Wondering how many cloth nappies you actually need – and feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the different answers? You’re not alone. Most parents just want a realistic number that fits their routine, not a “perfect” setup that’s hard to stick with.
This guide gives you simple, practical stash sizes for newborns through to toddlers. If you’re new to cloth and want the full overview, start with our Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Cloth Nappies.
If you’d like to see what modern reusable nappies look like in practice, you can browse our range of reusable cloth nappies, designed to be easy to use and fit into everyday family life.
What this guide covers
On this page:
- The quick answer (stash sizes)
- What changes how many cloth nappies you need
- How many cloth nappies for a newborn
- How many cloth nappies for a baby or toddler
- How many cloth nappies for part-time use
- Inserts and absorbency
- Starter stash examples
- FAQs
The quick answer (stash sizes)
- Newborn, full-time cloth: 24–30 nappies
- Older baby or toddler, full-time cloth: 18–24 nappies
- Part-time cloth: 8–14 nappies
These numbers assume washing every 1–2 days and line drying. If you wash more often, you can usually manage with fewer nappies.
Tip: Start smaller if you’re unsure. You can always add more once you know what works for your baby and washing routine.
What changes how many cloth nappies you need
Baby’s age
Newborns need more frequent changes. As babies grow, the number of daily changes usually drops.
How often you wash
Washing every day or two means you can manage with fewer nappies. Longer gaps between washes require a bigger stash.
Full-time vs part-time cloth
Many families use cloth during the day and disposables at night. Any amount of cloth still helps reduce waste and save money.
Drying time
In cooler or humid weather, nappies may take longer to dry. Having a few extra can help avoid running out.
How many cloth nappies do you need for a newborn?
For full-time cloth with washing every 1–2 days, most families need:
- 24–30 cloth nappies
If you’re easing in, starting with 8–12 nappies works well for part-time use or daytime-only cloth.
How many cloth nappies do you need for a baby or toddler?
As babies grow, they usually need fewer changes per day.
- Full-time cloth: 18–24 nappies
Many toddlers manage comfortably with 14–20 nappies, especially if washing regularly.
Tip: A stash built during the newborn stage often feels generous later on.
How many cloth nappies do you need for part-time use?
- 8–14 nappies for regular part-time cloth
- 6–10 nappies to try cloth without pressure
This works well if you’re using cloth at home but disposables when out or overnight.
You can browse our range of modern reusable cloth nappies if you’re ready to build or top up your stash.
Inserts and absorbency
Aim for at least one insert per nappy, plus a few extras for naps and nights.
Extra inserts can reduce how many nappies you need overall, as you can boost absorbency without changing the whole nappy.
For a deeper dive into fabrics and layering, see our Cloth Nappy Inserts FAQs.
Starter stash examples
Try cloth gently
6–10 nappies plus a few extra inserts.
Regular part-time use
12–18 nappies with boosted inserts.
Full-time cloth
18–30 nappies depending on age and wash frequency.
You don’t need to buy everything at once. Many parents start small and build their stash over time.
Cloth nappy stash FAQs
Is 10 cloth nappies enough?
Yes, for part-time or trial use. Full-time cloth usually needs more.
How many cloth nappies do I need if I wash every day?
If you wash daily, you can often manage with fewer nappies – around 14–18 for full-time use.
Do I need separate night nappies?
Not always. Many families boost absorbency at night with extra inserts instead.
Can I use one-size nappies from birth?
Many one-size nappies fit from around 3.5 kg, though the fit depends on your baby’s shape.
How many inserts do I need?
At least one per nappy, plus extras for naps and overnight use.
Ready to build your stash? Explore our modern reusable cloth nappies or revisit the Beginner’s Guide to Cloth Nappies to plan a setup that works for your family.