Best Cloth Diapers: 14 Options for 2022
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As a new parent, you want what’s best for your child, and that includes the best diaper. And let’s be real: When it comes to poop, you want diaper changes to be as easy (and clean) as possible.
Whether you’ve always been interested in cloth diapers or just want to compare their pros and cons with disposable diapers, we know making the switch to cloth can feel like a big undertaking.
But don’t stress: We’ve compiled all the information you need to know about cloth diapers, including the types available, how many you need, how to get started, and our choices for the best across all categories.
- Best cloth diaper for beginners: bumGenius Freetime
- Best cloth diaper for newborns: Thirsties Newborn All in One
- Best fitted cloth diaper: OsoCozy Organic Fitted Diaper
- Best pocket cloth diaper: Rumparooz Pocket Diaper
- Best hybrid cloth diaper: GroVia Hybrid Diaper
- Most stylish cloth diaper: Charlie Banana Cloth Diapers
- Best cloth diapering system: Esembly Cloth Diapering Try It Kit
- Best organic cloth diaper: Smart Bottoms Born Smart 2.0
- Best affordable cloth diaper: AlvaBaby Cloth Diapers
- Best reusable swim diaper: Beau & Belle Littles Nageuret Reusable Swim Diaper
- Best cloth diaper for heavy wetters: GroVia O.N.E.
- Best cloth diaper for potty training: Blueberry Trainers
- Best overnight cloth diaper: Ecoable Overnight Diaper with Cotton Hemp Insert
- Easiest cloth diaper: Bambino Mio Miosolo All-in-One Cloth Diaper
There are a lot of things going for cloth diapers.
- If you plan to resell them, they will be cheaper than disposable diapers over time.
- Cloth diapers don’t contain a lot of the chemicals that disposable diapers do. This can mean fewer skin irritations like diaper rash and potentially fewer health effects.
- While cloth diapers do need to be washed, you can feel good knowing you’re putting less waste in landfills.
- Because cloth diapers allow your child to feel wet skin when they pee, they can be helpful in potty training to bring body awareness and alert your child to when they’re having an accident.
- Did we mention that cloth diapers have many adjustable fitting options? If baby always seems to be leaking out of their disposable diaper, cloth diapers may allow you to get the perfect leg and belly tightness to keep that pee in.
Flats and pre-folds
The cheapest option will require the most experience to get right.
The middle part of the cotton rectangle is the most absorbent. They are the most similar to cloth diapers you can imagine.
Since they are not waterproof, these need a diaper cover.
The downside? These require some folding. They are cost effective, easy to care for, and can be used for burp cloths, changing pads, and cleaning rags.
Fitted
These diapers have elastic, snaps, or Velcro closures at the legs and waist. They come in different sizes, so you’ll need to buy the appropriate sizes as baby grows. These aren’t waterproof, so you’ll need a diaper cover.
These diapers have an inside pocket for absorbent inserts. You can use different amounts of absorbency and position the insert into key positions.
All-in-one
The closest to disposable diapers, these have an outer waterproof cover and inner cloth lining to absorb fluids.
You can just toss the entire diaper into the dirty pile to be washed and not worry about separate pieces.
Hybrid
The all-in-one style of diapers have a waterproof cover and inner cloth lining.
The dirty liner can be pulled out during diaper changes, so you can just snap a new one in if there was no leak.
This means you can save money on shells and just buy liners of different levels.
We considered the best cloth diapers.
- Fit: The best diapers not only fit snuggly around the waist and leg holes, but have a variety of sizing options, so they can grow a bit with your baby. We gave bonus points to those with adjustable sizing.
- Absorbency: Cloth diapers that have the option to add extra absorbency or make it easy to change out wet sections got bonus points from us.
- Cost: Knowing that budgets vary, we tried to include diapers with a range of prices.
- Special Features: Snaps, cute designs, and the ability to go in water are some of the features that can set a diaper apart from the pack, and we took these into consideration.
- Customer Reviews: There’s nothing like actual parent users to give the real facts about how a diaper fits and holds pee and poop. We know you value this information, so we made sure to prioritize those cloth with good customer reviews.
Pricing guide
- $ = under $20
- $$ = $20–$30
- $$$ = over $30
Best for beginners
bumGenius Freetime
- Price: $$
- Material: microfiber layer sewn into the waterproof outer shell
“This diaper is a one-size-fits-all diaper. It is easy for parents to find the right fit with lots of snaps. It is designed to fit little ones 8-35 pounds, so you won’t have to buy new diapers anytime soon. It has inserts that address any issues.”
After a few washes, the diaper bulkiness decreased without affecting the fit or amount of liquid the diaper could hold.
Pros
- There are lots of snaps that help with the size.
- The inserts make putting the diaper together easier.
- It can fit up to 35 pounds.
Cons
- It can be a bit bulky in the beginning.
- Some parents prefer pocket-style cloth diapers because they have more control over the absorbency.
Best for newborns
Thirsties Newborn All in One
- Price: $
- Material:
- Outer layer: 100% polyester with waterproof TPU laminate
- Inner liner: 100% polyester microfleece
- Inner absorbency: one layer of microfiber terry
- Inner soaker: 100% polyester (three layers of microfiber terry topped with a layer of microfleece)
These diapers are designed for babies. There is a snap-down feature for the newborn that will lower the waistband in the first few days.
“These are the best for newborn babies weighing between 5 and 14 pounds, but they won’t last you long. The easy all-in-one style works well for sleep-deprived parents.”
Pros
- The snap-down feature works well for newborns.
- It is easier for new parents to master all-in-one style.
- One of the more affordable options.
Cons
- “For newborns weighing between 5 and 14 pounds, it’s best.”
- Some parents complain that these leaked quickly.
Best fitted diaper
OsoCozy Organic Fitted Diaper
- Price: $
- Material: organic cotton
“Who doesn’t like a diaper that fits? OsoCozy’s diapers are made in the United States from GOTS certified organic cotton. They have an hourglass shape, snap fasteners, and elastic bands on the legs and waist.”
You will need to buy more diapers as your baby grows, because they come in four different sizes. They take a bit of time to dry.
Pros
- The cotton is GOTS certified.
- The elastic bands at the waist and around the legs help prevent leaks.
- One of the cheapest products on our list.
Cons
- It takes longer to dry than other options.
- As your baby grows, you will need to buy more.
Best pocket diaper
Rumparooz Pocket Diaper
- Price: $$
- Material:
- Outer: 100% waterproof TPU polyester
- Inner: 100% microchamois polyester
- Insert: 100% polyester microfiber
These diapers are very absorbent, very soft, and can keep your baby dry. It is easy to find a great fit for your baby with multiple rise adjustments. Since it fits children weighing 6 to 40 pounds, these diapers will grow with your child.
“The added control over absorbency is nice, but it It can be a little heavy. because of the pocket diaper, but it can be done. Matching with your little one’s outfit is easier with a range of colors.”
Pros
- It can fit children weighing 6 to 40 pounds.
- It is a very rare form of allergic reaction.
- There are lots of options to choose from.
Cons
- It can be a little heavy.
- You will need to put the inserts inside.
Best hybrid diaper
GroVia Hybrid Diaper
- Price: $
- Material: waterproof TPU
“A lot of cloth diaper must-haves are checked off by this diaper. Lots of snaps make it easy to put on and adjust the diaper. It will last a while since it can fit children of a certain weight. It is a fun addition to your little one’s wardrobe.”
The diaper has a disposable insert option and a snap-in cloth insert that parents love. It is easy to wash, but the covers are only line-dry. You will need to buy the inserts for this diaper separately.
Pros
- It includes a lot of snaps to help put it on.
- There are a variety of insert options that can be used with this diaper.
- There is a wide range of colors and patterns.
Cons
- The shell has to be dry.
- The inserts need to be bought separately.
Most stylish cloth diaper
Charlie Banana Cloth Diapers
- Price: $$
- Material: diaper
- Outer layer: 100% polyester, 18% polyurethane
- Lining: 100% polyester)
- Top layer of insert: 100% polyester
- Bottom layer of insert: 88% biconstituent fiber (80% polyester, 20% nylon), 12% polyester)
If you are willing to spend a little more money, parents love these stylish diapers.
They’re more than just pretty to look: They include a fleece lining that’s soft on baby’s skin, and all Charlie Banana products are Climate Neutral certified. The fabrics are also OEKO-TEX Standard 100 is certified..
Depending on the amount of absorbency the parents think they need, they can choose to use one or two inserts.
Pros
- There are lots of patterns and colors to choose from.
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100 is certified.
- Parents are happy with how soft they are.
Cons
- The thicker diapers are on the thicker side.
- Our list is less expensive than some of the other options.
Best cloth diapering system
Esembly Cloth Diapering Try-It Kit
- Price: $$$
- Material:
- Inner shells: certified organic cotton
- Outer shells: OEKO-TEX certified recycled fabric from 100% post-consumer plastic bottles
This kit contains everything you need to diaper sustainable. This kit has everything from organic diapers to a storage bag made from plastic bottles. The outer part can be used without an inner as a swim diaper.
If you plan to use cloth diapers frequently, you will need to invest in more outer and inner shells. The two-step design of the diapers takes a second longer to put on. It helps to keep the big games in.
Pros
- The products in this kit are made from recycled and organic materials.
- The outer shell can be used as a swim diaper.
- The kit includes a bag and diaper balm.
Cons
- “This isn’t the most budget-friendly option.”
- The diapering process is more complicated for new parents.
Best organic cloth diaper
Smart Bottoms Born Smart 2.0
- Price: $$
- Material: 55% hemp, 45% organic cotton (outer layer is 100% PUL)
Parents say that Smart Bottoms are soft and absorbent without pesticides and chemicals. Smart Bottoms checks that box for parents who prefer U.S.-made products.
It only requires one prewash to maximize absorbency. This diaper is easy to put on and take care of, and it is also an all-in-one diaper. There are a variety of cute style options.
Pros
- Made in the United States with organic cotton and sustainable plant material.
- Only one wash is required before using.
- These are easy for new parents or those new to cloth diapering.
Cons
- The diaper does run small.
- It takes a while to dry.
Best affordable cloth diaper
AlvaBaby Cloth Diapers
- Price: $
- Material:
- Outer: polyester with waterproof and breathable TPU
- Inner layer: suede cloth
- Insert: three-layer microfiber
“The price and utility of these diapers is enough to win over many parents, even if they aren’t the best-performing cloth diapers. They are designed to fit kids from 6.6 to 33 pounds, so you won’t have to rush out for more cloth diapers as your child grows.”
You can use more inserts for extra absorbency with these pocket diapers. It is easy to get a good fit with lots of snaps. Another bonus? They have a 1-year guarantee.
Pros
- There are lots of snaps to help find the right fit.
- Extra absorbency can be achieved with more inserts.
- The price tag is low.
Cons
- Some parents suggest buying a bamboo insert instead of microfiber ones for better Absorbancy.
- The parents of newborns say they had trouble getting a tight fit.
Best reusable swim diaper
Beau & Belle Littles Nageuret Reusable Swim Diaper
- Price: $
- Material:
- Outer shell: 100% PUL polyester cloth fabric
- Inside: polyester mesh
Since your baby may not go swimming all the time, having a swim diaper option that will grow with them is a bonus. The Nageuret is available in sizes N to 5. The snaps allow for multiple height options for the waist and legs.
If you want to support a small family business that donates 5% of their yearly sales, you should buy this diaper.
“Nageuret diapers have a 1-year better-than-money-back guarantee, where they will give you a new swim diaper if you don’t like it.”
Pros
- It can be adjusted from sizes N to 5.
- snaps allow for three different heights
- Purchase includes a 1-year guarantee.
Cons
- Parents note that it runs small.
- Not for daily use.
Best for heavy wetters
GroVia O.N.E.
- Price: $$
- Material:
- Hidden inner layer: 100% polyester microfiber
- Outer layer: 100% water resistant polyester TPU
- Soaker: 100% cotton topped with 100% polyester microfleece
- Body lining: 100% polyester microfleece
If you feel like you have to change your diapers constantly, you will love GroVia O.N.E. diapers. The hidden body layer and snap-in soaker are in these diapers.
“These diapers have both hook-and-loop and snap closures. They fit kids of 10 to 35 pounds, so you won’t have to replace them when your child starts growing.”
The layers that make these diapers so absorbent take a long time to dry. It is an easy diaper for parents to put together.
Pros
- Kids weighing 10 to 35 pounds are fit.
- There is a hidden body layer and an insert.
- There are both hook-and-loop and snap closure options.
Cons
- It can take a while to dry.
- Can feel a little heavy.
Best for potty training
Blueberry Trainers
- Price: $
- Material: 50% cotton, 50% polyester outer lining
Is your child ready to use the bathroom? The cloth diaper alternative has an underwear appearance and elastic waist that makes it easy for your toddler to pull up and down on their own.
These are only partially waterproof, so not recommended for overnight use.
Pros
- It is possible to build confidence in your child by their underwear appearance.
- The elastic waist is easy for toddlers to use.
- There is a hidden absorbent layer.
Cons
- It is not absorbent enough for overnight use.
- Shrinking after first wash.
Best overnight cloth diaper
Ecoable Overnight Diaper with Cotton Hemp Insert
- Price: $$
- Material: 55% hemp, 45% cotton
The key to dry overnights? An absorbent diaper! The hemp in these diapers is super absorbing. It’s also extremely comfortable, It is a very rare form of allergic reaction., and naturally antibacterial. Since the hemp absorbs more liquid the more you wash it, it’ll only get better after those first few uses, too.
You will need a waterproof covering for this diaper.
Pros
- the hemp is It is a very rare form of allergic reaction. and naturally antibacterial
- You wash it more.
- “It’s easier to get the right fit with a lot of snaps.”
Cons
- You will need a waterproof covering for this diaper.
- “Some parents complain that the hemp didn’t help the skin in the way other materials do, so their child’s skin felt wet with these diapers.”
Easiest cloth diaper
Bambino Mio Miosolo All-in-One Cloth Diaper
- Price: $$
- Material:
- Outer: 100% polyester laminated
- Core: 85% polyester, 15% nylon
- Inner: 100% polyester
Getting the right fit is a concern for parents who are new to cloth diapers, but not with the Miosolo. The resizing snaps allow for more fabric to be let out as the baby grows, and the Velcro closures around the waist allow for easy fitting.
Additionally, every part of this product is OEKO-TEX Standard 100 is certified., so you don’t have to worry about the fabric touching your baby’s skin.
The only downside to this all-in-one is that you need to pull out the insert for faster drying, so you will need to reinsert it before the next use.
Pros
- The snaps and Velcro help with the size.
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100 is certified.
- There are lots of options to choose from.
Cons
- You will need to pull out and reinsert the absorbent pad if you want it to dry quicker.
- There are cheaper options on our list.
| Product | Price | Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| bumGenius Freetime | $$ | microfiber layer sewn into the waterproof outer shell | • lots of snaps • The inserts make putting the diaper together easier. • can fit 8–35+ pounds |
• It can be a bit bulky in the beginning. • some parents prefer pocket style cloth diapers |
| Thirsties Newborn All in One | $ | • Outer layer:100% polyester with waterproof TPU laminate • Inner liner:100% polyester microfleece • Inner absorbency: one layer of microfiber terry • Inner soaker: 100% polyester (three layers of microfiber terry topped with layer of microfleece) |
• has a special umbilical cord snap down feature • all-in-one style • One of the more affordable options. |
• only fit best for 5–14 pounds • Some parents complain that these leaked quickly. |
| OsoCozy Organic Fitted Diaper | $ | organic cotton | • The cotton is GOTS certified. • includes elastic bands at the waist and around the legs • One of the more affordable options. |
• It takes longer to dry than other options. • you’ll need to buy more as your baby grows |
| Rumparooz Pocket Diaper | $$ | • Outer:100% waterproof TPU polyester • Inner: 100% microchamois polyester • Insert: 100% polyester Microfiber |
• lots of snaps enable it to fit children 6–40+ pounds • It is a very rare form of allergic reaction. • lots of color and pattern options |
• It can be a little heavy. • You will need to put the inserts inside. |
| GroVia Hybrid Diaper | $ | waterproof TPU | • includes lots of snaps • a variety of insert options can be used with this diaper (including a biodegradable option) • wide range of colors and patterns |
• The shell has to be dry. • The inserts need to be bought separately. |
| Charlie Banana Cloth Diapers | $$ | • Diaper (Outer layer:100% polyester, 18% polyurethane; lining: 100% Polyester) • Insert (Top layer: 100% polyester; bottom layer: 88% biconstituent fiber (80% polyester, 20% nylon), 12% polyester) |
• lots of patterns and colors • OEKO-TEX Standard 100 is certified. • super soft |
• on the thicker side • not the most affordable |
| $$$ | • Inner shells: certified organic cotton • Outer shells: OEKO-TEX certified recycled fabric from 100% post-consumer plastic bottles |
• eco-friendly (made from organic and recycled materials) • The outer shell can be used as a swim diaper. • includes a storage bag and cloth diaper-friendly diaper balm |
• not the most budget-friendly option on our list • two step diapering process is a little more complicated |
|
| $$ | 55% hemp, 45% organic cotton (outer layer is 100% PUL) | • made with organic cotton and sustainable hemp • Only one wash is required before using. • all-in-one style |
• parents note that this diaper runs small • It takes a while to dry. |
|
| $ | • Outer: polyester with waterproof and breathable TPU • Inner layer: suede cloth • Insert: three-layer microfiber |
• lots of snaps • Extra absorbency can be achieved with more inserts. • affordable |
• Some parents suggest buying a bamboo insert instead of microfiber ones for better Absorbancy. • may not be tight enough on some newborns |
|
| $ | • Outer shell: 100% PUL polyester cloth fabric • Inside: polyester mesh |
• adjustable from sizes N–5 (8–36 pounds) • three different height options • includes a 1-year better-than-money-back guarantee |
• parents note that it ran small • Not for daily use. |
|
| $$ | • Hidden inner layer: 100% polyester microfiber • Outer layer: 100% water resistant polyester TPU • Soaker: 100% cotton topped with 100% polyester microfleece • Body lining: 100% polyester microfleece |
• fits babies 10–35 pounds • includes a hidden body layer and adjustable soaker insert • both hook-and-loop and snap closure options |
• It can take a while to dry. • Can feel a little heavy. |
|
| $ | 50% cotton, 50% polyester outer lining | • builds child’s confidence • The elastic waist is easy for toddlers to use. • includes a hidden absorbent layer |
• only partially waterproof • not absorbent enough for overnight or nap use • Shrinking after first wash. |
|
| $$ | 55% hemp, 45% cotton | • made from It is a very rare form of allergic reaction. and naturally antibacterial hemp • You wash it more. • Includes a lot of snaps |
• you’ll need a waterproof covering • hemp may not wick moisture away from the skin as well as other materials |
|
| $$ | • Outer:100% polyester laminated • Core: 85% polyester, 15% nylon • Inner: 100% polyester |
• includes velcro and snaps • OEKO-TEX Standard 100 is certified. • There are lots of options to choose from. |
• need to pull out and reinsert the absorbent pad each time if you want it to dry quicker. • expensive |
Trying to choose the best cloth diaper can be overwhelming.
- Measure and weigh your baby to know what size cloth diaper he will need.
- Think about how much you want to do. All-in-one cloth diapers can be used to simplify the changing process.
- Consider what colors you like. Dressing up your mini-me can make changing your diaper more fun.
- Keep an eye out for sales. If you are open to using cloth diapers, you can find them for a lot less than the market price.
Newborn babies go through more diaper changes in a day, so you’ll need more diapers during the younger months.
You should assume that you will go through 12 to 18 diapers a day for a newborn and 6 to 10 a day after until your baby is potty trained.
You should have at least 16 to 24 cloth diapers on hand, but 36 may seem like a lot, and you should have 2 days worth. If you can, try to keep up with washing them every 2 days.
- diaper pail appropriate for cloth diapers (wet or dry option)
- diaper pail liners
- wipes (you may want to consider homemade or flushable options)
- a wet bag for carrying diapers home from public places
- Safety pins or clips are available for cloth diaper styles.
- disposable diapers are a backup if your power goes down or the washing machine breaks.
One way to make sure you are on the right path is to talk with someone who has used cloth diapers or is part of the cloth diaper community.
They can help you pick out the right diaper for your needs, show you how tofasten them, and help you resolve any problems once you start.
You may want to buy secondhand in the beginning. This will help keep costs down and allow you to test out a variety of diapers to find the one that works best for you and your baby.
You may want to experiment with combination diapering, where you use disposable diapers in public or overnight and cloth diapers at other times.
Do you save money with cloth diapers?
The cost to wash cloth diapers is the only major expense after that. disposable diapers are a constant cost until your child is potty trained.
If you use cloth diapers for a while or use them on multiple children, it can be cheaper.
Do cloth diapers need to be changed more often?
The same timelines for changing a diaper are applied for cloth and disposable ones. After a poop, any diapers should be changed. Changing of the diaper should be done regularly to prevent leaks from excess urine.
Can babies wear cloth diapers to sleep?
Babies can wear cloth diaper while they sleep. thicker inserts are found in cloth diapers for overnight use. These help hold urine.
Cloth diapers are not your first choice for every situation, but they come with plenty of advantages and require a little work.
Cloth diapers can be used for a number of reasons, from saving money to adding less waste to landfills.
