PF - snappi or fold and cover?

PepVeroni

I'm a little confused about the proper use of prefolds.  I keep reading that they require a cover and that you should fold the prefold in thirds (per the GMD site) before covering.  But then I see all these pictures of prefolds with snappis and no covers over top.  Which is the proper way to do it?  Is the snappi version more likely to leak because there's no cover?  Which method do you recommend?

Thanks! 

KTdidit

Prefolds absolutely need a cover. I think some pictures show them without one to show off the Snappi and how it works, as opposed to old school pins. We don't use prefold at home, DH likes pockets because they are most like sposies. But I you can use prefolds either way. I think using the Snappi helps control the poo and keep the cover clean better though. HTH!

flyer23

You can either fold into thirds or use a Snappi. I prefer a Snappi -- I'm fold-challenged, LOL, so I feel like it's harder to fold the diaper and then hold it in place while I fasten the cover. With a Snappi, I get the diaper on, Snappi it, and then it stays secure while I fasten the cover. But a lot of people find folding to be easier.

But either way, you definitely need a cover. A prefold soaks all the way through on the first pee. Pictures showing Snappi'd diapers with no cover are just so that you can see how to use the Snappi, how the prefold fits, what fold was used, etc.

PepVeroni

Awesome - thanks for the information.  I knew I was missing something!

Dr.Loretta

They do need a cover. If they're showing pictures, it's likely to show you how the prefold works so you don't wonder what's going on under the cover.

There are a variety of folds you can use with prefolds. I only used PFs on a regular basis during the nb stage, and I wasn't about to just fold and cover. I would always worry the runny nb poo would leak out. I did an angel wing fold with a Snappi. But many people use the fold and cover method without an issue, especially with older kids.

UTKD

Yes, always use a cover with prefolds. 

I would also use a snappi as well, esp with newborns b/c the snappi keeps the prefold in place to better prevent poo from running onto the covers.  

Alirebco

snappi is best for poo containment especially when they're little.  i've never trifolded a prefold because the snappi is more secure.