Types of Nappies
A pocket nappy consists of a waterproof cover with a pocket lining sewn in with either one or two openings in the lining; The pocket lining can either be made from synthetic fabric (stay-dry) or natural fibres. Inserts are stuffed into the pocket lining. Inserts absorb the urine. Inserts can be made of a variety of fabrics, the most popular being microfibre, bamboo and hemp.
All-in-one (AIO)
An AIO is the closest to a disposable nappy in terms of putting it on your baby as it can be used just as-is. AIOs have an outer waterproof layer and sewn in absorbent fabric.
Snap-in-one (SIO)
A SIO is an AIO that has snap-in inserts. It should not be confused with an AI2 since it can only be used once (as the cover is not wipeable). This type of AIO is beneficial as it will dry quicker, but requires a little bit more effort (sorting and attaching inserts before use).
All-in-two (AI2)
AI2s are a two-step system, you have a cover (that is waterproof, usually PUL or TPU) and inserts. Inserts are the absorbent part of the cloth nappy, it either snaps on to the cover or lays in the sewn-in sleeves of the cover.
Hybrid Fitted
Hybrid fitteds are usually custom made. They have a water-resistant layer (fleece) sewn in but will need a cover to be fully waterproof.
Prefold
Prefolds are old style cloth, one step up from flats (see below). It’s an absorbent inner layer that can be used with any cover, it comes in a rectangular shape with extra absorbent layers sewn in the middle. You can either padfold it and lay in a cover, stuff it in a pocket cover or snappy onto baby. Prefolds come in different sizes.
Flat
Flats are old style cloth – think terrry squares. The fabrics that are popular today are just trimmer than the old terry toweling nappies. It’s a single layer of absorbent fabric cut into a square. There are many ways to fold a flat to use as nappy. Most folds need to be secured with a snappy or pins. They are available in a few sizes: Newborn 50x50cm, OSFM 70x70cm.
Booster
An extra insert to boost absorbency of any nappy, usually smaller than a normal AI2 or pocket insert. Pro Tip: You can use your newborn prefolds or flats as boosters once baby fits into OSFM sizes.
Liner
Disposable or reusable liners to catch poop (very thin and goes on top of any nappy).