Really really dumb question re inserts/doublers

LizBGood

I don't yet have any experience with this so please excuse the dumb question! Could someone please explain the difference between inserts and doublers? And how do they relate to prefolds? For instance, could I use a prefold as an insert/doubler? Or could I use an insert in a PUL shell by itself without a prefold or fitted? TIA!!

HALFM00N

Inserts can be used by themselves or with a doubler. Doublers generally need an insert as they are used to enhance absorption. I think they need inserts bc they absorb at a slower rate. 

madisonpeas

I have definitely used a prefold as a doubler with a microfiber insert.

 

GinkgoLeaf

Doublers are used to increase absorbency of the diaper/other inserts.  I believe doublers/inserts are usually the same size, but sometimes doublers are smaller, or you can use a small insert on a newborn and then use it as a doubler to increase absorbency later with a bigger baby.  Yes, you can use a prefold as an insert or doubler by just laying it in the diaper shell (might want to use a snappi too).  I don't think prefolds would work well in a pocket because it would be hard to stuff it into the hole in the diaper.  I've never tried it.  An insert in a shell would be like an all-in-two, such as GroVia or Best Bottoms.  I would stick with the ones with snaps, though, because otherwise the insert would move around and might not stay where it needs to be.

JThomas221

GinkgoLeaf:

Doublers are used to increase absorbency of the diaper/other inserts.  I believe doublers/inserts are usually the same size, but sometimes doublers are smaller, or you can use a small insert on a newborn and then use it as a doubler to increase absorbency later with a bigger baby.  Yes, you can use a prefold as an insert or doubler by just laying it in the diaper shell (might want to use a snappi too).  I don't think prefolds would work well in a pocket because it would be hard to stuff it into the hole in the diaper.  I've never tried it.  An insert in a shell would be like an all-in-two, such as GroVia or Best Bottoms.  I would stick with the ones with snaps, though, because otherwise the insert would move around and might not stay where it needs to be.

Ditto this. The main difference that I understand is that inserts are made to stand alone as the absorbent part of the diaper, while doublers don't stand alone, they only add absorbency. You could use a prefold as a stand alone insert, or layer it as a doubler, although to use it as a doubler would make the diaper really bulky.

eta: I also wanted to add that this is not a stupid question. CDing can be confusing at first, but gets easier as you start using them!