How Many Times Do I Change a Reusable Nappy​?

Reusable nappies, also known as cloth diapers, are becoming a popular choice for parents interested in environmentally-conscious, skin friendly and cost-effective baby products.

Made from absorbent, washable materials, they can be used multiple times, cutting down on waste from disposable nappies and saving money in the long run. Reusable nappies come in various styles, from pocket nappies to all-in-one designs, providing options for different preferences and lifestyles.

Aside from the sustainability benefits, many parents appreciate the softer, chemical-free materials that modern cloth nappies use, helping to reduce irritation on a baby’s sensitive skin. However, some find the idea of cloth nappies daunting — are they complicated? How often they should be changed to keep your baby comfortable and dry? Is it hard to keep up with the washing? And the main one - what do you do with the poo???

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How often should I change my babies reusable nappy?

In general, most reusable nappies should be changed every 2 to 4 hours, though this can vary depending on your baby's age, diet, and activity level. For newborns, who tend to go through diapers more frequently, you may need to change more often, up to 10-12 times a day. This will drop to 5-8 times a day within 6 months, and babies stop needing changes overnight once they are past the first few months - just add extra absorbency or opt for two part nappies.

Of course, you should always change the nappy immediately if your baby does a poo.

Whilst there is definitely a sharp learning curve when transitioning to cloth nappies, once you find your feet they will be a satisfying part of your baby routine - no waste, never running out, reducing your carbon footprint, and saving money long term especially if they are used on subsequent siblings.

How to Clean Poop From Reusable Diapers

Cleaning solid waste from dirty nappies may seem gross at first, but it need not be messy. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure the nappies stay fresh and stain-free:

1. Remove Solid Poop

If the poo is solid, gently shake the nappy over the toilet to remove as much as possible. Poo rolls off fleece so use fleece liners or buy pocket nappies which are normally lined with fleece. You can use a see saw action with the nappy turned inside out or soiled side down for liners. For more stubborn solids, you may use a small scraper or a designated spatula to help remove excess poop. I remember gruesome tales on mumsnet of families special poo scraper ending up back in the kitchen so paint some nail varnish on the handle to distinguish it!

2. Sluice if needed

If babies poos are not solid yet you can grip the top of the nappy in your fist and trail the rest in the flush of the toilet (don't let go!) to remove any 3D chunks.

2. Rinse the Diaper

Some people like to then rinse the diaper with cold water to remove any lingering residue. This helps prevent staining and keeps the material fresh. Avoid using hot water at this stage, as it can set stains. I had a small hose attached to my downstairs toilets sink, others pop their nappy pail in the shower. Note that this is an extra step that may not always be needed.

3. Machine Pre-Rinse the Diaper

Rinse the nappies in the washing machine, either daily or every other day with a small amount of baby-safe detergent or stain remover for about 15-20 minutes. This helps loosen any remaining waste and is particularly useful if you won’t be fully washing the nappies immediately.

You can just move them from the nappy storage, to the machine then straight back to the nappy storage to wait for a full wash on day 3 or 4. I used to lay a Cheeky Wipe over the top of the previously pre-rinsed nappies so I knew which were waiting for a rinse.

4. Wash in the Machine

Once you’ve pre-rinsed the last bunch, add all the nappy to your washing machine. Use a baby-safe detergent and wash on a warm or hot long cycle (check the nappy’s care instructions to be sure). Avoid using fabric softeners, as these can affect absorbency. Do an extra rinse at the end if you still see soap suds.

5. Dry Thoroughly

Dry the nappies according to their instructions. Air drying turned inside out in sunlight is ideal as sunlight acts as a natural UV disinfectant and stain remover, but you can also use a low-heat tumble dryer if needed, don't add any PUL nappy covers.

How to Clean Reusable Swim Diapers

Reusable swim diapers are designed to contain solids while in water but aren’t meant to absorb urine like regular nappies. Baby swim nappies have a very similar routine to your normal washable nappies but are a little more delicate.

To clean reusable swim diapers, follow these steps:

Remove Any Solids

As with regular reusable nappies, shake off any solids into the toilet.

Rinse Immediately After Use

Rinse the swim diaper in cold water immediately after taking it off your baby to remove chlorine, salt, or any other pool chemicals that can degrade the fabric. Then pop in a wet bag til you are home.

Hand Wash or Machine Wash

Wash the swim diaper with baby-safe detergent, either by hand or on a gentle machine cycle. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners, as these can weaken the elastic and waterproofing.

Air Dry Only

To protect the integrity of the materials, air dry the swim diaper. Avoid placing it in the dryer, as high heat can damage the elastic and waterproof layers.

Conclusion

Using and caring for reusable nappies and swim diapers doesn’t have to be challenging, you will quickly find a routine that works for you and will know when baby needs changing. By following these steps, you’ll keep your nappies in top condition, helping both your wallet and the environment til your little one toilet trains. If you enjoyed this article, you may like to read - 

Are reusable nappies worth it?

Are reusable nappies hygienic?

Best cloth nappies in Australia

For more information or to explore other baby care tips, feel free to contact us or visit our website for additional blog posts and resources. Happy diapering!

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!

Kirstin 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.