Did you know that a single baby uses thousands of diapers before potty training? That’s a lot of material going into landfills! Choosing diapers for your little one feels like a huge decision. You want what’s best for their sensitive skin, but navigating labels full of confusing chemicals is tough. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, wondering if you are picking the safest and most eco-friendly option.
Many parents worry about harsh ingredients and the environmental impact of disposable diapers. Finding a balance between convenience, baby comfort, and your values can feel like a constant juggle. You deserve peace of mind knowing you are making a great choice for your baby and the planet.
This post cuts through the noise. We will break down exactly what “clean” means in the diaper world. You will learn the key ingredients to look for and the sneaky ones to avoid. Get ready to confidently select diapers that keep your baby happy and your conscience clear. Let’s dive into making smarter diaper choices!
Top Clean Diapers Recommendations
- Plant-based skin protection* that’s 100% leakproof
- Help protect baby’s skin with a shea butter infused liner
- Free of fragrance, parabens, latex**, and elemental chlorine
- Hypoallergenic and gentle on skin with improved softness
- Absorbent Lockaway Core stays 2X drier for healthy skin
- UP TO 100% LEAK PROTECTION: Clean Conscious Diapers with Comfort Dry Technology and a wetness indicator offer 5 points of advanced leak protection. A super absorbent core absorbs wetness in seconds and channel technology disperses to prevent sagging
- HYPOALLERGENIC: Our softest diaper yet is hypoallergenic, fragrance free, and made with a plant based inner liner for gentle skin contact where it matters the most. Made with soft and safe materials to protect baby’s delicate skin
- OUR BEST FIT YET: Designed to move with your baby, Honest Clean Conscious Diapers feature comfy fit leg cuffs to catch leaks on the fly and flexible, stretchy wings that provide a snug, irritation-free fit. The super cute prints are an added bonus
- AGES and STAGES: From umbilical cutouts to protect healing bellies (NB–1) to double poo pockets for extra backup (1–2) and super stretchy sides for active babies (3–7), each size offers unique features designed to grow with your baby
- MADE WITHOUT: Elemental chlorine, parabens, fragrances, and natural rubber latex. Because safety is a top priority, our diapers are tested for 350 harmful chemicals, are OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certified, and are made with FSC Certified fluff pulp
- UP TO 100% LEAK PROTECTION: Clean Conscious Diapers with Comfort Dry Technology and a wetness indicator offer 5 points of advanced leak protection. A super absorbent core absorbs wetness in seconds and channel technology disperses to prevent sagging
- HYPOALLERGENIC: Our softest diaper yet is hypoallergenic, fragrance free, and made with a plant based inner liner for gentle skin contact where it matters the most. Made with soft and safe materials to protect baby’s delicate skin
- OUR BEST FIT YET: Designed to move with your baby, Honest Clean Conscious Diapers feature comfy fit leg cuffs to catch leaks on the fly and flexible, stretchy wings that provide a snug, irritation-free fit. The super cute prints are an added bonus
- AGES and STAGES: From umbilical cutouts to protect healing bellies (NB–1) to double poo pockets for extra backup (1–2) and super stretchy sides for active babies (3–7), each size offers unique features designed to grow with your baby
- MADE WITHOUT: Elemental chlorine, parabens, fragrances, and natural rubber latex. Because safety is a top priority, our diapers are tested for 350 harmful chemicals, are OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certified, and are made with FSC Certified fluff pulp
- UP TO 100% LEAK PROTECTION: Clean Conscious Diapers with Comfort Dry Technology and a wetness indicator offer 5 points of advanced leak protection. A super absorbent core absorbs wetness in seconds and channel technology disperses to prevent sagging
- HYPOALLERGENIC: Our softest diaper yet is hypoallergenic, fragrance free, and made with a plant based inner liner for gentle skin contact where it matters the most. Made with soft and safe materials to protect baby’s delicate skin
- OUR BEST FIT YET: Designed to move with your baby, Honest Clean Conscious Diapers feature comfy fit leg cuffs to catch leaks on the fly and flexible, stretchy wings that provide a snug, irritation-free fit. The super cute prints are an added bonus
- AGES and STAGES: From umbilical cutouts to protect healing bellies (NB–1) to double poo pockets for extra backup (1–2) and super stretchy sides for active babies (3–7), each size offers unique features designed to grow with your baby
- MADE WITHOUT: Elemental chlorine, parabens, fragrances, and natural rubber latex. Because safety is a top priority, our diapers are tested for 350 harmful chemicals, are OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certified, and are made with FSC Certified fluff pulp
- GOOD FOR BABIES: Totally Chlorine Free (TCF) Super soft & comfy, our diapers are enhanced with organic cotton, perfect for delicate newborn skin. With only plant-based materials against your baby’s bottom, our dermatologically tested, allergy-certified diapers are made without fragrance, chlorine bleaching, lotion, parabens, natural rubber latex & phthalates.
- PERFECT FOR NEWBORNS: Our diapers feature a special umbilical cord cut-out, contoured to protect the delicate belly area. They also feature a handy color-changing wetness indicator, so you know when it’s time for a diaper change!
- GOOD FOR THE PLANET: Pura’s diapers are manufactured in a carbon neutral plant, powered by green electricity. Where possible, we’ve replaced non-sustainable materials with lower impact materials such as wood pulp from sustainably managed forests in the absorbent core of our diapers. Our packaging is made from paper, so it's easier to recycle!
- TRUSTED BY PARENTS: Made in the EU to the highest standards, Pura diapers have won multiple awards, voted for by real parents.
- USING BUSINESS FOR GOOD: Pura is a certified B-Corp and a Carbon Neutral business.
- Plant-based skin protection* that’s 100% leakproof
- Help protect baby’s skin with a shea butter infused liner
- Free of fragrance, parabens, latex**, and elemental chlorine
- Hypoallergenic and gentle on skin with improved softness
- Absorbent Lockaway Core stays 2X drier for healthy skin
- IN THE BOX: Mama Bear Gentle Touch diapers for babies 12-18 pounds; size 2; 184 count (4 packs of 46)
- LEAKAGE PROTECTION: FULLPROTECT Channeled Core; provides up to 12 hours of leak protection; aids in absorption; wetness indicator shows when it's time for a change
- SKIN HEALTH ALLIANCE APPROVED AND ALLERGYCERTIFIED: Dermatologist Tested & Hypoallergenic for skin safety
- FORMULATED WITHOUT: Elemental chlorine, perfumes, lotions, parabens, and phthalates
- POCKETED WAISTBAND: Helps prevent leaks and blowouts
- Bambo Nature is a sustainably manufactured brand in production for more than 35 years! A true legacy brand that you know you can trust in order to #ParentFearlessly.
- Size 4 fits baby weight range 15-31 lbs. See size chart for more details.
- THE BEST COMFORT FIT FOR BABY - our diapers feature a wetness indicator that changes color to indicate when a change is needed. The flexible waistband and latex-free leg cuffs help diapers stay in place while maximizing movement.
- SUPERNATURALLY EFFECTIVE - a unique three-layer design and super-absorbent core that can stand up to multiple wettings—even overnight. Combined with our fully breathable backsheet, baby's sensitive skin will stay dry and comfortable.
- THE BEST FOR OUR PLANET - made from 100% wind power and the first baby diapers certified with the Nordic Swan Ecolabel.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing Clean Diapers
Welcome to the world of clean diapers! Choosing the right cloth diapers can feel overwhelming at first. This guide will help you understand what makes a great diaper. We break down the important parts so you can make the best choice for your baby and the planet.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for clean diapers, several features really matter. These details affect how well the diaper works and how easy it is to clean.
1. Closure System
- Snaps: These are durable and offer a very secure fit. They last a long time.
- Velcro (Hook-and-Loop): These are fast and easy to adjust, especially for new parents. However, they can sometimes snag or wear out faster than snaps.
2. Sizing Options
- One-Size (OS): These diapers adjust with snaps or elastic. They grow with your baby, saving money.
- Sized Diapers: These come in Small, Medium, and Large. They offer a trimmer fit at each stage but require buying more later.
3. Absorbency Level
Think about how long you need the diaper to last. Day use needs less bulk than overnight use. Look for diapers that allow you to add extra absorbent layers, called “inserts” or “doublers.”
Important Materials Matter Most
The fabric touching your baby’s skin and the fabric doing the soaking up are very important. Quality materials mean better performance and fewer leaks.
Inner Lining (Against Baby’s Skin)
- Microfleece or Suedecloth: These synthetic fabrics wick moisture away fast, keeping the baby feeling dry.
- Natural Fibers (Bamboo or Cotton): These feel very soft. Bamboo is naturally anti-bacterial. They are great for sensitive skin.
Absorbent Core (Inserts)
- Microfiber: These soak up liquid very quickly. They are thin but hold less than other options.
- Hemp: Hemp is very absorbent and durable. It takes longer to dry, but it is excellent for heavy wetters.
- Bamboo Terry: This blends softness with good absorbency. It is a popular middle ground.
Outer Shell
Almost all modern clean diapers use a waterproof outer layer called PUL (Polyurethane Laminate). This material keeps wetness locked inside the diaper. Good quality PUL does not crack or delaminate after many washes.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all cloth diapers are made the same. Paying attention to construction quality pays off in the long run.
Quality Boosters:
- Strong Elastic: Good elastic around the legs and waist prevents leaks. Test the stretch; it should snap back firmly.
- Double Gussets: These extra layers of fabric around the leg openings create a stronger seal against blowouts.
- Quality Stitching: Look closely at the seams. Loose or uneven stitching often fails first.
Quality Reducers:
- Thin, Cheap Inserts: These often compress under a baby’s weight, leading to leaks.
- Poor Snap Placement: If snaps are too loose, the fit will be baggy.
User Experience and Use Cases
How a diaper feels to use every day is a huge factor. You want diapering to be quick and simple.
Ease of Washing
Most modern cloth diapers use a “Pocket Style” or “All-in-Two (AI2)” system. This means you usually remove the absorbent insert before washing. This speeds up drying time. If you choose an “All-in-One (AIO),” the absorbent layer is sewn in. AIOs are easier to put on but take much longer to dry.
Travel and Outings
For travel, look for diapers that are slim and don’t take up much space in the diaper bag. AI2 systems are often preferred for quick changes outside the home.
For overnight use, you will almost always need a diaper that allows you to add thick hemp or bamboo inserts. A waterproof diaper cover worn over a pre-stuffed pocket diaper provides the best leak protection for long stretches.
10 FAQs About Clean Diapers
Q: How many clean diapers do I need to start?
A: Most families find they need between 20 and 30 diapers for full-time use. This lets you wash every two or three days without running out.
Q: Are cloth diapers hard to clean?
A: Modern cleaning is easier than you think! You generally rinse solids into the toilet, then put the soiled diaper into a wet bag. You wash them in your regular washing machine with special detergent.
Q: What is a “wet bag”?
A: A wet bag is a waterproof bag, often made of PUL material, used to store soiled diapers between wash days. It seals in odors effectively.
Q: Can I use cloth diapers with diaper cream?
A: Some creams can build up on the fabric and reduce absorbency (this is called “repelling”). Use a barrier cream or use a liner if you use thick zinc oxide creams.
Q: Do cloth diapers smell bad in the house?
A: If you wash them every two to three days, they should not smell much. Store them in a well-ventilated wet bag or diaper pail.
Q: What is the difference between a prefold and an insert?
A: Prefolds are flat, multi-layered squares of fabric that you fold and place inside a waterproof cover. Inserts are thick, pre-sewn absorbent pads designed to slip into a pocket.
Q: Do I have to scrub the diapers before washing?
A: No scrubbing is necessary! A good rinse cycle in your washing machine handles the cleaning. You only need to knock solids into the toilet.
Q: Are cloth diapers better for the environment?
A: Yes, using cloth diapers creates far less landfill waste than disposable diapers over the course of one child’s diapering years.
Q: How long do quality cloth diapers last?
A: High-quality diapers can last through one child and often through a second or even third child if they are cared for properly.
Q: Should I buy All-in-Ones or Pockets first?
A: Pockets are often recommended for beginners because they dry faster. AIOs are easier for quick changes but require more time in the dryer.