Cloth Nappy Language & Abbreviations
Most commonly used abbreviations
MCN: Modern cloth nappy
AIO: All-in-one - Refers to type of nappy
AI2: All-in-two - Refers to type of nappy
OSFM: One size fits most - Size of nappy
OSFA: One size fits all - Size of nappy
NB: Newborn
WAHM: Work at home mum - Often will be used when talking about cloth nappies made by small businesses from home (often mums)
CC: China cheapies - Refers to cheap (often unethically made) cloth nappies from china
RAOK: Random act of kindness - Term used when giving away cloth nappies
OTB: On the bum - For example "This nappy looks so cute OTB".
Components of nappies
Natural fibre: Refers to materials made of natural fibres
MF: Microfiber - Is a type of fabric used typically in inserts and boosters
Microfleece/suede-cloth: Two different types of water-resistant fabrics commonly used in cloth nappies that aids in drawing moisture away from bubs skin
PUL: Polyurethane Laminate - The waterproof fabric that the shells of nappies are often lined with or made of.
Trifold: An insert that can be folded into thirds.
Insert: The main absorbent "pad" in nappies that soaks up the urine
Booster: An insert that is added to cloth nappies to aid in increasing the absorbency
Flats and prefolds: A square/rectangular piece of material (usually terry towelling or bamboo/hemp fibre that can be folded and used as a nappy or "pad" inside of a waterproof shell/cover.
Cover/Shell: Refers to a waterproof layer that can be used over flats and prefolds or with inserts and boosters
Liner: Disposable or reusable - Placed within the inside of a cloth nappy to catch the faecal matter making cleaning the nappies an easier process.
Snaps: Small circular, plastic devices that aid in the fastening of the nappies
Hook and loop: Refers to nappies that have what is most commonly known as Velcro as the method of fastening and closure
Gussets: Usually an extra row of elastic or raised fabric that aids in preventing leaks
Wetbag: A waterproof bag used to store soiled nappies
Cloth wipes: A reusable, washable alternative to disposable baby wipes.
Other commonly used terms:
Stash: Collection of nappies
Stash shot: Photo of a collection of modern cloth nappies
Stuff: Refers to putting inserts into the pocket of a nappy
Fluff mail: Refers to receiving cloth nappies in the post.
Prep: Preparing your nappies for use - usually through soaking the inserts overnight and washing the nappies.
Strip and sanitise: A method of cleaning nappies that is used to remove ammonia build up and thoroughly clean nappies.
Delaminating: When the waterproof layer separates from the outer fabric, often resulting in a "crunchy" sound and leaks
Dry pailing: This refers to storing soiled nappies in a pail without water (it is not recommended to soak your nappies so this is the best method).
Nappy Sprayer: A hand-held spraying device that attaches to the external plumbing of the toilet and allows you to wash your nappies directly into the toilet