Many new parents are hesitant to ask basic baby-related questions, so they end up not getting any help. One of the questions parents barely ask is related to diapers, such as what is diaper cloth fabric made of? It may seem a simple question, but it’s a valid one, considering that diapers either bring comfort or agitation to babies. With multitudes of options out there, choosing the right product to suit your baby’s needs can get even more daunting. Hence, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know about diaper cloth fabric to help you become a pro in diapering your baby.
Diaper Basics: Absorbency and Waterproofing
There are far too many diaper brands in the market, and they come in different sizes, designs, and offerings. This wide selection of diapers can confuse you if you do not know the basics of diapers. Should you go for the cheaper one or go for the premium diapers? Which fabric is the best? Are they safe for baby’s skin? While diapers come in various forms, you only have to remember two of its basic functions: absorbency and waterproofing, and you’re off for a good start in your search for the best diaper for your baby. Absorbency refers to the diaper’s capacity to hold fluids and solids, while waterproofing is the material’s imperviousness to water. These two set the standards for what makes a great baby diaper fabric.
Disposable Vs. Reusable Diapers
In the battle between disposable and reusable diapers, disposable diapers may have a little advantage in terms of absorbency as they are made with thicker layers of absorbent materials. But when it comes to waterproofing, reusable diapers are on an equal footing with disposable ones. However, in terms of being nature-friendly and baby-friendly, reusable diapers are way ahead in the battle. Even as you segregate your diaper waste, they’d’ still go in landfills or elsewhere. Imagine the millions of diapers each day and its impact on the environment. Not only are cloth or reusable diapers environment-friendly, but they’re also cost-efficient as you won’t have to buy diapers regularly over the entire span that your baby will need diapers. Simply wash and dry these reusable diapers, and they’re good to go for the next use. Some might question how reusable cloth diapers are waterproof? What is diaper cloth fabric made of? We’ll tackle the answer below.
What Makes up a Cloth Diaper System?
A cloth diaper system has components to achieve absorbency and waterproofing. The following are diaper features that serve a purpose. However, take note that you won’t need to have all of these in one
diaper change, but you may choose which combination works well for your child’s needs. Some are also standalone. This also answers the question – what is diaper cloth fabric?
Covers – The diaper cover is a two-layer component; one is a cloth, and the other is a waterproof fabric like polyurethane laminate or PUL that is combined to achieve superior waterproofing. The covers usually determine the size of the diaper. But while covers are waterproof, they aren’t absorbent. Hence, there is a need for inserts.
Inserts or prefolds – This is the absorbent component of a cloth diaper. Inserts and prefolds are similar in function but slightly vary in the design. Inserts are short, rectangular, non-foldable absorbent fabric while prefolds are identical to inserts except that they can be folded to form multiple layers. To keep the inserts or prefolds in place, you may use a diaper pin or a snappi, but some work just fine without being fastened. This type of fabric may be wiped or washed and can be reused. The insert/prefold should be replaced every diaper change.
Fitted – Like the prefold, a fitted is an absorbent layer, but unlike the prefold, it is not folded because they already take the shape of a diaper. Since a fitted is only absorbent but not waterproof, you will still need a cover to act as the waterproofing component. It works best with PUL or wool covers.
Wool covers – Are waterproof covers made from natural materials and do not require hooks and loops to close. It keeps the fluid from leaking through lanolins, an impermeable substance. Best to be used with fitteds.
All-in-one Diapers – As its name suggest, with this type of diapers, you do not need to manually combine the cover and the absorbent layer as they are already connected. You put on and put off the entire diaper system as one which many parents find to be more convenient. You won’t have to remember bringing two-piece diapers when traveling with your baby.
How to Determine a Cloth Diaper Fit
Aside from knowing what is diaper cloth fabric made of, you also need to know the sizing. When out to buy the right diaper size for your baby, consider your baby’s weight. Parents are advised to weigh the baby as most diaper covers will have weight as the basis for sizing. Generally, there are two types of diapers according to size:
Sized diapers: They are labeled as newborn, small, medium, and so on, and a certain weight range determines the size. When choosing sized diapers, make sure to check the snaps and the hooks if they’re adjustable to give room for baby’s growth.
One-size cloth diapers: These diapers will suit babies of different ages and weights. The snaps are adjustable, allowing for changes in size to accommodate the baby’s growth. This is great for parents who are taking care of multiple babies of different ages so as not to get confused with diaper sizes.
Conclusion
While it’s true that nurturing babies can be a tough job, but with the right help and the right products, child-rearing won’t have to be too draining for parents and caregivers. Also, you don’t have to drain your pockets, buying baby essentials. With a reusable cloth diaper, say goodbye to buying loads of disposable diapers all the time. You only need to know a couple of things, such as what is diaper cloth fabric made of and a few other information, and you’ll be able to choose the best diaper rightly for your baby. Find out more about cloth diapers.