Getting Started with cloth! (The simple way)

💧 How to Cloth Diaper

Simple. Sustainable. So much easier than you think.

At Presley + Pepper Co., we’re passionate about making cloth diapering accessible for modern families. Whether you’re brand new or just looking to simplify your wash routine, here’s everything you need to know.

👶 Getting Started: The Basics

Cloth diapering can be as simple or as customized as you want it to be.

Here’s what you’ll need:

1️⃣ Absorbent Layer

This is what soaks up the liquid. It might be:

Fitted diaper — absorbent bamboo-cotton blend with elastic legs and waist.

Preflat - two layers of stretchy bamboo-cotton with a sewn in bamboo/hemp soaker, you fold and secure with an pin or snappi.

Insert/booster - for extra absorbency during naps or overnight.

2️⃣ Waterproof Cover

This keeps clothing dry. Use:

PUL cover for daytime (lightweight, breathable).

Wool or hybrid cover for nights or heavy wetters.

3️⃣ Fastener (optional)

If you’re using preflats, secure them with a diaper pin or Snappi before adding your cover.

4️⃣ Wipes + Wet Bag

Reusable wipes make diaper changes even easier, and a waterproof wet bag holds used diapers until laundry time.

🍼 Breastfed vs. Formula-Fed Baby Poop

Breastfed babies:

✅ 100% water-soluble — that means their diapers can go straight into the wash with no rinsing or spraying needed!

Just toss them into your wet bag or pail until wash day.

Formula-fed or solid-eating babies:

💧 You’ll want to remove solids before washing:

Shake or spray poop into the toilet using a diaper sprayer, or

Use disposable biodegradable liners for easy cleanup.

 

🧺 Wash Routine (Simple + Effective)

Consistency is key — not perfection. Here’s an easy routine that works beautifully for bamboo fabrics:

1️⃣ Pre-wash (short cycle):

Cold or warm water, a small amount of detergent.

This removes urine and surface residue before the deep clean.

2️⃣ Main wash (long/hot cycle):

Use a strong detergent (like Tide Original Powder, Nellie’s, or your preferred HE-safe option).

Hot water (40–60°C / 100–140°F) deep cleans and sanitizes the fibers.

Fill your washer about ⅔ full for best agitation.

3️⃣ Extra rinse (optional):

Add an extra rinse if you notice any detergent residue or buildup.

4️⃣ Drying:

Line dry or tumble dry on low to medium heat.

Avoid fabric softeners or dryer sheets — they coat the fabric and reduce absorbency.

🚿 Diaper Spraying Tips

Use a toilet sprayer or handheld bidet for quick, splash-free cleanup.

Always spray over the toilet bowl at an angle to avoid splatter.

Some parents prefer a spray shield to make it even tidier.

Once sprayed, wring gently and store in a wet bag until wash day.

🧼 How Often to Wash

Every 2–3 days is ideal.

Washing too infrequently can cause ammonia buildup; washing too often can wear fibers faster.

🌿 Storage Between Washes

Wet bags or pail liners are your best friend!

Store used diapers in a breathable, open container (not sealed airtight).

No need to soak them in water — a dry pail method keeps things fresher and simpler.

💡 Quick Troubleshooting

Issue- Solution

Strong smell-  Add an extra rinse or ensure full agitation in main wash.

Leaks- Check fit (snug at legs/waist) and add a booster for extra absorbency.

Stains- Sun dry whenever possible — natural sunlight bleaches and sanitizes!

Ammonia Strip or deep clean occasionally (we can help guide you).

🌙 The Presley + Pepper Co. Difference

Our diapers are made from premium bamboo-cotton and hemp blends that are:

-Naturally antimicrobial and breathable

-Gentle on baby’s skin

-Highly absorbent yet quick to wash and dry

Each piece is ethically made, designed for longevity, and created to make cloth diapering a joy - not a chore.

💧 How Many Diapers Do I Need to Start?

The short answer: it depends on how often you plan to wash!
Here’s a quick guide to help you build your stash without overbuying 👇

Baby’s Age    Wash Every 2 Days    Wash Every 3 Days    

Newborn (0–3M)    24–30 diapers    30–36 diapers    Newborns pee a lot! Have at least 6–8 per day plus extras for overnight.

Infant (3–12M)    18–24 diapers    24–28 diapers    Fewer changes needed; start using one-size options here.

Toddler (12M+)    14–20 diapers    20–24 diapers    Fewer daytime changes, but keep some extra for naps and nights.Covers:

You’ll need 1 cover for every 3–4 diapers in rotation (since covers can be reused between changes unless soiled).

Example: 24 diapers = about 6–8 covers total.

Boosters & Inserts:

Keep 4–6 boosters on hand for naps, overnight, or heavy wetters.

💡 Pro tip:
You can start with a smaller stash and add more once you find your favorite styles — most families find their sweet spot around 20–24 diapers + 6 covers for full-time cloth.

💚 Final Thought

Cloth diapering isn’t all or nothing - even one reusable diaper a day keeps hundreds of disposables out of landfills each year.

Start small, grow your stash, and enjoy the savings, comfort, and sustainability that come with every change.

Because tiny choices make a big difference - for your baby and the planet 🌎