How to fit cloth nappies

Cloth nappies are designed to fit snug and low, like underwear. Getting the right fit can take a little practice. Use our guide to help prevent leaks, ensure your child is comfortable, and prevent clothing and linen changes.

Fitting a modern cloth nappy, step by step

Tips for the fitting and sizing cloth nappies

  • Check that the nappy covers the bum crack to stop poo from escaping at the back, and the nappy is high enough at the front, this is especially important for boys.
  • For boys, make sure the penis is pointed down, and add more absorbency at the front.
  • For girls, add more absorbency to the crutch of the nappy.
  • Squeeze the nappy, so it sits in the creases and underwear line.
  • Check that the elastics sit in the leg creases and there are no gaps.
  • Check that the nappy isn’t too tight around the legs and the waist.

Red marks

Gentle pink marks, like sock marks, are fine. Anything darker or marks that do not disappear within a reasonable time, means the nappy is too tight.

Using rise snaps

One size fits most (OSFM) nappies have rise snaps. Rise snaps enable you to adjust the nappy fit as your baby grows.

Leaving rise snaps undone on a small baby results in a loose and bulky fit and can cause leaks.

If there isn’t enough room to add more inserts into the nappy when using a low-rise* snapped OSFM nappy, undo the rise snaps and add more absorbency. The additional room created will accommodate the added absorbency.

*low rise means the nappies is made to be smaller

Video guide for fitting modern cloth nappies

9 months OSFM fit video
Newborn fit video