. All in One (AIO): The AIO is just that, a diaper with all the components combined. The absorbency layers, WP layers, elastic divisions, etc. all come in one diaper. Parents can choose to add absorbency layers next to the baby's skin, although, microfiber is not recommended. This style does take longer to dry.
8. Boosters/Lay in Soakers: These are simply absorbency layers. Typically seen with pocket diapers or AI2's. These layers can be inserted or snapped in depending on the make and style of each individual diaper.
9. Wet Bags: A storage bag used to store soiled diapers and other wet garments. Typically made from PUL fabric.

Those are the main components that make up cloth diapering. Once you get into it you'll find the fit and style that work best with you and your bundle of joy!

Now that you're geared up with some of the facts, the burning question is... How many do I really need?
Click here to find out more!

"Take it from a 1st time; full time Mom!"