How to Use Cloth Diapers: Fit, Changing and Washing

Use a clean cloth diaper that fits snugly, change it when wet or soiled, store used diapers in a ventilated wet bag or pail, and wash them on a routine that fits the diaper care instructions.

On this page (9 sections)

How do you prepare a cloth diaper before using it?
How should a cloth diaper fit?
How do you change a cloth diaper?
How do you store used cloth diapers?
How do you wash cloth diapers?
What should you do if cloth diapers leak?
Are cloth diapers a good fit for your routine?
More guides on this topic
How do you get started using cloth diapers?

To use cloth diapers, fit a clean diaper snugly, change it when wet or soiled, store used diapers safely, and wash them regularly. Start with the diaper's care instructions because fasteners, covers, inserts, and fabrics can have different needs.

Cloth diapering gets easier when you keep the steps consistent. Set up a changing area, prepare clean diapers and wipes, and choose a storage spot for used ones before the first change.

How do you prepare a cloth diaper before using it?

Wash new cloth diapers before their first use, following the care label. Some fabrics need more than one wash to reach their intended absorbency, so check the maker's instructions before relying on them for a long stretch.

The Gerber Birdseye Prefold is a 100% cotton prefold with a 3-ply center panel. Gerber advises washing it before first use, using a cold gentle machine cycle, non-chlorine bleach if needed, and low tumble dry or line drying.

Keep clean diapers in a dry, easy-to-reach place. If you use prefolds, covers, or separate inserts, arrange them so you can grab a complete set with one hand.

For help comparing styles, start with best cloth diapers for beginners. Prefolds are one option; all-in-one diapers combine absorbent layers and a waterproof outer layer in one piece.

How should a cloth diaper fit?

A cloth diaper should sit comfortably around the waist and legs without gaps or pinching. Check that the waistband is secure and the leg openings meet the skin, while leaving room for your baby's normal movement.

Fit depends on diaper style. A prefold needs to be folded to cover the absorbent area, then held in place with the diaper's fastener or cover; an all-in-one is put on more like a disposable diaper.

After fastening, run a finger around the leg openings and waistband. If you see a gap, adjust the fold or fastener; if the diaper leaves deep marks or seems too tight, loosen it or try another size.

A wet diaper can be changed before it leaks, so don't wait for clothing to feel damp. Check the cover and inner layers during changes, especially when you're still learning how often your chosen diaper needs changing.

How do you fold and fasten a prefold?

Fold a prefold so its absorbent center covers the diaper area, then secure it under a cover. The exact fold depends on your baby's size and the prefold's dimensions.

Lay the prefold flat, fold the sides inward or use another fold that fits your baby, and position it in the cover. Use only fasteners designed for cloth diapers, and make sure no sharp parts touch the skin.

The best prefold cloth diapers guide can help you compare this style. If you prefer fewer separate pieces at changes, see best all-in-one cloth diapers.

How do you change a cloth diaper?

Remove the used diaper, clean and dry your baby's skin, then put on a fresh diaper. Keep one hand on your baby on the changing surface, and have supplies within reach before you begin.

Open the diaper and use the clean front area to remove as much soil as possible. Wipe from front to back, especially for girls, and allow the skin to dry before fastening the replacement.

Put the soiled diaper in your chosen storage container. If the diaper has a separate insert, remove it as the care instructions recommend so the wash can reach all layers.

A changing table can keep wipes, clean diapers, and spare clothes close together. The Delta Children Eclipse includes 2 shelves, a changing pad, a safety belt, and top safety rails; follow its instructions and keep a hand on your baby throughout the change.

For more setup ideas, see the changing table guide. Never leave a baby unattended on a changing surface, even when the table has rails or a safety belt.

How do you store used cloth diapers?

Store used diapers in a ventilated wet bag or diaper pail until wash day. Keep the container out of your baby's reach, and follow local guidance and the diaper maker's instructions for handling solid waste.

Remove solid waste as directed, then place the diaper and any separate insert in the storage container. Avoid soaking used diapers in standing water, which can create a safety hazard for children and pets.

The Ubbi Stainless Steel Diaper Pail uses a sliding lid and is designed for standard trash bags. Its rubber seals are intended to contain odors, and the pail should be wiped clean with a dry cloth.

A cloth diaper wet bag is another option for carrying used diapers away from home. Empty it into the wash as directed, and include the bag itself if its care instructions allow it.

How do you wash cloth diapers?

Use the diaper maker's care instructions and detergent directions, then dry diapers as the fabric allows. A routine often includes a short first wash to loosen soil and a longer main wash to clean the full load.

Keep the load size within your washer's guidance. Too few items may not agitate well, while an overloaded washer can keep water and detergent from moving through the fabric.

Choose a detergent intended for laundry and follow its label amount for the load size and water conditions. Our guide to best cloth diaper detergent covers detergent options to consider.

If diapers smell clean after washing but develop an odor when wet, review the load size, detergent amount, and wash settings. Change one part of the routine at a time so you can see what helps.

Dry diapers using the method their care labels allow. Some can be tumble dried, while others may need line drying; don't assume every cover and insert can take the same heat.

What should you do if cloth diapers leak?

Check the fit, absorbency, and diaper change timing first. Leg gaps, a shifted prefold, or a saturated insert can all let moisture escape.

Make sure the absorbent material sits where it's needed and that clothing hasn't tucked the diaper edge inward. If the diaper is wet through, try changing sooner or using an insert approved for that diaper.

Check that the waterproof cover is intact and positioned over the absorbent layers. If you use cream, residue may affect fabric; consult the care instructions and consider a liner.

Are cloth diapers a good fit for your routine?

Cloth diapers work best when you have a reliable place to change, store used diapers, and wash them. Consider your laundry access, how often you want to wash, and whether you prefer simple one-piece diapers or separate covers and inserts.

The best cloth diapers guide compares options, while best cloth diapers for newborns focuses on smaller babies. For a brand-focused comparison, see best cloth diaper brands.

Cloth diapers can also serve other household uses after their diapering life. Gerber describes its Birdseye prefolds as usable for burp cloths and cleaning cloths; compare best cloth diapers for burp cloths if that reuse matters to you.

How do you get started using cloth diapers?

Start with a few diapers that match your preferred style, a safe changing setup, and a clear wash and storage routine. Follow the care labels, check fit at every change, and adjust the routine as you learn how quickly your baby wets each diaper.

Choose prefolds if you don't mind folding and using a separate cover. Choose an all-in-one if you want a single piece to fasten, and review are cloth diapers worth it as you weigh the routine against your household's needs.

Frequently asked questions

How often should you change a cloth diaper?

Change a cloth diaper as soon as it's soiled, and check wet diapers regularly so your baby isn't sitting in a damp diaper for long. Newborns may need frequent changes.

The right interval varies with age, feeding, diaper absorbency, and your baby's skin.

Do you need to rinse cloth diapers before storing them?

Follow the diaper maker's care instructions and your local wastewater guidance. Remove solid waste as directed, then store the diaper in a ventilated wet bag or pail until wash day.

Don't leave used diapers soaking in a bucket of water.

Can you use diaper cream with cloth diapers?

You can use diaper cream, but check the diaper maker's care advice because some creams can leave residue on fabric or affect absorbency. A disposable liner may make cleanup easier.

If you're choosing a cream, see our guide to diaper cream for cloth diapers.

How should you wash cloth diapers?

Wash cloth diapers according to their care labels and the detergent directions. A common routine uses a short first wash to remove soil followed by a longer main wash, with enough space for diapers to move.

Dry them as the maker allows, and adjust the routine if odors or residue remain.