You might be wondering if using cloth nappies overnight is really worth it. Here’s why so many parents make the switch:
✔️ Eco-Friendly – You’ll save hundreds of disposables from landfill every year.
✔️ Cost-Effective – Investing in a solid night-time setup means no more midnight runs for disposable nappies.
✔️ Gentle on Skin – Cloth nappies allow better airflow and don’t contain the chemicals found in disposables, reducing the risk of nappy rash.
✔️ Highly Absorbent – With the right combination, cloth nappies can last all night without leaks.
What Type of Cloth Nappies Work Best at Night?
Not all cloth nappies are created equal when it comes to nighttime. The key is choosing highly absorbent materials that can last for long stretches without needing a change. Here are the best options:
1. Fitted Nappies + Wool or PUL Covers
Fitted nappies are fully absorbent (not just the insert) and can hold a lot of liquid. Pairing them with a wool or PUL (polyurethane laminate) cover ensures waterproof protection. Great for heavy wetters!
✔️ Best for: Heavy wetters, long nights
✔️ Absorbent materials: Bamboo, hemp, cotton
2. Pocket Nappies with Extra Inserts
Pocket nappies allow you to customise absorbency by adding extra inserts. They’re a good option for moderate wetters but may need extra boosting for heavy-wetting babies.
✔️ Best for: Moderate wetters, parents who like flexibility
✔️ Boost with: Hemp or bamboo inserts under microfibre for faster absorption
3. All-in-Ones with Boosters
All-in-one (AIO) nappies are the easiest to use but often need extra boosters at night. Look for AIOs with high-capacity absorbent cores and room for additional inserts.
✔️ Best for: Parents who prefer simplicity
✔️ Boost with: Extra bamboo or hemp inserts
Boosting Absorbency: The Secret to Leak-Free Nights
Even the most absorbent night-time nappy may need a little extra help. Here’s how to maximise absorbency:
Use Natural Fabrics: Bamboo and hemp hold more liquid than microfibre. Layer hemp under faster-absorbing fabrics like cotton or microfibre for the best performance.
Add Boosters: If your nappy isn’t lasting overnight, try adding an extra booster between the nappy and the cover.
Double Up Inserts: Layering inserts (e.g., a bamboo insert on top of a hemp insert) helps slow absorbency while locking in more liquid.
Try Wool Covers: Wool is naturally water-resistant and breathable. Lanolized wool covers work as a second waterproof layer, reducing leaks while keeping your baby comfortable.
Preventing Leaks: Top Tips for a Dry Night
Ensure a Snug Fit – Make sure the nappy fits well around the legs and waist without being too tight. A loose fit can lead to leaks.
Check for Wicking – If clothes feel damp, the moisture might be wicking out. Try a different cover or boost the absorbency.
Point the Bits Down – For baby boys, make sure their bits are pointing downward to prevent leaks at the waistband.
Try a Stay-Dry Liner – Some babies dislike feeling wet, which can wake them up. A fleece or stay-dry liner keeps them comfortable.
Common Night-Time Cloth Nappy Problems & Solutions
❌ Problem: Nappy is leaking before morning
✅ Solution: Increase absorbency by adding boosters or switching to a fitted nappy with a wool cover.
❌ Problem: Baby wakes up feeling wet and uncomfortable
✅ Solution: Use a fleece liner to keep moisture away from the skin.
❌ Problem: Nappy is too bulky and causing discomfort
✅ Solution: Try hemp inserts—they’re slim but super absorbent.
❌ Problem: Strong ammonia smell in the morning
✅ Solution: Make sure nappies are washed properly with a full rinse cycle. Stripping nappies occasionally can help remove build-up.
Final Thoughts: Making Night-Time Cloth Nappies Work for You
Using cloth nappies at night might take some trial and error, but once you find the right setup, you’ll enjoy the benefits of a leak-free, cost-effective, and eco-friendly routine. The key is absorbency, fit, and a reliable waterproof cover—get those right, and you’ll have dry nights ahead!
Are you using cloth nappies overnight? Have any tips or questions? Drop them in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!