Choosing a cloth diaper for baby is a smart decision — not only for the environment but also for your baby’s comfort and your pocket. However, as with any new journey, cloth diapering can come with a bit of a learning curve. Whether you’re using cloth washable diapers for the first time or looking to perfect your routine, avoiding some common pitfalls can make the experience smoother and more rewarding.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most frequent cloth diapering mistakes parents make — and how to avoid them. Whether you’re on the hunt for the best cloth diapers for newborns or already using the best reusable diapers for babies in India, this article will help you level up your cloth diapering game.
1. Not Prepping the Diapers Before First Use
The mistake: Skipping the initial washes.
Cloth diapers, especially those made from organic or natural fibers, need to be pre-washed multiple times before they reach their full absorbency. Many parents excitedly unwrap their cloth washable diapers and use them immediately, only to find them leaking soon after.
How to avoid it: Pre-wash your cloth diapers at least 2–3 times before first use. This helps remove natural oils and boosts absorbency. The more you wash them, the better they perform.
2. Using Too Many or Too Few Diapers
The mistake: Not having the right stash size.
Some parents overestimate how many diapers they need, while others are constantly running out. This can lead to laundry burnout or hygiene concerns.
How to avoid it: For a newborn, plan on using 10–12 cloth washable diapers a day. If you do laundry every other day, a stash of 20–24 cloth diapers is ideal. Having a few extra can also be helpful during travel or power outages.
3. Not Changing Often Enough
The mistake: Treating cloth diapers like disposables.
Cloth diapers should be changed every 2–3 hours during the day, even if they feel dry to the touch. Waiting too long can lead to rashes and leaks.
How to avoid it: Set reminders or create a schedule to check and change your baby’s diaper regularly. Unlike disposables, cloth diapers don’t contain chemical gels to trap moisture, so timely changes are key to keeping your baby’s skin happy.
4. Incorrect Washing Routine
The mistake: Using the wrong detergent or not washing properly.
Washing cloth diapers incorrectly can lead to build-up, poor absorbency, bad smells, and even skin irritation.
How to avoid it:
- Use a cloth-diaper-safe detergent that’s free of fabric softeners and fragrances.
- Rinse with cold water first to remove solids and pee.
- Wash on a hot cycle with detergent.
- Do a second rinse to ensure all detergent is washed out.
Following this wash routine ensures your best reusable diapers for babies in India stay in top shape.
5. Using Diaper Creams That Aren’t Cloth-Safe
The mistake: Applying petroleum-based creams.
Certain diaper creams can create a waterproof layer on cloth diapers, reducing their absorbency and causing leaks.
How to avoid it: Always use cloth-safe diaper creams that are free of zinc oxide and petroleum. If you must use a traditional cream, place a disposable or reusable liner between the diaper and your baby’s skin.
6. Poor Fit and Adjustment
The mistake: Leaving gaps or snapping the diaper too tightly.
A common concern with first-time cloth diaper users is leaks. Often, this is due to a poor fit, especially around the legs and waist.
How to avoid it: When choosing the best cloth diapers for newborns, go for adjustable options that allow you to customize the fit as your baby grows. Brands like SuperBottoms offer size-adjustable systems that grow with your baby, ensuring a snug and leak-proof fit every time.
7. Ignoring the Importance of Inserts
The mistake: Not using the right number or type of inserts.
Inserts are what make cloth washable diapers absorbent. Using too few or the wrong kind can lead to nighttime leaks or discomfort.
How to avoid it:
- Use 1 insert during the day and 2 for night-time heavy wetters.
- For newborns, prefolds or organic cotton inserts are gentle and breathable.
- For older babies, opt for boosters or hemp inserts to increase absorbency.
8. Storing Dirty Diapers Improperly
The mistake: Leaving soiled diapers sitting too long in sealed bags or bins.
Improper storage can cause ammonia build-up, staining, and odor issues.
How to avoid it:
- Use a breathable diaper pail liner or a cloth wet bag with ventilation.
- Avoid storing soiled diapers for more than 2–3 days.
- Rinse off solids before storing to prevent staining and bacterial growth.
9. Expecting Cloth Diapers to Work Like Disposables
The mistake: Expecting zero leaks, 12-hour wear, or slim fits like disposables.
Cloth diapers function differently. They’re bulkier but more breathable and free from chemicals.
How to avoid it: Set realistic expectations. Understand that cloth diapering is a lifestyle choice that may take a little more effort but offers long-term health, financial, and environmental benefits.
10. Giving Up Too Soon
The mistake: Quitting after one or two bad experiences.
Leaky diapers, washing confusion, or negative feedback from others can discourage new parents.
How to avoid it: Stick with it for a few weeks before deciding. Join cloth diapering communities, ask questions, and lean on brands like SuperBottoms for support and guidance. Thousands of Indian parents have made the switch successfully — and so can you.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best reusable diapers for babies in India is just the beginning of your cloth diapering journey. Like any new habit, it takes time to get used to, but the rewards are worth it — for your baby, your wallet, and the planet.
SuperBottoms is here to make this journey easy and joyful. With thoughtfully designed, skin-friendly, and eco-conscious options, you’ll never have to second-guess your choice of a cloth diaper for baby.cloth diaper