Can I Use Cloth Nappies in Hot Weather?

Yes, cloth nappies are safe to use in hot weather. Better yet, modern cloth nappies might even be a better option than disposables for keeping your baby cool and comfortable. We’ll cover everything you need to know about using reusable nappies in hotter climates.

The Benefits of Cloth Nappies in Hot Weather

Washable nappies have many advantages over disposables when it comes to keeping your baby cool and comfortable in hot weather:

Breathable Fabric

Reusable nappies are typically made from natural, breathable materials like cotton, bamboo, or hemp. These fabrics allow air to circulate more freely, reducing the risk of heat buildup. Unlike disposables, which use synthetic layers that can trap heat, cloth nappies help maintain a cooler environment for your baby’s delicate skin.

Moisture Wicking

Reusable cloth nappies are designed with moisture-wicking fabrics. They pull wetness away from your baby’s skin, keeping them dry and reducing the chance of rashes or discomfort in the heat.

Comfortable Design

Cloth nappies are designed with your babies comfort in mind. They have soft, flexible edges that don’t dig into the skin, with poppers and velcro instead of glues keeping them cool even during hot weather. Additionally, the natural fabrics used are less likely to cause irritation or chafing compared to the plastic materials in disposables.

Fewer Chemicals

Disposable nappies often contain chemicals, super absorbent gels, and fragrances that can irritate sensitive skin, especially in hot weather. Cloth nappies, on the other hand, are free from harsh chemicals, making them a gentler choice for your little ones skin.

Eco-Friendly Benefits

Using cloth diapers also means you’re reducing waste, which is a bonus for the environment. In hot weather, when many areas see increased waste due to single-use products, reusable nappies are a more sustainable choice. You will reduce your household waste - less smells, and lower your carbon footprint. They will also save money.

"I love all the products from cheeky wipes. From wipes to period pants and even to nappies. Very high quality! Customer service Iis wonderful too. I recently made an inquiry and a real person answered my questions. It feels like a rare thing now to have real people talk with you ♡" Trustpilot review, Oct '24

How to Keep Cloth Nappies Cool

While cloth nappies are naturally cooler than disposables, there are additional steps you can take to ensure your baby stays comfortable during hot weather:

Choose Lightweight Materials

Opt for reusable diapers made with lightweight and breathable fabrics, such as bamboo or organic cotton. These materials are naturally cooling and help prevent overheating. Choose cloth nappy covers with beautiful fabrics - my son just wore his nappy and a t-shirt all summer, no need for anything else!

Ensure a Proper Fit

A well-fitting nappy allows air to circulate and prevents unnecessary compression, which can trap heat. Check that the nappy isn’t too tight around your baby’s thighs or waist.

Use a Nappy-Friendly Cream

Applying a light, nappy-safe barrier cream can help prevent heat-related irritation. Look for natural options without fragrances or harsh chemicals like coconut oil.

Change Nappies Frequently

In hot weather, it’s a good idea to change nappies more often. Frequent changes prevent moisture from building up and help your baby stay fresh and dry. It gives your baby some nappy free time for airing and kicking too!

Add a Drying Liner

Using a liner inside the nappy can help wick away moisture and provide an extra layer of comfort. Look for disposable or reusable liners specifically designed for this purpose.

Use reusable baby wipes

Cheeky wipes will be cooling for baby and leave no chemicals on the skin like disposable wet wipes might.

How to Care for Cloth Nappies in Hot Weather

Taking care of your cloth nappies in hot weather is essential to keep them clean, fresh, and ready to use. Here are some tips:

Wash Promptly:

Don’t let dirty nappies sit for too long, as heat can cause bacteria and odours to develop faster. Drop any solids into the toilet straight away.

Dry Outdoors:

Take advantage of the warm weather by drying your nappies outside. Sunlight naturally bleaches stains and kills bacteria.

Store Properly:

Use a breathable storage bag or bucket for soiled nappies to prevent odours from accumulating. Dry pailing is the current school of thought rather than wet pailing in buckets of water.

Avoid Overloading the Machine:

Wash smaller loads to ensure nappies are thoroughly cleaned and rinsed. The machine should be about 3/4's full.

Use Gentle Detergent:

Stick to a mild detergent that won’t irritate your baby’s skin in the heat and avoid fabric softener.

Can Cloth Nappies Cause Overheating?

No, cloth nappies themselves shouldn’t cause your baby to overheat. The key is choosing breathable materials and changing nappies frequently. Overheating in babies is more likely caused by factors like overdressing, lack of ventilation, or extreme environmental temperatures. By following the tips in this blog, you can ensure your baby stays cool and comfortable.

How Do I Know if My Baby Is Too Warm in Their Nappy?

Here are some signs that your baby might be too warm:

• Excessive sweating around the nappy area
• Redness or irritation on the skin
• Fussiness or discomfort
• A hot or clammy feeling when you touch their nappy area

If you notice these signs, try adjusting the nappy fit, using a lighter material, or changing the nappy more frequently. Ensuring your baby is dressed appropriately for the weather can also help.

Remember that nappy wraps and empty pocket nappies can be used as swim nappies, in hot weather toddlers love to be in water as often as possible.

Cloth nappies are a fantastic option for hot weather, offering breathable, moisture-wicking comfort for your baby. Whether you’re new to reusable nappies or a seasoned user, brands like Cheeky Wipes provide reliable, eco-friendly options to suit every family’s needs. Have any tips or experiences using cloth nappies in the heat? Share them in the comments below or get in touch with us to learn more!

If this article was useful for you, you might want to read - 

Best cloth nappies in Australia

Best Nappies for Hot Weather

Beginners guide to reusable nappies

Are reusable nappies hygienic?

How many reusable nappies do I need?

If you need any more guidance, drop the team a line or come and find me on the online chat UK time 10am-2pm. We use the products everyday and LOVE to chat nappies, poo and wee, all day long, nothing is TMI and we all love to overshare based on our own experiences...

About the Author: Kirstin is part of the Customer Experience team at Cheeky Wipes, which since 2008 has been selling the original reusable wipes kit. She is mum to three kids and loves the forest, the sea and the hills!

Along with the rest of our crack team, she spends most days talking about poo, pee and periods and loves a chance to overshare. Cheeky wipes were recognised with a Queens Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development in 2021, celebrating their hard work over the last 13 years.