I welcome your comments!
Just got the Thirsties Fab Fitteds and Duo Wraps in... and I LOVE them. So trim, and really absorbent!
Milo is 14lbs (13 weeks) and he is in the small size with the size 1 cover-- they are really generous in size too so they should fit for a while.
Also, I think my Bamboozle absorbed a record amount last night.
I believe there is a cloth diapering system that works for everyone-- but which kind of "clothy" are you? A Fitted with Cover, a Pocket/ AIO, a Prefold or a One Sizer? If you don't know what kind you are, you are reading the right blog!
In my humble opinion, they all have their pros and cons-- here is my take, and I will warn you ahead of time I am a mix of Fitted/ Cover and Pocket/AIO. I found out what kind I was by trying a couple of each in the newborn sizes and made the next size decisions based on my faves.
Prefolds -- You are a thrifty, practical, no frills kind of gal.
Prefold Pros: Pre-fold, or Flat diapers, are usually a square of layered organic cotton which can be folded and pinned (or Snappy'd) and finished off with a waterproof cover. The most economical and versatile cloth diaper out there. Just ask your grandmother-- she probably used them! Youtube has numerous how-to videos on folding these successfully.
Prefold cons: FOLDING-- once you get it, I'm sure its easy. I have used them a few times, usually right before or after a bath when I don't have him dressed but don't want pee all over my towels. I find them bulky, you would notice them under clothes and they are definitely daunting to the less than expert cloth diaperers (think husbands and babysitters).
Fitted/ Cover: You have no patience for leaks, love the soft and luxurious feel of the fitted diaper and add the cuteness factor in a neat printed or coloured cover.
Fitted with cover pros: Very few leaks, great fitting diapers. Fitted diapers are usually pretty generous in sizing, meaning that one size will last you a long time. If you skip the newborn stage, you will likely only need two sizes. If your baby has sensitive skin, this is a great option. Some materials like bamboo and hemp actually leave the skin looking healthier with their natural antibacterial properties.
Fitted Cons: Some fitteds are trimmer than others -- I love the bamboozle and Sandy's Bamboo for trim fit with great absorbency although when you are adding a cover, it does add a bit of bulk. In my opinon its an extra 20 seconds to add the cover, but for some (like my husband) its enough to make him reach for the Pocket/ AIO's first. Its also two pieces in your diaper bag.
Pocket/ AIO (all in ones)- You are likely a mom on the go, need a quick and reliable cloth diapering system to fit your busy lifestyle. [I group these together since most all in ones (like the BumGenius) have a pocket anyway and with my heavy wetter I need to use it!]
Pocket/ AIO pros: One piece, trim fitting, and customizable wetness protection-- just add more inserts. These are great for the diaper bag and I get the most positive reactions to "those are cloth diapers?" They come in an array of cute colours and prints and husbands, babysitters and cloth diaper beginners can figure these out in a snap.
Pocket/AIO Cons: If you don't have the perfect fit around the legs and tummy, they will leak, so pay attention to the size charts. They are the most expensive cloth diapering option since you will need 2-3 sizes to get your little one to potty training.
One Size Diapers: You might have a couple of little ones in diapers and want a cloth diapering system for both. You are similar to the Pocket/ AIO mom but are willing to sacrifice the trim fit for more cash in your purse.
One Size pros: No need to buy multiple sizes, one sizes promise to fit from 10lbs to 35lbs. Comes in all the cute colors and prints.
One Size cons: Unless you have the average build baby, I find that one sizes are the most likely to leak. For me, my baby's belly is larger than its legs so I have a hard time getting them tight enough around the leg. They are also a bit bulky until your baby is about 18 lbs.
Again, that is my humble opinion based on my experience with my own little one. There are some enthusiastic pre-folders and one sizers out there as well!
Regardless, I think we all found our faves by trying a bit of everything. I welcome your thoughts and opinions-- what kind of Clothy are you and why??