How Do I Prep My Diapers

So you've bought or made cloth diapers for your little one and your ready to use them.  But first those diapers need to be prepped. 

What is prepping?
Many fabrics contain oils from the plant they were originally derived from. These oils will prevent the fabric from absorbing.  Sometimes they dyes used to colour the fabric can also prevent absorbing.  There are probably other factors also.  So you need to wash out these oils etc. 

How Do I Prep? 
Simple.  Wash, and wash and wash again.  It is generally advised to wash 3-8 times before using.  You don't need to dry in between washings.  You can wash 3 times and dry once.  That said I find the dryer helps with the prepping process.    You need to use a laundry detergent that does not contain any softeners and do not use fabric softener during washing or dryer sheets (etc) when drying.  These prevent absorbency.  If you like softeners vinegar added to the wash works.  If you like dryer sheets, use a dryer ball instead. 

My New Diapers Leak
First when I say new, I am referring to brand new or just made, not new to you.
Did you prep?  Ok so prepping starts to get them prepped, especially if prepped 3 times.  They won't repel anymore but there is still more washings needed.  Be patient and keep washing.  The more they are washed the more absorbent they get.  I tend to use new diapers during the day at home till they are fully absorbent.

How Do I Know When They Are Fully Prepped?
They will be really soft, soft like an old flannel shirt or favorite pair of sweat pants.  At this point a diaper of the right number of layers will last 2-4 hours (more for night time diapers).  From there they will actually get better with each use, unless there is a problem in your wash routine or they are worn out.  Yes they can wear out, all fabric does eventually.  That takes several years though (or regular bleaching).

I Want Them Fully Absorbent When Baby Arrives.
You can wash them with your regular  laundry (with no softeners or dryer sheets) every time you do a load of laundry.  This way they will have gone through many washings.