There is a practical range of real nappies to suit all bottoms, from simple terry cotton squares to shaped all-in-ones.
FLAT Terry squares are still popular and by far the cheapest option. They can be folded traditionally and fastened with a pin or the modern plastic alternative, a NappiNippa, or folded into a pad and held in place with a cover. They are very absorbent; fit all ages and dry quickly. For newborn babies muslin squares are much less bulky and can be used just like a terry.
SHAPED Shaped nappies vary widely in style from simple layered cloth shapes that are pinned on, to fitted nappies with elasticised legs and waist. These usually fasten with Velcro or poppers and some have an absorbent 'booster' pad, either attached or detachable. They are made of layers of absorbent cotton, polyester and/or terry and may come in white, unbleached, organic and coloured/patterned. Some are adjustable so that one size fits all, with others two or three sizes will be needed.
ALL IN ONES 'All in ones' are similar to shaped nappies but with the outer waterproof layer permanently attached. They are more expensive than other types, but no separate cover is needed. They are very quick and easy to change.
COVERS Covers (or wraps) are needed to go over the nappies (except the 'all in ones'). There are a wide variety of types available. They are made from waterproof, but usually breathable, fabric and have soft edges to avoid rubbing the baby's skin. They are held on with either Velcro or popper fastenings, or pull on like pants.
Information kindly provided by Lollipop.
© Lollipop Childrens Products, 2007
All-in-one
 Ideal for quick changes • A shaped cloth nappy with waterproof cover built in • Snug fitting with elasticated legs • Fastens with aplix (Velcro) or poppers depending upon style/brand • Dries slower than other styles so will need more nappies • Different sizes required as your child grows • The most expensive style of nappy but will still save you money. |
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Birth-to-potty
 As the name suggests a nappy that is designed to last through to potty training • Easy to change and convenient but requires a separate waterproof cover (wrap) • Usually fastens with poppers to allow resizing of the nappy. • Separate waterproof cover allows quicker drying times. • Costs less than all-in-ones and should last through to potty training |
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Shaped nappy
 Easy to change and convenient but requires a separate waterproof cover (wrap) • Snug fitting with elasticated legs. • Fastens with aplix (Velcro) or poppers depending upon style/brand. • Separate waterproof cover allows quicker drying times. • Usually available in three sizes. • Costs less than all-in-ones |
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 Pocket nappy
Effectively a pouch nappy used to hold a prefolded pad/insert • Can be prepared in advance effectively making it as easy as an all-in-one • Fastens with either poppers or aplix (Velcro) depending upon brand • Separate waterproof cover and booster allows rapid drying • Can vary degree of ‘boosting’ for different children/times of day
Prefolds
A folded cotton pad used in conjunction with a waterproof cover • Separate components allows easy and fast drying • Can fit from birth to until potty training by varying fit • Economical system which may not be for everyone |
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Terry Nappy
A terry (towelling) square requiring simple folding • Requires a separate waterproof cover (wrap) • Once folded terry is gathered to form nappy and safely secured with nappy nippa • Easy drying of both cover and terry • Can fit from birth to until potty training by varying fit • Very cheap system but can take time to get used to |
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Waterproof cover (wrap)
 Covers nappy to prevent leaking • Fastens with aplix (Velcro) or poppers and in some cases pull-on • Available in a variety of sizes • Colourful and patterned designs available |
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Liners
 Available in two main types - paper and washable •Used inside nappy - allows urine to soak through but not pass back to baby’s skin •Allows easy removal/flushing of poo from soiled nappies. • Fleece liners allow runny poo to soak into nappy avoiding potential leaks |
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Booster pads
 A shaped cloth pad used with nappy to add extra absorbancy • Ideal for temporary boosts such as night-time, car journeys and at times when wetting increases |
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