💧 Cloth Diaper Leak Troubleshooting Guide
Leaks happen—even with the best cloth diapers. But don’t worry! Let’s figure out the culprit so you can get back to leak-free diapering joy.
🧪 1. Check the Fit
A snug fit is key! If the diaper is too loose or too tight, leaks can sneak out.
What to check:
- Leg gaps: There should be no visible space around the thighs. Run a finger around the leg elastic—it should be snug but not tight.
- Waist: It should lie flat against baby's tummy without gaps or red marks.
- Rise settings (on one-size diapers): If the rise is set too low or too high, it can affect fit and cause leaks.
Fix it:
- Adjust the rise snaps.
- Try a different fold for prefolds/flats.
- Make sure the absorbent insert is tucked fully inside the cover.
💧 2. Check Absorbency
Sometimes, the diaper just can’t hold it all!
What to check:
- How long has it been on? Most cloth diapers need changing every 2–3 hours.
- Flooding? Some babies pee all at once. That might overwhelm the absorbency quickly.
- Nighttime leaks? You probably need extra absorbency for overnight.
- Boy leaks up front? Girl leaks in the middle/back? Position absorbency where baby wets most.
Fix it:
- Add a booster or insert.
- Use natural fibers (cotton, bamboo, hemp) for heavier wetters.
- Change more frequently.
- For nighttime, try a fitted diaper with a cover.
🚫 3. Repelling Issues
If liquid is beading up and rolling off the diaper rather than absorbing, repelling is the problem.
What to check:
- Do the inserts absorb water when you pour some on?
- Are your stay-dry liners or fleece covers saturated or dry?
- Do you use fabric softeners or diaper creams? These can coat fabrics and cause repelling.
Fix it:
- Strip the diapers to remove build-up.
- Switch to cloth-safe creams and detergent.
- Avoid dryer sheets and fabric softener.
🚿 4. Check for Build-Up or Ammonia Smell
Build-up can block absorbency and stink.
What to check:
- Smelly diapers right after peeing? That’s ammonia build-up.
- Are your diapers not fully rinsing clean in the wash?
- Does your water feel hard?
Fix it:
- Strip and deep clean your diapers.
- Adjust your wash routine, make sure there’s enough detergent and rinsing.
- Consider using a water softener if you have hard water.
🛡️ 5. Wicking from Clothes
Sometimes the problem isn’t the diaper—it’s the clothing.
What to check:
- Is baby’s onesie or pants damp around the legs or tummy?
- Is the insert or prefold peeking out?
- Is fabric (like cotton leggings or tight onesies) touching the wet diaper shell?
Fix it:
- Use looser clothing or diaper-friendly clothes.
- Make sure no absorbent material is sticking out.
- Use diaper covers with leg and back elastics that seal moisture in.
🧵 6. Worn Out or Damaged Diapers
Even the best cloth diapers have a lifespan.
What to check:
- Elastics: Are they stretched out or loose?
- PUL/TPU: Any cracks, bubbling, or delamination?
- Seams: Are the leg or waist seams still tight?
Fix it:
- Replace or repair damaged diapers.
- Consider refreshing your stash with new or gently used pieces.
✨ Final Tips
- Keep a log of when leaks happen—this helps spot patterns.
- Don’t give up! Small adjustments often solve the problem.
- Join cloth diapering communities (like Cloth Joy’s!) for extra support.
