For parents who are new to cloth diapering, it can be overwhelming to realize that there are so many different types, styles, and brands of modern reusable diapers available.  It can also be confusing even to the veteran parent as the cloth diaper market has experienced explosive growth over the last few years.  Here is a basic list of the types of reusable diapers available on the market today:

Prefolds: These are the old-fashioned diapers many people think of when they hear about cloth diapers.  They consist of many layers of cotton birdseye fabric sewn together into a rectangle shape.  You fold and fasten the diaper to your baby, and then top with a waterproof cover.  

Fitted Diapers: These diapers are hourglass-shaped to provide a better fit.  They frequently have elasticized legs and waist to contain messes.  They are made from a wide variety of absorbent fabrics and usually have either Velcro or snap closures.  They require a waterproof cover.

Pocket Diapers: These are modern diapers that eliminate the need for a separate diaper and cover combination.  The outside of this diaper is waterproof and the inside is frequently a soft material that wicks moisture away from the baby's skin, protecting against rashes.  In between these layers is a space or "pocket" where an absorbent pad known as an insert is placed to complete the diapering system.  Each diaper has its own insert, and you can increase or decrease as desired to meet your absorbency needs. The insert is removed at laundering time to increase cleanliness and speed up drying time.  These diapers also have Velcro or snap closures.

All-in-Ones: Also known as AIO's these diapers are similar to a disposable except that they are reused.  The outside is waterproof and the inside is absorbent sometimes lined with a stay dry material to protect against rashes.  There are no extra pieces in a true All-in-One.  AIO's have Velcro or snap closures.

All-in-2s: These are relatively new to the cloth diapering world.  Similar to All-in-Ones and pocket diapers, the outside is waterproof.  The inside has a pad that lays in or snaps into the outer shell forming a complete diapering system.  Some of these systems allow for the pad to be changed and the cover to be reused for multiple diaper changes.  They also have Velcro style or snap closures.

One-Size Diapers: These diapers can be fitted diapers, pocket diapers, AIO's or AI2's.  They have adjustable snaps or elastic systems that allow them to fit most babies from birth to potty training.  These diapers have become the most popular size in the world due to the value they offer.  Parents need only purchase one set of diapers for their baby or multiple children.

With so many styles available every family is sure to find the type of reusable diaper that best suits their needs.