How to Start Cloth Diapering: A Complete Beginner's Guide
Why Choose Cloth Diapers?
More and more parents are making the switch to cloth diapers — and for good reason. Cloth diapering can save your family thousands of dollars over the diapering years, reduce your environmental footprint, and keep harsh chemicals away from your baby's sensitive skin. If you're curious about getting started, this guide walks you through everything you need to know.
Step 1: Choose Your Diaper Style
There are several great styles to choose from, each with its own advantages:
- All-in-One (AIO) — The closest thing to a disposable. Everything is sewn together, no stuffing required. Great for daycare and caregivers. Try the The Ultimate One Size AIO or the Tiny Tushies Newborn AIO for the newborn stage.
- Pocket Diapers — Feature a pocket opening where you insert an absorbent insert, giving you full control over absorbency. Check out The Ultimate One Size Pocket or grab a bundle with the Safari Dreams Ultimate Pocket Starter Bundle.
- Covers — A waterproof shell worn over a prefold or flat insert. Covers can be wiped down and reused between changes, making them very economical. The Tiny Tushies Newborn Hook & Loop Covers are perfect for newborns, or save with the Tiny Tushies Newborn Cover Bundles.
Not sure which style is right for you? Check out our guide: AIO vs. Pocket Diapers: Which Is Best for Your Baby?
Step 2: Build Your Stash
For a full-time cloth diapering routine, most families need 24–36 diapers to allow for washing every 2–3 days. If you're just dipping your toes in, starting with 6–12 diapers lets you try cloth part-time without a big upfront investment.
Great options to start with:
- Tiny Tushies Newborn AIO — perfect for the newborn stage (5–20 lbs)
- Tiny Tushies Newborn Hook & Loop Covers — economical newborn option, reusable between changes
- Tiny Tushies Newborn Cover Bundles — great value starter set
- The Ultimate One Size AIO — grows with your baby from ~6 lbs to potty training
- The Ultimate One Size Pocket — customizable absorbency, grows with your baby
- Safari Dreams Ultimate Pocket Starter Bundle — a fun, complete starter set
Step 3: Gather Your Supplies
Beyond diapers, you'll want a few essentials:
- Wet bag — a waterproof bag for storing dirty diapers on the go
- Diaper pail — for storing dirties at home between washes
- Cloth-safe detergent — look for a detergent free of fabric softeners and optical brighteners
- Diaper sprayer (optional but helpful once solids start)
Step 4: Learn the Wash Routine
Washing cloth diapers is simpler than it sounds. A basic routine looks like this:
- Pre-wash: A short warm or cold cycle to rinse away waste
- Main wash: A full hot cycle with the recommended amount of detergent
- Dry: Tumble dry low or line dry in the sun (sunning is great for stain removal!)
Want the full details? Read our Complete Cloth Diaper Washing Guide.
Step 5: Get the Fit Right
A proper fit is the key to leak-free cloth diapering. Check out our Cloth Diaper Sizing Guide to learn how to adjust rise snaps and leg elastics for your baby's weight and shape.
Ready to Start?
Cloth diapering doesn't have to be overwhelming. Start simple, build your routine, and don't be afraid to ask questions — the cloth diaper community is incredibly supportive! Browse our full collection of cloth diapers at Texas Tushies and find the perfect fit for your family.