When I first started blogging, I did a roundup of the best places to buy diapers. The funny thing is, I remember only parts of what I wrote, but the feedback I received really stuck in my mind, mainly because a significant amount was from readers saying that they were aiming to use cloth diapers, but would otherwise follow my suggestions. Since then, the cloth diaper trend has grown considerably, with many parents loving how they’re environmentally friendly, made of natural materials, and simply economical. In fact, cloth diapers are more convenient to use than ever, as evidenced by each of these standout options.
bumGenius 4.0 One-Size Cloth Diaper with Snap Closures
Available in several bright colors and patterns from flowers to science equations (which I suppose is essential when you have the word “genius” in your name!) the new and improved 4.0s adjust with a snap to fit babies from 7 to 35 pounds. They come with both a newborn and a regular insert which can be doubled up for overnight use, as well as a stopper at baby’s tummy to prevent leaks. These diapers are remarkably durable and will last a long time, especially since all of the elastic is replaceable.
$17.95, bumgenius.com
The All-in-Ones combine a cloth diaper and waterproof liner in one piece and work just like disposable diapers, making them an excellent choice to give to babysitters and other caregivers who aren’t familiar with traditional cloth diapers. They’re also a particularly good choice for locals since the company is based in New York City and not only has a family- and infant-friendly showroom, but also a mentor program for new parents. They’ll even clean the All-in-Ones with no additional charge for users of their Organic Prefold or All-in-Two diaper services.
$6.50-24, diaperkind.com
Changing baby with the Flip is nearly as easy as with disposables. Simply remove the soiled insert, wipe the cover, add a new insert, and put it back on your little one. The Flip is adjustable to fit babies 8-35 pounds using snaps on the cover, with either more snaps or hook and loop closures to hold it on. Three types of inserts are available: stay dry, organic, and even disposable for travel. The shells come in a wide range of colors and patterns, including the Three Little Pigs, Chicken Little, and New York. To get you started, the day pack includes two washable cloth covers and six inserts.
$49.95, jilliansdrawers.com
FuzziBunz One-Size Elite Diapers
Hugely popular and the winner of multiple awards, this diaper includes many useful features found in other brands of cloth diapers, as well as several that are exclusive. The inserts use a layer of fleece against baby’s skin to quickly wick away liquid and keep it dry and rash-free, while the waterproof outer shell blocks leaks without wearing down or pilling. The most important feature that FuzziBunz provide is their durability. They use snap closures because they don’t wear out as easily, and with more than twelve years in business, the company stands behind their product with a lifetime warranty and free replacement parts. Plus, as the part most likely to wear out first, the elastic is easily replaceable without ripping seams or requiring any sewing.
$19.95, shop.fuzzibunz.com
Gerber Organic Cotton Flat Fold Cloth Diapers
These classic diapers are super absorbent and can be pinned to fit babies of all sizes. The simple style remains popular because it simply works well and is incredibly versatile–functioning as a burp cloth, nursing pad, bib, changing pad cover, or even a dishtowel since they’ll outlast your baby’s need for diapers.
$17.99, mbeans.com
Green Mountain Diapers Cloth-eez Prefold Diapers
In addition to coming in a variety of sizes designed to fit babies of all shapes and sizes, these 100% cotton diapers are available in chlorine-free white, unbleached, or organic fabrics. Green Mountain uses cotton because it seems to wash more easily and trap smells less than polyester fabrics, though stay-dry liners are available for extra absorbency when needed (like overnight). Similar to other non-fitted diapers, Cloth-eez are useful as burp cloths, bibs, or even towels.
GroVia Hybrid Cloth Diapers Experience Package – Organic Cotton
With two shells and four inserts made of IMO certified organic cotton, this is a great package to see if GroVia Hybrid diapers are right for you before buying a full set. If you are a fan (and given all of the awards that they’ve won, there’s a good chance you will be!), you’ll find they have a variety of bright colors and patterns for the shells. There are even disposable inserts made from renewable/compostable materials for those times when you don’t want to worry about carrying soiled diapers around. With snaps to adjust the size from 8 to 30 pounds and a hook-and-loop closure, there is no question these will fit your little one. Shells are waterproofed without solvent or formaldehyde and snap-close versions are available.
$68.00, gro-via.com
i play Classics Ultimate Swim Diaper
Your trips to the beach or pool this summer will be a lot easier with this all-in-one swim diaper. Consisting of a waterproof outer layer and absorbent inner layer, this splash-ready diaper means that your little one can spend time in the pool without worrying about accidental leaks. And with lots of colorful patterns to choose from, there’s no need for an extra bathing suit either!
$13, iplaybabywear.com
Tidy Tots are made from organic hemp for better absorbency than cotton, with elasticized gussets and no-leak flaps on the cover so clothes will stay dry. But what really sets these diapers apart are the disposable Flushies inserts that are made from corn starch. Translation: no more scrubbing solids out of the cloth in the sink before washing! Simply remove and flush the insert (with trapped solids) and the diaper can be thrown in the wash. Covers are available in a variety of patterns, including camo, denim, and rubber ducks. Booster inserts are also offered to eliminate leaks overnight.
$42.75, tidytotsdiapers.com
Elisabeth Reed is the shopping editor for New York Family Baby. Prior to becoming a freelance writer, she worked in the financial services industry. Elisabeth was born and raised in New York and loves exploring the city with her husband and two children, Brandon and Julia.