I’ve noticed A lot of mothers avoid using prefold cloth diapers because they’re intimidated. 

However, there are actually some great advantages that a prefold can offer over every other type of diaper.

I was also hesitent of using the prefold once, but now it’s my favorite diapering system I use!

(I’m going on 5+ years in cloth diapering btw.) 

Here are 5 benefits prefolds can offer you!

1. Economical 

Prefolds cloth diapers are among the cheapest diapering systems you can purchase.

You can find a pack of 10 for around 20-25 bucks.  One regular All in One (AIO) or Pocket Diaper will cost you around 15-20 alone.

Prefolds come in different sizes to grow with your baby.  Newborn cloth diapers can be pricey and they grow out of them quickly.

Newborn prefolds are a great economical option and You can get a pack or two of newborn prefolds and use them as burp cloths later.

Extra Costs To Consider

Of course, you will have to factor in the cost of a few Diaper Covers (Amazon aff links) and a Snappi or Boingo. (Amazon aff link)

You can buy prefolds used if you’re tight on cash or just want to save in general. You can also sell your diapers once you’re done to recoup some of the costs.

Used diapers do surprisingly well. 

Some mothers only use the prefold diapering system from birth to potty training.

If you want to know more about the Snappi, check this old video I made comparing the two fasteners.

And yes I changed my website from ClothDiaperEasy to MyGreenNest. 

Click the image above to play the video.

My Personal Favorites:
In case you are wondering my favorite prefolds – after using for over 5 years – are the GroVia Toddler Prefolds (aff link).

Coming in a close second are the Imagine Baby and Osocozy prefolds. (Amazon aff links)

2. Customizable 

There are several different types of folds you can use to cater to your baby’s specific needs.

I had two boys so I used to fold it over in the front where they needed it the most.

The jelly-roll fold is great for newborns because it holds in the messy breastmilk poo so well.  

All you do is lay the prefold down, roll in the sides then fold over and secure with the Snappi.  

For quick changes, you don’t even have to do a fancy fold or Snappi. Just fold it in thirds and lay it inside of your cover.

3. The Perfect Fit

As just mentioned, prefold cloth diapers are one of the most customizable diapers out there – Next to the Flat.

Anytime we’d be going out to dinner I’d slap on a prefold. It looked and fit the best under their clothes where other diapers look too bulky.

prefold cloth diapers will take on the shape of a chubby, skinny, short, or tall baby.

For example, this is a great option for babies who have a hard time fitting standard diapers.

Prefold diapers are also ideal if you’re taking your baby to get pictures made. 

4. Versatile

Prefold cloth diapers are one of the most versatile diapering systems you can get.

For example; if you purchase 12 newborn flats for 25 dollars you can diaper your newborn up to 12-15 pounds.

You can then fold them in thirds and stuff them inside your Pocket Diapers (aff link) so they are doubling as inserts!

They can then be used as burp cloths or can be laid over your Boppy Pillow or any nursing pillow to catch any messes.

Prefolds can then be used on your next baby or resurrected as cleaning rags. 

And like I mentioned earlier, you have the option of selling them and recouping some of the money.

That is – as long as you take care of them.

And if you end up selling them you’ve paid a tiny amount for multiple years of use. Not too shabby mama! 

5. Low Maintenance 

I have a variety of cloth diapers but one thing I love about the prefold is the low maintenance factor.

If needed, you can bleach them without worrying about the cover (since they don’t have one). There are no snaps or velcro to worry about either.

A prefold is basically a glorified absorbent rag.

I don’t worry about stains and air-drying like I do with my pockets and AIO’s. These diapers also last a long time without showing signs of wear.

Prefold cloth diapers are just basic and simple; a no-fuss diaper.