I want to use cloth... Now what?

So after I decided to use cloth diapers with my son the next decision to make was what type of diapers do I go with?  I was not aware of all the variety out there when I started my venture.  So what are the options?

1.  FLATS -  Basically what it sounds like.  This is a flat square or rectangle cloth that you fold and fasten onto baby with pins or a snappi.  You need a waterproof cover for these as the cloth is not waterproof.  An example of a flat would be like the Hemp Babies Flats.  You could also use Flour Sack Towels ( available at Walmart in the kitchen towel section) or receiving blankets.  I use flats for travelling if there is limited laundry facilities as they are really easy to hand wash and dry really fast.

2.PREFOLD- This is like a flat that has been folded into layers for you.  You still need a cover but you do not need to pin or fasten this type of diaper. You can just fold it into 3 and place right in the cover.  An Example is Bummis 100% cotton prefolds.  These dry really fast, are the most economical option.  I love prefolds for the newborn weeks.  You change baby so much that any other system would be too pricey.  They are soo easy to wash and care for. 

3.FITTEDS-  These are like a prefold but they are actually diaper shaped.  You still need a cover as they are not water proof.  an example is Kissaluvs fitteds or Bummis Bamboo Fitteds.  I use fitteds at night as they are the most absorbent option for long time wear.  These are really easy to use and wash up really nice.  They do take a bit longer to dry than the previous options and they are a bit more pricey. 

4. POCKETS -  These are a 2 part diaper.  They are basically a diaper with a waterproof outer layer, a fleece inner layer and a pocket opening that allows you to stuff whatever absorbent material you like in the middle.  Most pocket diapers come with inserts but you can get a huge variety of inserts to use if you don't like the standard microfiber ones. These are really easy to care for because you un-stuff, wash, hang the shell and machine dry the insert.  These are also super customisable and you can stuff what ever you want into the pocket opening.  My favourite pockets are Charlie Bananas and bumGenius 4.0's.

5. ALL-IN-ONES-   These are exactly what they sound like.  All the pieces are there and they are all together. You put it on baby, baby messes the diaper, you remove diaper, throw in pail, wash and dry on wash day.  These are the closest you can get to a disposable diaper.  The only downside is that these are the most expensive diapers and they can take a really long time to dry because all the layers are together.  My personal favourite is the bumGenius Elemental.

If you are just starting out then I would strongly advise you to get a variety of types and brands.  You will not know what works for you until you are actually using it on your baby.  I never thought I would like anything other than all in ones (AIO) but I love my pockets and fitteds. You can always sell off or trade the ones that you don't like to get more of what you do like.  Want to know a secret?  That is the best part!  Other than waiting for fluff mail to arrive.... Read:  Cloth diapering may become and addiction.