Frequently Asked Questions

So you are thinking of using cloth nappies....

Here at Nappy Days we understand that your new nappies are a significant investment and we want to make sure that you make the right decision and choose nappies that are going to suit your baby.

Every baby is a different shape and size. They have different wetting habits and sleep for different lengths of time. They have different shaped legs, they have different sized tummies and are all different lengths.  So with this in mind, it shouldn't surprise you that they will have different needs and that all nappies are different so will not suit all babies.

We also understand that everyone's washing routines are different and we all use different washing solutions.  So every now and then there are questions about washing, smelly nappies, leaking nappies, One Size nappies, the difference between our nappies and lots more. 

To make it really easy for everyone, we have a whole list of questions we get asked at different times about different nappy issues be it choosing nappies, using nappies or washing nappies so we have developed this page as a 'Trouble Shooting Guide to Cloth Nappies'.  If you have any other questions that are not listed below, then please send us a message and we will be able to assist you.

We will add to this page as time goes on but for now it might seem like a bit of a novel - so grab a coffee, sit down and have a read.

Choosing a Cloth Nappy Questions and Answers:

Q: What is the difference between the Bamboozle and the Easyfit?

The Easy Fit and the Bamboozle are completely different styles of nappies.  The Easyfit is a one piece nappy (All in One) and the Bamboozle is a two-piece system (Fitted Nappy with Waterproof Wrap).

The Bamboozle is by far our most absorbent, most poonami-proof and reliable nappy.  Because the waterproof outer is separate from the nappy this gives extra protection by providing a second containment barrier.  Also it has lots of absorbency and an additional pop in booster as well.  Because it is a two-piece nappy it provides the best overall containment for newborn poo explosions and will often mean less bedding changes because it gives the best performance overall for everything a newborn will throw at it.  It will out perform the Easyfit nappy every time especially on babies with skinny thighs when used with the correct sized wrap (waterproof outer).  The Bamboozle is also very popular as a night nappy and is commonly used for heavy wetters. Size 1 can hold up to 575ml, Size 2 can hold up to 715ml and Size 3 can hold up to 855ml.

The Easyfit is our easy to use nappy.  It is a one piece and simple to put on.  It is most popular with Dads, daycares and Grandmas because it has no extra bits and is the most simple system to get on.  The Easyfits won't provide the same containment that you will get with a two piece system (Bamboozle) and it has less absorbent layers to make a nice trim fitting nappy.  It can be used with an optional additional booster to increase absorbency. The Easyfit's can hold up to 385ml.
 

Q: Which nappy is going to be best for my baby?

This is a common question. 

Every baby is a different shape and size. They have different wetting habits and sleep for different lengths of time. So it is really important before you wash all of your nappies to make sure they are going to suit your baby. The best thing you can do is grab one of our trial packs to have a go with when you are ready to start using cloth nappies.  This means that you can actually try the nappies on your baby before you commit to a style of nappy.  We also suggest setting yourself up for the first year of the babies life and then re look at what will suit them when they are growing into the next size as their needs may be quite different then.

If you do purchase a big pack of the nappies before the baby is born, there are a couple of things you can do so we can make sure you are getting the best nappies for your baby.  If you just wash a couple of nappies out of your pack and keep the rest of your nappies new and unwashed then we can swap them to a different style of nappy that may be more suited to your baby if you find you prefer one style over another. But once the nappies are washed - the nappies then become used and secondhand so we cannot swap them over for something else and only the manufacturers warranty will apply. For example, if a one-size nappy leaks because your baby is too small for them or your baby is a heavy wetter the warranty does not cover leakage or a nappy not fitting a baby properly.

To clarify and put your nappy purchase in to perspective, if you purchase a new t-shirt for yourself and take it home and try it on without washing or wearing it then you can take it back to the shop for a credit and swap it for something else.  However if you wash the top then you are unable to take it back unless there is a manufacturers fault.  The same goes for cloth nappies once they are washed you cannot return it unless there is a manufacturers fault.

So before you pop all of your new nappies in the wash, we strongly suggest that you wash just a couple to try to start with as nobody can predict what will and will not work on your new baby until you try the nappies out.

Our Exchange Policy is as follows: All UNUSED, UNWORN and UNWASHED items may be exchanged for products of the same value within 30 days of purchase. Any item that appears to be worn or washed or smells like it has been used or washed in detergent will not be exchanged as it is deemed to be secondhand.
 

Q: Can I use the nappies from birth?

Yes, definitely. For early teeny babies you can use the Teenyfits or we would recommend the size 1 Bamboozle stretch. For average size babies 8lbs plus go straight into the Easyfits or the size 2 Bamboozle Stretch.
 

Q: What does AIO mean?

All in One! This means that the waterproof layer is permanently attached to the nappy and no need to fumble around at 3 am in the morning for a separate waterproof cover….oh how we love those night changes!
 

Q: Do you have to use a wrap with the All in Ones?

No, you only need wraps with the two-piece nappies (Bamboozles).
 

Q: For the two piece nappies, Bamboozles, do I need to use a clean wrap with every nappy change?

No simply re-use with the next nappy and expect to change it once a day with a toddler, a couple of times a day with a new born and sooner if it gets poo on it. The PeeNut wraps have a wipe-clean coating, meaning any mess can be easily wiped off before using over a clean Bamboozle.
 

Q: What is the best nappy for a heavy wetter?

The Bamboozle is the best nappy for a heavy wetter because the whole nappy is absorbent and it already includes additional absorbent layers that are removable using poppers inside the nappy.  You can also add 1 or 2 additional boosters to the nappy to increase the absorbency without compromising the fit around the leg because the waterproof outer is separate.  Where as with a one piece nappy, you can only add so much absorbency before you will cause the leg to gape which can result in leaks.
 

Q: What is the best option for a night nappy?

This is the same as for heavy wetters.  The Bamboozle is the best nappy for using at night time because the whole nappy is absorbent and it already includes additional absorbent layers that are removable using poppers inside the nappy.  You can also add 1 or 2 additional boosters to the nappy to increase the absorbency without compromising the fit around the leg because the waterproof outer is separate.
 

Q: What size will the Size 1 bamboozle nappies fit up until?

Approximately 6 months, maybe less and often longer, it all depends on birth size and if your baby is a monster munch or a little nibbler.
 

Q: What size wrap should I use?

We have 3 sizes of TotsBots wraps:

• Size 1 (2.5 - 8kg) - this wrap fits with our size 1 Bamboozle nappy. Great fit for newborns and smaller babies.
• Size 2 (4.5 - 16kgs) - this wrap fits with our size 2 Bamboozle nappy. A one size fits most option.
• Size 3 (16kg +) - This is a great side for the older toddler/ preschooler that hasn't yet trained, or needing a night nappy option. For use over the size 3 Bamboozle only.

Q: What is the difference between Sized and One Size nappies?

Basically, a one size fits most nappy is used from birth to toilet training and is often referred to as OSFA which means "One Size Fits All" or more often nowadays they are referred to as OSFM which means "One Size Fits Most".
The obvious advantage of birth-to-potty sized nappies (the Easyfit and Bamboozle size 2) is that parents only need to buy one set of nappies. There is no doubt that this makes them extremely convenient.

However, when using a birth-to-potty size nappy on a newborn - in the early days, the nappy may look out of proportion. It is made to fit a newborn and a toddler, so you may go through stages where the nappy does not always fit perfectly and you may get some leakage.

With all birth-to-potty nappies there is always a compromise to be made for those babies at either ends of the weight and length chart. We find that the birth-to-potty options we have (the Easyfit and Bamboozle size 2) are great on 90% of newborn babies. However on long skinny babies we sometime see leg gape and this can result in leaks until the baby puts on a few layers of fat. This is easy to solve, if you are expecting a smaller baby, buy size 1 Bamboozle or pop a TotsBots Wrap over the top of an Easyfit when you go out and about to cover this initial period. And as babies grow so fast, they will grow into the nappy quite quickly and you will get lots of use out of them when they are a bit bigger.

One Size nappies will only last for one child simply because they are washed twice as many times as a sized nappy system.  You will need to invest in a new set of nappies if you have another baby.

The advantages of using our sized nappies is that they fit properly at all stages.  Also if you have more than one child, you may get use out of a sized system for a second child if you look after your nappies and have enough in rotation so they are not over laundered.  The general rule is that if you have more nappies they are washed less so they last longer where as if you have less nappies they are washed more and so their life expectancy is shorter.

Also if you have 2 children in nappies you can have the older one in the bigger size and the smaller one in the smaller size at the same time.
 

Q: Do I need to buy boosters for my nappies?

Boosters are used to provide extra absorbency. One of the advantages of using cloth nappies (as compared to using disposable nappies) is that you can adjust the absorbency by adding in extra fabric in the form of a booster.

They are generally used at night time to add absorbency to the nappy, extending the nappy's overall capacity. Some parents never need to use them because the nappy's absorbency is enough - others add a booster or two as part of their night-time nappy combination.  Other parents use a booster in most changes if they have a heavy wetter.
 

Q: What is Binky?

It is Bamboo & Cotton blend on the upper side which is nice and natural next to baby's skin. The supersoft, fast-drying Minky is tucked away on the lower side, and does a very good job of storing away all the wetness.
 

Q: Which nappy is the most absorbent?

The Bamboozle Stretch wins for performance and are best for overnight use.
 

Q: How much will I need to spend in total?

Check out our packages to figure out the cost for your baby depending on how often you intend using cloth nappies. Remember, it doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing approach! Even if you were to just add in a couple of reusable nappies into your disposable routine - the savings add up!
 

Q: How many nappies will I need in total?

You will need 15 – 20 depending on how often you want to wash. If you plan to wash daily 15 will be fine, If not then it is a good idea to get some more.  We suggest you wash daily to prevent the nappies from getting smelly.
 

Q: Will the nappies last for more than one baby?

That depends, the nappies endure a lot of peeing, pooing and washing, eventually they will wear out. If however you have a full set of nappies (and that means buying about 20-25), you never tumble dry, never soak, wash at 30 degrees constantly and wash within a day of soiling then you may find that your nappies will be reusable for another child.
 

Using Cloth Nappies Questions and Answers

 

Q: Do you have to use a wrap with the All in Ones?

No, you only need wraps with the two-piece nappies.
 

Q: For the two piece nappies, Bamboozles, do I need to use a clean wrap with every nappy change?

No simply re-use with the next nappy and expect to change it once a day with a toddler, a couple of times a day with a newborn. PeeNut Stretchywraps can be easily wiped clean between uses.
 

Q: What size will the Size 1 bamboozle nappies fit up until?

Approximately 6 months, maybe less and often longer, it all depends on birth size and If your baby is a monster munch or a little nibbler.
 

Q: What about Nappy Rash?

Cloth reusable nappies are no more likely to cause nappy rash than disposables. A recent survey conducted by Bristol University into nappy rash concluded that "disposable nappies give little protection" and that "the type of nappy worn did not emerge as a significant factor".
 

Q: Will I need to use a barrier cream?

Only if the baby needs it and if they do, make sure you use a liner, to prevent as much build up as possible.  Build up in the nappies can be difficult to get off and can cause absorption problems.
 

Q: If I use cream on my babies bottom, will this effect my nappies?

Yes over time it will have an effect on your nappies.  Barrier creams, oils and bottom balms will build up over time, it can build up in a liner used in the nappy as well and then will eventually coat the absorbent fibers in your nappy reducing their absorbency and could eventually cause them to leak through the seams. When using a barrier cream you must always use a liner but this does not guarantee that your nappies will not suffer from a build up.  It seems to happen worse with synthetic fabrics over natural fabrics so if you notice your nappies begin to leak or liquid just runs across the top and does not get absorbed, you will need to strip-wash the nappies.
 

Q: Do I need to buy boosters for my nappies?

Boosters / Inserts are used to provide extra absorbency. One of the advantages of using cloth nappies (as compared to using disposable nappies) is that you can adjust the absorbency by adding in extra fabric in the form of a booster.

Our booster are three layers of bamboo sewn together. They are generally used at night time to add absorbency to the nappy extending the nappy's overall capacity. Some parents never need to use them because the nappy's absorbency is enough and others add a booster or two as part of their night-time nappy combination.  Other parents use a booster in most changes if they have a heavy wetter.

Q: What is Binky?

It features Bamboo & Cotton blend on the upper side which is nice and natural next to baby's skin. The supersoft, fast-drying Minky is tucked away on the lower side, and does a very good job of storing away all the wetness.
 

Q: Which nappy is the most absorbent?

The Bamboozle Stretch wins for performance and are best for overnight use.
 

Q: My Tots Bots nappies look bulky compared to disposables, won’t my baby be uncomfortable?

Disposables have only been around since the 70’s and before then every baby wore cloth with no adverse effect of discomfort. In actual fact when toddling cloth is best as it gives a nice padded landing.
 

Q: I have heard that babies potty train earlier when using cloth, is this true?

On the whole yes. There is a slight delay between your little one weeing, and absorption of the wee in cloth, so that toddlers learn to associate the wetness with peeing sooner than they do in disposables, therefore speeding up potty training.
 

Q: How often will I need to change the nappies?

A newborn baby can need changing 8-10 times per day. Once weaned this can reduce to 5-6. Toddlers only need about 3-4 nappies per day.
 

Q: How many nappies will I need in total?

You will need 15 – 20 depending on how often you want to wash. If you plan to wash daily 15 will be fine, If not then it is a good idea to get some more.  We suggest you wash daily to prevent the nappies from getting smelly.
 

Q: Do I have to use liners?

Not necessarily but it does help to protect baby’s skin from irritation and make cleaning up easier. Once the nappy has been soiled, lift the liner out of the nappy and tip the poo into the toilet. The liner can now be disposed of (if paper) or washed (if fleece). Use a paper or fleece liner but not both.

If baby is wearing any kind of oil, cream or balm - liners must be used to prevent build up of product on the nappy which reduces the absorption and can lead to leaks.

 

Q: Should I use Paper or Fleece Liners?

This depends on whether convenience is most important. You can flush away your paper liners, which is the ultimate convenience with cloth nappies. However fleece liners act as a one-way barrier helping keep your baby's bottom dry. It's not a bad idea to have both in your set.
 

Q: My baby sleeps through should I wake her to change her nappy?

Wow lucky you! The saying let sleeping dogs lie also applies to babies! Just make sure you use a stay dry liner and if the nappy is totally sodden in the morning then boosting is a good idea.
 

Q: Will the nappies last for more than one baby?

That depends, the nappies endure a lot of peeing, pooing and washing, eventually they will wear out. If however you have a full set of nappies, and that means buying about 20-25, you never tumble dry, never soak, wash at 30 constantly and wash within a day of soiling then you may find that your nappies will be reusable for another child.
 

Q: Why are my Easyfit Nappies Leaking?

The Easy Fit is a one-size-fits-most nappy and as with all one-size pieces of clothing it will not fit all babies perfectly all the time because all babies are different shapes and sizes.  However the benefit is that because it is one size, if you find you are having the odd leak, you can pop a cover over top of the Easyfit to give a second containment layer while your baby grows into the next adjustment.

Or if you find that your nappy is leaking through the stitching then you either need to boost the nappy to add absorbency or try a Bamboozle for more absorbency. If you have been using any bum creams and/or washing with cold water it is possible you have coated the absorbent fabrics and you need to strip-wash the nappy. 
 

Washing and Cloth Nappy Care Questions and Answers:

Q: How many nappies will make up a full load?

For optimum performance do not overload your machine, no more than 15 nappies at a time.
 

Q: How much Potion should I use?

We suggest around 1 - 2 heaped tablespoons per load.

Q: Can I wash my nappies with other clothing?

Yes you can.  It is more environmentally friendly that way.  Just make sure you rinse you nappies properly before putting the in the bucket and perhaps run a rinse cycle before you pop all the clothes in with the nappies and the detergent.
 

Q: My nappies still smell of wee after washing them how can I get rid of this?

Do a 60 degree wash in Potion and an extra rinse and this should get rid of the smell.

To prevent further build up soak nappies in water before washing and do not leave for more than one day. Make sure nappies are bone dry, store in an airing cupboard. Line dry too as the sunlight not only bleaches stains it is also kills bacteria which can build up in nappies and cause a smell.
 

Q: Can I use fabric conditioner on my nappies?

No, it coats the fibres and reduces absorbency.
 

Q: Can I bleach the nappies?

No. If you find your nappies are still stained after washing, reduce the time in between washes and get as much poo off before you pop them in the bucket. Wash in Potion at 60 degrees and best of all, line dry – sunlight works wonders!
 

Q: How long do the nappies take to dry in winter?

Warm Airing Cupboard:

• Easyfit – 3-4 hrs
• Bamboozles – 12 hrs approx

Q: Can I tumble dry?

Yes, always on the cool setting but really there is no need to tumble the wraps or the Easyfits
 

Q: How do I strip-wash my nappies?

There are a couple of things you can do to strip your nappies depending on the possible cause of a build up in your nappies

If you have a greasy build up from oils and bottom balm you may need to use something to degrease the nappies.  What we suggest is using a dishwashing liquid with no moisturisers in it.  Firstly wet the absorbent part of the nappy.  Put about a teaspoon of the liquid spread across the wet fabric and then rub the fabric against itself to get a nice soapy lather.  Then hand rinse the nappies until there is no soap suds coming out of the nappies.  Pop the nappies through a hot wash (up to 60 degrees) with a small amount of good quality laundry liquid or use Tots Bots Potion and then hang out to dry.

If you are finding the nappies have become quite smelly and you are using washing powders and washing on cold water, you most likely have a build up of washing powder residue in your nappies.  What we suggest is to give the nappies a soak in warm water with a bit of Potion or Earthwise non fragranced laundry liquid for about an hour and then pop the nappies through a hot wash with the water you used to soak them in if possible, don't add any more detergent.  Then do an additional rinse to finish off and hang them on the line to dry.  You may need to do this for a couple of days to ensure you get all of the nappies stripped out.
 

Q: My nappies are stained what should I do?

Get them out in full sunlight this will get rid of any newborn poo stains.  We have had some very bedraggled little nappies come home to us and it just makes us sad to hear what some people do to them to keep them white or stain free. Repeat after us “whiter than white simply ain’t right”! The nappies are there to catch waste and over time they may become stained, this is to be accepted and is not a fault.

To top if off listed below is our full list of do's and don'ts for washing cloth nappies.  It is not that hard really but we want you to get the best out of your nappies so the better you treat them the longer they will last.
 

Nappy Days Do’s and Don’ts Care Info

Nappies undergo quite a bit of laundering in their lifetime. They spend a lot of time in wet acidic or alkaline solutions. Combined with high wash temperatures and excessive tumble drying these will all take their toll and can shorten the lifespan of your nappies. To get the most out of your nappies follow our Do’s and Don’ts.
 

Do’s

• Follow the wash care instructions on the label.
• Soak your nappies for 24 hours in cold water only, to kick start your nappies absorbency and then pop them through a normal wash and they will be good to go!
• Fold back the hook and loop laundry tabs as they will damage your nappies in the wash otherwise. Unfolded laundry tabs are a major cause of fabric balding so please, please use them.
• Use a one way liner. This will protect your babies bottom by keeping it dry and it will protect your nappy from staining especially from the dreaded bright yellow breastfed poo! It also makes getting rid of poo easier, not to be underestimated.
• If you are not using a liner get as much poo off the nappies as you can before putting them into the nappy bucket by sluicing i.e. holding in the flush of the toilet.
• Use a laundry mesh. It makes getting all those dirty nappies into the washing machine a breeze AND it saves you from having to touch them. Always a bonus with those extra poopy nappies!
• Use non-biological powders as they are better for both baby and the environment. There is also an enzyme present in some bio detergents, which is corrosive to bamboo fiber and cotton. It works by digesting the stains out of your nappies but unfortunately takes the fabric with it! For best results you could try our specially formulated nappy wash powder. Tots Bots Potion is available on our website.
• Line dry whenever you can. Not only will sunlight bleach stains out of your nappies but the UV radiation will kill bacteria too. You can tumble dry the nappies on a cool setting if needed but buy some pegs and save your pennies! 

Don’ts

• IMPORTANT: Barrier creams, oils and bottom balms will coat the fibers in your nappy reducing their absorbency and will cause them to leak. When using a barrier cream you must always use a liner but this does not guarantee that your nappies will not suffer from a build up. If you notice your nappies begin to leak or liquid just runs across the top and does not get absorbed, you will need to strip the nappies. Read above for more information.
• Don’t leave them for more than 2 days before washing if you want to reduce the chance of nappies staying stained or getting really smelly. Daily washing is best for the nappies.
• Don’t use fabric softeners or any oil as this leaves a residue, which coats the fabric fibre and decreases the absorbency of the nappy.
• Don't use wash-powder with optical brighteners
• Don't use Ecoballs or Soapnuts
• Don’t soak your nappies in harsh stain removers. If you do have a pile of very stinky nappies and want to soak, use either water or a mild solution of our own powder, Potion as it has been specially formulated for use with nappies.
• Don’t use bleach or other harsh stain removers. They will shorten the lifespan of your nappies and will void your guarantee.
• Don’t use pastes of wash powder and apply direct to stains, this is too concentrated.
• Don’t wash your nappies in dishwasher tabs!! (Yes we do see it being recommended, would you wear knickers that had been washed in dishwasher powder?)
• Don’t boil wash. If you are worried about bacteria, leave your nappies in bright sunlight, even a frost in winter-time is fantastic.
• Bicarbonate of Soda and Vinegar can dissolve cotton and bamboo fibres. Whilst a lot of nappy websites recommend using them to sanitize and soften nappies they will drastically shorten their lifespan and render your guarantee void.