When it comes to cloth diapering, one of the most important factors to consider is the lining material that sits closest to your baby’s delicate skin. This layer plays an important role in your baby's comfort, the diaper’s ability to manage moisture, and how easy it is to care for your stash.
Two popular options for cloth diaper linings are Athletic Wicking Jersey (AWJ) and Microfleece—each with its own unique benefits and features!
At Nora’s Nursery, we have used Microfleece in our Newborn AIO's, Baby Sized Pocket Diaper styles, as well as in our Toddler Size Pocket Diapers. We are now THRILLED to announce the introduction of Athletic Wicking Jersey (AWJ) to our product lineup! With AWJ, we’re offering families a new option designed to cater to different preferences, climates, and needs.
Choosing the right lining material for your baby can make all the difference—whether you’re looking for optimal breathability, ease of cleaning, or the perfect fit for your baby’s skin type. This blog will break down the differences between AWJ and our OG, Microfleece; Helping you decide which one is best suited for your cloth diapering journey.
Let’s dive into what makes these two lining options unique!
Microfleece
Microfleece is a soft, lightweight, and moisture-wicking fabric commonly used in cloth diapers as a stay-dry layer. It helps pull moisture away from your baby's skin and into the absorbent insert, keeping them feeling dry even after multiple hours of wear.
Benefits of Microfleece:
- Cozy and gentle on baby’s skin.
- Effectively wicks moisture to keep baby feeling dry.
- Great for colder climates or for babies who need extra warmth.
Key Characteristics of Microfleece:
- Soft & Plush Texture – Microfleece is incredibly soft, making it gentle on a baby’s delicate skin
- Moisture-Wicking – It quickly pulls liquid away from the skin and into the absorbent layers beneath.
- Breathable but Warmer – While it allows airflow, it retains more warmth compared to other stay-dry materials like suedecloth, making it ideal for cooler climates.
- Stain-Resistant – Microfleece is less prone to staining compared to natural fibers like cotton or bamboo.
- Pill Formation Over Time – Due to its synthetic nature, microfleece may develop some pilling after extended use, but this does not impact its functionality.
Benefits of Microfleece in Cloth Diapers:
- Keeps Baby Dry & Comfortable – The stay-dry effect helps prevent rashes by reducing skin contact with wetness.
- Cozy & Gentle on Skin – The plush feel of microfleece makes it a comfortable choice for babies with sensitive skin.
- Great for Cold Climates – Since microfleece retains warmth, it’s perfect for winter months or for babies who need extra insulation.
- Low-Maintenance & Easy to Clean – Stains are easier to remove, and it dries quickly after washing.
Is Microfleece Right for Your Baby?
Microfleece is an excellent choice for parents looking for a stay-dry solution, especially for overnight use or colder environments. However, if your baby is prone to heat rashes or reacts to synthetic fabrics, natural fibres like bamboo or cotton may be a better option.
Our OG Mircrofleece diapers are available in our Newborn AIO's, Baby Sized Pocket Diaper styles, as well as in our Toddler Size Pocket Diapers.
Athletic Wicking Jersey
AWJ is a lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabric commonly used in cloth diapers as a stay-dry layer. It helps pull moisture away from your baby's skin while allowing for maximum airflow, keeping them cool and comfortable even in warmer environments.
Benefits of AWJ:
- Keeps baby’s skin dry by pulling moisture away.
- Excellent for babies with sensitive skin or prone to rashes.
- Quick-drying for easier washing and faster turnaround
- Moisture-wicking and quick drying
- Comfortable and easy to move in
- Lightweight and breathable
Key Characteristics of AWJ:
- Smooth & Lightweight Texture – AWJ has a soft, silky feel and a mesh-like design that allows for better airflow.
- Lightweight and Highly Breathable – Unlike microfleece, AWJ does not trap heat, making it an excellent choice for warm climates or babies prone to overheating.
- Moisture-Wicking – AWJ quickly moves moisture away from the skin and into the absorbent insert below, keeping baby feeling dry.
- Quick-Drying Mesh – This material dries faster than microfleece, making it a great option for parents who line dry their diapers.
- Stain-Resistant – The smooth surface of AWJ is less likely to hold onto stains, making cleaning easier compared to plush fabrics like microfleece.
Benefits of AWJ in Cloth Diapers:
- Keeps Baby Cool & Dry – The moisture-wicking and breathable properties help prevent heat buildup while maintaining a stay-dry effect.
- Great for Warm Climates – Because it does not retain warmth like microfleece, AWJ is perfect for summer months or hot environments.
- Gentle on Sensitive Skin – The soft, smooth texture of AWJ helps prevent irritation and is a great option for babies prone to rashes.
- Low-Maintenance & Fast Drying – AWJ dries quicker than microfleece, making it easier to wash and reuse without long drying times.
If you’re looking for a stay-dry lining that keeps baby cool, dries fast, and resists stains, AWJ might be the perfect choice for your cloth diapers!
Is AWJ Right for Your Baby?
AWJ is an excellent choice for parents looking for a breathable, stay-dry solution, especially in warmer climates or for babies prone to heat sensitivity. Its lightweight, moisture-wicking properties help keep your baby cool and comfortable while pulling wetness away from the skin.
However, if your baby prefers a softer, cozier feel, or if you’re looking for extra warmth during colder months, microfleece may be a better option. AWJ is a synthetic fabric, so if your baby has sensitivities to polyester, you may want to explore natural fiber options like bamboo or cotton.
AWJ vs. Microfleece: A Side-by-Side Comparison
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Check out our New AWJ Pocket Diapers Here!
Choosing The Right Material For Your Baby
Why Might You Want To Use AWJ?
Living in Warmer Climates
- Why? AWJ is a highly breathable fabric that allows for maximum airflow, keeping your baby cool even in hot and humid conditions.
- Unlike microfleece, which retains some warmth, AWJ helps prevent overheating, making it an ideal choice for summer or warmer regions.
- Since AWJ is lightweight and moisture-wicking, it helps minimize discomfort during high-temperature naps or outdoor activities.
Babies with Sensitive Skin or Prone to Rashes
- AWJ has a smooth, silky texture that is gentle on delicate skin, reducing friction that could cause irritation.
- It is a stay-dry material, meaning moisture is pulled away from the skin and into the absorbent layers of the diaper, which can help prevent diaper rashes caused by prolonged wetness.
- AWJ allows the skin to breathe better, making it a great option for babies prone to heat rashes or eczema.
- Since AWJ is synthetic and non-absorbent, it does not hold onto bacteria as easily as some natural fibers, which may be helpful for babies with recurrent skin sensitivities.
Quick-Drying Materials
- AWJ is made from a polyester-based athletic fabric, similar to materials used in sportswear, which means it dries significantly faster
- Since it does not absorb water, it air-dries quickly, making it a perfect option for families who line-dry their diapers or need a faster laundry turnaround.
- The quick-drying nature of AWJ also helps reduce odors and bacteria growth, making it a practical choice for busy parents.
If you’re in a hot climate, have a baby with sensitive skin, or prefer a low-maintenance, quick-drying option, AWJ might be the best fabric for your cloth diapers!
Why Might You Want To Use Microfleece?
Living in Colder Climates
- Microfleece is a warmer, insulating material that helps keep babies cozy in cooler temperatures.
- Unlike AWJ, which is highly breathable, microfleece retains warmth, making it a great option for fall and winter.
- If you live in a cold or dry climate, microfleece can help provide extra comfort without making your baby feel chilly.
Cozy & Plush Feel
- Microfleece is known for its soft, velvety texture, which adds a layer of comfort against your baby’s skin.
- Some parents prefer microfleece because it feels more like traditional fabric, making it a familiar and comfortable choice.
- If you enjoy soft, fuzzy materials for blankets and sleepwear, microfleece offers a similar cozy experience in cloth diapers.
Extra Softness & Warmth
- Microfleece has a luxuriously soft touch, which some babies prefer over smoother fabrics like AWJ.
- Since microfleece is a stay-dry fabric, it helps wick moisture away while still feeling warm, which can be especially comforting for newborns or babies who dislike feeling wet.
- For babies who are more sensitive to the cold, microfleece provides a snuggly barrier that keeps them feeling warm and dry.
If you live in a colder climate, want a super plush feel, or have a baby who loves warmth and softness, microfleece might be your best choice! Check out all of our microfleece options in our Newborn AIO's, Baby Sized Pockets as well as in our Toddler Size Pocket Diapers.
Learn more about Pocket Diapers vs. Cover Diapers here
FAQs: Common Questions About AWJ & Microfleece
1. Can I use the same inserts for AWJ and Microfleece diapers?
- Yes! Both our 'Baby Size' (10-35lbs) AWJ and OG Pocket Diapers work with the same standard size( 5” wide x 13” long) insert: Bamboo, Hemp, Cotton, Microfiber, or Prefolds.
- The lining choice affects how your baby feels dryness, but the insert does the absorbing. Check out our insert Absorbency Chart for more information
2. How do I care for AWJ vs. Microfleece?
Washing: Both fabrics can be washed the same way—rinse, wash on warm/ hot with detergent, and an extra rinse if needed.
Drying: To lengthen the lifespan of your diapers, your best bet is to tumble dry on a delicate or low heat setting. Hang drying cloth diapers is also a great way to protect your diapers and save energy! When drying cloth diapers, avoid dryer sheets as this can cause residue build-up.
- AWJ dries faster than Microfleece because it doesn’t hold moisture as much, making it a great option for line drying. Microfleece may take longer but remains soft after multiple washes.
- Pilling: Over time, microfleece can pill, especially with hard water or frequent high-heat drying. To minimize this, air dry or tumble dry on low. AWJ does not pill as easily.
See Our Washing 101 Blog for more information on washing, drying, detergents, and more!
Removing Stains: Staining on your cloth diapers is normal! Staining should not affect absorbency so long as your diapers are regularly and thoroughly cleaned. When fighting stains, avoid bleach and boiling water as they can cause damage and reduce the overall lifespan of your diapers.
- If you do get stains, sun drying is an effective natural stain remover for both materials! Just lay diapers in direct sunlight for a few hours after washing!
When it comes to cloth diapering, it’s important to remember that there’s no “right or wrong” Both Athletic Wicking Jersey (AWJ) and Microfleece are excellent options for keeping your baby comfortable and dry. Each material offers unique benefits, so the decision ultimately comes down to your family’s personal preferences, your baby’s specific needs, and what works best for your routine.
If you’re looking for a lining that’s lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying, AWJ might be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you love the cozy, plush feel of a soft fabric against your baby’s skin, Microfleece could be the ideal choice. Both materials offer effective moisture-wicking properties, making them reliable options for keeping your little one dry and happy.
We’re so excited to introduce our new AWJ lineup to give families even more flexibility and choice in their cloth diapering journey! We invite you to explore this new option and decide which lining fits your lifestyle and baby’s needs best. Whether you’re team AWJ, Microfleece, or a mix of both, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
