I agree with you Hannah - especially in terms of absorbency. I can get 7-8 layers of terry in a good fold (like the Jo fold or the Chinese Bat fold). Link for some good folds:
http://thenappylady.co.uk/Advice/Ins...nstructionID=2
The folds though I think can intimidate people. Fluffies, I think would be good for people who do not like folding a nappy AND for babies who are not heavy wetters. I consider them in the same category as "one-wee" training pants. Teamed with a good cover, they would also work well.
For people just starting out on cloth, I just point out how many absorbent layers there is and let them decide for themselves as to whether it is suitable for their own household habits (if they change immediately after one wee anyway) and their baby (if their baby is a light wetter anyway).
Pass on my "good luck" wishes to your friend Emma!