Becoming a parent for the first time can be a bit of a rollercoaster. Among all the decisions you face, choosing diapers is one of the first. Have you considered cloth? Modern cloth diapers are easy to use, soft against a newborn's sensitive skin, and come in lovely patterns and colours. Here's why many parents choose them — and what you need to know to get started.
Cloth diapers for newborns: why do parents choose them?
Soft and gentle on your baby's skin
Cloth diapers are made from soft, breathable materials that wick moisture away from the skin. The materials are OEKO-Tex Standard 100 certified — tested for harmful substances — and free from perfume. If your baby has sensitive skin or a tendency to nappy rash, cloth can be a gentle option.
Cost-effective over time
The starting cost can feel high, but you wash and reuse the same diapers for the whole period — there's nothing to keep buying at the same pace. The diapers can also go on to a sibling or be sold second-hand, which makes them even more economical per child.
Reusable — without single-use waste
Every cloth diaper that's washed and reused is one disposable fewer in the bin. It's a concrete, tangible difference in how much single-use material leaves your household each week.
Shop cloth diapers for newborns here
How to use cloth diapers with a newborn
One size — adjusted with snaps, not sizes
Our cloth diapers are one size. The same diaper adjusts with snaps at the front to fit your baby's weight and shape — you never buy new sizes along the way. Remember: your baby doesn't “grow out of” the diaper, you simply re-snap it.
Changing
Change after feeds, roughly every three hours, and as soon as possible after a poo. For babies who wee a lot there are extra inserts for more absorbency.
Washing
Store used diapers in a wet bag until washing day — it keeps odours away. Wash at 60°C with a high water level. Cloth wipes can be washed together with the diapers.
Common questions about cloth diapers for newborns
How many cloth diapers do I need?
For full-time use we recommend at least 24. That's roughly 6 diapers a day with a wash every third day.
What is a diaper cover/all-in-one?
Our cover/all-in-one can be used two ways: either you just change the insert and reuse the shell, or you wash the whole diaper after each change. It gives you the flexibility to fit your everyday life.
What about the poo?
Solids are tipped into the toilet. If it's loose, a little toilet paper is enough. If you're breastfeeding or formula feeding, the poo is water-soluble — you don't need to do anything before washing, it dissolves in the pre-wash.
The switch to cloth can feel big at the start, but most parents find it settles quickly. Questions along the way? Reach out in the chat — we're happy to help.