Diaper Covers

As I said in previous posts, if you're using a type of diaper that does not have a waterproof exterior, you'll need to use a diaper cover to prevent leaks. When I wore diapers, that meant a pair of plastic pants, probably made by Gerber, pulled up over my diaper. Although that type of cover is basically still available, there are now other options. The most popular and common style fastens with velcro and fits snugly over the diaper, as opposed to ballooning out like the old plastic pants did. The cover in the picture is a Bummis Super Whisper Wrap. Velcro (or snap) covers are great because you don't necessarily have to fasten the diaper underneath (eliminating the need for pins or Snappis); the cover holds the diaper in place. Additionally, if there's no poop on the cover at a change, you can usually wipe it down and reuse it. This means that you may only need 5-6 covers.

Fitted Diapers

Another very popular type of cloth diaper is the fitted diaper. Basically, a fitted diaper is an all-in-one without the waterproof cover. They are very easy to put on, and they usually either snap or velcro. However, you do have to use a separate waterproof cover to prevent leaking. Fitteds allow a bit more flexibility than all-in-ones. It tends to be easier to add a doubler for overnight, and the ability to choose which cover you want to use can be helpful as well. They are also more durable and easier to wash and dry because they don't have the waterproof layer attached. They can also be a less expensive option, depending on what covers you choose to pair with them. If you choose a cover with a wipeable interior, many times you can just change the fitted diaper, but wipe and reuse the cover. This way, you only need a few covers.

Personally, fitteds aren't my favorite type of diaper. It is great that you don't have to deal with pins or fasteners, but I don't like how expensive they can be to buy new. They are often $12-$15 a diaper, but you still need to buy covers, most of which are another $12-$15. Granted, you don't necessarily need more than 5-6 covers, but I prefer other, cheaper options (like prefolds, which I'll talk about in a future post) if I'm going to be sacrificing some convenience anyway. Also, having to use a cover, which adds an extra step to a diaper change, can be intimidating to caregivers. For me, I prefer the flexibility of prefolds if I'm already going to add extra steps. Fitteds are definitely more daddy-friendly than prefolds, however. They are a great compromise between the convenience of the all-in-one and the flexibility and ease of care of prefolds.