One of the most common questions we get from new cloth-nappy families is exactly this one: how do I tell that the nappy is sitting right? It's a good question — and it actually has a fairly simple answer once you know what to look for.
In this guide we go through the fit step by step. Once you've got used to checking for these signs, you'll notice the difference straight away: the nappy doesn't gape at the legs, doesn't sit too high or too low, and it lasts the hours you need without leaking.
One size — a nappy that grows with your child
Our modern cloth nappies are what's known as one-size nappies. They're made to fit from around 4 kg and grow with your child right up until the nappy period is over. You adjust the size with the snaps at the front of the nappy — a small snap that makes the cloth nappy smaller when your child is little, and that you release as your child grows.
Some children fit into one-size nappies as newborns, others need to wait a few weeks until they reach 4 kg. This is entirely individual, and the most important thing is that the nappy sits comfortably — not that it lands on an exact weight.
Something we learned ourselves the hard way, many years back when we were new cloth-nappy parents: we were so used to snapping it on the smallest setting that we completely missed adjusting it up after a few weeks when it was time. At the start you adjust upwards more often, but then you can keep the same setting for a long while before it's time to release the next snap. Worth checking now and then — the fit should feel supple, not tight.
Where should the nappy sit? — the height
A modern cloth nappy sits a little lower than a disposable. One to two centimetres below the navel is a good starting point.
If it's too high, it becomes bulky and can rub against the tummy. If it's too low, it doesn't catch things in time before something leaks.
Snap the front snaps down on the nappy if you want to make it smaller — that draws the fabric together and the nappy sits tighter around the bottom instead of sitting loose.
Four steps to a good fit
Once you've put the nappy on, go through these four points:
1. Two fingers at the waist
You should be able to fit two fingers between the nappy edge and the tummy. Any more than that and the nappy sits too loose — then it gapes and a leak is on its way. Any less and it pinches.
2. Snap all the snaps on the tabs
Both sides, all the way. This is often where new parents compromise — leaving one snap undone — and then the fit gives way after an hour or so. Snap all three snaps.
3. Push the fabric up at the front (if you've snapped it smaller)
If you've snapped the nappy to a smaller size, the fabric at the front can bunch up. Gently push it up so it lies smooth — that gives the optimal fit and stops the nappy sliding down.
4. Tuck the nappy edge into the groin
At the inside of the legs, the edge of the fabric should be tucked into the groin. That's where leaks most often come from — and a second of tucking is enough.
If the nappy leaks — the fit is rarely the culprit
The first thing many people suspect when a cloth nappy leaks is the fit. But in most cases it isn't the fit — it's too little absorbent material (insert). If needed, you can then add an extra insert to soak up more liquid. For most, a prefold insert lasts about three hours.
Use good-quality inserts and make sure they cover the whole length of the pocket. Then the fit holds together and the nappy manages the hours you expect.
Summary — checklist
- Height: 1–2 cm below the navel
- Two fingers at the waist
- All snaps on the tabs closed
- Fabric at the front pushed up if a smaller size is snapped (mainly boys, who wee at the front)
- Nappy edge tucked into the groin
- Enough absorbent insert
Once you've gone through the checklist a few times, you'll do it automatically. And then the nappy sits right — every time.
Get in touch if anything feels tricky. We're here when you need us.
Still leaking even with a good fit? The cause may be something else — read why the cloth nappy leaks and how to fix it.
— Martin & Time Ahead Sweden