Pockets vs. Covers: Which is Right for Your Family?
When exploring cloth diapering options, each style has distinct advantages, making them suitable for different families and situations. Here’s a breakdown of each to help you decide which might be the best fit for your family.
Pocket Diapers
Pocket diapers are designed with two layers: a water-resistant outer layer (typically made of PUL or TPU) and an inner layer of stay-dry fabric (such as microfleece, microsuede, or athletic wicking jersey). These two layers create a pocket that you can stuff with absorbent inserts.
Our AWJ inner layer wicks moisture away from your baby’s skin, making pocket diapers great for babies prone to rashes. You can also customize the absorbency by using different types or numbers of inserts. Pocket diapers are convenient for caregivers, as they function similarly to disposable diapers once they’re stuffed and ready to go.
Pros:
- Stay-dry comfort: Moisture-wicking inner fabric keeps baby’s skin dry.
- Customizable absorbency: You can adjust the number and type of inserts for different situations.
- Ease of use: Great for caregivers and daycare because they are easy to put on, like disposables.
Cons:
- More laundry: The entire diaper, including the outer cover, needs washing after each use.
- Time-consuming: You need to stuff and unstuff the inserts before and after each use.
Diaper Covers
Diaper covers, on the other hand, are simply a waterproof outer layer without any built-in absorbency. They are used in combination with prefolds, flats, fitteds, or inserts. One big advantage is that the cover itself doesn’t need to be washed after every change unless it’s soiled—just swap out the absorbent layer and reuse the cover.
Diaper covers are more versatile and budget-friendly because you can use the same cover several times, which means fewer covers are needed compared to pocket diapers. They also allow for more air circulation around your baby’s skin, reducing the risk of irritation.
Pros:
- Cost-effective: Covers can be reused multiple times before washing.
- Versatile: Can be used with various types of absorbent diapers, from flats to inserts.
- Less laundry: Only the absorbent layer needs washing after each use.
Cons:
- No stay-dry layer: You may need to add a separate stay-dry liner if your baby is prone to rashes.
- More steps during changes: Folding or adjusting absorbent diapers may take more time.
Using Both Styles
Many families find that using a combination of pocket diapers and covers works best. For instance, pocket diapers can be convenient for daycare or babysitters, while diaper covers can be a great at-home or overnight solution since they require fewer changes and less laundry. Both styles offer unique benefits, and by using them interchangeably, you can tailor your diapering routine to fit your family’s needs.