Does brand of prefolds matter?

[Vvivo]

I originally settled on going with the prefolds sold by Green Mountain Diapers. However, I recently stumbled upon some used prefolds sold on Craigslist. So I started wondering, does the brand of prefolds matter? I have read through on this board that Gerber's brand is not recommended for prefolds, but what about random no name brands? Also, if they say they are diaper service quality, does that mean anything?

(BTW, I'm pregnant, have not yet started any cloth diapering yet, and will start with a newborn.)

[Katie T]

I think as long as you stay away from Gerber you should be fine. That said I used Gerber prefolds for a year. They do work, but are definitely not as nice.
I think diaper service should be fine, although I could be wrong.

Make sure the diapers for sale on Craigs list aren't Gerber, although if they are they could be uses for burp rags.

Since you will be starting on a newborn I would get infant or premie size because they will be much less bulky.

Congrats on you pregnancy!

[Ola_]

I think the key is the layering in the prefolds. 4x6x4 will probably be okay for a newborn unless you have a super-soaker, but after that you'll definitely want 4x8x4. In case you're not familiar with it, the first and last number are how many layers are on the outside, and the middle number is how many layers are in the centre section of the diaper. Some diapers are a lot thinner and they won't absorb nearly as much.

I agree to stay away from Gerber, get infant or preemie size, and also make sure they are 100% cotton (some of the cheap diapers have poly stuffing in the middle - not nearly as absorbent as layers of cotton!). For buying on Craigslist maybe you can find out where they got them from and check the specs with the company? Also, find out what detergents they washed/dried them in and maybe do a quick absorbency test - just pour some water on the diaper to make sure it absorbs quickly. If it beads on top that's not good and will result in leaks.

[Erinjvrn]

GMD are the best 'cheap' prefolds I have used. I use bamboo velour prefolds mostly, but they are more costly.

I gave away my preemie pfs from my last son and bought a dozen GMD ones instead.

[srs]

GMD are also wider than many brands, which I find helpful.