Why Are My Cloth Diapers Leaking?
Are your cloth diapers leaking? Find out here with simple steps to fix the problem. Generally, there are three main reasons why cloth diapers leak:
1) Poor Diaper Fit
This is the most common reason for diaper leaks. Are the diapers too loose or too tight? Try adjusting them differently to see if it makes a difference. The diaper should fit snugly around the thighs with no gaps and around the tummy to avoid drooping, even when the baby moves. Don't be afraid to tighten the diaper well; the elastics are made to stretch, so use this to your advantage.
- Thigh elastics should sit roughly where underwear would. Pinch the diaper in the middle as you pull it up and over the baby to get those elastics sitting in the right spot for the best leak control.
- Look for 'Plumber's Crack.' If you can see the baby's bum crack when they are standing, squatting, or sitting, the diaper rise is not high enough. Let out a rise snap if you use one-size type diapers, or size up if you use sized diapers.
- If using prefolds, flats, pre-flats, contours, or fitted diapers with a cover, ensure all absorbent material is tucked into the cover. Any part of the diaper peeking out will wick moisture onto clothing, causing leaks.
TIP #1: For boys, always point the penis down, centered between the legs. Pointing up or to the side invites leakage.
TIP #2: Newborns pee a lot but not with much force. If using diapers with a stay-dry top layer (like microfleece), sometimes the wetness doesn't get through to the absorbent layers underneath. This can cause leaks, especially over the hip and back. Consider using natural fabrics for newborns, as they absorb more quickly. If you have stay-dry diapers, use a natural fabric booster, flannel washcloth, or other natural fabric liner.
TIP #3: Onesies that snap at the crotch can compress the diaper, causing leaks around the thighs. Size up on onesies, use a onesie extender, or don't snap the onesie and tuck it into the pants.
TIP #4: Ensure that pocket diaper inserts span the entire width of the pocket. If too narrow, inserts can shift, leaving space with no absorbency.
Sometimes, certain diapers just don't work for some babies. Generally, better quality brands fit more baby body types successfully. Super cheap diapers often fit poorly and may be sewn inconsistently using lower quality materials. You get what you pay for in terms of diaper quality.
2) Lack of Absorbency
If the fit seems okay, consider the absorbency of your diapers. When you change the diaper, is it soaking wet? Are you changing the baby frequently enough? Newborns pee a lot and should be changed every 1-2 hours, and older babies every 3-4 hours, regardless of using cloth or disposables. If your diapers are reaching capacity and leaking, you can either change more frequently, switch to a more absorbent style, or add absorbency to the current diaper with additional inserts or boosters. Add absorbency where needed. Boys might need extra in the front, and girls might need it in the middle.
Nighttime leaks: The diapers you use during the day may not work overnight once the baby begins to sleep longer stretches. For nights or naps, use a fitted style diaper with a PUL or wool cover for maximum absorbency.
3) Repelling Issues
If fit and absorbency are adequate, the issue might be repelling. This happens due to buildup on your diapers, often after using them successfully for a while. Buildup can come from hard water mineral deposits, too much detergent, non-cloth diaper-friendly bum ointments, or dryer sheets. Classic repelling usually comes with smelly diapers or a rash, indicating an adjustment in detergent or wash routine is needed. Repelling can also occur if natural fabrics like cotton, bamboo, or hemp haven't been properly pre-washed before use.
By addressing these common issues, you can ensure your cloth diapers provide the best performance for your baby. Happy diapering!
