What did I do wrong during my first nappy changes?
For some it might be straightforward but for me it wasn't! I still recall my first cloth nappy change experience with my first baby. With little knowledge but with a strong will, I thought I did it the right way but I was wrong. I still remember him leaking from the sides with the cloth nappy sagging from the bottom. My son was a heavy wetter and the fit was extremely important to be done correctly so as to avoid leaks. Although confused I knew it wasn't the cloth nappy's fault, but the fit of the nappy had to be adjusted.
From that moment, I knew that having a cloth nappy that fits properly is incredibly important especially if you want to prevent leaks. Unfortunately, I still meet a lot of parents that get discouraged by cloth nappies because of this common issue that they experience in the beginning. It can be so easy if you know from the start how to get the best fit.
Here I would like to share tips with photos attached below, that will let you know you've got a good cloth nappy fit every time.
Make sure the back elastic is sitting just above the child's bottom and then lift the front of the nappy forward above the hips and under the belly button.
Make sure the leg elastics between the thigh and the nappy are right inside the groin crease. If you can see any gaps, you want to make sure your cloth nappy is a bit more secure so as to prevent anything from coming out.
The inserts and liners should be firmly secured against the baby and sitting flat with no gaps or parts hanging out to avoid liquid from coming out.
Hold the front in place as you stretch the elastic on the wings outward and then bring back towards the waistband to find the corresponding snap that comfortably meets around the waist. For easier closing at the front, you can opt for the Velcro option.
Push the excess fabric between the row of the snaps upward to be tucked flat and neatly inside the shell.
Have your nappy tight enough so no liquid escapes, but loose enough that you can slide in a finger.
I am sure these guidelines will help you get the best fit. Remember that you don't always get it right immediately especially if you are trying something new like cloth diapering. I can assure you that with a strong will and some trial and error you will get it. Hence, test a few different sizing options to see what is working best in terms of comfort and absorbency and you should be fine. Don't be concerned if your baby is already on the largest settings, chubbiness if generally before 12 months and they slim down as they begin to walk and reach toddler years. If you are still having leaks, please make sure you have the right absorbency for your baby. Check the inserts are absorbent enough for your baby.
If you still have any questions or feel unsure, please feel free to contact us on our socials or email us on hello@ikkuluriti.com and we will be happy to guide you through and go through this together!