What to Do When Your Baby’s Nappy Keeps Leaking
, by Hello Charlie Blogs, 3 min reading time
What to Do When Your Baby’s Nappy Keeps Leaking
Nappy leaks are frustrating.
They create extra washing, interrupted sleep, wet clothes and stressed parents. The good news is that most nappy leaks have a fix.
Leaks can happen because of size, fit, absorbency, how the nappy is put on, your baby’s shape, or how long the nappy is being worn.
This guide will help you troubleshoot common nappy leaks and choose a better option for your baby.
1. Check the size
The first thing to check is nappy size.
A nappy that is too small may not have enough absorbency or coverage. A nappy that is too large may gap around the legs and leak before it is full.
Your baby may need to move up a size if:
- The nappy leaves deep marks.
- The tabs are stretched too far.
- The nappy sits low at the back.
- Leaks are happening regularly.
- The absorbent area seems too narrow.
You can browse current Eco Disposable Nappies, Muumi Eco Nappies and Bambo Nature options.
2. Check the leg cuffs
Leg cuffs are easy to miss.
After fastening the nappy, gently run your finger around each leg to make sure the cuffs are pulled out, not tucked in.
Tucked-in leg cuffs are one of the most common causes of side leaks.
3. Check the waistband
The waistband should sit snugly but not tightly.
You should be able to fit a finger under the waistband, but there should not be a big gap.
If the nappy gapes at the back, poo leaks are more likely. If it is too tight, your baby may be uncomfortable and the nappy may not sit correctly.
4. Think about absorbency
Sometimes the size is right, but the nappy is not absorbent enough for your baby’s stage.
This is common when babies start sleeping longer, feeding more, or wetting heavily overnight.
If the nappy is completely soaked when it leaks, you may need a more absorbent nappy, a larger size, or a night-time option.
Browse our Bulk Nappies and Eco Disposables Packs for value options once you know the right size.
5. Overnight leaks
Overnight leaks are different from daytime leaks.
Your baby may be in the same nappy for a longer stretch, and wees may be heavier.
Try:
- Moving up a size for night only
- Trying a more absorbent brand
- Changing closer to bedtime
- Checking leg cuffs before sleep
- Using cloth boosters if using cloth nappies
6. Cloth nappy leaks
Cloth nappy leaks can happen for different reasons.
Common causes include:
- Poor fit around the legs
- Not enough absorbency
- Compression leaks from tight clothing
- Inserts not sitting correctly
- Wash issues affecting absorbency
You can browse our Modern Cloth Nappies and read our Ultimate Guide to Cloth Nappies for more help.
7. Try samples before switching brands
Different nappy brands fit differently.
A brand that works beautifully for one baby might leak on another because of body shape, leg fit or absorbency needs.
Before buying a bulk box, try a sample or smaller pack.
Hello Charlie’s Eco Nappies Samples are useful if you are comparing fit between brands.
8. Do not forget wipes and nappy cream
Frequent leaks can irritate baby skin.
Use gentle wipes, change nappies promptly and use a barrier cream if your baby’s skin is red or irritated.
Browse Eco Baby Wipes, Reusable Baby Wipes and Nappy Rash Cream.
Final thoughts
Most nappy leaks can be fixed by checking size, fit, leg cuffs and absorbency.
If leaks keep happening, try a different size, test another brand or use samples before committing to bulk boxes.
The best nappy is the one that fits your baby well and works for your routine.
You can browse Eco Disposable Nappies, Eco Nappy Samples, Modern Cloth Nappies, or read more on the Hello Charlie Blog.