Cloth Nappy Info

Menu

Cloth Nappy Troubleshooting & Solutions

Quick fixes for leaking, smells, rashes and more. Find your solution fast.

 

So you’ve made the decision to jump on the cloth nappy train, and (if you’re like me) have done all the research and started building your cloth nappy stash. Congratulations!

No doubt you’ll still have a few questions or encounter some challenges from time to time. That’s why we’re here to help!

Why are my Cloth Nappies Leaking?

Leaking?

Cute baby wearing a cloth nappy lying on a rug.

Leaking is the number 1 problem with cloth nappies. Common causes include poor fit, not enough absorbency, or detergent build-up. Learn how to fix it fast. 

Read More

Why Do My Cloth Nappies Smell?

Smell

Reusable nappy advice and troubleshooting

Ammonia smell? Pee smell after washing? The most common Cause is wash routine issues. You can get your nappies fresh and clean again. 

 

Read More

Do Cloth Nappies Cause nappy Rash?

Rash

What are the advantages of cloth nappies?

Cloth nappies don't cause rash, but the wrong fabric or wash routine can. Learn how to prevent irritation and keep baby comfortable. 

 

Read More
Reusable nappy help and resources

 

Setting up the right nappy changing and washing routine, figuring out how to boost your nappies to prevent leaks, and learning how to best fit your nappy on your baby can all require some experimentation. It’s common for families to have a lot of questions along the way.

Ultimately, over time, you will figure out what works best for your family, but it can certainly help to share some tips, tricks and hacks that others have discovered – don’t reinvent the wheel!

If you’re now wondering how to prepare and set up your nappies and wash routine, have a look at our article on how to wash cloth nappies.

If you’re still feeling a little confused by all the inserts and rise snaps and trying to get the best fit for your child, head over to our cloth nappy fit guide.

If you’ve had a few nappy leaks and are worried if you’re doing something wrong, check out our article on preventing reusable nappy leaks for some advice and troubleshooting.

If you’re concerned about nappy rash or using cloth nappies when your baby is ill, you will find further information here.

If you’d like to read our full reusable nappy reviews, head over here.  Or read on for more advice and tips. 

Why Are My Cloth Nappies Leaking?

Leaking cloth nappies are frustrating but are usually easy to fix. The issue almost always falls into one of three categories: fit, absorbency, or buildup. Here are the most common causes and quick solutions to get you back on track.

Common Causes of Leaking

  1. Not Enough Absorbency

This is especially true at night, during naps, or as your baby grows and pees more. If the insert is completely soaked when you change the nappy, you need to boost the absorbency.

  1. Poor Fit

Gaps at the legs or waist allow liquid to run straight out. The nappy needs to be snug enough to contain the mess, but not so tight that it leaves deep red marks. Remember: the leg seal is more important than the waist fit!

  1. Compression Leaks

If the nappy is already soaked and you press on it (like when putting a baby in a car seat), the pressure forces the liquid out. This can also happen if the nappy is fastened too tightly, squeezing the absorbent material.

  1. Repelling

If the nappy seems to leak immediately and the insert isn’t wet, you likely have a residue or detergent buildup on the fabric that is causing it to repel liquid.

  1. Worn-Out Elastics

Over time, elastics around the legs and back can stretch out and fail to contain leaks.

How to Prevent Leaks

The most effective way to stop leaks is to address the most likely issue first: boost the absorbency.

  • For heavy wetters, switch to natural fibres like bamboo, hemp, or cotton as your primary insert, as these hold more liquid than microfibre
  • Add a booster insert at the top of the nappy for targeted absorbency where your baby pees most
  • Use the “two-finger rule” for fit: the leg and waist elastics should be snug, allowing you to fit two fingers flat inside, but no more
  • Ensure leg elastics sit IN the leg crease (the “bikini line”), not on the thigh
  • Position the nappy low like underwear, not high like a disposable

Can a Nappy Leak if it’s Too Small?

Yes, a nappy that is too small often leads to leaks. When the nappy is on a tight setting, it compresses the inserts, which can cause them to flood and squeeze liquid out. More commonly, a small nappy doesn’t provide enough coverage around the thighs and waist, leading to gaps and leaks.

Related Resources:

  • Check our 4-Step Fit Guide for proper nappy fitting techniques
  • Review recommended brands for heavy wetters in our brand reviews
  • See our “Best Night Nappies” guide for overnight absorbency solutions

You might also be wondering whether it’s possible to use cloth nappies on holiday, whether you can send your child to daycare in reusable nappies, or what to consider when you have more than one child in cloth.

Cloth Nappy Info aims to provide a wide range of advice and resources to support you in any challenges you may face or different scenarios you might encounter on your reusable nappy journey, and ultimately set you and your family up for success!

Why Do My Cloth Nappies Smell?

If your nappies smell like ammonia after a quick pee, or have a lingering barnyard odour, your wash routine is not properly cleaning them. The smell is often caused by the build-up of urine and bacteria that a standard wash isn’t removing.

Common Causes of Smell

  1. Ammonia Buildup

This harsh smell is caused by urine breaking down into concentrated ammonia over time. This happens when the detergent used isn’t strong enough or when your pre-wash is ineffective.

  1. Not Enough Detergent

A common mistake with cloth nappies! You need significantly more detergent than a regular load of laundry to clean heavily soiled items. Don’t be afraid to use the full recommended dose.

  1. Washing Less Than Every 3 Days

The longer soiled nappies sit, the more bacteria multiply and the harder they are to clean. Washing every 2-3 days maximum is essential.

  1. Hard Water Issues

Hard water can prevent your detergent from working effectively, leading to cleaning issues and mineral build-up that traps odours.

How to Get Rid of Nappy Smell

The quick solution is usually a “strip wash” followed by a reset of your main washing cycle.

  • Run a strip wash to deep-clean the fabric of all mineral and detergent residue
  • Increase wash frequency – aim for every 2 days maximum
  • Boost detergent amount – use the FULL recommended dose for heavily soiled loads
  • Ensure your drum is properly loaded (2/3 to 3/4 full) for proper agitation
  • Check your pre-wash is working – it should be a standalone cycle that drains completely
  • Consider adding a water softener if you have hard water

What Causes Ammonia Build Up?

Ammonia build-up is caused by bacteria and concentrated urine not being rinsed out completely. If your nappies smell like a public restroom after one wee, your pre-wash is failing. Your first, short wash must effectively dilute and flush away most of the urine before the main wash.

Essential Reading:

  • Our Complete Washing Guide covers the 5-step washing routine that prevents odours
  • Learn how to perform a strip wash when nappies need a deep clean
  • Check the Clean Cloth Nappies Detergent Index for recommended detergents

Do Cloth Nappies Cause Nappy Rash?

No, cloth nappies do not inherently cause nappy rash. In fact, many parents switch to cloth because the breathable fabrics often prevent rash compared to disposables. However, an incorrect cloth nappy routine can certainly contribute to irritation.

Common Causes of Rash with Cloth

Detergent Sensitivity or Fragrances

If your baby is sensitive, the fragrances or chemicals in your detergent could be the culprit. Try switching to a fragrance-free, sensitive skin formula.

Detergent Residue Buildup

Just like with smells, a residue trapped in the fabric can irritate sensitive skin. This can happen from using too much detergent or not rinsing thoroughly.

Not Changing Frequently Enough

Regardless of nappy type, leaving a baby in a wet or soiled nappy for too long is the top cause of rash. Change every 2-3 hours during the day, and immediately after poos.

Yeast or Bacterial Infection

If the rash is bright red, spotty, and stubborn, it may be a yeast or bacterial infection that requires a doctor’s visit and a specific treatment routine.

How to Prevent Nappy Rash with Cloth

Prevention is simple: frequent changes and a clean routine. If a rash appears, there are several steps you can take.

  • Change nappies every 2-3 hours (don’t wait until the nappy feels heavy)
  • Use microfleece liners to provide a dry barrier between skin and wet insert
  • Review your wash routine to eliminate any possible residue
  • Switch to a fragrance-free, sensitive skin detergent
  • Ensure nappies are bone dry before storing (damp nappies can harbour bacteria)
  • Allow some nappy-free time each day for airflow
  • If rash persists beyond 3 days or worsens, consult your GP or child health nurse

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical advice if the rash is bright red and spotty, spreads rapidly, doesn’t improve after 3 days of treatment, is accompanied by fever, or causes severe discomfort to your baby.

Gentle Options for Sensitive Skin:

These brands use natural, breathable fabrics perfect for babies prone to irritation:

  • Mimi & Co – Known for high-quality natural fibres
  • Hippybottomus – Soft bamboo blends
  • Designer Bums – Natural fibre options available

Quick Reference: Problem Solver

Use this table to quickly identify and solve your issue:

Problem

Most Likely Cause

Quick Fix

Leak within 2 hours

Not enough absorbency

Add booster, use natural fibres

Leak at legs

Leg elastics not in crease

Check fit guide, tuck elastics

Ammonia smell

Not enough detergent or infrequent washing

Strip wash, increase detergent, wash every 2 days

Barnyard smell

Bacterial buildup

Review wash routine, check drum loading

Immediate leak (insert dry)

Repelling from residue

Strip wash, avoid fabric softener

Rash appearing

Infrequent changes or detergent sensitivity

Change every 2-3 hours, try fragrance-free detergent

Leak up the back

Nappy positioned too low or wrong rise setting

Position higher, adjust rise snaps

Deep red marks

Nappy too tight causing compression

Loosen snaps, size up rise

.

Still Having Problems?

Most cloth nappy issues can be solved by adjusting your fit, boosting absorbency, or improving your wash routine. If you’ve tried the solutions above and are still experiencing problems, here are your next steps:

Essential Resources

Get Community Support

Don’t troubleshoot alone! These Australian communities are incredibly helpful:

  • Clean Cloth Nappies Facebook Group – Science-backed washing advice
  • Australian Cloth Nappy Forum – Experienced parents ready to help
  • Your local nappy library – Hands-on support and nappy try-before-you-buy

Remember: Every cloth nappy parent experiences these issues at some point.

With the right adjustments, cloth nappies work beautifully. Don’t give up – you’ve got this! 

We will regularly add articles and resources to this page that we think may be useful. If you have other questions or requests for advice, please reach out to us on our contact page.

And if you have any clever tips, hacks, or resources that you would like to share for the benefit of the cloth nappy community, we would greatly appreciate your contributions! Please message us on our contact page and don’t forget to add your name and city if you would like to be credited here.

Click here to get in touch with us

Terms and Conditions - Privacy Policy