To start cloth nappies, you only need a few cloth nappies, inserts, somewhere to store used nappies, and a simple wash routine. Waladi makes the first step easier with pocket-style cloth nappies and Everyday Sets that include 1 cloth nappy and 1 charcoal bamboo insert, so you can start without guessing which insert to buy first.
You do not need to buy a full stash straight away. Many families start with a few nappies during the day, then add more once they know what works for their baby.
The simple starter checklist
If you want the shortest possible list, start with these:
- 3 to 6 cloth nappies for trying cloth part-time
- 1 insert per nappy for daytime use
- 1 waterproof wet bag for used nappies when out
- 1 airy basket, dry pail, or pail liner for used nappies at home
- detergent and a regular wash routine
That is enough to start using cloth nappies at home during the day.
How many cloth nappies should you start with?
For a low-pressure start, 3 to 6 cloth nappies is enough. This lets you try cloth nappies without committing to full-time use.
If you want to use cloth more often, use this guide:
- 3 to 6 nappies: trial or occasional use
- 7 to 12 nappies: part-time daytime use
- 18 to 24 nappies: full-time use for many older babies
Newborns usually need more changes, so a bigger stash may be needed if you want to use cloth full-time from birth.
How many cloth nappies do I need?
What inserts do you need?
For daytime use, start with 1 charcoal bamboo insert per nappy. This is the simple setup included in Waladi Everyday Sets.
For longer stretches, naps, heavy wetters, or overnight, add more absorbency. A hemp insert is useful because it adds extra absorbency without making the setup too bulky.
The Waladi Overnight Set includes 1 cloth nappy, 1 charcoal bamboo insert, and 1 hemp insert for a more absorbent setup.
Do you need wet bags?
Yes, at least one wet bag is useful.
A wet bag holds used cloth nappies when you are out, at daycare, or away from your main wash storage. For home use, some families use a pail liner or an airy basket instead.
If you plan to use cloth nappies outside the house, start with 1 small or medium wet bag. If your child goes to daycare, 2 wet bags can be easier, so one can be in use while the other is being washed.
Do you need liners?
Liners are optional. They are not needed for absorbency.
They can help once your baby starts solids because they catch most of the poo and make clean-up easier. If you use disposable or biodegradable liners, remove solids into the toilet where possible, then bin the liner unless the product instructions and your local plumbing advice clearly say flushing is suitable.
What do you not need straight away?
You do not need every insert type, a full-time stash, night nappies, liners, boosters, and multiple wet bags before you start.
Start with the basics, then add what solves a real problem:
- Add more nappies if you are running out between washes.
- Add hemp inserts if nappies are fully soaked or leaking from not enough absorbency.
- Add liners if poo clean-up feels messy.
- Add more wet bags if you use cloth at daycare or when out often.
Is it better to start with bundles?
For most beginners, yes. Bundles reduce guesswork because the nappy and insert are already matched for a purpose.
Waladi also offers tiered discounts on cloth nappies, including sets:
- 3-6 nappies: 5% off
- 7-12 nappies: 10% off
- 13-20 nappies: 15% off
- 21+ nappies: 20% off
Insert discounts apply separately if you are adding extra absorbency:
- 2-5 inserts: 10% off
- 6-10 inserts: 20% off
- 11-20 inserts: 30% off
- 21+ inserts: 40% off
Are cloth nappy bundles worth it?