All-in-One (AIO) Cloth Diapers

Best for: beginners, caregivers, daycare, simplicity

An All-in-One (AIO)cloth diaper is a diaper where the absorbent layers and waterproof layer are sewn together into one piece.

There is no stuffing or assembling required. You put it on, take it off, wash it and use again. 

Because the absorbent layers are sewn directly to the waterproof outer layer, this style feels the most similar to a disposable diaper. 

Why families love AIOs

• Easiest transition from disposables
• No extra parts to keep track of
• Simple for caregivers and babysitters
• Usually have a trimmer fit 
• Often made with natural fibers directly against baby's skin

Many families tell us that AIOs are what finally made cloth feel “doable,” especially in the early months.

Things to consider

• May take longer to dry
• Less built-in absorbency than some systems (boosters can be added)
• Do not usually include a stay dry synthetic lining 
• Often the most expensive option upfront
• Must be fully washed after every use

Many families tell us that AIOs are what finally made cloth feel “doable.” They’re often the go-to choice for parents who want cloth diapering to feel as close to disposables as possible, especially in the early months.

Pocket Cloth Diapers

Best for: customizable absorbency, overnight use, fast drying

A pocket diaper has a waterproof outer layer and an inner lining that creates a “pocket” where absorbent inserts are placed. The inserts are removed before washing and the entire diaper is washed after each use. 

Why families choose pocket diapers

• Absorbency can be adjusted as baby grows
• Dry faster because inserts are separate
• Great for heavy wetters or overnight
• Can be less expensive than AIOs

Pocket diapers are frequently chosen by parents new to cloth diapering because they appear simple and budget-friendly.

Things to consider

• Requires stuffing after washing
• Are often lined with synthetic fabric (usually polyester)
• Many inexpensive options use lower-quality materials that reduce longevity 
• Synthetic inserts may need upgrading for better absorbency
• The entire diaper must be washed after every use
• Babies sensitive to polyester may experience irritation

It’s important to note that not all pocket diapers are created equal. For example, the Smart Bottoms Dream Diaper is a pocket-style diaper made with natural fibers and includes a natural fiber insert — addressing many of the concerns commonly found in traditional synthetic pocket systems.

Prefolds, Flats, & Preflats with Covers

Best for: budget-conscious families, flexibility, easy laundering

Prefolds, flats, and preflats are absorbent fabric diapers that require a separate waterproof cover.

What is a prefold diaper?

A prefold diaper is a rectangular piece of fabric sewn with three sections, where the center section contains extra absorbency. It can be folded around baby or pad-folded and placed inside a cover.

What is a flat diaper?

A flat diaper is a large single-layer piece of fabric that is folded into a diaper shape before fastening. A waterproof cover is then placed over it.

What is a preflat diaper?

A preflat diaper is usually made of two fabric layers and shaped with contoured wings. It is folded toward the center and fastened around the waist with pins or a diaper fastener, then covered with a waterproof cover.

Why families choose prefolds, preflats & flats

• Very affordable
• Dry quickly
• If baby is only wet, the interior absorbency can be replaced and the cover reused
• Easy to wash
• Only 3-4 covers are needed
• You can easily adjust absorbency by adding a booster to the center of the diaper

Families are often surprised by how versatile prefolds, preflats, and flat diapers can be. Once you get comfortable with them, they’re one of the most adaptable—and durable—options available.

Things to consider

• Require folding or positioning
• Slightly steeper learning curve at first
• May be slightly more bulky
• Will require some type of diaper fastener such as a Snappi, unless you are pad folding and laying in the cover like an insert (best for toddlers)

Fitted Cloth Diapers

Best for: heavy wetters, overnight, leak prevention

A fitted cloth diaper is a fully absorbent diaper shaped like a disposable diaper. It requires a separate waterproof cover. Most have snaps to fasten around the waist but some don't and require a diaper fastener such as pins or a Snappi.

Why families choose fitted diapers

• Excellent absorbency
• Great for overnight use
• Very soft and comfortable

Things to consider

• Require a separate cover
• Bulkier than other options

One-Size vs. Sized Cloth Diapers

In addition to type, you’ll also see cloth diapers described as one-size or sized.

One-size diapers

One-size diapers use adjustable snaps to grow with your baby.

• Designed to fit approximately 12–35+ lbs
• Adjust as baby grows
• Often more cost-effective long term

Sized diapers

Sized diapers fit within a specific weight range.

• Offer a trimmer newborn fit
• May require sizing up
• Useful for very small babies

We often see parents worry around the 12-month mark that their child has outgrown one-size diapers. In most cases, this isn’t true. Around that age, babies typically become more mobile and slim down — and many families even find themselves snapping the rise smaller again for a better fit.

Can You Mix and Match? (Yes!)

One of the most important things to know is that you don’t have to choose just one type.

Many families:

• Use AIOs during the day

• Use pocket or fitted diapers overnight

• Keep different options on hand for different caregivers

Cloth diapering doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing.

Quick Summary: Choosing a Cloth Diaper Type

• AIOs are the simplest and most beginner-friendly

• Pocket diapers allow adjustable absorbency

• Prefolds, flats, and preflats are the most budget-friendly

• Fitted diapers offer maximum absorbency

• One-size diapers grow with baby

There is no universal “best” style — just the best fit for your family.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cloth Diaper Types

What is the easiest cloth diaper for beginners?

All-in-One (AIO) diapers are generally the easiest because they function most similarly to disposable diapers and require no assembly.

Are pocket diapers better than AIOs?

Not necessarily. Pocket diapers allow customizable absorbency, while AIOs offer simplicity. The better option depends on your priorities.

Are prefolds cheaper than other cloth diapers?

Yes. Prefolds and flats are typically the most affordable option and dry quickly.

Do I have to choose just one type?

No. Many families mix different styles depending on the time of day, absorbency needs, and caregivers.

What’s Coming Next in the Series

Now that you understand the main types of cloth diapers, the next step is learning about fabrics and materials—what they’re made of, how they absorb, and how to choose what’s right for your baby.

👉 Next up: Cloth Diaper Fabrics Explained

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