So, there are a lot of different options when it comes to cloth diapering. Prefolds are perhaps the most popular choice, probably because they are durable, versatile, multi-use and absorbent. Oh, and let’s not forget how affordable they are.
What is a Prefold Diaper?
It is basically a rectangular shaped piece of cloth that is thicker and more absorbent in the middle layer than the side layers. Flats were the predecessor to prefolds, but prefolds have one up on those because they are way more absorbent. They vary in what type of material they are made of, and organic prefolds, though a bit more pricey, are also available.
Fastening Prefolds, Or As Inserts
While cloth prefolds can be fastened by pins–the traditional method–using them as an insert is the more popular method. That means you need cloth diaper covers.
Costs
Usually inserts cost from $2-$5, and certainly no more than $10. Organic prefolds, again, will be more costly, but not always ridiculously high priced. For example, you can get organic prefolds from Baby Earth for $4.95 (not bad), or by Bummis for $15.
Bleached Or Unbleached
Prefolds can come bleached or unbleached. Unbleached versions last longer because the fiber has not been chemically weakened by bleach.
Fabrics
Prefold diapers can come in a variety of fabrics. The most common is 100% woven cotton. These guys last! If you plan on having more children, hold onto these for the next baby and enjoy more cost benefits of cloth diapering. Hemp prefolds are also becoming popular, either in knit hemp fleece, woven hemp muslin or woven hemp jersey. Usually, the hemp prefolds are really a cotton-hemp blend somewhere around 50/50. Hemp prefolds are a bit more expensive than the cotton ones, and may take longer to dry.
Choosing The Right Prefold Diaper For You
Choosing the right prefold for you and your baby can be a challenge. There are so many options. I recommend ordering a few of a couple different brands and fabrics. Try them out, and when you find the one that works best for your baby, stock up on them.
How Many Should You Buy
This depends on how old your baby is, how many times you plan on or want to do laundry and whether or not you choose to try Elimination Communication (EC). But basically, it goes like this. For 0-6 months:for a daily wash routine, have 10-12; for every two days, have 20-24; for every three days, have 30-36. For 6-12 months: for a daily wash, have 8-10; for every two days, have 16-20; for every three days, have 24-30. For 12-24 months: daily wash, 6-8; every two days, 12-16; every three days, 18-24.
Let me know if you have any questions.
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