Now and then someone asks me for cloth diapering advice, and I just freeze up. They wonder “which cloth diapers to buy?” And I just go… blank.
I hate giving cloth diapering advice. I might write a blog that’s largely dedicated to cloth diapering, but when it comes to the basics of cloth diapering and tips for the cloth diaper beginner, I’m a hot mess.
I want to share it all, and way more than the average person wants to know. That’s okay; sometimes we need that type of person in the world. I’m that kind of person. #clothdiaperaddict.
Disclosure: I use affiliate links on my blogs. These links garnish a small commission from purchases made. Enjoy.
Which Cloth Diapers to Buy?
Truthfully, I tell everyone on the internet to purchase a diaper based on the print they love the most.
Seriously.
If there’s a diaper print that captivates you and makes you fall in love with cloth diapering you need to own it.
Cloth diapering should bring you some joy in life because it is extra work. And with a sea of different options to choose from the easiest way to get started is by picking the prettiest flower.
Seriously.
All of these amazing cloth diaper brands exist because people love them. Some of them have reputations (good and bad) but they all thrive because of their solid fan base of enthusiasts, and the only way you know if you belong is by trying it.
But you can’t afford to try all the diapers, so buy the one you love the most.
If that advice isn’t helpful on which cloth diapers to buy, then I have another idea.
I do have some favourite cloth diapers. But, I’m not going to tell you to buy my favourite cloth diapers because some of my favourite cloth diapers are finicky and difficult to use. They have features that are less than perfect with tricks I do to make them perfect. I love them for the reasons people shouldn’t love them.
Instead, I’m going to suggest you try three cloth diapers that I think are some of the best cloth diapers. These are top of their class diapers you can’t go wrong with using. The amazing cloth diapers are just well built and well designed. Made from brands with quality and ethical standards, I consider these cloth diapers the best overall.
3 Cloth Diapers to Get You Started
Which cloth diapers are the best to buy?
That question is loaded.
The best way to get started would be to suggest one of the three main types of cloth diapering (not considering the complex AI2, Fitteds, and the other variations).
Try these three different styles to help narrow down your cloth diaper preference and style; whether you love the simplicity of the AIO, the functionality of a pocket, or the ease of a cover.
The best part about these three options is I think these are best cloth diapers for baby, the best cloth diapers for toddler, and functional one size option for a chunkier newborn.
- bumGenius Elemental: All in One Cloth Diaper (AIO)
- The bumGenius Elemental is an amazing diaper. Every time I use it, I’m amazed at its absorbency, fit and design, and ease of use. You need to try this diaper. It will last from birth to potty training and triumph over its microfibre counterpart (bumGenius FreeTime).
- Thirsties Pocket: Pocket Cloth Diaper
- The Thirsties Pocket stands out of the crowd as a well-designed cloth diapering system. It comes with a high-quality hemp insert to support the microfibre insert and keep you cloth diapering well into toddlerhood. Additionally, this diaper just fits great as the babies turn into toddlers and preschoolers. This is a diaper I wish I tried earlier.
- Omaiki Cabrio (Canada) is no longer available, but the GroVia Hybrid is an amazing option (USA/CAN).
- As an Omaiki Ambassador, I’m a little head over heels for the Omaiki Cabrio. However, this diaper isn’t readily available, but it’s very similar to the GroVia Hybrid. I first fell in love with the GroVia Hybrid and thus wholeheartedly suggest both diapers as a great place to start with covers. Padfold your favourite prefold cloth diaper and good to go. These systems are timeless and versatile.
A few more Cloth Diapers for Beginners
- Anything from Thirsties, seriously try the NAIO or the Duo Wraps and you won’t be disappointed. They have incredible resources to get you started on cloth diapering and encourage you on.
- Nerdy Mommas AIO Diaper or the Omaiki AIO – these are simple to use natural fibre diapers for every family.
- Noble Bebe Stretchy Flats! These are a simple work at home mom diaper that can easily help bridge the gap between flats/prefolds and simple diaper options.
If you’re already cloth diapering, share your favourite way to get started? Do you regret your first purchases?
- LagoonBaby (Canada)
- Cloth Diaper Kids (Canada)
- Nicki’s Diapers (USA)
- My Sweet Pickles (USA)
- Amazon (USA)
Ashley says
Love this! Haveing a fun print/solid definitely makes you want to use it more! Been using cloth for 15m now and think this is solid advice and the brand/style recommendations are imo legit. I started by scouring bath for different styles and brands I’d heard people like. Before laying down money to get newer/highly recommended brands. I’m now a big lover of thirties pockets and have the same one pictured! But I have had different things work best at different stages. I’d recommend trying everything you can within budget ?