Cloth diaper covers have come out of the dark ages and they are cuter than ever. Today's cloth covers are so much easier to use than the old rubber or vinyl pants our parents or grandparents used. These days you can find cloth wraps with Velcro-like hook and loop tabs so they work just like a disposable diaper - without the cost or environmental damage. The new covers are also available in snaps or pull-on versions. Modern diaper covers are made with real knit or fleece fabrics, so they are soft and comfortable. No more crinkly diaper sounds!
Most modern covers can be grouped into two categories: pull-on covers or fastening covers. Pull-on covers go on like a pair of shorts. They have a stretchy waist and may use a drawstring or an elasticised waist for adjustability.
Fastening covers are also called wraps and they come in two basic styles as well: snaps or hook and loop tape. Most fastening diaper wraps fasten at the sides or in the front. Different people like different styles of diaper covers. There is no right or wrong diaper cover as long as it works for your child.
Synthetic fabrics are the most popular for diaper covers since they are easy to use, can be machine-washed, and are available in hundreds of prints and colors. One very common fabric used for diaper covers is polyurethane laminate (PUL). PUL covers are made by many companies including Thirsties and Bummis.
Of course, everything old is new again. Before rubber pants came wool soakers to keep babies dry. Soft wool covers are making a come-back since they are durable, breathable, biodegradable, and easy to use. Wool is a renewable resource and a properly cared for wool cover will last for many years. Many people think of wool as a delicate fabric, but wool is actually one of the most durable fibers around. Wool fibers can bend many thousands of times without breaking - making them stronger than the same thickness of steel.
Wool can also absorb 30% of it's own weight in moisture before feeling damp. Wool is also great any time of year. While most people think of wool as a winter fabric, it's breathability makes it perfect for hot or cold weather. Wool covers work best over a very absorbent diaper. You can find pull on style wool covers made from fabric or handknit or crocheted.
No matter which style of cloth diaper cover you choose, when you use cloth diapers you are making a great choice for your babies skin, for the environment and for your wallet.
