I'm in the US and don't know anyone who has used cloth diapers. I have done research but I'm looking for personal experiences. I would love to hear what people like/dislike, types, fabrics, brands, etc.
Types I've found and my pro/con list:
All in one: used most similar to disposable. No prep necessary after wash/dry. Takes the longest to dry. Can't be put in the dryer, line dry only.
Cover: only used with fitted cloth diapers. Most difficult to put on because it's essentially two separate diapers to put on/take off. Cloth can be washed/dried in machine usually, cover is line dry only.
Snap liners: can only use liners with snaps from the same brand. Least amount of poop on cover because there is nothing between the liner and butt. Can reuse cover when soiled, but requires more time to remove liner and snap in new liner. Liners can be washed/dried, covers are line dry only.
Pockets: used with just about any liner. Cannot reuse cover once soiled, must be washed between used. Must be prepped with liners. Most similar to disposable for putting on/taking off. Liners can be washed/dried in machine, covers are line dry only.
Can covers be used with liners? If so, wouldn't the liners move around? Can they be used with anything other than a full fitted diaper?
I've asked a few other people online, so far everyone uses pockets due to ease of use while changing and easiest care for cleanup. I've heard covers with full fitted with best for heavy night wetters.
Has anyone used these before? Does anyone have suggestions or experience they can share?
Thank you so much! This so so very thorough, I appreciate your insight!
I'll stick to pockets then, it seems like they might be a bit better if I'm just looking into a single type to deal with. We have an older washer but it seems pretty effective. Most recommended wash regimes are rinse, wash with detergent, rinse again, so I hope that's enough.
I've only looked at ones with snaps, a few different brands but to me they all look the same (online only). There's different fabrics that go against the skin based on brand but I don't know enough to know if one is better than another.
I don't know if leg gussets are really better or just seem like they should be better. More expensive brands have them, the one you suggested does, Nora's Nursery does too, but as far as I can tell that's the main difference between higher and lower end brands.
No prob. I always knew this experience would revisit me one day.
Gussets are key to reduce blowouts. They will still happen on occasion no matter what, but they do a lot to keep stuff where you would prefer.