A prefold diaper, is simply, a rectangular nappy, divided into thirds, with extra padding in the middle third. Prefolds require a waterproof cover, and if it’s a well fitting cover – you’ll get away without needing pins or snappis.

Prefolds are perfect for newborns, who may not fit into even the smallest of Modern Cloth Nappies, and would be more comfortable with less bulk.

Prefold nappies, are inexpensive, versatile, and simple to use. The trick is understanding the different types of prefold diapers available, how to use them, and what you can use them for.

Put very simply there are a couple of variations prefolds come in:

• Size
• Absorbancy
• Fabric

Size

The size of the diaper, or nappy, is a matter of personal choice. Some parents prefer a larger nappy, as it gives a little more choice in terms of folding, however larger nappies add bulk, and are not as trim. Others prefer a smaller nappy, as they’re trim, but babes grow out of them rather quickly.

Absorbancy

Most Prefolds are sold with a configuration telling you how many layers of fabric each third consists of – for example 2×4x2 – means 2 layers of fabric on the two outer thirds, and four in the middle. The more layers of fabric, the more wee a nappy will hold. Be warned. While thin configurations make for a nice trim nappy, a baby with a powerful wee stream will wee straight through the nappy! Thicker configurations hold more, but make a bulkier nappy.

Fabric

prefolds can be made of virtually any cotton based fabric. Common choices include hemp, bamboo, and cotton terrry/jersey/knit.  Bamboo and hemp fabrics tend to be more absorbant than cotton fabrics, but pricier. Cotton fabrics are generally cheap and cheerful, but aren’t as absorbant as Bamboo or Hemp. 

Folding

There several ways to fold your prefolds, and it might take some tweaking to get a system that works for you and your baby. Remember practise makes perfect.

A great list of folds can be found here, with pictures!

And this video gives a pretty good idea, of a standard Bambino Mio fold sneaky sneaky – no pins, it’s simply a prefold in a well fitting cover!

Other good things to know, is that prefolds can be used as boosters, in other nappies as  your child gets older. They’re also great stuffers for pocket nappies.

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