A two-piece diaper system having a re-usable shell and a removable and replaceable absorbent pad is provided. The re-usable diapering system consists of a non-absorbent outer liquid impervious shell, as in a standard disposable diaper but without an integral central absorbent layer which is exposed to liquids in the crotch area. A separate disposable absorbent pad is provided in the central crotch area of the disposable diaper which is not sandwiched in the shell. The central area of the shell is stiffened to facilitate manufacture and handling by the user.