Newborn Cloth Diapers

Becoming a parent brings a new set of priorities into a person's life.  You suddenly have this new being that you only want the best for.  There are so many decisions you ponder when it comes to your new baby.  A newborn's skin has spent 9 months protected inside its mother's womb.  The average newborn will need at least 10-12 diaper changes a day.   Your child will spend anywhere between the next 18-36 months wearing diapers so the kind of diapers they wear are very important.   It seems the obvious choice would be to diaper your newborn in layers of natural cloth without synthetic fabrics and harsh chemicals. 

Newborn cloth diapers come in 3 basic styles including flat, fitted and all-in one: 

Flat cloth diapers

are generally the least expensive option and consist of squares of cotton fabric that can be folded to fit the baby and usually secured with diaper pins.  They aren't waterproof and will require outer covers.  You can also find variations of the flat diaper including pre-folded which has extra layering in the center or contoured which are more form fitting and less bulky than pre-folded. 

Fitted cloth diapers

are similar to contour diapers but have the advantage elastic.  For a snug fit the leg and wastband have elastic sewn in and this helps with leaks.  Fitted diapers also have the built-in closures like snaps of velcro so diaper pins are not necessary.  These newborn cloth diapers are more expensive than flat cloth diapers and would also require waterproof outer covers. 

All-in-one (AIO) cloth diapers

are the most expensive option but also the most convenient.  These have built in waterproof covers as well as snaps or velcro closures and adjustable for size.   

There are a number of accessories including  waterproof covers and liners: 

The plastic pull up which is the cheapest option, but since it's made of plastic it's not very breathable and don't last very long, eventually cracking and tearing.     

Nylon covers are more expensive but more lightweight, last longer than plastic.

Wool covers are very breathable and comfortable and are water-resistant but not waterproof.

Fleece covers are another breathable option and good for babies who are sensitive to wool.

Polyester covers and liners

are often the best choice because they are waterproof, breathable and long lasting and their outer texter is soft.

For extra absorbancy liners can be added to the cloth diaper.  This is often a good choice for naps and overnight so you don't have to wake your baby for a change.  You can find re-usable or disposable liners and they are usually covered with a polyester faing to help prevent diaper rash.  Inserts are also available and serve a similar purpose to insers in that they double the cloth diapers absorbancy but are bulkier and useful for longer periods between diaper changes.

Caring for newborn cloth diapers

is not as difficult as one might think.  At a diaper change you merely remove any solid waste in the toilet and put the cloth diaper in a pail.  You can choose whether to do a dry pail where the diapers are put in a dry receptacle or pre-soak them in a partially filled diaper pail.  When ready, place diapers in the washer and set on warm or hot water and if needed repeat the wash with regular laundry.  It is advisable to use vinegar to wash your cloth diapers as opposed to commercial detergents, this helps get out soap and minimize skin allergic reactions.  To dry the best option is line drying and finishing them off by puttin gthem in the dryer for 10-15 minutes to insure they are thoroughly dry.