Cloth Diaper Dictionary
AIO or AIO's or All-In-OneAIOs are fitted diapers with a waterproof outer layer sewn on. This layer usually consists of fabric that has a PUL (polyurethane) backing, polar fleece such as Windpro, or wool. These are the closest in similarity to disposable diapers since they are a one-piece diapering system. The absorbent soaker material is often sewn right into the diaper and closes with snaps or velcro. These diapers are a favorite with dads & caregivers because they are easy to use.
Diaper Covers
Covers are available many styles and shapes but their function is to provide a waterproof outer layer for non-waterproof diapers. They can be fitted with elastic and fasten with snaps or Velcro. Some covers pull-up right over the diaper without fasteners. Diaper covers are usually made from polyester, polyurethane laminates (PUL), waterproof nylon, fleece or wool.
Doublers
Doublers are an absorbent pad-like piece of cloth that you lay inside the diaper to add extra absorbency. You can lay this right on top of the diaper, or if you are using a pocket diaper, you can add it on top of the diaper insert. I use doublers on long car rides, during naps or overnight.
Fitted Diapers
Fitted diapers are contoured and fitted with elastic around the legs and back. They fasten with Velcro or snaps and a waterproof cover must be worn over them. They are a step up from flat pre-fold diapers and much easier to use.
Inserts
These are flat, rectangular or contoured pieces of terry cloth, cotton, hemp, microfiber, etc. used to add absorbency to a cloth diaper or to stuff into a pocket diaper.
Longies/wool longies
These are pants that have been knitted or crocheted and are used as a diaper cover. Wool has special properties and make excellent covers. Click here for more information on wool.
Pocket Diapers
Pocket diapers have an outer layer of a waterproof material and an inner layer of a stay dry material, like microfleece or suedecloth. They close with Velcro or snaps and have an opening that allows you to stuff the absorbent material in the pocket, which can then be removed for washing. The absorbent material for stuffing can be an insert that comes with the diaper, a pre-fold or doubler. Pocket diapers are a popular choice among cloth diapering moms because you can customize the amount of absorbent material. These are also a favorite choice of dads & caregivers. They are similar to an all-in-one (AIO) diaper, but have a quicker drying time.
Prefold Diapers
These are what most people think of when you say "cloth diaper". They are rectangular in size and must be folded and secured by a pin or a snappi to be used as a diaper. Most pre-folds have more layers in the middle (4-6) and less (2-4) on either side. The layers and size differs from preemie through toddler sizes. These are usually the most inexpensive type of diaper and you must use a cover with them.
Soakers
This usually refers to a wool diaper cover or to the absorbent padding inside an AIO. See our article on wool for the special properties and benefits of wool in cloth diapering.
