why prefold?

[mamatoady]

Maybe this is a stupid question, as I have used cloth diapers before.

When you use a prefold, you end up with a long rectangle a couple inches wide (vs. the wide rectangle before you fold in)...so why wouldn't one just make a cloth diaper that is just the skinnier rectangle (like a feminine pad) and thicker--without any folding?

Does that make sense?

Sarah

[MittensKittens]

Haven't used prefolds myself, but I can imagine it might have something to do with drying time. The thicker the fabric the longer it takes to dry - some of the AIOs I made myself take forever, so pockets it is now!

[mamapixie]

Yep, drying time. For me, if it takes more than one drying cycle in the dryer, it's too thick, and I'll rehome the diaper.

[Michigan Mama]

I think what you are suggesting is sort of like a contour! Some people like them. Plus, prefolds have an option of more fold styles and easier to customize for different size/shaped baby.

[texmati]

Plus, aren't there different ways to fold a prefold? Like into triangles and such?

[HappiLeigh]

You can fold pre-folds many different ways, or snappi them closed.

[littlemizflava]

here is my list why prefolds
quicker wash only ran one cycle on soak no pre rince (building washer). quicker drying time..
no elastic, snaps or velcro to wear out, no velco to stick in the wash,
can fold in a cover .. do up with a snappi or pins.. cover or no cover..
when the cover is small the prefold still fits.
fold for smaller sizes, many different folds cant really do it wrong,
infant/newborn sizes can become doublers for older babies.
all this adds up to a longer use out of a diaper.