using prefolds and covers

While I LURVE my 11 bumgenius 3.0 diapers, I often use prefolds (those old school rectangles that most people picture when they hear “cloth diapers”) and Thirsties diaper covers. Right now she’s in infant size prefolds and size small covers. It’s definitely the cheaper route to cloth diapering, and really, it’s not a big deal. Here’s how we do it (click the picture to make it bigger if it’s not clear):

Steps 1&2: We use a bumgenius microfiber newborn insert inside our prefolds – they last a bit longer that way. You certainly don’t have to do this. I fold the prefold around the doubler the long way.

Steps 3&4: Once folded into thirds, I stuff one end into the front pocket of the diaper cover. Some sources say not to do this, but why else would it be there if not to stop the wetness from leaking out the top of the diaper? Duh.

Steps 5&6: I then pull up on the back of the cover while fitting the prefold/insert combo inside. What’s hanging out the top of the back gets folded down behind. Once she’s a bit bigger and in the medium size cover this step will be skipped.

Steps 7&8: Obviously Maria doesn’t wear bloomers under her diaper but we didn’t want to flash the internets. I then lay the diaper under her bottom and then fasten the velcro tabs, just like you’d do for a disposable or bumgenius 3.0. I usually check around the legs to make sure the gusset is not folded in. Then you’re good to go!

I keep saying how surprised at how LITTLE a deal cloth diapering is. I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t have my own washer/dryer – in our apartment we used a communal washer and it took quarters, definitely not cloth diaper friendly. I am glad we’re doing it and so glad some of my family and friends are too!