Cloth diapers with inserts provide an absorbent and reusable alternative to disposable diapers, primarily consisting of a waterproof outer layer (the shell) and a removable absorbent pad (the insert or soaker).
These types of diapers are designed for flexibility and efficiency. The core principle is that the absorbent insert handles the wetting, while the outer shell contains everything.
The Components
Understanding how these diapers work starts with knowing their two main parts:
- The Shell: This is the outer layer of the diaper. It's typically made of a waterproof or water-resistant material like PUL (polyurethane laminate) or TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane). The shell has fasteners (snaps or hook-and-loop closures) to secure the diaper on the baby and often includes leg gussets to help prevent leaks.
- The Insert (or Soaker): This is the absorbent part. Inserts are made from various materials such as microfiber, bamboo, cotton, or hemp, known for their ability to soak up liquid. They come in different shapes and thicknesses.
How They Function Together
The insert is placed inside or attached to the shell before putting the diaper on the baby.
- Putting it On: You place the insert into the shell (depending on the diaper type, it might snap in or just lay there) and then put the combined diaper on the baby like a regular diaper.
- Absorption: When the baby wets the diaper, the liquid is absorbed by the insert. The waterproof shell prevents the wetness from leaking onto clothes or surfaces.
- Changing: This is where the system offers convenience. When the diaper is wet, you can change the insert, and reuse the shell if it is not soiled with feces. This significantly reduces the amount of laundry compared to systems where the entire diaper is changed every time.
- Cleanup: The soiled insert is removed and stored in a wet bag or diaper pail until wash day. If the shell is soiled, the entire unit goes into the wash.
Types of Cloth Diapers Using Inserts
While the reference specifically mentions All-in-Two (AI2) cloth diapers, which perfectly fit the description of a shell and an insert that snaps or lays inside, other types also utilize inserts:
- All-in-Two (AI2): As described in the reference, these have a separate shell and an insert that can be snapped in or just laid inside. This design allows for easy changing of just the insert if the shell isn't soiled.
- Pocket Diapers: These have a waterproof shell with a 'pocket' opening (usually at the back) where you stuff an insert. When wet or soiled, the entire diaper (shell + insert) is typically removed and washed. The insert needs to be removed from the pocket before washing.
- Covers with Prefolds/Flats: While not always called "inserts," absorbent pads like prefolds or flat diapers are folded and placed inside a separate waterproof cover. This system works similarly to AI2s in that the cover can often be reused through several changes by just swapping out the absorbent pad.
| Component | Material Examples | Function | Reusability During Change (if not soiled) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shell | PUL, TPU | Contains wetness, fit | Often Reused |
| Insert | Microfiber, Bamboo, etc. | Absorbs liquid | Replaced Every Time |
By separating the absorbent part from the waterproof cover, cloth diapers with inserts offer a flexible and cost-effective cloth diapering system.
