COMPLETE GUIDE
EverythingYou Need to Know About Cloth Diapers
Cloth diapering can seem intimidating at first, but it’s straightforward once you know the basics.
How do Bonjour Babies cloth diapers work?
Bonjour Babies cloth diapers feature a waterproof outer cover and stay-dry inner lining with a built-in pocket to hold absorbent pads called inserts. Every diaper comes with two inserts to adjust the absorbency based on your baby's needs.
Newborn Insert
Made from quick-absorbing microfiber, this smaller insert is perfect for younger babies who need fast moisture absorption.
Full-Size Insert
Crafted from a hemp and cotton blend, this larger insert holds more liquid and is ideal for longer periods or heavy wetters.
Pocket Diaper Design
Designed by Bonjour Babies
Wash before first use
Important Preparation
Before the first use, wash the diapers and inserts with a cloth diaper-safe detergent at least once. Natural fiber inserts will need additional washes to reach full absorbency.
laundryWashing Instructions
- Wash in warm water (up to 104°F/40°C)
- Hang to dry afterward
- Use a cloth diaper-safe detergent
- Avoid bleach, fabric softeners, and other harsh chemicals
natureNatural Fiber Inserts
The hemp/cotton inserts (the larger ones) will reach full absorbency after about three wash-and-dry cycles.
Tip: No need for a special load; just toss them in with your other white laundry and be sure to use a cloth diaper-safe detergent.
The hemp/cotton inserts will shrink about 10% after the first wash.
Testing Natural Fiber Insert Readiness
- Pour small amounts of water on different areas of the insert
- If the water absorbs immediately, the insert is ready
- If it beads up, wash it a few more times to remove the natural oils from the fabric
- Repeat this process until the insert absorbs water on contact
Adjust the size
Set the inserts aside for now. To size the diaper for your baby, adjust the snaps on the front to fit your baby's length. The four rows and three columns of snaps control the rise (height) of the diaper, allowing you to choose from four size settings. Once you've set the size, you won't need to adjust it again until your baby outgrows the current setting.
Age and weight brackets are indicative and may vary depending on your baby’s body shape.
Fit Check
The diaper should sit right at the hip bones, just below the belly button. If your baby has an umbilical cord stump, ensure the diaper does not cover or rub against it. The back waistband should align with the natural curve of your baby’s back, sitting just above the bum.
Preserving Snaps
- Unsnap gently. Use fingers close to snap, pry apart without yanking.
- Minimize adjustments. Only unsnap when changing size or deep cleaning.
- No need to unsnap for routine washing.
Add absorbency
Important Caution
Always place the microfiber insert inside the pocket of the diaper, never directly against the skin. Microfiber is highly absorbent, but it can be a bit rough on your baby’s sensitive skin.
It's important to place the insert(s) inside the diaper pocket, not directly on the lining. The AWJ (Athletic Wicking Jersey) material of the lining is specifically designed to wick moisture away from your baby's skin, creating a "stay-dry" effect. Sliding the inserts inside the pocket helps reduce the risk of diaper rash and keeps your baby comfortable for longer.
Proper Insert Placement
If you're using both inserts together, always place the microfiber insert on top of the hemp/cotton insert. Microfiber absorbs faster, while hemp/cotton holds more moisture. This setup helps capture and distribute moisture effectively.
Open the diaper's pocket and lay the stacked inserts flat, ensuring they extend fully for even absorbency.
Make sure the inserts lay flat to avoid uncomfortable bunching.
Boys
Position the inserts toward the front of the diaper, as boys typically urinate toward the front.
Girls
Center the inserts or position them slightly toward the back, where girls generally need more absorbency.
Back Sleepers
Move absorbency toward the middle and back of the diaper.
Tummy Sleepers
Focus absorbency toward the front to catch moisture quickly and prevent leaks.
Fit the diaper on your baby
Step-by-step guide on fitting the diaper correctly:
Position Baby
Lay baby on the open diaper with the back edge at waist level.
Pull Front Up
Bring the front panel up between baby's legs. Gently pinch the diaper to guide leg cuffs into the natural underwear line.
Secure Hip Snaps
Pull wings snugly across baby's hips, following the natural hip crease just above the thighs. Fasten hip snaps first.
Fasten Waist Snaps
Secure waist snaps for a snug but comfortable fit. You should be able to fit two fingers comfortably between the diaper and baby's tummy.
Position Leg Cuffs and Gussets
Ensure leg cuffs are tucked into leg creases and leg gussets are pulled out. Run a finger around each leg opening to verify proper positioning.
Tuck Excess Fabric
If using rise snaps to shorten the diaper, tuck any extra fabric upward into the front center.
Check for Gaps
Gently lift baby's legs and inspect leg openings. No gaps should be visible. If you can see inside the diaper, adjust for a tighter fit. Ensure leg gussets lie flat against baby's skin to create a proper seal.
Verify Alignment
Make sure the back of the diaper sits just above the bum, and the front sits below the belly button.
Positioning for Boys
Gently point his privates downward before securing the diaper. This helps direct urine into the absorbent core and reduces the chance of leaks.
Perfect Fit Checklist
- The diaper sits right at your baby’s hip bones, just below the belly button, with the back positioned just above the bum.
- It fits snugly around the waist and legs with no gaps, but not too tight. You should be able to fit two fingers between the diaper and your baby’s waist, and one finger between the diaper and your baby’s leg.
- The leg cuffs are neatly tucked into your baby’s leg creases, and the gussets are gently pulled down over the thighs. Run a finger around each leg to check positioning.
- No part of the diaper, like inserts or liners, is visible or sticking out.
Change the diaper
Change Frequency
Change your baby's diaper every 2–3 hours or immediately after soiling to keep them dry and comfortable. Prompt changes help maintain your baby's hygiene and prevent diaper rash.
humidity_lowFor wet diapers
If the diaper is only wet with urine, there's no need to pre-rinse it.
scatter_plotFor soiled diapers
If your baby has pooped and is not exclusively breastfed, you will need to remove the solid waste before washing.
Zero-Waste Changing Routine
Use this simple, eco-friendly routine to gently clean your baby's skin without harsh chemicals.
Prepare two spray bottles:
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1Soapy water: Fill one spray bottle with a mild, baby-safe soapy water solution. This will be used to clean your baby's bottom.
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2Clear water: Fill another spray bottle with clear water for rinsing after cleaning with the soapy solution.
Cleaning steps:
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1Clean: Spray a small amount of the soapy water solution directly onto your baby's bottom or onto a reusable wipe. Gently clean the area.
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2Rinse: After cleaning, use the clear water spray to rinse off any soap residue. You can spray it directly onto the baby's skin or onto another clean reusable wipe to wipe off the soapy water.
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3Dry: Pat the area dry with a clean, dry reusable wipe, or allow it to air dry briefly before putting on a fresh diaper.
After use, you can wash the wipes with the diapers.
Can I use diaper rash creams with cloth diapers?
Yes, but use a cloth-safe cream and only as much as needed to cover the affected area to avoid buildup. Avoid products that contain zinc oxide and petroleum.
Remove solids from the diaper
Cleaning poop from cloth diapers depends on whether your baby is breastfed or eating solids.
Good News!
If your baby is exclusively breastfed, their poop is water-soluble and can go straight into the wash. No pre-rinsing or scraping required!
Methods for Removing Solids:
Diaper Sprayer Method
Use a diaper sprayer attached to your toilet to rinse off solids. Hold the diaper over the toilet bowl and spray until clean.
Shake or "Plop" Method
Hold the diaper over the toilet and either shake it or gently tap/fold it to encourage the solids to fall off.
Dunk & Swish Method
Hold the diaper by the clean edges and dunk the soiled area in the toilet. Swish until the solids come off.
Scrape Method
Use a dedicated spatula to scrape solids into the toilet. Rinse the spatula and store it separately for future use.
Note for Breastfed Babies
If your breastfed baby has taken medication or started eating solids, their stool is no longer exclusively water-soluble and will need to be removed before washing.
Pro Tip
Some parents find it easier to use liners to catch solids and simplify cleanup. Depending on your preferences, you can choose between:
Lift out and flush (if flushable) or throw away in the trash.
Shake solids into the toilet, then wash the liner along with your diapers.
Store dirty diapers
Important Notes
- Do not soak dirty diapers, as this can cause unpleasant odors and promote bacterial growth. After changing your baby's diaper, remove any solid waste if your baby is not exclusively breastfed, rinse if needed, and allow the diaper to air dry before placing it in the dirty storage container.
- Don't let dirty diapers sit for more than 3 days before washing. Longer storage can lead to ammonia build-up, stubborn stains, and unpleasant odors.
How you store dirty diapers until wash day can impact your cloth diapering experience. A proper storage system helps manage odors and keeps your diapers in good condition.
Dry Pail Method
Prefer the dry pail method, which means storing dirty diapers in a dry container until wash day.
Benefits:
- Less smell and bacteria growth than wet pails
- No risk of drowning or water spillage
- Prevents stain setting
- Helps prevent fabric breakdown
Use a plastic or metal laundry basket (preferably with ventilation holes), a diaper pail or lidded trash can with a washable pail liner, or a wet bag placed in a container or hung on a hook that can be tossed in the wash with the diapers.
Wet Bag Method
For on-the-go storage, wet bags are perfect. These waterproof pouches hold dirty diapers until you return home.
Benefits:
- Portable and convenient
- Contains moisture and odors
- Machine washable with your diapers
Keep a few wet bags in your diaper bag and in locations around the house where you change your baby.
Odor Control Tips
- Leave the container open to allow airflow, which helps slow the growth of bacteria.
- Keep the container in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources. Avoid storing it in the bathroom, as moisture can promote mildew and odors.
- Allow dirty diapers to air dry before placing them in the container.
- Add a few drops of tea tree oil to your container to naturally combat odors (never directly on diapers)
Choose the right detergent
Using the right detergent is crucial for maintaining your cloth diapers' absorbency and longevity. Regular detergents may contain additives that can build up on cloth diapers and cause repelling.
What to Look for in a Cloth Diaper Detergent
Recommended Ingredients:
- Surfactants for effective cleaning
- Enzymes to break down organic matter
- Water softeners for hard water areas
Avoid Ingredients:
- Fabric softeners (reduce absorbency)
- Optical brighteners (can irritate skin)
- Heavy fragrances (potential irritants)
Cloth-Specific Detergent
Specially formulated for cloth diapers with the right balance of cleaning power
Examples: Rockin' Green (Classic Rock, Hard Rock, Dirty Diaper), Allen's Naturally
Free & Clear Detergent
Regular detergents without dyes or fragrances
Examples: Tide Free & Gentle, Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin
Powdered Detergent
Known for effective cleaning and easy rinsing
Examples: Tide Original Powder, Arm & Hammer
Caution
Avoid homemade detergents, as they may not clean properly.
Water Hardness Matters
Hard water can make detergents less effective and leave mineral deposits on diapers. Consider testing your water hardness to determine if you need a water softener and/or a detergent formulated for hard water conditions.
Wash cloth diapers
Washing Frequency
Wash diapers every 2 to 3 days to prevent mold, mildew, and ammonia buildup.
A proper washing routine is essential for clean, sanitized, and absorbent cloth diapers. Follow these steps for best results:
Cloth Diaper Washing Routine
Remove Inserts
Remove the inserts from the pocket before washing to ensure thorough cleaning. You do not need to undo the rise snaps; leave them set to your baby's current size.
Pre-Wash Cycle
Start with a cold-water rinse or short wash without detergent to remove urine and solid residue. Use water at a maximum of 86°F/30°C (hot water would set stains). Spin at a minimum of 1200 RPM.
Main Wash Cycle
Use a warm or hot water cycle (max 104°F/40°C) with a cloth-diaper-safe detergent. Select a long, heavy-duty cycle (at least 90 minutes) for thorough cleaning. Load should be about two-thirds full for proper agitation and cleaning. Include other items like pajamas, bibs, and reusable wipes if needed. Always use the highest water level for effective rinsing. Spin at a minimum of 1200 RPM.
What to Avoid When Washing Cloth Diapers
To keep your cloth diapers absorbent and long-lasting, avoid using:
- Borax (use Calgon instead)
- Bleach (oxygen or chlorine)
- Fabric softeners
- Laundry boosters
- Pure soap
- Dryer sheets
- Sanitize cycles or high heat cycles in HE machines
Troubleshooting: If Diapers Smell After Washing
- Not enough detergent: Increase the amount to fully clean the diapers.
- Machine too full or too empty: Aim for a balanced load (about two-thirds full).
- Skipping the pre-wash: A cold pre-wash (at least 30 minutes) removes waste before the main wash.
- Wash cycle too short: Use a long, heavy-duty cycle (at least 90 minutes).
Tips for Hard Water
- Use a water softener like Calgon or a detergent formulated for hard water.
- Do not add water softener to the fabric softener compartment; it dispenses during the final rinse and will not be effective. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
- Extra rinses are not recommended.
Dry cloth diapers
The way you dry your cloth diapers can significantly impact their longevity and performance. Here are the best practices for drying:
Line Drying (Preferred)
Hang dry whenever possible to protect the diapers' elasticity and waterproofing.
Benefits:
- Energy-efficient and eco-friendly
- Sun naturally helps remove stains
- Extends the life of the elastics and the waterproof cover
Machine Drying (If Necessary)
If you must use a dryer, use a low-heat tumble dryer setting to minimize damage.
Guidelines:
- Avoid high heat (weakens the elastics and the waterproof layer of the diaper)
- Never use dryer sheets (reduces absorbency)
- Wait until fully cooled before stuffing pockets
Important Warning
Do not dry diapers or inserts on radiators. Intense, direct heat can damage the waterproof outer layer, weaken the elastics, and deteriorate the fabric of the inserts.
Stain Removal Tip
The sun is a natural and effective bleaching agent that helps remove stains. When sun-drying:
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1Position the lining (the fabric that touches your baby's skin) directly under sunlight for best results.
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2Keep the waterproof outer layer in indirect sunlight to prevent damage from UV rays and high heat.
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3Avoid leaving the diapers in the sun longer than necessary to maintain their quality.
Do not iron cloth diapers
Warning
Ironing is not recommended to preserve the integrity and longevity of Bonjour Babies cloth diapers, as high heat can damage the waterproof materials and elastics.
Why Ironing Damages Cloth Diapers
Melts the Waterproof Layer: High heat from an iron can melt the waterproof coating on the outer layer of the diaper, making it ineffective at preventing leaks.
Weakens Elastics: Heat from ironing can damage the elastics around the legs and waist, reducing their effectiveness and causing leaks.
Damages Snaps: Snaps can be warped or melted under the heat of an iron.
Instead of Ironing
If your cloth diapers are wrinkled and you'd like to smooth them out:
- Hang them properly on a line or drying rack while still damp.
- Smooth out wrinkles with your hands before hanging to dry.
Store cloth diapers for the long-term
If you need to store your cloth diapers for an extended period (between babies or for seasonal changes), proper storage is important to maintain their quality and functionality.
Long-Term Storage Steps
Clean Thoroughly
Wash and thoroughly dry the diapers as you normally would. Ensure they are completely dry to prevent mold and mildew.
Choose Breathable Containers
Place them in breathable containers, such as cotton bags, pillowcases, or cardboard boxes, to allow airflow. Avoid tightly sealed bags that could trap moisture.
Find the Right Location
Store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and with minimal temperature fluctuations. Avoid areas like attics, which may become too hot; unheated garages, which may become too cold; or basements, which can be too damp.
Wash Before Reuse
Wash the diapers again before reuse.
Storage Tips
- Consider placing silica gel packets in the storage container to absorb any excess moisture.
- Check stored diapers periodically for any signs of mold, mildew, or pests.
How to prevent cloth diaper leaks
Leaks are one of the most common concerns with cloth diapers. Fortunately, most leaking issues can be resolved with proper preparation, fit, and maintenance. Here are eight key strategies to prevent leaks:
Still Experiencing Leaks?
If you're still experiencing recurring leaks after trying these solutions, please reach out to our support team. We are always happy to help and will work with you to find the best solution.