How to change and clean a modern cloth nappy
Consider this your go-to guide.
The humble terry or reusable cloth nappy is not what it used to be and as trendy, funkier versions arrive on the market, reusable nappies have seen a rise in popularity as trendy.
You don’t need to worry that the nappy will slip off as soon as you lift your baby up, and you will get the hang of nappy changing in the first weeks. But yes, you’ll also have your share of leaks and lop-sided nappies. If you have a boy, you can also expect the occasional warm shower – but you’ll get that whatever the type of nappy you use.
Modern cloth nappies far easier and more reliable to use than original terry cloth ones.
It’ll take a short while for nappy changing to become second nature, and meanwhile, to get you started, follow this step-by-step guide.
Step-by-step guide to cloth nappy changing
Preparing to change a reusable nappy
1. Wash and dry your hands (you can use sanitiser or a baby wipe).
2. Set up a warm, clean, dry, area to change your baby. In the beginning you may use a changing mat, but a towel or clean cloth nappy on any soft, warm surface will work, too.
3. Prepare your supplies. For fitted cloth nappies, you’ll need a clean fresh liner and possibly a clean nappy.
4. If your baby has or is prone to nappy rash, you’ll also want to have some nappy cream or balm to hand.
The snaps help the nappy grow with your child.
How to change a modern cloth nappy
1. Open the nappy snaps, wipe away any poo with the dirty liner, and put it aside for washing or disposal. Use a gentle baby wipe or wet cloth to clean your baby’s bottom thoroughly. If it’s just wet, clean baby and then replace the liner.
2. Place a clean nappy under your baby’s bottom, flaring the flaps out to the sides so you can easily see the press-on studs.
3. Pull the front of the nappy over your baby’s tummy and check it’s pulled up high enough over their bottom, to help prevent leaks. The back and front of the nappy should be at the same height on baby’s waist.
4. Bring the waist flaps across and snap the nappy into place. It should be snug but not too tight – you should be able to get two fingers into the waist band.
5. Tuck excess fabric into the waistband, front fabric can be smoothed upwards, and ensure you tuck in the leg elastics to help prevent leaks.
How to clean and wash your modern cloth nappy
1. You must remove any excess soiling before washing your nappies.
2. Wash the nappy in accordance with the washing instructions on the individual garment label.
3. Run your nappies on a short wash to get rid of as much mess as possible, and then add to your regular washing to make a full load.
4. Hang cloth nappies out to air dry.
