Tell about Flats vs Prefolds

[MeadowMom]

I have 3 dz gm prefolds, but have just heard about flats.

Are flats just as absorbent as the prefolds?

Which ones are bulkier?

What are the advantages/disadvantages of the 2?

Can you use flats as doublers with prefolds?

[lillacfaerie]

I've used both, but prefer prefolds. With flats you have to fold them several times. They are much more trim than prefolds. I haven't noticed a difference in absorbency. I just don't have the time or inclination to fold them! I don't know about using them as doublers...don't think it would work though. Flats are super big. Mine are 28 by 28 inches.

[JL83]

I found flats to be very flexible (many many different folds for different purposes) but very bulky. They were also impossible for the other people around us to put on, so the grandparents didn't help when they were around.

They did dry very quickly on a rack all year round. That was the main reason I bought them. I know people who've taken them camping and rinsed the pee ones and had them dry easily even if the weather wasn't super hot.

I preferred my prefolds. They were easier to put on, especially on a wiggly baby.

Yes, you can use either as a doubler in the other.

[myfairbabies]

I can get a better fit with prefolds, tighter so there are no leaks onto the cover. I love using flats to stuff my pockets though. I don't see why you wouldn't be able to use a flat as a doubler, but it would be bulky. I also used prefolds as doublers in flats. You can use receiving blankets as flats if you want to try a few before committing, they were my favorite as far as flats go.

[Juliacat]

Flats are NOT as absorbent as prefolds.

Prefolds are bulkier if you only use 1, flats are bulkier if you use 2 at a time.

Advantages of flats: Easier washing (even by hand), faster drying (even indoors), one size fits all babies.

Advantages of prefolds: Easier to fold, easier to get a good fit (imo), easier to rinse poop out of (imo).

Yes, you can use flats as doublers with anything.