Absorbency & Preventing Leaks with Cloth Nappies

Leaks are one of the most common concerns when starting out with cloth nappies—Once you understand how absorbency works and how to tweak it for your child, you’ll find cloth nappies just as reliable (and often more so) than disposables.

Let’s walk through our top tips.

Change Nappies Regularly

Most cloth nappies are designed to last 2–3 hours between changes, except for Earthside Eco bums nappies which are more like 4-5 hours and night nappies which are designed for long stretches. If a nappy leaks before two hours, it’s usually a sign that you need to add more absorbency.

Every baby wees differently, and this can even change throughout the day.

Fold or position inserts so that extra layers sit in the “wet zone.”
For tummy sleepers, place more absorbency at the front.
For side sleepers, consider fitted nappies (absorbent all over, including the hips). You can even add extra boosters over the fitted nappy and under the cover for more protection.

Pocket nappies are a favourite, but leaks can happen when the polyester lining slows down liquid reaching the inserts. Try this:

Instead of stuffing inserts inside the pocket, lay them directly on top.
This prevents premature stretching of elastics, saves you time, and helps keep leaks at bay.

Choosing the Right Inserts

Not all fibres absorb the same way. Here’s what you need to know:

Microfibre soaks up liquid quickly but leaks when compressed (like a sponge being squeezed). Never place it directly against the skin—it can irritate.
Bamboo, cotton, and hemp absorb more liquid overall, but they can still leak if saturated. They’re the best long-term option for boosting nappies. (Get it here)
Natural fibres improve with washing—as they fluff up, their surface area increases and so does absorbency.

Tip: Everyday items like cotton face washers, tea towels, or muslins make great low-cost boosters!

A child’s bladder and wetting patterns change as they grow

Newborns: tiny bladders, frequent small wees, often paired with frequent poos. They usually out-wet nappies before they outgrow them. Add extra absorbency where possible.
Infants: still frequent wetters, but starting to stretch time between wees.
Toddlers: longer gaps between wees, followed by large “flooding” wees. These need at least one extra insert compared to infant nappies, and inserts that can handle bigger volumes.

Did you know? On average, girls have bigger bladders than boys—which can affect wetting patterns too.

Boosting Absorbency

If your nappies are leaking, don’t rush out for brand new products—you often just need more absorbency.

Layer in extra bamboo, cotton, or hemp boosters.
Use microfleece liners for a “stay-dry” feel if your baby dislikes wetness against their skin.
Wash new inserts once before use, and remember natural fibres get better with every wash.

There’s really no such thing as a “heavy wetter”—only a child using a nappy without enough absorbency. All nappies will leak if they’re saturated, since PUL (the waterproof cover) is water resistant, not magic.

By tuning in to your child’s wetting patterns, adjusting absorbency where it’s needed, and changing regularly, you’ll be amazed at how reliable your cloth nappies can be.

💡 Still struggling with leaks? Book a cloth nappy consult with Earthside Eco Bums and we’ll help you troubleshoot absorbency, fit, and wash routine so your nappies work beautifully for your family.