How I Use Prefold Cloth Diapers and Covers

This is a blog to help my fellow mommies who are trying out prefolds for the first time and need some help :) (Nicole this is for you!)

The diapers I was given were already used so I didn't have to prepare them before use. But I asked a friend what the correct way to do it is and this is what she said to do.

"Use Dawn instead of laundry detergent the first time or two to strip them. Most fabrics are treated with a stain/water repellent to prevent them from gaining stains before the customer gets them.

I did full wash/dry cycles on them. I think about 5 or 6 before I used them. For my last two cycles I think I put white vinegar in instead of soap/softener. The vinegar will help kill the sudsing of the soap and help it rinse cleaner. It also acts as a natural fabric softener without all the nasty side effects like making it water resistant again..."

I put Joleen in one of Rachel's panties to help show how I put them on.

 Lay baby down on top of the diaper. (Duh)

Fold the diaper into thirds but leave a space where her bottom is so when you fold up it makes a pocket.

Fold it up between her legs and pull the sides down tight.

Pull the back ends up to cover the top like you would a disposable diaper.

I use a Snappi to hold my diapers together. Start on the far side and pull it across then connect the bottom. Use can also use the old school diapers pins. I didn't want to risk poking my sweetie.

Now all you need to do is put your cover on and you are all set!

What I do with my dirty diapers is put them in a pail with a liner, nothing fancy, and when I am down to the last few I will do a wash. I put them in a Cold wash cycle with about a teaspoon of free and clear detergent. Then I run a Hot wash with about a Tablespoon of detergent with a rinse cycle. Then I pull the covers out and let them air dry and put the diapers in the dryer. DO NOT use fabric softener!

Hope this helps! I really do love using cloth. It has saved us SOOO much money.