Bayrli vs Thirsties: A Detailed Cloth Diaper Comparison | Bayrli®

Bayrli vs Thirsties: A Detailed Cloth Diaper Comparison

Thirsties is a well-regarded US cloth diaper brand based in Colorado, known for their wide product range and commitment to sustainable manufacturing. Both Bayrli and Thirsties position themselves as premium, quality-focused options. This comparison examines where they overlap and where they diverge.

System and Product Range

Thirsties offers an extensive range: the Duo Wrap cover, Natural AIO, Natural Pocket, Stay Dry Natural AIO, fitted diapers, prefolds, hemp inserts, and more. They use a two-size system (Size 1 for 6–18lb, Size 2 for 18–40lb) for most products, though some are one-size.

Bayrli offers a focused range: the Everyday pocket diaper, Deluxe AIO, Inner fitted diaper, Outer cover, plus inserts, wet bags, liners, wipes, and period pads. All diapers are one-size.

Thirsties has the broader range. Bayrli has the more focused system, which can be an advantage for new parents: fewer choices means less decision fatigue.

Materials

Both brands use natural fibres for absorbency. Thirsties offers organic cotton and hemp inserts and uses organic cotton in their Natural line. Bayrli uses certified organic cotton for all skin-contact surfaces and offers bamboo and hemp absorbency options.

The divergence is in waterproofing. Thirsties uses PUL across their range. Bayrli uses TPU exclusively. As covered in our PUL vs TPU guide, TPU is bonded thermally without chemical adhesives, is more breathable, and is more resistant to delamination. This is a material-level difference that affects breathability, durability, and chemical exposure.

Sizing Approach

Thirsties primarily uses a two-size system. This means purchasing separate diapers for smaller and larger babies, which increases the total investment but can provide a better fit at each stage.

Bayrli uses a one-size system that adjusts from approximately 3.5kg (8lb) to potty training. This means a single purchase covers the entire diapering period, reducing total cost but with the trade-off that the fit on very small newborns may be bulkier than a dedicated size 1.

Neither approach is objectively superior; they suit different preferences.

Sustainability

Both brands take sustainability seriously. Thirsties manufactures in the USA and has a strong environmental ethos.

Bayrli is carbon neutral certified, offsets 120% of its supply chain carbon footprint, and donates a minimum of 1% of all revenue to climate causes. All Bayrli products undergo annual CPSIA-compliant third-party safety testing.

Summary Comparison

Who Should Choose Which?

Choose Thirsties if you want the widest possible product range with two-size fit precision and prefer US-manufactured products. Their Natural line uses excellent materials and performs well.

Choose Bayrli if you want a lifetime warranty, TPU waterproofing, one-size convenience, carbon neutral certification, and a brand that is transparent about its materials science and safety testing protocols.