Cloth Diapers — All About the Inserts, Baby

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So in my last post, I discussed the different styles of cloth diapers available to fit every mom and baby. From pre-folds to all in ones, there is something for everyone! Today, we are going down the rabbit hole a little further and talking about the different fabrics and blends used in cloth diaper inserts. Hopefully we can unscramble this mess together!

cloth diaper inserts || Nashville Mom's Blog

First up, the most basic of basics: microfiber! Microfiber inserts are usually the cloth diaper inserts included with most pocket diapers and are a mainstay of the all-in-one world. They are the least expensive of the blends used in diapers and numerous in quantity. If you are wanting the most budget-friendly option, microfiber is your answer. In terms of absorbency and use, it is fairly mediocre. Toddlers or heavy wetters may need to be changed more frequently if using microfiber inserts. A big benefit of using microfiber is that it is extremely fast wicking—pulling moisture quickly and effectively away from baby’s bum. Important to note is that microfiber should never actually touch your baby’s bum.

Secondly, there is bamboo. Bamboo is a heavily processed synthetic material and appears in all-in-ones, pre-folds, and again in pockets. Charcoal bamboo cloth diaper inserts are a popular type of insert for cloth diapers as they are a little more absorbent than regular microfiber. Bamboo is soft against baby’s tender skin and can be used on its own or as a doubler (a.k.a. second insert) for microfiber.

Lastly, there is my current favorite: hemp. If you are looking for a super absorbent, leak-proof solution for your cloth diapers, look no further. Hemp is the most absorbent fiber used in cloth diaper inserts and is perfect for heavy wetters, overnight solutions, and is a must for toddlers. Hemp is a renewable substance and is the most eco-friendly of the inserts. Although not as soft as bamboo, it is still safe to put against baby’s skin. It offers a super trim profile (so no bulky bottoms!) while not sacrificing the absorbency—making it a favorite amongst chunky baby mummy’s. Hemp is also the most expensive of the three main insert fibers, so be prepared to pay a pretty penny for the extra absorbency.

There you have it! The three main fiber options included in diapers are microfiber, bamboo, and hemp. Each one has its own benefits and downfalls. Quick and dirty (pun intended) overview: microfiber is a great budget option if you are willing to sacrifice absorbency, while hemp is the mother of inserts, if you are willing to pay for it. Bamboo is a good middle of the road option that can provide a much needed boost to microfiber inserts.

What are your favorite blends for cloth diaper inserts? What is your go-to for night time solutions?

1 COMMENT

  1. There is now another great option in fabric other than microfiber, hemp, or bamboo soakers. It is called Zorb! It is way more absorbent. It is definitely worth checking out. It can be bought and made into a soaker, or a lot of etsy shops have started making soakers with it that can be purchased with cloth diapers, or for the ones you already have. 🙂

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