Cloth Nappy FAQs

Modern cloth nappies are economical and eco-friendly alternatives to disposables. They are easy to use and easy to care for. Leave all the hard work to your trusty washing machine! These are absorbent, comfortable and come in a wide variety of adorable prints. A cloth nappy stash will save you a fortune and keep thousands of disposables from going into landfills.  


Here are some FAQs on cloth nappies:


Is it really better for the environment?

Plastic disposable nappies don’t decompose and will be in the landfill long after we are gone. Disposable nappies also take a lot of energy and water in the process of producing them. Cloth nappies can be reused and rewashed multiple times and you can even use them for your next child or donate them. 


Does it really save me money?

If you calculate the cost of having a cloth nappy stash to buying 4,500 disposable nappies, cloth nappies work out cheaper even if you include the cost of water, electricity and laundry detergent. To save on energy, line dry them instead of using the dryer. 


How many nappies do I need?

You need at least 20 nappies if you are cloth diapering full time. This is so that while some are in the laundry, you have spare ones to use and you don’t have to do the washing everyday. It is ok to start small and you can try different brands that work well for your baby.


Where do I store wet nappies?

Wet or soiled nappies are kept in a nappy bucket or nappy pail until wash day (dry pail method- no soaking needed). For poopy nappies, simply knock off solids down the toilet or use a nappy sprayer to get the residuals off before putting them in your nappy bucket. You can line the bin with a mesh bag  so you can simply pull this out and throw the whole lot into the washing machine.

When you are out and about with your baby, you can store wet nappies in a wet bag / waterproof bag until you get home. 


How do I use one-size-fits-most (OSFM) pocket nappies?

You simply put the insert inside the pocket and adjust the snaps or rise setting to fit your baby. Most OSFM nappies fit babies from a few weeks up until toilet training. You can also boost the absorbency by adding in extra inserts into the pockets. Pocket nappies are quick drying as inserts and shells are separate pieces.  

What are all-in-one (AIO) nappies?

All-in-one nappies have all the parts sewn in so they are as easy to use as disposables. Simply snap them in and throw in the nappy bucket after use. They are convenient but also slower drying.

What are all-in-two (AI2) nappies?

All-in-two nappies usually consist of a waterproof shell/cover and insert that you snap into place or lay on top of the cover. Some covers like our Buttons range are wipeable, and you can reuse them by snapping in a fresh insert.


Washing & Drying Nappies

We strongly recommend the washing guidelines from Clean Cloth Nappies Downunder (CCNDU). 

Knock off solids into the toilet and give the nappy a quick rinse under the tap before storing in your nappy bucket. This will reduce the smell and avoid ammonia damage from the urine. Soiled cloth nappies shouldn't be stored for too long and should be washed every two days.  

1. Run a prewash cycle (about 30-40 min) so that the nappies are rid of urine and poo, and the main wash is done with clean water. 

2. Run a full warm wash (longest cycle) with detergent. Make sure there is enough water in the machine so that nappies get cleaned properly.

3. Do not use fabric softeners.

4. Pocket shells and nappy covers dry quickly- line dry or tumble dry low. Please note that hotter settings or excessive heat exposure from the sun may damage or delaminate the waterproofing of your shells. 

5. As inserts take longer to dry, you can tumble dry them in the machine in moderate heat setting. Line dry inserts if possible to save on energy.

For detailed advice on wash routines, detergents, etc. kindly visit Clean Cloth Nappies Downunder website here. They also have an amazing Facebook group which is a wonderful resource. You can also send us a message through our contact page