DH has finally realised that the cost and work involved in MCN's is nothing compared to disposables. So we're going cloth!!!

As you can tell I am fairly excited about the whole thing!

So now I just need to know a few things, and was wondering if anyone is able to help out.

1. What do I wash the nappies with, do I use normal laundry powder or do I need something special?
2. Are most MCN's tumble-dry-able? DD2 is due in winter and I do love my tumble dryer. I realise the plastic bits are a no-no but is there anything else that can't go in?
3. Are all-in-ones the best things for newborns? Is there an intro pack that I can get for about $40-50 to try out particular types? Size wise what should I be getting - keeping in mind DD was 9lb4 and grew very quickly.
4. How many do they go through in a day - on average. I know with disposables that you would use 8-12, depending on circumstances, is that the same with MCN's?
5. So... How many do I need??? We'll be washing every second day or so. Does that mean I need 3 or more days worth just to be safe?

Ok, that is all I can think of at the moment - Thanks for all your help!