Cotton or Stay-Dry?
Here's the honest answer.
This is not a stay-dry diaper, and that's the point.
Our Essentials AWJ pocket uses a 100% polyester athletic wicking jersey lining that pulls moisture off the skin and holds it in the insert, so baby feels dry longer between changes. This cotton version absorbs on contact instead, which means your baby will feel the wetness.
For most families that's a non-issue, the cotton lining prompts more frequent changes, which is what pediatric guidance recommends anyway. Choose cotton if you want natural fibers against skin, prefer plastic-free materials, or have a baby who doesn't mind a little wetness. Choose AWJ if you're diapering overnight, have a heavy wetter, or have a baby who's sensitive to feeling wet.
Many parents keep both in rotation: cotton for daytime, AWJ for naps and nights. And if you want the best of both, you can always lay a stay-dry liner on top of the cotton.