If you’re asking, "Why are my cloth diapers leaking?", you're not alone. Leaks are one of the most common concerns among cloth diapering parents. Whether you're new to cloth or an experienced user, leaks can be frustrating but they’re usually easy to fix once you understand the cause. 

Below, we cover the 10 most common reasons cloth diapers leak and simple fixes you can start using today!

1. Poor Fit Around Legs and Waist

A snug but comfortable fit is crucial. Gaps at the thighs or waist will almost always lead to leaks.

How to Fix It:

• Adjust the rise snaps on the front of the diaper to customize the fit based on your baby's size.

• Ensure the elastic gently hugs your baby’s legs without gaps or excessive tightness.

• Check the fit:

  • The diaper should sit just below the belly button.

  • It should fully cover the bottom without sagging.

• Perform the finger test:

  • You should be able to fit two fingers between the diaper and your baby’s waist.

  • You should fit one finger between the diaper and your baby’s legs.

• Make sure no liners or inserts are sticking out from the diaper.

• If leaks persist despite adjustments, consider trying a different model or brand.

2. Not Enough Absorbency

Some babies are heavy wetters, especially during naps or overnight.

How to Fix It:

• Add a booster or an extra insert.

  • An insert is the main absorbent layer inside the diaper, designed to handle most of the moisture.

  • A booster is a thinner layer added on top of the insert to provide extra absorbency without adding much bulk. Boosters are perfect for extending the time between changes without making the diaper too bulky.

• Switch to more absorbent materials like hemp, featured in our diapers.

3. Not Prepping Inserts Properly

Natural fiber inserts, such as hemp and cotton, reach their full absorbency only after being washed and dried several times. Using unprepped inserts can cause leaks due to insufficient absorption.

How to Fix It:

• Wash and dry new natural fiber inserts 3–5 times before use.

• Perform a simple water test:

  • If water absorbs instantly, the insert is ready.

  • If water beads up, continue washing to remove natural oils.

4. Incorrect Insert Positioning

Positioning inserts correctly helps direct absorbency where it's needed most.

How to Fix It:

• For Boys: Place extra absorbency toward the front and point privates downward.

• For Girls: Concentrate absorbency in the middle or back for optimal coverage.

• Ensure the insert lies flat and covers the entire inner area of the diaper, from front to back, to prevent bunching that could cause leaks.

5. Not Changing Often Enough

Even highly absorbent diapers have limits. Waiting too long between changes can cause leaks.

How to Fix It:

• Aim to change cloth diapers every 2–3 hours or as soon as it's soiled or fully wet. If you're just starting with cloth diapering, check more frequently to adjust to your baby's wetting pattern.
  

6. Overstuffing the Diaper

Counterintuitively, too much absorbency can cause gaps and leaks.

How to Fix It:

• Use only as much absorbency as you need.

• After adding boosters or extra inserts, check carefully for gaps around the legs and waist.

7. Tight Clothing Putting Pressure on Diapers

Tight pants, onesies, or leggings can press against cloth diapers, squeezing moisture out and causing leaks, similar to compression leaks.

How to Fix It:

• Choose looser clothing over diapers to avoid pressure.

• Use body extenders on onesies to give extra room for the diaper without sacrificing style or comfort.

8. Build-Up of Detergent or Creams

Over time, residue from detergents, fabric softeners, or diaper creams can coat the fabric, causing repellency and making cloth diapers leak.

How to Fix It:

• Test absorbency regularly by pouring a small amount of water onto the diaper; if it beads up instead of absorbing quickly, build-up may be present. Perform a strip wash to remove residues when needed.

• Always use cloth diaper-safe creams and detergents.

• Avoid fabric softeners completely.

9. Flooding (Fast Urination)

Some babies release a lot of urine very quickly, overwhelming the diaper.

How to Fix It:

• Layer inserts strategically: place a fast-absorbing insert (like microfiber) above a slow-absorbing one (like hemp).
  

10. Damaged Elastics or Waterproof Layer (PUL)

Both the elastics and the waterproof outer layer of the diaper are vital to preventing leaks. Improper care can cause wear and tear, damaging the diaper prematurely.

Possible Causes:

• Drying diapers on radiators or direct heaters.

• Using high heat settings in the dryer.

• Stuffing pocket diapers while they are still hot, which is especially damaging to the elastics.

How to Fix It:

• Inspect elastics and the outer waterproof layer regularly for signs of stretching, cracking, or damage.

• Replace damaged diapers when necessary.

• To preserve your diapers longer:

  • Hang dry when possible or tumble dry on low heat.

  • Avoid exposing diapers to direct high heat sources like radiators.

  • Allow diapers to cool before stuffing them to protect the elastics..

Need Help With Cloth Diaper Leaks?

If you're still experiencing issues or have questions about cloth diapering, we're here to help!

• Contact us anytime at hello@bonjourbabies.com for personalized assistance.

• Visit our FAQ and Blog for answers to common questions and expert tips.

• Check out our Complete Guide to Mastering Cloth Diapering to become a cloth diaper pro!