Opossum Baby

Pocket Diapers

What is a pocket diaper?

Pocket diapers are also known as AI2's they consist of a waterproof or water resistant outer layer, a soft inner layer (usually fleece or velour but flannel can be used as well), and some sort of fastener (velcro, snaps...). With a pocket diaper you have to add absorbant stuffing inside in order to absorb the mess.

They're convenient because they go on just like an AIO (or all in one). However, the absorbant layer is removed during the wash so that they dry faster.

What kind of fabic to choose...

Waterproof fabrics like nylon, or PUL offer really good leak protection but not a ton of breathability. Water-resistant fabrics like fleece over superior breathability but may not protect as well for heavy wetters. I use both. PUL for when we go out or overnight, and fleece for at home when I'm more diligent about diaper changes.

Lining fabrics need to feel nice on baby's skin. Fabrics with soft texture like velour, microfleece, and even some ultrasuede keep baby feeling dry and some wick moisture away from baby's skin. In addition, BM's don't stick to this type of fabric as badly as something like flannel.

Stuffing is entirely up to whoever is using the diaper. My diapers are large enough to accomodate a pre-fold as the stuffer. However, you may find that this is a bit of overkill. They appear bulkier when stuffed with prefolds and unless it's night-time you most likely won't need that much absorbancy. I use all sorts of things to stuff the diapers I use at home.

Good stuffing candidates: