Hi K.,
I used cloth diapers for my daughter once she was out of the newborn-sized disposables. I got the standard Gerber cotton diapers available just about anywhere that sells baby items. I also purchased washable leak-resisant covers to help control any messes. When we had to be away from home though, I would use disposable diapers. The only negative I had with them is that clothing for babies isn't really sized to accomodate a cloth diaper and a cover, so a lot of the outfits I had just didn't work with that combo. Maybe some of the reusables, like Fuzzie Buns, etc are no any thicker than the disposables, taking care of that problem.
I have seen cost comparisons and the reusable diapers really are less expensive in the long run, even taking into consideration that you have to buy new ones as your baby grows. And as one of the other mommies mentioned, there is a resale market for the reusable diapers. I got my covers used, but on a few of them, after using them for several months, the Velcro closures were worn out and wouldn't stay closed, so if you are considering buying used ones, keep that in mind.
As for the laundry aspect, I have a front loading washer, which uses a lot less energy and water, so I didn't feel really bad having to do extra washing for cloth diapers. I used hot water and a "green" detergent like Seventh Generation or Method with a 1/2 cup of Borax added and if there was any staining left I would hang them outside in the sunshine - a GREAT eco-friendly way to dry them AND remove stains. Sunlight is a natural stain remover, by the way. All of my diapers stayed snowy white and I was able to sell them all in a consignment sale once we moved on to disposables.
I hope this helps you in your descision.
N.