If you’re using cloth nappies, you know it’s a journey. From the first time you snap on that tiny cloth nappy to the day your toddler finally says goodbye to them, each milestone feels like an achievement. And, honestly, there’s something special about each stage of the process. Sure, it’s practical, but it’s also a reminder of how much you and your baby are growing.

So, let’s take a moment to celebrate those cloth nappy milestones—from the very first change to the day you hang up those nappies for good.

 

1. The First Cloth Nappy Change: The Start of Something New

Ah, the first cloth nappy change. It can feel a little daunting at first, especially if you’re used to disposables. But once you get the hang of it, it’s just another part of your baby’s routine. Sure, there are a few things to learn—like how to fold, snap, or adjust the fit—but there’s also a feeling of accomplishment when you take that first step into the cloth nappy world.

A Few Tips:
- Start Simple: If you’re feeling nervous, try an all-in-one or pocket nappy. They’re super easy to use and will help you ease into the cloth nappy world.
- Go Slow: Don’t worry if it takes a little longer to change at first. You’ll get faster with practice—and besides, no one’s timing you!

That first nappy change is more than just practical. It’s a small but important step toward a more sustainable lifestyle, and you’re already rocking it.

2. The First Overnight Cloth Nappy: Keeping Baby Dry All Night

When your baby starts sleeping longer stretches, the idea of keeping them in cloth nappies overnight can feel like a big leap. But once you get it right (and keep them dry all night), it’s a game changer. It’s not just about avoiding leaks—it’s a sign that you’ve figured out the perfect nappy combo for your baby’s needs.

Overnight Tips:
- Boosters Are Your Friend: Add a booster or extra insert for those long nights. Trust me, they can make a huge difference.
- Choose the Right Nappy: Some nappies are designed specifically for overnight use. They usually have extra layers for absorbency, which can help keep your baby comfy through the night.
- Fit Is Everything: Make sure the nappy isn’t too tight or loose—both can lead to leaks.

Waking up to a dry baby is one of those "I’m doing this!" moments that really makes you feel like a cloth nappy pro.

3. The First Stash Expansion: Finding Your Groove

Around 3 to 6 months, you might start realizing you need more nappies. Babies go through a lot of them (shocking, right?), and suddenly, your stash isn’t cutting it. But this is actually an exciting milestone because it means you’re finding your rhythm with cloth nappies. By this point, you probably have a better sense of your baby’s needs, and you can start experimenting with different brands or styles to see what works best.

Stash Expansion Tips:
- Don’t Go Overboard: It’s tempting to buy a ton of nappies, but really think about how many you’re using and how often you’re washing. Around 20-24 nappies is a good goal for full-time use.
- Mix It Up: You don’t have to stick to just one type of nappy. Having a variety (pocket nappies, prefolds, all-in-ones) can help you find what works best for your baby and lifestyle.

As your baby grows, your cloth nappy collection grows with you. It’s fun to find what works for your family, and you get to feel that little sense of pride as you add more to your stash.

4. Potty Training Prep: The Transition Begins

This is a big one—potty training! Around 18 to 24 months, you might start seeing signs that your little one is ready to start learning how to use the potty. At this point, you can transition to cloth training pants, which are perfect for helping your toddler feel more in control while they’re learning. It’s an exciting time, but it’s also a reminder that your baby is growing up fast!

Potty Training Tips with Cloth:
- Use Training Pants: These are like nappies but designed for easy pull-on and pull-off, so your toddler can practice using the potty independently.
- Less Absorbency: Consider using nappies that are less absorbent during the day. This helps your child feel wetness, which can encourage them to start associating that feeling with the need to go potty.
- Patience, Patience, Patience: Potty training can be a slow process, and accidents will happen. But cloth nappies can still be a helpful tool during this transition.

You’ll start seeing more independence, and before you know it, they’ll be in training pants or using the potty on their own. It’s a major milestone, and cloth nappies help make that transition just a little bit smoother.

 

5. The Last Cloth Nappy: Goodbye, Old Friend

And then comes the final nappy change. One day, your little one will be potty trained, and you’ll say goodbye to cloth nappies—at least for now. It’s a bittersweet moment. You’ve spent so many months (and maybe even years) choosing, washing, and folding these little nappies, and now they’ll be packed away or passed on. But don’t worry—it’s not the end of your cloth nappy journey. You can always use cloth for your next baby, or maybe even pass them along to a friend or donate them.

Saying Goodbye:
- Celebrate the Milestone: Just like when you first started using cloth nappies, take a moment to celebrate the last one. It’s a big moment in your parenting journey.
- Pass It On: Consider donating your cloth nappies to a family in need or giving them to someone who might need them for their little one. It’s a great way to keep the cycle going.

It might feel like an end, but really, it’s just another milestone in the grand adventure of parenting. You’ve done it—your baby is potty trained, and your cloth nappies are officially retired (for now, at least).

Every Cloth Nappy Milestone Is Worth Celebrating

From that very first nappy change to the last cloth nappy, there’s a lot to celebrate in your cloth nappy journey. It’s not just about saving money or being more eco-friendly (although those are big wins!)—it’s about the little moments along the way that show just how much you and your baby are growing. So, whether you’re a newbie to cloth nappies or a seasoned pro, take a moment to enjoy every stage and feel proud of how far you’ve come.

Here’s to more dry nights, fewer leaks, and plenty of milestones along the way!