Prefolds (aka Diaper Service Quality Diapers) are long rectangles of cotton or cotton/hemp that have been folded and sewn together along the edges.
A prefold has extra layers in the center of the diaper along with two lines of stitching which divide the diaper into thirds. Prefolds are still flat as far as shape goes, but differ from so called flat diapers that have only one layer of material and usually are larger.
Together with Proraps covers, DSQ prefolds are the most economical choice for cloth diapering.
When new, cotton prefolds will be thin and soft and feel a little stiff. They need to be washed before being used. Bleached cotton prefolds need to be washed and dried 3-4 times in order to reach absorbency. Unbleached cotton prefolds and hemp prefolds need to be washed 7-8 times in very hot water to reach absorbency (they haven't gone through the bleaching process which means it is necessary to wash them often enough to strip off the natural oils from the fibers.)
Hemp prefolds do not start out flat and stiff. They are really soft right from the start.
All prefolds shrink several inches after being washed, and the cotton diapers will quilt up and get soft and fluffy. Hemp prefolds will shrink more than cotton prefolds.
If the diaper cover that you choose is a little loose in the seat you can try a snappi for a more snug fit. We recommend a snappi when you are using prefolds with your newborn.
If you have any
questions about the products on our web site or questions about cloth diapering
in general please use our FAQs or the 'Contact Us' link in the Help section.
