Cloth nappy trifold or prefold

Many modern cloth nappies use flat inserts that fold out to dry, these are often known as cloth nappy trifold inserts.  Prefolds are another type of cloth nappy insert, and sometimes people use the two terms interchangeably, so what are the differences between these types of insert? Which is better to use? Should you choose cloth nappy trifold inserts or prefold inserts.

What is a cloth nappy trifold?

Cloth nappy trifolds are so called, simply because they fold into three before they are placed in the nappy.  Both pocket nappies, and snap in (also know as all in two) nappies use this type of insert.  It can either be a rectangle shape, or a long thin insert.  Long thin inserts are also sometimes called snake inserts as they are long and thin, a bit like a snake. For both types of trifold, they fold into three and then are snapped into, or inserted into the nappy.

Cloth nappy trifold inserts come in many different fabrics, our dinky nappy trifolds are made of bamboo and microfibre, but they also come in other fabrics, most commonly hemp and cotton.

What are prefolds?

Prefolds are a nappy in their own right, usually used with a cover over the top, they can also be used as an insert in a pocket nappy or booster in snap in one nappy.  Prefolds are so called because they are in effect flat nappies that have been sewn, so that they need less folding.  They have a thicker panel through the centre and are rectangle in shape.  To be used as either a nappy or an insert, they need folding in three, in much the same way that a trifold needs to be folded.

Prefolds usually come in cotton, but bamboo ones are also available.  Both make great inserts for pocket nappies.  Cotton prefolds make great inserts for nappies, but bamboo ones are in some ways even better.  They are thinner and absorb more liquid.

Cloth nappy trifold or prefold?

So, which would be the better option for your babies nappies? Cloth nappy trifold or prefold inserts? Most cloth nappies come with a trifold already, and these are great as they tend to dry fairly quickly and are designed to go into the nappies that they fit.  If you are looking for extra inserts for your nappies though, it might be worth considering prefolds.  They will also dry fairly quickly, and they are far more versatile than cloth nappy trifold inserts.  Our prefolds can be found here if you are looking for extra inserts for your nappies.