Learning to fold cloth diapers is easier than you think. You will be an expert in no time. Start with the basic angel wing fold (it's super easy!) and then try some of the other folds. These diaper folds are especially suited for prefold diapers or small flat diapers.
Tips: Try placing the diaper cover flat on the table and then folding the diaper on top of the cover. Once the diaper is folded, place baby on top, fasten diaper with pins or a snappi (only if desired - not necessary), and then velcro diaper cover closed. Make sure the diaper is completely tucked into the cover to prevent leaks.
Basic Angel Wing
This is a very popular first fold.
Fold up the bottom of the diaper if necessary to shorten the rise.
Fold the sides of the diaper in on the seams.
Flare out the back (make angel wings).
Place baby on the diaper and pull the front up between baby's legs.
The "wings" can be pulled around to the front to pin or snappi if desired.
Reverse Angel Wing
The reverse angel wing fold allows you to get a smooth fit in the front of the diaper. If bulk bothers you, then try this fold.
Fold the sides of the diaper in on the seams.
Flare out the back of the diaper (make angel wings).
Place baby on the diaper and pull the front up between baby's legs.
Fold down the front of the diaper towards the outside. Then place your thumbs inside the folds and pull out so that the diaper spreads out and lays flat in the front.
Now pull the wings around from the back of the diaper to the front if you wish to pin or snappi the prefold.
In Diaper Covers
This fold is often called the "poo-pocket" fold because of the little pocket that is formed to help catch messes.
Fold up the bottom of the diaper to shorten the rise. The bottom should just reach the bottom of the diaper cover and not overlap.
Fold the sides of the diaper in on the seams, and flare out the back (make angel wings).
Place baby on the diaper right above the little "poo-pocket" and pull the front up between baby's legs.
The "wings" can be pulled around to the front to pin or snappi if desired.
Variation: Baby can be placed on the diaper right after step 1. This will help you get the "poo-pocket" in just the right place.
Basic Folds for Newborns
Photo 1 - Fold the diaper in three or four sideways (this will give you a shorter rise which works especially well when the diaper is still way too long for baby)
Photo 2 - Fold the diaper in three by folding it on the seams
If you fold on the seams, you will need to fold up the bottom of the diaper as needed to shorten
Spread out the back a little for coverage if needed
Put baby on top, and velcro or snap the cover closed
Make sure all of the diaper is tucked into the cover to eliminate leaking
