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ZRecs Cloth Diaper Showdown
By Lisa | March 25, 2008 | 13 comments / Join the conversation!
The gDiaper, one of the eleven product samples tested for this comparative review.
Editors' Note: When we discovered ZRecs reader Lisa Lukis was getting seriously involved in evaluating cloth diapers in preparations for her daughter's November 2007 birth, we hooked her up with a half-dozen additional diaper brands and had her evaluate 11 different cloth diaper designs for an old-fashioned ZRecs Showdown. Read on for Lisa's candid guidance and recommendations for the uninitiated and candid reviews for those interested in branching out.
My first interaction with a modern-day cloth diaper user took place at a hip hair salon. The woman cutting my hair was pregnant and planning on using cloth. At that time I was still a couple of years away from having kids and had no concept of modern cloth diapers. I remember my reaction to the stylist - doubt and disbelief. People still do this?! I wondered. Curious, I spoke with another cloth diaper user and I began to think this might be both doable and environmentally responsible.
When I became pregnant, I decided to officially delve into the cloth diaper world. To be honest, the learning curve was steep. It took some time before all the terms and acronyms made sense to me, so I kept returning to websites that rated or sold cloth diapers just to get a feel for everything. They contained a variety of products and many had advice on what and how many to get, how to wash, and so on.
For the first four months of my daughter's life, we have worked with the 11 diapers reviewed below. We used each of them routinely over months to get used to them and see how they performed over time. In the end, I evaluated each diaper on scales of one to five for its ease of use, durability, effectiveness, comfort (perceived), attractiveness, and value.
In addition to reading this review, I recommend familiarizing yourself with cloth diaper types. If something appeals to you, try it. Eventually you might find a favorite. And, to state the obvious, babies are different. While one diaper might not work for your neighbor's baby, it could be perfect for yours.
Useful Terms
First, the short version. Here are the brands and styles with the highest scores in this Showdown, with links to purchase them; scroll down for their reviews, in alphabetical order, along with the other diapers I evaluated for this review.
Purchasing gently used diapers can be an excellent way to save some money; I bought a few this way and always had a good experience, receiving "like new" diapers. If you find a reputable vendor who sells used items and you're comfortable with the idea of a used cloth diaper, I say go for it.
I hope this review encourages you to try cloth diapers. Go forth boldly and have fun!
Blueberry Diapers
Style tested: Stuffable AIO (all-in-one) front snap, $19.97
Ease of use: 4.5
Durability: 4.5
Effectiveness: 4.5
Comfort: 4.5
Attractiveness: 5
Value: 3
Total Score: 25/30
Extremely cute! I bought the orange dots print and love it. Micro-fleece works well for my baby's skin and helps to wick away moisture to the internal absorbent layers. In all-in-ones, the absorbent layer is built in, which is handy but makes for long drying times. This diaper is stuffable like a pocket diaper which means that you can load it with more cloth for greater absorbency (good for nighttime). The diaper is very easy to use and durable with the snaps. Drawbacks: long dry time and not inexpensive. [Buy|Company]
More AIOs: bumGenius, Bumkins, Imse Vimse, Kushies
bumGenius
Style tested: Version 2.0 one-size pocket, $17.95
Ease of use: 5
Durability: 4.5
Effectiveness: 5
Comfort: 5
Attractiveness: 4.5
Value: 4
Total Score: 29/30
This is my main go-to diaper. I started off with several of these and added to my stash as the new version came out (old version went on sale). I find the liner to be effective at keeping moisture from baby's skin. Cotton fitted diapers seem to make her bottom irritated even when I'm changing her almost instantly after she's wet.
I love the ease of the hook-and-loop closure, although it is showing some wear; for durability, I prefer snaps. The microfiber insert that is included with the one-size pockets is very absorbent and all the baby needs during the day. Version 2.0 comes with one adjustable insert. The new version comes with two inserts - one for newborns and a one-size insert. This change is very helpful and will allow the diaper to fit better at the smaller end of the size range (you can read more about version 3.0 on the company website).
I started using these one-size diapers when baby was about eight pounds and have been using them ever since. I love that they adjust to fit up to 35 pounds, a huge advantage of a one-size diaper.
Because this is a pocket diaper, you will have to pull out the insert before laundering and once clean, re-stuff the diaper before putting it back on your baby. [Buy|Company]
More Pocket Diapers: bumGenius, BumWear, Fuzzi Bunz, Happy Heinys, JamTots
Chinese Prefolds
Style tested: DSQ (diaper service quality), $2
Ease of use: 2.5
Durability: 4
Effectiveness: 2.5
Comfort: 4
Attractiveness: 2.5
Value: 5
Total Score: 20.5/30
Traditional rectangular diaper, cost effective, a workhorse. I used the unbleached cotton variety. These must be prewashed several times before they are fully absorbent. They will look fluffy and quilted upon washing. I didn't like the folding aspect and they weren't as absorbent as I wanted, but I appreciate this diaper's simplicity.
Note that prefolds require a cover, sometimes called a wrap, in order to be waterproof. I used Bummis Super Whisper Wraps, Proraps, and hand-knit wool soakers.
Prefolds are versatile and have many uses beyond diapering such as burp cloth, wash cloth, and all-purpose rag. [Buy diapers|Buy covers]
Fuzzi Bunz
Style tested: Pocket diaper, $17.95
Ease of use: 4.5
Durability: 5
Effectiveness: 5
Comfort: 5
Attractiveness: 4
Value: 4
Total Score: 27.5/30
Fuzzi Bunz has also come out with a new version of its diaper. Check out the website for the new specs. I purchased four of the last version, size small, unused from eBay and paid in the range of $16 apiece.
I reserve these diapers for nighttime and they work beautifully. I stuff the Fuzzi Bunz with its own microfiber insert plus a folded Hemp Babies Little Weeds insert used as a doubler. This combination does the trick for overnight. I find snaps slightly trickier to use than hook-and-loop closures, but they are sturdier. The two rows of snaps allow for more adjustments around the waist and thighs. Another advantage of these diapers is that they dry very quickly. Because this is a pocket diaper, you will have to pull out the insert before laundering, and once clean, re-stuff the diaper before putting it back on your baby. [Company]
More Pocket Diapers: bumGenius, BumWear, JamTots
gDiapers
Style tested: Flushable diaper with cover, prices vary
Ease of use: 4
Durability: 4
Effectiveness: 4.5
Comfort: 4.5
Attractiveness: 5
Value: 3
Total Score: 25/30
gDiapers offers a thoroughly researched and well-designed hybrid diaper. The diaper consists of an inner absorbent pad which nests into a liner which is subsequently snapped into the “little g” pant (akin to a cover). If you're confused by my description, hightail it over to the company's website which has detailed information in an easy to understand format. Many questions you might have will be answered there. And if the website doesn't address your particular question, the company is happy to take phone calls! I found gDiapers to be quite user-friendly.
Learning how to assemble the diaper for use is similar to any cloth diaper. What frightened me the most was the prospect of flushing the liner. It wasn't that I mistrusted the diaper design as much as I feared the plumbing gods. The gDiaper website has much information on flushing and plumbing which encouraged me to give it a go. In order to flush, pull apart the liner. The absorbent pulpy stuff instantly breaks up in the toilet bowl so I knew it would go down easily. The outer part of the liner I found to be trickier because it is a longer papery piece that doesn't just break apart. Nevertheless, on my flushing attempts, all went down with ease. The dDiaper is an innovative, attractive, and trim-fitting option for your baby.
Price may be a drawback. gDiapers currently run $26.99 for starter kit (2 "little g" pants and 10 flushable inserts), $16.99 for individual “little g” pants, $14.49 for 40 size small flushable inserts, and $52.00 for a case of 160 size small inserts. [Buy|Company]
Happy Heinys
Style tested: Heiny Hugger fitted, $10.95
Ease of use: 3.5
Durability: 4.5
Effectiveness: 3.5
Comfort: 4.5
Attractiveness: 4
Value: 4.5
Total Score: 24.5/30
Great fabric, sturdy and absorbent, and similar to Kissaluvs' fitted diaper with a more generous fit. Once you've gotten familiar with your baby's size, you may prefer either a generous or a trim fit.
Keep in mind that these diapers (and most fitted diapers made from cotton fabrics) need to be prewashed several times to achieve maximum absorbency. Use with a cover for a waterproof system. [Buy|Company]
More Fitted Diapers: All Together, Bamboozle, Imse Vimse, JamTots, Kissaluvs, Swaddlebees, Thirsties, Under the Nile
Happy Heinys
Style tested: One-size pocket, $18.95
Ease of use: 5
Durability: 4.5
Effectiveness: 5
Comfort: 5
Attractiveness: 3.5
Value: 3.5
Total Score: 26.5/30
A great one-size diaper on par with the bumGenius one-size discussed above, but with some differences. The hook-and-loop closure is comprised of large tabs that can be overlapped and are highly adjustable, which is useful for small waists and bigger waists as your baby grows.
The microfleece inner liner that touches baby's skin is very soft and lightweight. It “rolls out” by design, which means that when the diaper is on, the fleece will be visible from the outside around the edges. Don't try to mess with it and tuck it back in - wetness doesn't go there, it stays on the insert.
The entire diaper is very lightweight and dries quickly. I appreciate the two insert sizes that are included with this diaper. Because this is a pocket diaper, you will have to pull out the insert before laundering and once clean, re-stuff the diaper before putting it back on your baby. [Buy|Company]
More Pocket Diapers: bumGenius, BumWear, Fuzzi Bunz, JamTots
Kissaluvs
Style tested: Contour, $6.99
Ease of use: 3
Durability: 5
Effectiveness: 2.5
Comfort: 4.5
Attractiveness: 3
Value: 5
Total Score: 23/30
I found these a bit clumsy to use. While they don't need to be secured by a pin or a Snappi (shown in the photo, sold here), I actually found them trickier to use with a cover than a regular prefold. I also had more leaks with these as opposed to a fitted diaper with elastic at the thighs. Still, these diapers are a great value, use wonderful fabric, have extra fabric where needed, and come in only two sizes (no need to buy three or more sizes as baby grows).
Must be prewashed several times. Use with a cover for a waterproof system. [Buy|Company]
More Contour Diapers: Imse Vinse
Kissaluvs
Style tested: Fitted, $12.50
Ease of use: 3.5
Durability: 4.5
Effectiveness: 3.5
Comfort: 4.5
Attractiveness: 4
Value: 4.5
Total Score: 24.5
A sturdy and absorbent diaper with a trim fit. Very good for newborns. Snaps allow for adjustability and a decent size range even with the first size (size 0). My husband likes the fitteds because he can toss the whole deal into the diaper pail instead of messing with taking inserts out of pockets. I prefer the pocket diapers for their absorbency and wetness barrier for baby's skin.
These and most other fitted cotton diapers need to be prewashed several times to achieve maximum absorbency. Use with a cover for a waterproof system. [Buy|Company]
More Fitted Diapers: All Together, Bamboozle, Imse Vimse, Happy Heinys, JamTots, Swaddlebees, Thirsties, Under the Nile
Swaddlebees
Style tested: Organic cotton velour fitted, $15.95
Ease of use: 3.5
Durability: 4.5
Effectiveness: 3.5
Comfort: 4.5
Attractiveness: 4.5
Value: 3.5
Total Score: 24/30
Similar to other fitted diapers, but tweaked just enough to be perfect for a smallish newborn. The front scoops down to accommodate an umbilical stump. This was the first fitted cloth diaper I ever bought and when it arrived in the mail I nearly melted before its cuteness. I don't find fitted diapers in general all that cute, but when they are so tiny and replete with organic goodness...
Keep in mind that these diapers (and most fitted diapers made from cotton fabrics) need to be prewashed several times to achieve maximum absorbency. Use with a cover for a waterproof system. [Buy| Company]
More Fitted Diapers: All Together, Bamboozle, Imse Vimse, JamTots, Happy Heinys, Kissaluvs, Thirsties, Under the Nile
Thirsties
Style: Fab Fitted, $14.25
Ease of use: 3.5
Durability: 4
Effectiveness: 3.5
Comfort: 4.5
Attractiveness: 5
Value: 4
Total Score: 24.5/30
A very cute fitted diaper, due in large part to the great colors of cotton velour outer layers. Microfleece layer touching baby's skin will probably keep your baby drier than other fitted diapers, although it depends what you want touching your baby's skin and what works for your baby. Some may want to avoid synthetic fabrics entirely. Nicely absorbent inner core. Use with a cover for a waterproof system. [Company]
More Fitted Diapers: All Together, Bamboozle, Imse Vimse, JamTots, Happy Heinys, Kissaluvs, Swaddlebees, Under the Nile
More Brands
The market seems to be evolving quickly, with companies turning out new and improved products often; some of the products, like the Fuzzi Bunz and bumGenius, were updated even while I was undertaking my review diapering. In addition, many WAHMs (work-at-home moms) sell their own designs on a much smaller scale of operations; finding one of these that works for you would be a great option as well. The choices are endless. I would love to try every cloth diaper, but I probably couldn't have enough babies for the time it would take just to gather all the types out there!
If the above reviews aren't enough for you, the following is a list of other brands you might explore, linked to Amazon.com (if sold there) or a company web page. There are many more brands which seem to lack websites but are offered in online cloth diapering shops.
All Together | Bamboozle | Better for Babies | Blue Penguin | Bumkins | BumWear | CJ Swag | Dream Eze | Drybees | Imse Vimse | JamTots | Little Beetle | Knickernappies | Kushies | Mommy's Touch | Monkey Doodlez | Motherease | Tiny Tush | Under the Nile |
Cloth Diapering Resources
Directories: DiaperPin | HyenaCart
Forums: DiaperPin | DiaperSwappers | The Diaper Jungle
Used Diaper Exchange: DiaperSwappers
Tools: Cost Calculator, Cloth vs. Disposables | Cloth Diaper Sewing Patterns | Prefold Folding Instructions | Wipes Recipes
Comments are welcome, but please confine them to general diapering comments, tips, or resources, rather than the promotion of individual brands.
My first interaction with a modern-day cloth diaper user took place at a hip hair salon. The woman cutting my hair was pregnant and planning on using cloth. At that time I was still a couple of years away from having kids and had no concept of modern cloth diapers. I remember my reaction to the stylist - doubt and disbelief. People still do this?! I wondered. Curious, I spoke with another cloth diaper user and I began to think this might be both doable and environmentally responsible.
When I became pregnant, I decided to officially delve into the cloth diaper world. To be honest, the learning curve was steep. It took some time before all the terms and acronyms made sense to me, so I kept returning to websites that rated or sold cloth diapers just to get a feel for everything. They contained a variety of products and many had advice on what and how many to get, how to wash, and so on.
For the first four months of my daughter's life, we have worked with the 11 diapers reviewed below. We used each of them routinely over months to get used to them and see how they performed over time. In the end, I evaluated each diaper on scales of one to five for its ease of use, durability, effectiveness, comfort (perceived), attractiveness, and value.
In addition to reading this review, I recommend familiarizing yourself with cloth diaper types. If something appeals to you, try it. Eventually you might find a favorite. And, to state the obvious, babies are different. While one diaper might not work for your neighbor's baby, it could be perfect for yours.
Useful Terms
- All-in-one: Cloth diaper consisting of waterproof outer layer and sewn in or attachable absorbent inserts, with fasteners built onto the diaper
- Contour: Shaped cloth diaper without fasteners
- Fitted: Shaped cloth diaper that fastens with snaps or hook-and-loop closure
- One-size: A self-explanatory term, this style of diaper is helpful if you don't want to buy new diapers as your baby grows
- Pocket: Cloth diaper consisting of waterproof outer layer and moisture wicking inner; an opening in front or back is the "pocket" for absorbent inserts; fasteners built on
- Prefold: Traditional, rectangular cloth diaper
First, the short version. Here are the brands and styles with the highest scores in this Showdown, with links to purchase them; scroll down for their reviews, in alphabetical order, along with the other diapers I evaluated for this review.
- Top Pick: bumGenius pocket
- Easiest to Use: bumGenius pocket, Happy Heinys pocket
- Most Durable: Kissaluvs Contour, Fuzzi Bunz pocket
- Most Effective: bumGenius pocket, Happy Heinys pocket
- Most Comfortable (perceived): bumGenius pocket, Happy Heinys pocket, Fuzzi Bunz pocket
- Most Attractive: gDiaper, Blueberry stuffable All-In-One
- Best Value: Chinese Prefolds, Kissaluvs Contour
Purchasing gently used diapers can be an excellent way to save some money; I bought a few this way and always had a good experience, receiving "like new" diapers. If you find a reputable vendor who sells used items and you're comfortable with the idea of a used cloth diaper, I say go for it.
I hope this review encourages you to try cloth diapers. Go forth boldly and have fun!
Blueberry Diapers Style tested: Stuffable AIO (all-in-one) front snap, $19.97
Ease of use: 4.5
Durability: 4.5
Effectiveness: 4.5
Comfort: 4.5
Attractiveness: 5
Value: 3
Total Score: 25/30
Extremely cute! I bought the orange dots print and love it. Micro-fleece works well for my baby's skin and helps to wick away moisture to the internal absorbent layers. In all-in-ones, the absorbent layer is built in, which is handy but makes for long drying times. This diaper is stuffable like a pocket diaper which means that you can load it with more cloth for greater absorbency (good for nighttime). The diaper is very easy to use and durable with the snaps. Drawbacks: long dry time and not inexpensive. [Buy|Company]
More AIOs: bumGenius, Bumkins, Imse Vimse, Kushies
bumGeniusStyle tested: Version 2.0 one-size pocket, $17.95
Ease of use: 5
Durability: 4.5
Effectiveness: 5
Comfort: 5
Attractiveness: 4.5
Value: 4
Total Score: 29/30
This is my main go-to diaper. I started off with several of these and added to my stash as the new version came out (old version went on sale). I find the liner to be effective at keeping moisture from baby's skin. Cotton fitted diapers seem to make her bottom irritated even when I'm changing her almost instantly after she's wet.I love the ease of the hook-and-loop closure, although it is showing some wear; for durability, I prefer snaps. The microfiber insert that is included with the one-size pockets is very absorbent and all the baby needs during the day. Version 2.0 comes with one adjustable insert. The new version comes with two inserts - one for newborns and a one-size insert. This change is very helpful and will allow the diaper to fit better at the smaller end of the size range (you can read more about version 3.0 on the company website).
I started using these one-size diapers when baby was about eight pounds and have been using them ever since. I love that they adjust to fit up to 35 pounds, a huge advantage of a one-size diaper.
Because this is a pocket diaper, you will have to pull out the insert before laundering and once clean, re-stuff the diaper before putting it back on your baby. [Buy|Company]
More Pocket Diapers: bumGenius, BumWear, Fuzzi Bunz, Happy Heinys, JamTots
Chinese Prefolds Style tested: DSQ (diaper service quality), $2
Ease of use: 2.5
Durability: 4
Effectiveness: 2.5
Comfort: 4
Attractiveness: 2.5
Value: 5
Total Score: 20.5/30
Traditional rectangular diaper, cost effective, a workhorse. I used the unbleached cotton variety. These must be prewashed several times before they are fully absorbent. They will look fluffy and quilted upon washing. I didn't like the folding aspect and they weren't as absorbent as I wanted, but I appreciate this diaper's simplicity.Note that prefolds require a cover, sometimes called a wrap, in order to be waterproof. I used Bummis Super Whisper Wraps, Proraps, and hand-knit wool soakers.
Prefolds are versatile and have many uses beyond diapering such as burp cloth, wash cloth, and all-purpose rag. [Buy diapers|Buy covers]
Fuzzi BunzStyle tested: Pocket diaper, $17.95
Ease of use: 4.5
Durability: 5
Effectiveness: 5
Comfort: 5
Attractiveness: 4
Value: 4
Total Score: 27.5/30
Fuzzi Bunz has also come out with a new version of its diaper. Check out the website for the new specs. I purchased four of the last version, size small, unused from eBay and paid in the range of $16 apiece.
I reserve these diapers for nighttime and they work beautifully. I stuff the Fuzzi Bunz with its own microfiber insert plus a folded Hemp Babies Little Weeds insert used as a doubler. This combination does the trick for overnight. I find snaps slightly trickier to use than hook-and-loop closures, but they are sturdier. The two rows of snaps allow for more adjustments around the waist and thighs. Another advantage of these diapers is that they dry very quickly. Because this is a pocket diaper, you will have to pull out the insert before laundering, and once clean, re-stuff the diaper before putting it back on your baby. [Company]
More Pocket Diapers: bumGenius, BumWear, JamTots
gDiapersStyle tested: Flushable diaper with cover, prices vary
Ease of use: 4
Durability: 4
Effectiveness: 4.5
Comfort: 4.5
Attractiveness: 5
Value: 3
Total Score: 25/30
gDiapers offers a thoroughly researched and well-designed hybrid diaper. The diaper consists of an inner absorbent pad which nests into a liner which is subsequently snapped into the “little g” pant (akin to a cover). If you're confused by my description, hightail it over to the company's website which has detailed information in an easy to understand format. Many questions you might have will be answered there. And if the website doesn't address your particular question, the company is happy to take phone calls! I found gDiapers to be quite user-friendly.
Learning how to assemble the diaper for use is similar to any cloth diaper. What frightened me the most was the prospect of flushing the liner. It wasn't that I mistrusted the diaper design as much as I feared the plumbing gods. The gDiaper website has much information on flushing and plumbing which encouraged me to give it a go. In order to flush, pull apart the liner. The absorbent pulpy stuff instantly breaks up in the toilet bowl so I knew it would go down easily. The outer part of the liner I found to be trickier because it is a longer papery piece that doesn't just break apart. Nevertheless, on my flushing attempts, all went down with ease. The dDiaper is an innovative, attractive, and trim-fitting option for your baby.
Price may be a drawback. gDiapers currently run $26.99 for starter kit (2 "little g" pants and 10 flushable inserts), $16.99 for individual “little g” pants, $14.49 for 40 size small flushable inserts, and $52.00 for a case of 160 size small inserts. [Buy|Company]
Happy Heinys Style tested: Heiny Hugger fitted, $10.95
Ease of use: 3.5
Durability: 4.5
Effectiveness: 3.5
Comfort: 4.5
Attractiveness: 4
Value: 4.5
Total Score: 24.5/30
Great fabric, sturdy and absorbent, and similar to Kissaluvs' fitted diaper with a more generous fit. Once you've gotten familiar with your baby's size, you may prefer either a generous or a trim fit.
Keep in mind that these diapers (and most fitted diapers made from cotton fabrics) need to be prewashed several times to achieve maximum absorbency. Use with a cover for a waterproof system. [Buy|Company]
More Fitted Diapers: All Together, Bamboozle, Imse Vimse, JamTots, Kissaluvs, Swaddlebees, Thirsties, Under the Nile
Happy HeinysStyle tested: One-size pocket, $18.95
Ease of use: 5
Durability: 4.5
Effectiveness: 5
Comfort: 5
Attractiveness: 3.5
Value: 3.5
Total Score: 26.5/30
A great one-size diaper on par with the bumGenius one-size discussed above, but with some differences. The hook-and-loop closure is comprised of large tabs that can be overlapped and are highly adjustable, which is useful for small waists and bigger waists as your baby grows.
The microfleece inner liner that touches baby's skin is very soft and lightweight. It “rolls out” by design, which means that when the diaper is on, the fleece will be visible from the outside around the edges. Don't try to mess with it and tuck it back in - wetness doesn't go there, it stays on the insert.
The entire diaper is very lightweight and dries quickly. I appreciate the two insert sizes that are included with this diaper. Because this is a pocket diaper, you will have to pull out the insert before laundering and once clean, re-stuff the diaper before putting it back on your baby. [Buy|Company]
More Pocket Diapers: bumGenius, BumWear, Fuzzi Bunz, JamTots
Kissaluvs Style tested: Contour, $6.99
Ease of use: 3
Durability: 5
Effectiveness: 2.5
Comfort: 4.5
Attractiveness: 3
Value: 5
Total Score: 23/30
I found these a bit clumsy to use. While they don't need to be secured by a pin or a Snappi (shown in the photo, sold here), I actually found them trickier to use with a cover than a regular prefold. I also had more leaks with these as opposed to a fitted diaper with elastic at the thighs. Still, these diapers are a great value, use wonderful fabric, have extra fabric where needed, and come in only two sizes (no need to buy three or more sizes as baby grows).
Must be prewashed several times. Use with a cover for a waterproof system. [Buy|Company]
More Contour Diapers: Imse Vinse
KissaluvsStyle tested: Fitted, $12.50
Ease of use: 3.5
Durability: 4.5
Effectiveness: 3.5
Comfort: 4.5
Attractiveness: 4
Value: 4.5
Total Score: 24.5
A sturdy and absorbent diaper with a trim fit. Very good for newborns. Snaps allow for adjustability and a decent size range even with the first size (size 0). My husband likes the fitteds because he can toss the whole deal into the diaper pail instead of messing with taking inserts out of pockets. I prefer the pocket diapers for their absorbency and wetness barrier for baby's skin.
These and most other fitted cotton diapers need to be prewashed several times to achieve maximum absorbency. Use with a cover for a waterproof system. [Buy|Company]
More Fitted Diapers: All Together, Bamboozle, Imse Vimse, Happy Heinys, JamTots, Swaddlebees, Thirsties, Under the Nile
SwaddlebeesStyle tested: Organic cotton velour fitted, $15.95
Ease of use: 3.5
Durability: 4.5
Effectiveness: 3.5
Comfort: 4.5
Attractiveness: 4.5
Value: 3.5
Total Score: 24/30
Similar to other fitted diapers, but tweaked just enough to be perfect for a smallish newborn. The front scoops down to accommodate an umbilical stump. This was the first fitted cloth diaper I ever bought and when it arrived in the mail I nearly melted before its cuteness. I don't find fitted diapers in general all that cute, but when they are so tiny and replete with organic goodness...
Keep in mind that these diapers (and most fitted diapers made from cotton fabrics) need to be prewashed several times to achieve maximum absorbency. Use with a cover for a waterproof system. [Buy| Company]
More Fitted Diapers: All Together, Bamboozle, Imse Vimse, JamTots, Happy Heinys, Kissaluvs, Thirsties, Under the Nile
ThirstiesStyle: Fab Fitted, $14.25
Ease of use: 3.5
Durability: 4
Effectiveness: 3.5
Comfort: 4.5
Attractiveness: 5
Value: 4
Total Score: 24.5/30
A very cute fitted diaper, due in large part to the great colors of cotton velour outer layers. Microfleece layer touching baby's skin will probably keep your baby drier than other fitted diapers, although it depends what you want touching your baby's skin and what works for your baby. Some may want to avoid synthetic fabrics entirely. Nicely absorbent inner core. Use with a cover for a waterproof system. [Company]
More Fitted Diapers: All Together, Bamboozle, Imse Vimse, JamTots, Happy Heinys, Kissaluvs, Swaddlebees, Under the Nile
More Brands
The market seems to be evolving quickly, with companies turning out new and improved products often; some of the products, like the Fuzzi Bunz and bumGenius, were updated even while I was undertaking my review diapering. In addition, many WAHMs (work-at-home moms) sell their own designs on a much smaller scale of operations; finding one of these that works for you would be a great option as well. The choices are endless. I would love to try every cloth diaper, but I probably couldn't have enough babies for the time it would take just to gather all the types out there!
If the above reviews aren't enough for you, the following is a list of other brands you might explore, linked to Amazon.com (if sold there) or a company web page. There are many more brands which seem to lack websites but are offered in online cloth diapering shops.
All Together | Bamboozle | Better for Babies | Blue Penguin | Bumkins | BumWear | CJ Swag | Dream Eze | Drybees | Imse Vimse | JamTots | Little Beetle | Knickernappies | Kushies | Mommy's Touch | Monkey Doodlez | Motherease | Tiny Tush | Under the Nile |
Cloth Diapering Resources
Directories: DiaperPin | HyenaCart
Forums: DiaperPin | DiaperSwappers | The Diaper Jungle
Used Diaper Exchange: DiaperSwappers
Tools: Cost Calculator, Cloth vs. Disposables | Cloth Diaper Sewing Patterns | Prefold Folding Instructions | Wipes Recipes
Comments are welcome, but please confine them to general diapering comments, tips, or resources, rather than the promotion of individual brands.
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I love using prefolds-- they have been really easy for us, but all prefolds aren’t equal-- so, if you’re interested in prefolds, shop around for suppliers. In our experience, you need to buy from someone who custom-orders them- the mass produced ones are inferior.
I have been using Bum Genius One Size diapers for around 9 months now with my son. We have a stash of approximately 20, and we wash them every 2 nights or so. They’ve held up remarkably well and I’ve not had to return a single one for repair. I love, love, love cloth diapering and I truly wish more people would give it a shot.
I highly recommend washing with Charlie’s Soap (we use it for all of our clothes now, and it’s compatible with HE washers.) We also use approximately a teaspoon of REGULAR Dawn liquid for antibacterial purposes.
Also, don’t forget the cloth wipes! People wrinkle their noses at this but why stick a paper wipe in the diaper, only to fish it out later? (Yuck.) Use a cloth wipe and your liquid of choice (I use the Bum Genius spray) and toss it all in the wash later. Also, we use a “wet bag” by Bummis (I think) that is awesome to put used diapers and wipes in while on the go.
I am also fortunate to have a daycare that will use my diapers there, as well. I think it’s easy to convince them when you show them the Bum Genius and how “different” they are… People still assume we’re using prefolds and safety pins!
I’ve been using fuzzi bunz (I’m a cloth convert) and love them! I thought at first the snaps would be difficult, but they have proven to be anything but for us so far. I think the key is to try different types of cloth diapers and find the one (or ones) that work best for you and your family. I liked fb best. A friend uses prefolds. I do keep some prefolds for backup in case I don’t get wash done or need extra liners to double overnight.
We use pre-folds with Bummi’s super snap and pro-wraps whisper wrap covers (pro-wraps are my favorite and cheaper). When our baby was about 5 months old we wanted to get something new for a night diaper and invested in two Bum Genius diapers because everyone seems to love them so much. We loved them at first to, and even claimed if we could afford it we would only use them, but then after only a few washings (alright maybe a month of use) they started to leak at night. I know other moms who’ve had leak problems with them too. Now we’ve gone back to pre-folds with a doubler at night (I have hemp-a-roos doublers and I also use the “extra” Bum Genius doubler too.) The Bum Genius come in handy also for baby sitters not use to folding diapers. As Maria said, it is about what is best for you. We’re on a tight budget so pre-folds are great but we’ve had to try different folds and covers to get the whole thing right!
Shana-- Are you sure you didn’t have buildup on the bum genius? With the pockets, you have to be careful to wash them with detergent (not soap), etc so that a buildup doesn’t occur on the liner. If it does, the liner will repel the liquid and cause it to leak.
Maria-Do you mean dry detergent? We always use Seventh Generation powder detergent so I don’t think that is it, but now that I am thinking of blockage it could have been caused by diaper cream? That would make sense (and explain why one seems to leak and the other doesn’t) We don’t have many rashes but she did have one around that time. If buildup does occur what can it be undone? Thanks!
I was talking about detergent (I use the same as you), but if you are using cream, that is another cause. When I bought my FB it specifically stated not to use diaper cream, because it gets on the fleece and repels the liquid (pee).
There are ways to get rid of the buildup. If it is bad, you might have to repeat several times, but all you need to do is was the diapers with a 1/2 cup of vinegar and 1/2 baking soda. To test if the buildup remains, use a nasal aspirator or water bottle to squirt water on the fleece.
Different people do different things though, so maybe google cloth diaper stripping.
I should mention that I do maintenance stripping, but because you have diaper cream on them, you might need to actually scrub? Like I said-- google to double check. Oh and use HOT water when stripping.
I’m cloth diapering my triplets (now 28 months) and we use Bum Genius for overnight. During the day we mainly use Elbees (a WAHM-made fitted) and OBBs (a WAHM-made pocket). After trying many, many, many brands I’ve found that I prefer WAHM products if the WAHM has good reviews. (Unfortunately there are many who seem to come and go and sully the market.)
We used prefolds for two years with our son and I found them to be very absorbent - much more so than the pockets and fitteds we tried. Especially once you move up to premiums, those will hold a LOT. The review didn’t distinguish between the different types of absorbency either - a 4x6x4 is less absorbent than a 4x8x4, for example.
Prefolds are also a lot more durable than diapers that have elastic and velcro closures since velcro and elastic wear out easily over time but high quality prefolds have no ‘parts’ to wear out so what will eventually happen is the fabric itself
I would like to see further reviews of the Thirsties one-size AIO’s and maybe some diaper covers (the major brands - proraps, thirsties, bummis - both super whisper wraps and super brites). I was very pleased with my Thirsties AIO and found it comparable to my BumGenius and Happy Heinys one-size pockets.
I have cloth nappied my twins from 9 months till now (26 months) we have to use disposbale overnight now as they kept soaking through but otherwise it has been easy.
I read this review and loved it from when it was posted on your original site. It inspired me to run my own review:
http://rollingthroughlooneyville.blogspot.com/2008/11/cloth-diaper-showdown-and-giveaway.html
I reviewed BumWear, Tiny Tush (2 varieties), Kushies, BumGenius, Fuzzi Bunz and QBaby Diapers.
The more reviewed, the better informed people are! Hope this helps fill in some gaps. There are still so many out there!
From a mom of twins...gDiaper users can save 15% on the inserts by buying from Amazon via their Subscribe & Save program. Or individuals to buy in bulk from their local independent store (ie-Whole Foods) for 10% off through the manager.
[Thanks for the note on this! Here’s a link to Amazon’s Subscribe and Save program, where you can also view a list of products they offer through this program. - Ed.]