Cloth Nappy FAQ's
Whether you are just starting your cloth nappy journey, or you are a seasoned cloth bum mum - our Cloth Nappy FAQ's are here to help give you guidance on any questions you may have about using & caring for our cloth nappies & inserts.
If you cannot find what you are looking for, feel free to reach out with any questions you may have using the contact form below - we would love to help!
Getting Started
Should I wash my new nappies and inserts before I use?
Always wash your new cloth nappies and inserts before you use them
How many washes do I need to do?
Only one wash is needed before you are able to hug your bubs bum with your cloth nappy, however keep in mind that nappy inserts will reach full absorbency at around the 6-8 wash mark
Where do I put the nappy inserts?
You can place your inserts either on top of the lining or within the nappy pocket.
Our cloth nappies are designed with an inner lining that quickly wicks moisture away to help bubs feel dry and comfortable - therefore we recommend placing your inserts inside the nappy pocket.
How many inserts should I use?
The number of inserts will be dependant on your babies needs at the time. To avoid flooding or leaking, we recommend using a combination of 2-3 inserts that meets your babies requirements
How do I layer inserts?
Nappy inserts are like sponges. Some are quicker to absorb than others - and some hold more capacity than others. This is why combining inserts can help with avoiding leaks.
'Faster absorbing' inserts are not able to hold as much liquid as the slower absorbing but 'higher capacity' inserts.
Because of this, you will get the most out of your insert set-up by using the quicker absorbing insert closest to babies bum (such as bamboo cotton) which will soak up and draw the liquids down into the higher capcity insert (such as bamboo or hemp) - at a rate that the bottom insert can handle. This helps avoid flooding and leaking issues.
Do you have a quick nappy insert absorbency guide?
To view or download - click on Nappy Insert Absorbency Guide
Barrier creams?
Barrier creams can create residue build up on your nappy lining or inserts which could impact the effectiveness of absorption or wicking function.
BUT what mumma doesn't use nappy cream? A good washing cycle will help avoid building up any residue.
If you do find you have a build up - a few 40-60 degree washes will help remove the residue.
If you use nappy cream regularly, you can choose to use our microfleece or AWJ nappy liners which will help protect your cloth nappy lining from residue buildup. They also make poopy nappy changes a breeze!
Wearing your cloth nappy
How do I fit my cloth nappy?
You can find our guide to fitting your nappy here.
How often should I change my cloth nappy?
Cloth nappies should be changed every 2-4 hours or as soon as they are soiled.
By boosting your nappies with more or different combinations of inserts at night, you will be able to have less changes throughout the night.
Why are my cloth nappies leaking?
There can be a number of reasons as to why your cloth nappy is leaking.
Before you throw in the towel - head on over to our Cloth Nappy Troubleshooting page to find out why your cloth nappies might be leaking.
Washing & Care
I have a soiled nappy - what now?
- Knock any solids off into the toilet & give a quick rinse & spin/wring out (this helps prevent ammonia formation).
- Store nappy in an open, dry pail that has plenty of air flow until you are ready for your pre-wash.
Pre Wash
Pre wash your nappies & inserts in 40-60 degree water within 1-2 days (daily is preferable).
This is a quick 1 hour wash to prepare your nappies for the main wash. Pre washed nappies can then be stored in another dry pail until they are ready for their main wash.
TIP: It helps if you label your dry pails. Eg "dirty" + "pre washed" so you know which nappies go into which wash.
Main Wash
Pop your prewashed nappies into the main wash every 2-3 days on 40-60 degrees, on a long, heavy 2 hour cycle.
Drying
You can dry your nappies and inserts a number of ways;
- Dry on the line outside, however avoid the sun as this can damage the PUL if left in the sun for too long once the nappy is dry.
- Line dry inside, ensuring there is adequate air flow
- Tumble dry on low