All about prefolds

No pins, no fiddling, these are a great basic nappy system.

If you want simplicity and pure natural fibres next to your baby's skin, our 100% cotton prefolds are the way to go. In the U.S. these are the basic nappy used by generations of mums. They have a centre panel with extra layers which means you don't have to learn complicated origami to get the absorbancy where it's needed. Prefolds are described by the number of layers in the three panels. A 4 x 6 x 4 prefold has 4 layers on the sides, and 6 layers through the centre panel, e.g.

Initially I thought prefolds were kinda old fashioned and not too hip - but really they are so easy to use (and economical) that they are definitely worth a second look. I love them for a trim, economical, quick drying day nappy. (For night info see our F.A.Q.) They really are super easy to get onto a wriggly baby.

Prefolds can be used with pins if you prefer, but I'm far too scared for that. The easiest way to use them is simply fold them into thirds and lay them inside a wrap (adding a flushable liner if you choose). Then put the wrap on your baby, and hey presto! (The wrap is the waterproof cover part - they don't need anything over the top of that.)

USING PREFOLDS AND WRAPS

The pictures above show a small prefold in a small size Bummis wrap. You may find for babies using a regular prefold in a medium size Bummis wrap that you prefer to fold the prefold into four, rather than three. It still goes horizontally (you don't fold along the stitching lines) but by folding in four you don't have to be so careful that the nappy isn't sticking out of the legs. It is really a matter of experimenting to see which fold suits your baby best.

You may want to try using a snappi to secure the prefold if your baby is still at the runny poo stage. A snappied prefold can be used under a wrap, or under a pull on pant style cover.

USING A PREFOLD WITH A SNAPPI

There are a couple of different folds you can try. Click here to link to a U.S. mother who has got some great step-by-step instructions (with pictures) for folds using a snappi.

Organic Prefolds

Bummis organic prefolds are a new, totally affordable luxury. Made of 100% certified organic cotton twill, they are wonderfully thick and thirsty. The more you wash these natural coloured prefolds the softer they become. Organic prefolds come in a gorgeous organic cotton resuable bag that holds six nappies. Our organic prefolds come in two sizes - small and regular, just like the basic prefolds - but have the 4 x 8 x 4 layers. This means they are a little more absorbent, and a little more bulky. They take longer to reach full absorbency and you will notice that they get more absorbent and paler in colour the more you use them. These nappies should be washed and dried 3-5 times before using to remove the natural oils and waxes. Please expect an approximate shrinkage of about 20-25% after completing the pre-washes.

We also stock coloured prefolds (when available).