With a wealth of experience in both cloth diapering and crafting cloth diapers, I'm thrilled to share my confidence in opting for the cloth fitted diaper method. In this blog, I'll share the reasons behind my strong endorsement of fitted diapers and offer insights into their practicality, effectiveness, overall benefits and drawbacks. Whether you're a seasoned cloth diapering enthusiast or just beginning your journey, join me as we explore the world of fitted diapers and discover why they stand out as a top choice for myself and many parents. To assist you in making a well-informed decision, let's dive into the world of fitted diapers.
What are "Fitted Diapers?"
Fitted diapers, also known as "fitteds," are cloth alternatives resembling disposable diapers. However, they are crafted from multiple layers of absorbent materials such as cotton, bamboo, terry, or hemp.
Typically, fitted diapers come equipped with leg and back elastics to contain any messes, along with snaps or hook-and-loop (Velcro) waist closures to ensure a secure fit on your baby. While some fitteds lack waist closures, they feature tabs facilitating easy securing using diaper pins, Snappi's, or Boingo clips. Snappi's are my personal favorite. The install is very secure, fool-proof, and quick.
Is a Cover Necessary for Fitted Cloth Diapers?
Yes, it is essential to use a cloth diaper cover over fitted cloth diapers. Whether you opt for a standard PUL/TPU cover, a wool diaper cover, or a homemade fleece cover, it's crucial. The fitted diaper is the absorbent part, but it's not waterproof.
Fitted Cloth Diapers VS Prefolds VS Preflats
Given that fitted diapers are paired with diaper covers, they share several similarities with other diaper styles that necessitate cover usage, such as prefold and flat diapers. However, there are significant differences as well.
Similarities Among Fitteds, Prefolds, and Flats:
- They all lack waterproof layers. Thus, they must all be used with a cloth diaper cover.
- They can be fastened onto the baby using pins, Snappis, or Boingos, although some fitted diapers feature snap or Velcro waist closures.
- They are primarily made from cotton but can also incorporate other natural materials or material combinations like bamboo and hemp.
Differences Among Fitteds, Prefolds, and Flats:
- Fitted diapers do not require folding due to their pre-shaped design, while prefolds and flats do.
- Fitteds often do not need pinning because many brands offer snaps or hook-and-loop closures, whereas prefolds and flat diapers never include their own waist closures.
- Fitted diapers without waist closures typically do not require pins most of the time, as their shape and leg elastics effectively keep them in place under a diaper cover. Unpinned prefolds and flat diapers have a tendency to shift and bunch under covers, especially on active babies.
- Fitteds are generally less prone to leaks than prefolds and flats because they contain more absorbent material. Essentially, the entire diaper is absorbent, extending up to the baby's waist.
What is the Cost of Fitted Cloth Diapers?
In general, fitted cloth diapers tend to be pricier than prefold and flat diapers, but less costly than all-in-one diapers and premium pocket diapers.
You'll also need to invest in diaper covers to overlay your fitted cloth diapers. However, since diaper covers can be wiped clean when not soiled (after urination, but not after defecation), you don't necessarily need to change the cover at every diaper change, which can result in cost savings.
Unlike one-size all-in-one, all-in-two, and pocket diapers, fitted diapers typically come in sizes. This means you may require one or two additional sets when your baby outgrows their current size. Conversely, pocket diapers, all-in-two diapers, prefolds, and flat diapers, and even certain all-in-ones often necessitate additional inserts for older children to maintain absorbency. As fitted diapers are sized and designed to be highly absorbent for their size, boosters are generally unnecessary.
Advantages of Choosing Fitted Diapers for Your Baby:
- Excellent for overnight and heavy wetters, providing reliable leak protection.
- Superior mess containment due to elasticized waist and leg bands, combined with a diaper cover featuring its own elastic bands.
- Trim design compared to other diaper styles, thanks to their sized options and absence of folding requirements.
- Quick drying time compared to all-in-one cloth diapers.
- Ideal for promoting air circulation around the baby's bottom, aiding in natural relief from diaper rash.
- Less bulky than alternatives like prefolds, flats, and inserts, offering economical advantages over certain types of diapers.
- Diaper covers can be reused multiple times before washing, contributing to cost-effectiveness.
Disadvantages of Choosing Fitted Diapers for Your Baby:
- Longer drying time compared to pocket diapers, prefolds, and flats.
- Two-step diapering process may lengthen diaper changes, requiring additional instruction for caregivers.
- Typically more expensive than prefolds and flats.
- Sized options mean potentially needing to purchase multiple sizes throughout your baby's diaper-wearing journey.
Conclusion
Considering the numerous advantages fitted diapers offer, they are undoubtedly worth considering for your baby. Their effectiveness, especially during nighttime use, makes them a worthwhile investment in your cloth diapering journey. Just grab a few, even for nighttime, and you won't regret it.