Convenience v’s leak-proofness - For leak-proofness two layers of defence is best, so that’s a fitted nappy with a cover. But with a wiggly worm for a 10 month-old coordinating two layers can be a monumental battle, so AIO/2s and pockets are the best for ease of use.
Drying time v’s absorbency - The better the absorbency, the longer it will take to dry. I find having a mix of nappies with different drying times very good (especially in rainy winter weather) or extra inserts for pockets (the outer shell dries really quickly but the bamboo inserts take ages). Nappies that you can pull apart (pockets, AI2) mostly dry faster than AIOs but it depends on the material that they are made from. Natural fibres tend to take longer to dry than synthetics. Bamboo takes longer to dry than cotton or hemp.
One size v’s trim/neat fit - A one size nappy (OSFA – one size fits all or OSFM – one size fits most) is supposed to fit from birth to toddler. It usually folds up/down in a particular way or has snaps to shorten the rise. One size nappies save you money because you don’t have to buy as many (i.e. lots of different sizes) but the fit can be terrible with gaping legs and lots of bulk on small babies. You can get one size fitteds, AIOs, pockets, and covers.
Side snapping v’s front closing (snaps or velcro) - Some people get really obsessive about this. I have all types but prefer front closing snaps or velcro. What works for one mum/baby might be hopeless for another and as your baby changes shape different nappies may fit better than others. Try one of each of as many different MCN as you dare. Again, I suggest having a mix of different nappies. Lots of babies learn to open and pull off velcro nappies. Side snapping nappies are the hardest for babies to pull off (but some are experts at that too).
Last edited by Epacris; October 29th, 2010 at 07:56 PM.
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