Prefolds or Trifolds & Which Fabric to Use?

[alimumma]

Am wanting to make some prefolds or trifolds for newborn stage (thought about buying fitted but they sound like they are too big and not necessary with all the changing in the first couple of months?)

I was going to use bamboo or hemp but am wondering if this is the best way to go - some people say you don't need the absorbancy of bamboo but then I figure I can use them later on for boosters? Plus the feel of bamboo is so nice.

Secondly, prefold or trifold? I believe that a good NB cover is paramount (ie Bambino Mio or Bummis) so wondering if a prefold or a trifold of 2 layers (ie 6 folded layers) would work best?

Any advice appreciated.

Thanks, Ali

[alimumma]

Anyone have any advice? Was also wondering if just one 30 x30 layer of bamboo folded would be enough, given that it would be 3 layers of thirsty bamboo when folded?

Thanks for any help, Ali.

[rufalina]

I just made up a dozen hemp prefolds...
I used a cotton/hemp fleece which I got from Bubba Earth. It is nice and soft. I made most of them in a 2 3 2 combination, but did a few 2 4 2 for nightime use.
I cant vouch for the absorbency, but give me a few months and I can let you know...

[~Raven~]

Sorry this has been missed!

I haven't made prefolds (will have a bash shortly though ). Have seen them about made form cotton or bamboo or hemp.

I think you're right by saying if you want to use them down the track as boosters or pocket stuffers I think it would be better to use bamboo or hemp due to the absorbency factor.

I've seen some made with brightly coloured micro towelling as an outer layer and they look devine

[rufalina]

Oh good idea re the outer layer... might have to do that with my next lot...

[alimumma]

Thanks girls,

Raven - I PM'd you this morning as I wasn't sure if anyone would see my post and you have answered my question about fabric.

The other thing I was wondering was about the fold - if I should do a 2 x 4 x 2 prefold or just a 30 x 30 cm trifold of 2 layers of bamboo - or even just one layer if this would be absorbant enough. My main concern is that they work well as a NB nappy and that I can get them dry through a wet winter.

My other question is about fleece - not sure if I should use this as a liner for NB or not? Doesn't it sort of defeat the purpose of having no synthetic fibres against bub's skin?

[nickel]

What's the difference/definition of a prefold/trifold?
Christy gave me some flat squares that you fold into three (I'm guessing trifold)
But what's a prefold? and 2x4x2? Getting technical now girls!!