A beginners guide to Reusable Cloth Nappies
You may be an expectant parent looking into cloth nappies for the first time, a new parent looking to reduce costs, or a caregiver moving to reusables due to allergies to disposable nappies. No matter who you are, when you share this with others, you have probably been told that you will spend all your time in the laundry washing and that cloth nappies are hard work. Many people are surprised to learn that this is not the case.
Read on to discover how cloth nappies can save you money, save the environment, and why you WON’T be stuck in the laundry stirring buckets of bleach.
How to use cloth nappies
Cloth Nappies work just like disposables. They are designed to absorb wee and catch poo. You might be surprised to learn that nappy ‘blowouts’ happen less with cloth than they do with disposables. This is because a well fitted cloth nappy is firm against your little one and sealed around the legs and bottom with elastic to prevent anything escaping.
The acronyms associated with nappies can be confusing and are used to highlight the features of each type of nappy. Cloth nappies typically have a water resistant shell and absorbent insert/s.
Here are some of the main acronyms that you may come across:
All-in-one nappies (AIO) are where the insert/s are permanently attached to the cover. These can sometimes seem less complicated than trying to assemble separate components. A downside of this style of nappy is that if a part of the nappy degrades you cannot replace it as easily. You are also limited in your ability to sanitise the nappy if needed. The opposite of an AIO is an All-in-two (AI2) where the shell and inserts are not permanently attached (they may be attached by snaps or simply lay inside the shell.
Pocket nappies are nappies where the shell has a pocket that you can stuff the inserts into. This can help some users to get a better nappy fit and can seem less confusing when you are sending cloth nappies to people who may not be used to dealing with cloth.
One Size Fits Most (OSFM) nappies are nappies which are adjustable to fit ‘most’ children from around birth to toilet training. Nappies with 1 row of snaps allow the wings to pivot so will fit low in the front and high in the back like undies as your child grows. Nappies with 2 waist snaps cannot pivot at the hip so will be a longer, bulkier nappy.
Sized Nappies are nappies that come in different sizes depending on your child's shape and size. Sizes can range from extra small, small, medium, and large, to variants like ‘newborn’ and ‘large’. Sized nappies can be handy when your child falls outside of a ‘one size fits all’ style. Premature babies and late toilet trainers are examples of where these types of nappies would be ideal. The downside of using sized nappies for your whole cloth journey is that you will need to continue purchasing a new size of nappy as your child grows.
‘Fitted’ nappies are nappies where the whole thing is absorbent and they require a water resistant cover over the top. This style of nappy can be popular for children who have a large output and for overnight use.
Designer Bums Nappies are an OSFM All-in-Two (AI2) pocket nappy where stuffing the inserts inside is optional. Our Large nappies are an AI2 pocket nappy, and our Newborn nappies are an AI2 snap in nappy.
How many cloth nappies do I need?
How many reusable nappies you need will depend on whether you want to use cloth full time or part time and how you are going to wash them. What your nappies are made from will also impact how many you need as this will determine how often you need to change your nappies.
Generally for full time use we recommend anywhere from 24 through to 40 reusable nappies. We would usually recommend 6-8 nappies per day on average for full time use.
If you are using a dryer to dry your inserts you will need to allow for 2-3 days of nappies plus nappies to use on wash day. This will be around 24-30 nappies. For those air drying you will need to allow 1-2 days of nappies for air drying time which will equate to closer to 40 nappies.
How do I wash cloth nappies?
You can wash your cloth nappies in your washing machine and there is no soaking required. Soaking your nappies will degrade the natural fibers and will shorten the life of your nappies.
- Take soiled nappy off the bum and separate the parts. Place it into a tall basket with lots of holes. The airflow ensures that you aren’t growing any bacteria that thrive in dark, moist, low airflow environments - these are the bacteria that cause smells!
- Newborn poo is water soluble so these nappies do not need to be rinsed and can be placed into your basket right away. If you try to scrub them you will end up with a poo soaked damp insert. Once your baby starts solids you will want to scrub or shake off any poo into the toilet before placing it into your basket.
- Every 2 days you load your machine until it is full and run your shortest cycle with half detergent, followed by your longest cycle with a full dose of detergent. Any good quality mainstream detergent is a good choice. Eco detergents can be used but will need a hot wash and larger dose to clean properly.
- Then dry as you choose. The inserts can go in the dryer and shells will air dry quickly when hung. Or hang everything out to air dry.
Check out our full care instructions here: https://designerbums.com.au/pages/care-washing-instructions
How do I fold cloth nappies?
Modern cloth nappies don’t require folding like their older cousins the terry flat as they consist of a cover and inserts which fasten with snaps.
Laying the insert into the shell or pocket is completely up to you and your little one and how you get the best fit. If you don’t get any leaks and your little one is comfortable then you are doing a great job. You may get a few compression marks from the elastics which should sit firmly against the skin, but these should disappear within 10 minutes of taking the nappy off.
We have a handy Fit Guide that you can check out for help with your Designer Bums Nappies https://designerbums.com.au/pages/cloth-nappy-fitting-guide
How do cloth nappies work?
Cloth nappies are washable nappies that which should last your child from birth to toilet training. If cared for correctly they will last multiple children which will save you money as well as reducing nappies going to landfill- leaving more space in your rubbish bin as well!
Our Nappy calculator can help you to calculate how much money you can save in average by using reusable nappies, as well as how many nappies you will prevent from ending up in landfill https://designerbums.com.au/pages/nappy-calculators
How often should I change Cloth Nappies?
On average it is recommended that you check and change nappies every 1.5-2 hours during the day whether you are using disposable or reusable nappies.
The amount of absorbency you need to add to your nappy will depend on how long you want the nappy to last on the bum and on your little one’s output. If you are finding the inserts are soaked the full length of the nappy then it is time to add an additional insert or change your nappy more regularly.
Thank you for reading this far! We hope we have been able to answer some of your reusable cloth nappy questions and set your mind at ease that cloth nappies are achievable and a choice that will suit your family.
Resource Links
If you have more questions feel free to join fellow cloth parents in our VIP Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/DesignerBumsVIPs
Frequently Asked Questions https://designerbums.com.au/pages/faq
Cloth Nappy Fit Guide https://designerbums.com.au/pages/cloth-nappy-fitting-guide
Nappy Calculator https://designerbums.com.au/pages/nappy-calculators
Care Instructions https://designerbums.com.au/pages/care-washing-instructions
Washing New Nappies
- Wash your brand new nappies with a small amount of detergent in a short cycle.
- Hang dry the outer shell in the shade
- Inserts can be hung to dry in the sun or tumble dried on low
- The bamboo inserts will be absorbent enough to use after the first wash, and will reach maximum absorbency after the first few washes.
- Drop any solids into the toilet
- Rinse night nappies or nappies worn >4 hours under hot water and thoroughly wring out. If running a pre-wash first thing in the morning you can skip hand-rinsing.
- Store nappies in a dry-pail (basket with a lot of air flow) between washes for no more than 2 days. Do not soak nappies.
- Each day or every other day, run a short cycle prior (45 -70 mins) with a half amount of detergent at 40-60 degrees Celcius.
- Before washing gently unsnap all inserts and separate parts
- The purpose of this step is to remove the bulk of soiling
- Dry pail pre-washed items until you are ready to run the main wash
- When you have enough items for a full load, you can run the main wash.
- Use the recommended full amount of detergent for your machine/load size.
- Run your longest wash cycle (Cottons, heavy or long - with speed-perfect off) at maximum 60 degrees Celsius to get nappies thoroughly clean, sanitary, free of build-up, and smelling fresh.
- Use a spin speed of 800 RPM to ensure the bulk of dirty water is spun out, while maintaining integrity of the elastics. Note higher spins in the washing machine can stretch and damage elastics.
Tip: you can include baby and children's clothes or smaller clothing items to make a full load. Machine loading is important for agitation.
- Hang dry the outer shell in the shade, out of direct sunlight
- Inserts can be hung to dry in the sun or tumble dried on low
- Avoid tumble drying shells as high temperatures can delaminate the waterproof outer and void your warranty
- If using plant based detergents when washing nappies we recommend using double the amount specified and washing at 60 degrees Celcius for best cleaning results.
- Barrier creams are fine to use but will require a warm to hot wash to remove oil and zinc residue.
- If your baby has particularly sensitive skin, we recommend running an optional short, final rinse to ensure all detergents are washed away.
Before use please watch our helpful fitting guide on our YouTube Channel. You can also access our helpful visual cloth nappy fitting guide below:
Wash & Care Instructions
Every piece in the Designer Bums range is made with the same care and intention as our nappies. To make sure yours lasts as long as it should, it is see below our wash & care guide for every product.
1. Pre-wash before first use with like colours to avoid colour run. After use hand-rinse pads in cold to warm water under the tap until the water is clear. Gently squeeze out excess water and dry-pail at the end of each day.
2. Main Cycle Every 2-3 days maximum on Heavy / Long cottons cycle at 40-60 degrees MAX with the full amount of detergent for your load size - Adding a pre-wash to this cycle is recommended. Recommended to be added to towels or cloth nappy washing loads. Do NOT soak in napisan, bleach or detergents or user softeners as this may damage the fabrics. Do not iron.
3. Drying: Smooth from the machine and lay flat to keep shape. Line dry outdoors is recommended with the organic cotton side facing towards sunshine or indoors on drying rack. Ensure pads are completely dry before storing away to avoid mould forming and allow 24-48 hours or longer in winter months. Allow for minor shrinking of natural organic fibres.
We recommend 3-6 cloth menstrual pads per day in a range of sizes to suit your period cycle length and flow.
- Cold pre-wash before use
- Wash every second day in a hot wash (max 60 degrees) with the full amount of detergent for your load size
- Dry thoroughly before each use: air dry or low tumble dry.
- Avoid skin irritation and leakage by changing pads frequently when wet and avoid leaving wet pads on skin for long periods of time.
- All breasts are shaped differently, so place the pad in a position that works best for you.
- Anti-bacterial treatments such as Canesten or Dettol rinse can be used if needed. When using an anti-bacterial treatment, it is important to ensure the pad has been thoroughly washed as these products may cause skin irritation.
- Placing pads in a delicates bag helps to keep all the small parts together in the wash.
- Wash with the full amount of detergent up to 60 degrees (MAX).
- Air dry or tumble dry on LOW
- Do not leave in laundry hamper for more than a day to avoid mould
- Cold pre-wash before use with like colours to avoid fabric colour transfer and remove manufacturing residue
- Wash with the full amount of detergent up to 60 degrees (MAX).
- Air dry or tumble dry on LOW
- Cold pre-wash before use with like colours to avoid fabric colour transfer and remove manufacturing residue
- Wash with the full amount of detergent up to 60 degrees (MAX).
- Air dry or tumble dry on LOW
- Wash with like products only to reduce risk of damage to the delicate fabric.
Note: products will become fluffier with subsequent washes
- Cold pre-wash before use with like colours to avoid fabric colour transfer and remove manufacturing residue
- Rinse immediately after use in chlorine or salt water to preserve elastic and lycra.
- Wash with the full amount of detergent up to 60 degrees (MAX).
- Air dry or tumble dry on LOW
- Wash with like products only to reduce risk of damage to the delicate fabric (you may want to use a delicates bag).
- Cold pre-wash before use with like colours to avoid fabric colour transfer and remove manufacturing residue
- Rinse immediately after use in cold water
- Wash with full amount of detergent in cold water (30 degrees)
- Air dry in the shade
- Wash with like products to reduce risk of damage
- Machine washable on aa gentle cycle using warm water with like-colours (up to 40 degrees).
- Line dry only in shade or indoors.
Do not tumble dry or expose to high temperatures when drying.
Do not iron, bleach or soak.
Because your bag is made from vegan leather there is no need to use a leather care cream on it. Vegan leather will remain supple and soft without the need for these creams. The majority of stains and marks can be wiped with a damp cloth and mild soap. Allow the bag to air dry before its next use.
Do not wash your Ultimate Bag or Cross Body Bag in the washing machine or submerge in water as this will damage your bag. Spot clean only.
If there is any organic spillage in the bag we recommend cleaning as soon as possible to prevent mould and discolouration.
We recommend washing in a delicates bag, with like colours, on a cold cycle only.
Prolong the life of your products
To prolong the life and maintain the vibrant colour of your Designer Bums products
- Use the full amount of detergent for your load size
- Do not soak any Designer bums products in chemicals or bleaches
- Do not iron PUL products
- Do not exceed wash temperatures of 60 degrees (140F)
- Avoid exposure to high temperatures and direct heat such as high tumble drying, heaters, open flames. Tumble drying on low is recommended.
Troubleshooting Tips
Watch our handy fitting tutorial and read the fitting guide first:
Designer Bums Cloth Nappy Fitting Videos and Designer Bums Cloth Nappy Fitting Guide
- You have just put on a nice new cloth, only to find that it leaks a short time later? First thing to do is check your fit. This is the Number 1 reason for leaking, aside from the nappy being full and ready to be changed. If your inserts are saturated this means the nappy is full and you need to change more often or add in extra inserts to increase absorbency.
- Our nappies are designed to last between 2-4 hours - if you have a particularly heavy wetter, it will probably be closer to 2 hours. We don't recommend leaving a nappy on baby during the day for more than 4 hours at a time as wet nappies against the skin can cause nappy rash and irritation. For hygiene and comfort, any daytime nappy should be changed about every 3 hours.
- Is the leg elastic in the groin crease? This is very important to create a firm leak-proof seal around the leg and bottom and one of the most common fitting mistakes resulting in leaks. When putting the nappy on your baby, make sure that you have the front of the nappy on the right size setting. There are three sizes to choose from. Snap the nappy right down at the front for smaller babies and move your way up through the sizes as your baby grows.
- The nappy needs to be firm around the tummy and legs so that you can run a finger around the elastic, but not too tight. For a baby on the smallest size setting, you may only need to use the smallest insert. For a larger baby, you will need both inserts. You will know when you need to start using both inserts because the nappy will start to soak through the one insert and it will be very full when you change your baby. You can also purchase a range of other customisable boosting solutions on our website.
- Take a look at your washing routine - Are you washing the nappies according to the instructions? Have a read back over and check the steps.
- Are you using barrier creams? If you are using barrier creams without a liner on the nappy, this may cause a build-up of oil and zinc which can repel liquid and leak. If you have been using the cream without a liner don't fret, it will wash out in a long hot wash with the full amount of detergent.
- If inserts are repelling and having build-up that is not washing out, a strip-wash may be required on the inserts only.
We are confident you can overcome any challenges with using cloth nappies by following the above steps. Please get in touch if you need some further assistance info@designernbums.com.au.