Pocket Cloth Nappies

Fast to Dry

What is a Pocket Nappy?

• A three piece cloth nappy system (The liner is attached to the waterproof)
• The Insert / Booster is the absorbent part and the pocket is the waterproof component. The liner provides a stay-dry barrier
• They are generally synthetic and so most will dry quickly

Features:

No Folding but - you must pop the absorbency / insert inside each nappy after laundering.

Single Containment Layer - so a snug fit is essential.

1 - 4 Sizes of Pocket Nappy - to go from birth to potty (Depending on Brand).

Fabrics:

Liner - Synthetic - Generally Fleece or Suede cloth

Inner Absorbent Layers - Natural, Synthetic or a combination of fabrics

Waterproof Outer / Cover - PUL (Laminated Polyester) or a combination of PUL and fleece / wool

Info:

Pockets are a popular nappy because once the insert has been put inside they are essentially a one piece nappy. With pockets a snug fit is essential so you will need to get the correct sized nappy for your baby's weight or they might leak. The absorbent capacity and drying time is highly dependent on the fabrics used for the insert/s and how many layers can be inserted inside the pocket without distorting the fit around the leg and waist of the baby which could cause the nappy to leak. Most pocket nappies dry reasonably quickly because they are made from synthetic fabrics and the absorbency comes right out. With pockets, the baby is always sitting against a synthetic layer because the liner is attached to the nappy so if you want a natural fabric nappy, this is most likely not going to suit your requirements.

Pros:

They dry really quickly because they are synthetic
Because pocket nappies are generally made of synthetic fabrics they tend to dry very quickly in comparison to a natural fibre.
The drying time is also shorter because removal of the absorbent pad / Insert from the nappy before washing and when it is drying it is separate from the outer.
You dont require a cover for these because it is attached
You can add or remove absorbency (inserts / boosters) to suit
They a trim fitting nappy system if you only use the original insert in them
Once together can be a very convenient option when you are out and about
Different fastening systems : Aplix/Velcro or poppers

Cons:

You are washing the whole nappy every time it is used which means that the waterproof part is washed everytime.
You need to put the insert back inside the nappy after washing
The pocket only provides a single leak barrier
Popper nappies may be fiddly to get on an older moving child
You may find you go through stages where they dont always provide a perfect fit which could allow some leakage at different times.
If you over stuff nappy you can distort the leg shape causing leaks
Fleece may need to be hot washed to prevent soap build up
Can be hard to fit on skinny legged babies

Tips:

Many parents seem to hold off from using pockets during the first three months because they dont want to purchase the smaller size which will only be in use for a short time.

A consideration to keep in mind with a pocket nappy is that there is only one containment layer. When it is put on a baby you must ensure a snug fit to prevent leakage so dont over stuff the nappy or it may cause it to leak

There are times where high levels of absorbency are needed i.e. night time. Parents tend to "overstuff" them, distorting the shape at leg seams which can lead to leaks. This is where you need to make sure you are using the correct size for your baby and if there are leaking problems at night, it may pay to try a fitted nappy at night and use pocket nappies during the day.

Another thing to note is that the PUL (waterproof layer) is washed after every change. Therefore, it pays to spend a little more and purchase high quality pocket nappies. If the outer is made of a cheap fabric it may deteriorate quite quickly.

You get what you pay for.

Note: you need to wash the Pocket nappy and insert / absorbent layers after every change


Nappy Overview   |   Prefolds   |  Fitted   |   Pocket   |   All in One   |   Birth to Potty