Cloth Nappy 101: Everything You Want to Know About Prefold Nappies

Have you been looking around and wondering which cloth nappying solution will best fit your needs?

There are many different cloth nappies on the market and it’s important to choose a system that works best for bub and you. When you’re just starting out though, trialing a few different types can be really helpful. You could do this by hiring a cloth nappy trial pack (some of our retailers offer this service), by attending a nappy workshop so you can get a feel for how each nappy works (many of our retailers offer this service also and you can find many upcoming events around Australia HERE), or simply by purchasing a handful and having a go!

In today’s post, we’re going to take a look at prefold nappies and help you decide if these are worth adding to your starter stash.

WHAT IS A PREFOLD NAPPY?

A prefold nappy is the evolved form of the traditional flat cloth nappy. It is also one of the most popular nappying systems since it is inexpensive compared with modern cloth nappies, can be used across multiple ages and even with other nappies, and are generally easier to fold than flats.

Prefolds have layers of soft, absorbent bamboo or cotton stitched together, sometimes with extra layers in the centre – otherwise known as the “wet zone” – for greater absorbency.

Prefolds, like flats, need folding, fastening and a full cover for waterproofing. They can also be used simply folded lengthwise and then laid inside a cover or pocket, such as our Diversifolds are when used with our Multi-fit pocket nappies.

Prefolds folded simply in thirds or fourths to create a lay-in booster or pocket stuffer.

Two of our large size can also be use in a T shape to create an absorbent night solution for bigger kids.

WHY PARENTS AND BUBS LOVE PREFOLDS

Prefold cloth nappies have a lot of features that make them hot favourites with parents:

Multiple Uses: Once baby outgrows a prefold or toilet trains, you can easily use them as doublers, boosters or even spew rags and kitchen rags.

Affordable: There’s no doubt that the prefolds are cheaper than fitted options such as the pocket nappy. If you’re on a budget, these babies are your best bet.

Durable: Made without higher wear components such as elastic and waterproofing, prefolds are ready for plenty of washes and wears. Just be mindful of acidic urine which can eat away at natural fibres if left for too long. To avoid this, we recommend a quick rinse after the nappy has come off baby in order to rid the prefold of excess urine.

Easy Care: Prefolds are easy to wash and use and in most cases, can be tumble dried.

WHEN TO WHIP OUT THIS CLOTH NAPPY AND WHEN NOT TO

While we believe love cloth nappies and think they can work for most families, certain styles of nappies may not be the right choice for you, depending on your baby, you and your life’s current season.

Pros

• Affordable and durable
• Easy care
• Versatility: prefolds can be folded in a variety of ways to suit baby’s body type
• Longevity: prefold nappies, when cared for correctly, can last through a child’s time in nappies, and then some
• Multipurpose
• No Velcro, snaps or elastic that tends to get worn out before the absorbency of the nappy does

Cons

• Learning curve: you will need to learn the ideal way to fold prefolds to ensure the best fit for your bub
• They aren’t often popular at daycare centres or with care providers so you’ll need to invest in something ready-made, such as pocket nappies, if you’re leaving baby with someone other than family
• Tough to get on when baby’s wiggling way too much
• They require extra supplies, like Snappis and covers