If you use cloth nappies, you've probably discovered the wardrobe problem nobody warned you about: a cloth nappy is bulkier than a disposable, and plenty of baby clothes simply aren't cut for it. Poppers strain, trousers won't do up, and sleepsuits pull uncomfortably tight over a fluffy bum. The clothes themselves aren't the problem — the fit is. With a few simple things to look for, dressing a cloth-nappied baby becomes just as easy. Here's how to choose cloth-nappy-friendly baby clothes.
Why Cloth Nappies Change the Fit
Cloth nappies — especially with boosters or at night — add noticeable bulk around the bottom and hips compared to slim disposables. That extra volume means clothing cut close to the body pulls tight, rides up, or won't fasten. The fix is simply choosing clothes with a little more room where it counts, and styles that accommodate a fuller shape gracefully.
What to Look For
- A generous, roomy cut: The single most important factor — clothes with room around the hips and bottom fit comfortably over the bulk. Many cloth-nappy parents size up in clothing for exactly this reason.
- Two-piece sets: Separate tops and bottoms are brilliant for cloth — no crotch poppers to strain, and you can size the bottoms up independently. A roomy romper set works the same way.
- Rompers and dresses over fitted onesies: Loose, flowing shapes skim over a cloth nappy where a snug bodysuit fights it.
- Stretch and elasticated waists: A little elastane or an elasticated/adjustable waistband gives the flex to fit over the bulk comfortably.
- Poppers or snaps with room to spare: If a piece fastens at the crotch, generous spacing and strong poppers cope better than a tight, straining closure.
Styles That Work Especially Well
- Rompers with poppers down the legs: Easy access for changes and room through the body.
- Bubble rompers and A-line dresses: The relaxed shape is naturally cloth-friendly.
- Leggings and joggers with stretchy waists: They accommodate the bulk and pair with any top.
- Dungarees and overalls: Adjustable straps and a roomy seat make them a cloth-nappy favourite.
- Kimono-style and wrap tops for newborns: Comfortable over a cloth nappy and gentle on the tummy.
What to Approach with Caution
- Slim-fit “skinny” styles: Tapered trousers and close-cut bodysuits are the usual culprits for straining.
- Fixed, non-stretch waistbands: Rigid waists with no give fight the bulk.
- Anything you have to yank over the nappy: If dressing is a battle, the cut is wrong — size up or choose a roomier style.
A Few Practical Tips
- Size up when in doubt: Going one size up in clothing (not nappies) is the simplest cloth-friendly hack (see our size chart).
- Prioritise easy-change designs: Leg poppers and two-pieces make cloth changes quicker.
- Choose breathable natural fabrics: Cotton over a cloth nappy helps airflow and comfort (see our best fabrics guide).
- Build it into your capsule: A cloth-friendly wardrobe leans on roomy rompers, two-pieces, and stretchy bottoms (see our capsule wardrobe guide).
The Bottom Line
Dressing a cloth-nappied baby is easy once you choose for the fit: roomy cuts, two-piece sets, relaxed rompers and dresses, and stretchy waistbands — sizing up when in doubt and steering clear of slim, rigid styles. Get the shape right and cloth nappies stop dictating the wardrobe, leaving you free to enjoy the soft, breathable clothes your baby loves.
Browse our roomy rompers, two-piece sets, and soft cotton basics in the collections, and see our size chart to get the fit right first time.