9 best reusable nappies: cloth nappies to suit every stage

The best reusable nappies are easier to use than ever before, thanks to practical new designs and features. There’s never been so much choice when it comes to types and brands on offer, from all-in-one pieces to variations of two-part systems, so we're here to help.

Caring for babies and toddlers is hard work, and we know how much difference the right product can make to parents' lives. That's why we research, vet and review hundreds of products based on authentic recommendations from the real parents of the Mumsnet forums. Whether you're looking for the best sterilisers to keep everything hygienic, the top sippy cups for your toddler, or the best baby bath tub for your newborn, we've got you covered.

Many families are making the switch from disposable nappies to reusable ones, whether it’s their first baby or fourth. Some do it for the environmental benefits, as a washable nappy’s carbon footprint is lower than a disposable’s (even with washing, drying and manufacturing taken into consideration) and it won’t end up in landfill. Others do it for the potentially lower overall cost, as it’s estimated that cloth nappy users save hundreds over the course of birth to potty. Others simply appreciate a pretty cloth nappy print - the designs are getting ever cuter!

We hope our list of the best reusable nappies in the UK - put together after some rigorous testing, evaluation of reviews from real parents and research of advice from experts - will help you to learn about and love reusable nappies, and start your journey to finding the right ones for you and your baby.

The best reusable nappies in 2024: at a glance

• Best overall reusable nappy: Mother-ease Wizard Uno Staydry All-In-One Nappy

• Best budget reusable nappy: TotsBots EasyFit Star

• Best reusable nappy for fast drying: Blueberry Simplex All In One Nappy

• Best reusable nappy wrap: Blueberry Capri Wrap

• Best two-part reusable nappy: Little Lamb Bamboo Shaped Nappy and Wrap

• Best reusable nappy for night time: TotsBots Bamboozle Stretch Nappy and PeeNut Wrap

• Best all-in-one reusable nappy: BumGenius FreeTime

• Best reusable nappy for adjustability: Smart Bottoms Smart One 3.1

• Best reusable nappy for softness: Bumgenius Elemental

1. Best overall reusable nappies: Mother-ease Wizard Uno Staydry All-In-One Nappy

Price on writing: £18.39 | Buy now from The Nappy Lady

Key specs

Type: All-in-one | Size range: XS newborn (6-12lbs) or one size (8-35lbs) | Material: Polyester

What we love

• Easy-to-use design

• Highly adjustable for a good fit

• Special ‘stay dry’ fabric

What to know

• All-in-ones are convenient to wash, dry and carry

• There is a cotton version, as an alternative to this polyester one

What Mumsnet users say

"My daughter is six months and we've used cloth nappies and cheeky wipes since birth. I reckon in six months of use we save over 1,000 nappies going to landfill. My favourite nappy is Mother-ease Wizard Uno, it's pricey but brilliant. You just use poppers to do it up. All the layers are sewn together so it's just like putting on a disposable. We find it really easy. Now my baby is weaning, I use disposable liners in the nappies to catch any poops. They are not hard work at all." (Recommended by Mumsnet user SPARKS17)

Our verdict

The Mother-ease Wizard Uno is one of the most popular reusable nappy choices and, after testing, we can see why. It’s a solid, slim-fitting, quick-drying nappy with attractive style to boot. The simple design means it’s great for parents new to reusables and it’s highly adjustable for a good fit (though the elastics seem less flexible than those used by some other brands, such as TotsBots). We found the absorbency is good and the special ‘stay dry’ fabric wicks moisture away from your baby’s skin. No leaks during our testing!

Worried about the washing process? Don’t be. It doesn’t stain easily, it can be tumble dried on low in a pinch, and popper fasteners mean there’s no need to secure Velcro tabs before washing. The nappy remains soft after washing too and, as it’s all-in-one, you don’t need much space to dry, store or carry it around. We'd also pair it with the best nappy rash cream to keep everything super comfortable for your baby.

Related: Discover the best highchairs, according to Mumsnet parents

2. Best budget reusable nappies: TotsBots EasyFit Star

Price on writing: £7.99 | Buy now from The Nappy Lady

Key specs

Type: All-in-one | Size range: One size (from 12 lbs to potty) | Material: Bamboo, recycled plastic

What we love

• Brilliant absorbency

• Exciting range of colours and patterns

• Adjustability

What to know

• Manufactured in Scotland and uses 100% recycled plastic in its waterproof outer layers

• Slow to air dry but can be tumble dried on low

What Mumsnet users say

"We hired a kit from a nappy library to figure out which ones we liked and fitted our baby the best, so it's a great time to be able to source one. We initially found the amount of info and different types overwhelming but trial and error was really helpful. We ended up going with TotsBots and love them. We use all three types: Bamboozle for night, the Peenut system and EasyFit Star during the day. The Peenut pads dry the fastest but the others still dry in a day. We started using them when our baby was big enough for the size twos which should take him up to potty training. Good luck, we really love using them and they look really cute!" (Recommended by Mumsnet user digitalcat)

Our verdict

We think TotsBots EasyFit Star is a great all-in-one as it’s simple to use (you may want a changing mat for extra comfort and ease too), compact, reliable and well-priced. What’s not to love? Its super absorbent bamboo core, waterproof tummy area and AIO-ness makes it great for outings (note that it’s a day-only nappy); plus it comes in a diverse range of pretty designs.

This nappy is very adjustable with poppers and Velcro to give your baby a comfortable fit - even a young baby as it fits down to 12lbs, though it really comes into its own a few weeks in. As it’s a one-size nappy, your baby can grow with it - and, bonus, your wallet! The TotBots EasyFit Star can be washed at 60 degrees and tumble dried on low, though we found it slow to air dry. The bamboo doesn’t wick moisture away from a baby’s skin as well as other fabrics but we love that the nappy uses 100% recycled plastic in its waterproof outer layers.

Related: The best nipple cream, as recommended by breastfeeding mums

3. Best fast drying reusable nappy: Blueberry Simplex All In One Nappy

Price on writing: £13.60 | Buy now from The Nappy Lady

Key specs

Type: All-in-one | Size range: 12-35lbs, slim | Material: Organic cotton and polyester

What we love

• Slim fitting - no need for roomy clothing

• 12-layer soaker for high absorbency

• Quick drying and easy to wash

What to know

• Not a suitable size from birth for average-sized newborns

What Mumsnet users say

"My second fave nappies are Blueberry Simplex which are an AIO. Much slimmer and more beautiful, but take longer to dry and not as absorbent." (Reviewed by Mumsnet user AliceW89)

"Honestly, it's so easy. I'm amazed and horrified at how many disposable nappies we would have used if we hadn't been using these. Also I so rarely get any leaks with reusables - we went on holiday recently and switched to disposables for ease and had several. We use Blueberry Simplex and they are light-years away from what your mum would have used. They have poppers so super easy to fit. It's an all-in-one so no faffing around with inserts. They aren't cheap but 100% worth it." (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user Bewilderbeastie)

Our verdict

Looking for an easy, reusable day nappy that won’t require roomier clothing cut specifically for the cloth? The Blueberry Simplex might suit, as it’s an AOI that’s very slim fitting and adjustable at both the waist and legs (but might not, therefore, work for bigger babies). It’s made from organic cotton, breathable fabrics and a 12-layered soaker, so the Simplex also scores highly for absorbency.

We did find that it only just about makes the two to three hours but it does contain a pocket that allows you to add an extra insert to make it last even longer. Thankfully, it’s a doddle to use and to wash, with poppers and a detachable soaker on one end for thorough washing and quick drying. It was the fastest drying of the nappies we tested, and we think it'd make an excellent addition to your changing bag.

4. Best reusable nappy wrap: Blueberry Capri Wrap

Price on writing: £8.80 | Buy now from The Nappy Lady 

Key specs

Type: Wrap | Size range: Newborn 6-16lbs or one size 12-35lbs | Material: Polyester

What we love

• Cost-effective two-part system

• Multiple uses before wash: can be wiped and reused

• Great for night times

What to know

• Two-part system means more to store and wash than an AIO

What Mumsnet users say

"We use TotsBots Bamboozle with Blueberry Capri Wraps at night time." (Vetted by Mumsnet user EatCakeBeMerry)

Our verdict

Buying a wrap can be a cost-effective addition to a two-part system, when an insert (like a prefold, shaped nappy or terry square) is covered in a wrap for a final layer of protection. You can mix and match inserts and brands; plus a detached wrap like this one allows multiple uses before washes, so you can buy more inserts (which are fairly cheap) and fewer wraps.

This two-part system can be a great night time option - especially this wrap, as it has gussets to help prevent leaks. The waterproof Blueberry Capri Wrap can be wiped (see our guide to the best baby wipes for help here) and reused right away, thanks to the laminate interior. It can be tumble dried on a low heat (it’s relatively quick drying) and the poppers are easy to clean. We did find them fiddly at first though and we found that a nappy insert can shift about when putting it on. Baby with sensitive skin? The elastic is latex-free and covered by soft bindings.

Related: Discover the best breast pump and baby bottles to make feeding time easier

5. Best two-part reusable nappies: Little Lamb Bamboo Shaped Nappy and Wrap

Price on writing: £11.80 | Buy now from Amazon 

Key specs

Type: Two-parter - shaped nappy and waterproof wrap cover | Size range: Nappy, 1 (9-18lbs), 2 (17-35lbs) and 3 (35lbs); Wrap, newborn (up to 4.5kg), 1 (3-9kg), 2 (9-17kg), 3 (17+kg) | Material: Bamboo, polyester and PUL

What we love

• Superior containment

• For day and night time

• Good value

What to know

• You’ll need to buy bigger sizes as your baby grows

• Consider an extra booster for night times

• Slow to dry

What Mumsnet users say

"I'm a Little Lambs girl. I use the two-part system- bamboo fitted nappies, and their bombproof wrap. Works very well for us." (Rated by Mumsnet user Queenfreak)

"Little Lamb bamboo with Little Lambs wrap. Totally bombproof. Little Lambs is great for all the basics and any extras you may need." (Recommended by Mumsnet user MauisLeftNipple)

Our verdict

This Little Lamb two-part system - combining the sized nappy (Velcro gives a bespoke fit) and this cute wrap - is a long-standing favourite combination for many, and we can see why. Its superior containment wards off poo-splosions and makes it a nappy you can take out and about without worry. It can be further boosted too, making it night time-reliable.

As with other two-part systems, it can be mixed and matched with other nappies. Still, it boasts a straightforward design with a washable fleece liner and soft material for your baby. It’s relatively good value for money as both parts carry a lower price tag and the wrap can be wiped and reused. Sadly, we found that it was one of the slowest nappies to dry (out of the ones we tested) and that the shaped inner nappy goes crispy with washing and air drying. Finish with a quick tumble dry to combat this.

6. Best reusable nappy for night time: TotsBots Bamboozle Stretch Nappy and PeeNut Wrap

Price on writing: From £10.99 | Buy now from Amazon (nappy and wrap)

Key specs

Type: Two-parter: shaped nappy and waterproof wrap | Size range: Nappy, 1 (6-18lbs), 2 (9-35lbs), 3 (35+lbs); Wrap, one size | Material: Bamboo rayon and recycled polyester

What we love

• Solid night time solution with great absorbency

• Velcro tabs and poppers ensure a good fit

• Wrap can be wiped and reused

What to know

• Consider using a washable liner inside, as fabric leaves skin feeling damp if very wet

• More expensive than others on this list but a great product

What Mumsnet users say

"TotsBots - I had a trial pack containing EasyFit, Peenut Wrap and Bamboozle Stretch. Was impressed with all. Especially the Bamboozle Stretch, zero leaks." (Recommended by Mumsnet user EinsteinsArousedSausagesHCB)

"For night time, TotsBots Bamboozle with a Peenut Wrap is bombproof. Back when my daughter was feeding throughout the night, she would still last 12 hours in that with no leak. Cloth nappies are so easy nowadays, which I don't think enough people know." (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user cornflakes5)

Our verdict

The TotsBots Bamboozle Stretch is an attractively-shaped nappy made of bamboo rayon with microfibre inside. With a cool-designed TotsBots PeeNut Wrap on top of the nappy, this two-part system is often hailed as a solid night time solution. It takes a bit longer to dry than some other products and isn’t as affordable. But it’s such a high performer all round, we doubt you’ll mind.

We preferred the soft, shaped nappy to the wrap during testing but the beauty of the two-part cloth nappy systems is that you can mix and match with other products to find what works best for you and your baby. This combination is a great place to start. We appreciated the great absorbency; good fit thanks to Velcro tabs and poppers; internal booster which can be un-poppered for a slimmer fit or left in for better absorbency; coloured inserts which help prevent any stains from showing; and the ease of having a wrap which could be wiped and reused.

Related: Thinking about introducing your baby to solid foods? We've rounded up the best baby plates and weaning books to get you started

7. Best all-in-one reusable nappies: BumGenius FreeTime

Price on writing: £15.99 | Buy now from The Nappy Lady

Key specs

Type: All-in-one | Size range: One size, from 8-35lbs | Material: Polyester, laminated polyester, nylon and spandex

What we love

• Convenience of an AIO

• Fast drying

• Slim fitting and highly adjustable

What to know

• May need more frequent changing than some others

What Mumsnet users say

"Loved BumGenius from birth to potty training pants. So convenient and easy to use." (Vetted by Mumsnet user Bubblysqueak)

‘We've used the same set of BumGenius Freetime for both our girls. After four years of use, they still function brilliantly. Easy to use and rarely leak. Had a couple of issues with childcare (my daughter came home with nappy on backwards!) but once they knew what they were doing, they've been fine with the BumGenius." (Recommended by Mumsnet user KipperTheFrog)

Our verdict

Good news! We’ve another easy peasy daytime option on our list. Out of all the nappies we tested, the BumGenius Freetime was the fastest-drying (though we gave that award to the Blueberry Simplex All-In-One as it was slightly more absorbent). With no extra bits to stuff, this AIO will conveniently tuck into your changing bag and air dry quickly without taking up much space at all.

Microfibre inner layers stay soft and will keep your baby’s skin dry and they’ll stay comfy as it’s slim-fitting and highly (and easily) adjustable thanks to poppers for both the waist and legs. The only negatives we found were that the microfibre shredded in the wash and the nappies needed to be changed frequently - they didn’t always make the recommended two-and-a-half hours.

8. Best adjustable reusable nappies: Smart Bottoms Smart One 3.1

Price on writing: £20.80 | Buy now from The Nappy Lady

Key specs

Type: All-in-one | Size range: One size, 10-35lbs | Material: Organic cotton and PUL

What we love

• Excellent adjustability

• Bright, colourful designs

• Marvellous absorbency

What to know

• Pricey

• Can stain easily

What Mumsnet users say

"It really depends so much on the shape and size of your baby, childcare, drying facilities, if you expect to have other children etc. Smart Bottoms are worth a look as are Blueberry." (Suggested by Mumsnet user Megan2018)

Our verdict

With four sets of rise poppers for brilliant adjustability - including four different lengths - this was the most adjustable nappy we tested. That means it should last the long haul as your baby grows, right until they're confidently using their potty, making it worth that initial quite high price tag. Just bear in mind that it’s too big for the average newborn, though nicely slim without the bulk when they’re a little bigger (from 10lbs). There’s lots of patterns and colours to choose from and that space-saving convenience of an AIO.

The Smart Bottom Smart One 3.1 puts 10 layers of organic cotton next to your baby’s skin so they’ll be nice and comfortable. It’s marvellously absorbent (especially for an AIO) and the inner layer can be folded for extra soaking when needed. We found that the insert could occasionally stick to baby when pulling away the wrap and that it stains quite easily. But it has a handy mid-range drying time.

Related: The best nursing chair for comfortable feeding

9. Softest reusable nappies: Bumgenius Elemental

Price on writing: £19.99 | Buy now from The Nappy Lady

Key specs

Type: All-in-one | Size range: 7-35lbs | Material: Organic cotton, laminated polyester, polyester, nylon, spandex

What we love

• Soft, organic cotton

• Poppers allow adjustability for a good fit

• Highly absorbent with inner layer for extra boost

What to know

• Sells out regularly as it’s a popular choice

• Higher price tag than some others

What Mumsnet users say

"BumGenius Elemental all-in-ones are my absolute favourite. They are very absorbent, have never leaked, slimmest out the lot, lovely bright colours and prints, and they can be tumble dried." (Recommended by Mumsnet user slappinthebass)

‘Bambino Mio and BumGenius also do similar styles of nappies and I’d recommend both those brands too. I much prefer all-in-ones to the two-part systems, they’re just easier to use especially for first time parents." (Loved by Mumsnet user OutPinked)

Our verdict

Another organic cotton nappy to complete our list of the best reusable nappies UK: the Bumgenius Elemental, which was one of the softest nappies out of the ones we tested. They stay relatively soft after washing too and poppers allow good adjustability around the waist and legs for a good, comfy fit.

They’re a popular choice among parents for a good reason - a reliable, highly-absorbent option thanks to excellent elasticity around the legs, waterproof outer cover to prevent leaks and foldable inner layer to add in an extra boost if needed.

We found that the nappies did stain easily and could be baggy on the smaller end of its size range. They’re also one of the more expensive nappies we tested too, but you can’t beat them for comfort. We were also impressed with the range of block colours and funky patterns - there's something for every taste.

Related: See our top pick for the best baby food maker, as recommended by parents

Why buy reusable nappies?

While disposable nappies may seem convenient, they come with a significant environmental and financial cost. It's estimated that every minute, 300,000 nappies are sent to landfill or end up in the environment globally. Yes - you read that right, every minute. Over time, the volume of this waste adds up phenomenally. However, as reusable nappies can be washed and reused multiple times, opting for them reduces the number of nappies piling up in dustbins.

They're the better option for a baby's sensitive skin too as there's less chance of nappy rash. Disposable nappies are often made from synthetic materials that can cause irritation, while reusable nappies are typically made from materials such as cotton or bamboo, which are more breathable and gentle on delicate skin.

Are reusable nappies expensive?

Initially yes, the cost of a reusable option is higher than a disposable nappy. However, while the price of one reusable nappy may seem quite high, you can save money in the long run in comparison to stocking up on disposables time and time again.

Some Mumsnetters have used them for multiple children too, so a high-quality reusable nappy is a good option if you plan on having more kids down the line.

How many reusable nappies will I need?

It depends on lots of things like your child’s age, how often you can put on a wash, your drying space etc. An average number, if you’re using them full-time including at night, would be around 15-20.

Related: The best bottle warmers for no-fuss feeding

What else do I need?

A nappy bin or bucket to toss in used nappies. A washing machine and drying space. Waterproof storage bags for outings, similar to when using disposables. Possibly boosters and/or liners to give your nappies an extra boost. And the usual changing mat and wipes (there are reusable wipes available too).

How do you wash a reusable nappy?

Wash off any wee or poo with cold water before starting a proper wash cycle at the temperature recommended by the manufacturer. Once washed, some reusable nappies can then be tumble dried. Others may need to be air dried.

How do I choose the best nappies for my baby?

When choosing reusable nappies for your baby, you'll want to factor in several different considerations including the absorbency, the size of your baby, how quick-drying you need it to be, and the care instructions. There's also the type of nappy to consider - here are the options you can choose between:

• All-in-one: These nappies come all in one part, hence why they're also sometimes called 'one-part nappies'. You may need to fold the absorbent inner soaker, but nothing detaches.

• Pocket nappy: These operate much like all-in-ones except the soaker is detachable when washing and needs to be stuffed into a pocket inside the nappy.

• Two-part nappies: The absorbent cloth nappy fits around your baby like a disposable would and a waterproof wrap cover adds a second and final layer.

• Prefold: The flat soaker folds, often on the third, to sit inside the waterproof wrap cover.

• Terry squares and muslins: These are folded and fastened with Nappy Nippas or pins with a waterproof wrap placed as the covering layer.

Do reusable nappies leak?

Leaks can occur if the nappy doesn’t fit well, it isn’t the right shape for your child or mistakes are made in either adjusting or washing it. On the other hand, many users find that cloth nappies can be better at containing runny milk poos than disposables because of the elastic at the waist and legs, meaning you’ll face fewer full-body changes.

To reduce the chance of leaks, you’re looking for a cloth nappy that fits low and close for full contact with your child with slight tension in the elastics. If you have any concerns, it’s worth talking to a nappy library (some even offer free introductory classes) or a retailer with a trial scheme.

How often should you change reusable nappies?

The Nappy Lady recommends changing every two-and-a-half to three hours during the day and before or after every night feed for babies under six months. This changes to every three hours during the day and as needed during the night from six months onwards.

What are the best reusable nappies to buy?

It will depend on what your baby is like and what they need - and what you like and need, as you’ll be using them! A lot can depend on your baby’s size and shape so a perfect nappy for one can leak for another. Consider trialling a set with a cloth nappy retailer or visiting your local cloth nappy library for more advice. We hope our list is a good starting point.

We chose Mother-Ease Wizard Uno StayDry All-In-One as the best overall as it’s easy, convenient, adjustable, absorbent and stylish.

What are nappy liners and boosters?

Nappy liners are thin sheets that are placed on top of the nappy, designed to catch solid waste and make it easier to dispose of.

Boosters, on the other hand, are additional pads that can be inserted into the nappy to increase its absorbency. This can be useful at night or during long trips when you may not be able to change your baby's nappy as frequently. They're also called nappy inserts.

Can I use reusable nappies overnight?

Yes, just like a disposable, they're fine to use while your baby is sleeping. Just remember that some, like the TotsBots EasyFit Star, are only intended for day use, but most are suitable for overnight.

You may want to use a booster overnight for extra absorbency or opt for an all-in-one nappies with a higher capacity though.

How we tested

We put each nappy through its paces with the same parent tester to cut out unnecessary variables. As such, we feel confident that we’re recommending the top reusable nappies for most babies.

• Safety and comfort

The baby wore the nappy as frequently as possible, taking washing into consideration, over the course of two months. Any pulling or potential for anything getting caught was noted.

• Assembly and preparation

The reusable nappy was unboxed and assembled if necessary. We scored for ease of use and assessed how complete and comprehensible the instructions were.

• Day-to-day usage

The child was changed in different settings – at home, out and about and a friend’s house – and our tester noted how easy it was to put on and remove it as well as how well it performed overall.

• Cleanliness

How well reusable nappies wash is crucial so each nappy was washed after each use, following the manufacturer’s instructions. They were all line dried. How well it washed and how long they took to dry was observed.

• Aesthetics

We took into consideration what the nappy looked like, how many prints, patterns and colours were available, how slim fitting they were and where the poppers were placed.

• Ethics

We looks at the ethical claims of each brand as well as any additional green commitments they discuss.

• Value for money

We asked whether the nappy’s function justified the price tag, whether there were any other factors that might make it good value for money and how satisfied our tester was overall.

How we chose our recommendations

First, we scanned the Mumsnet forums to see which reusable nappies were being recommended by real parents who have used and rated them - and which didn’t come out so well. We researched the nappies, as well as respected brands and newcomers, and talked with industry experts Wendy Richards (founder of The Nappy Lady) and reusable nappy consultant Sarah Smith (of Bristol Cloth Nappy Library).

We made a shortlist of 22 nappies - including pocket nappies, AIOs and two-parters - and our tester used and rated them. We combined these test results with recommendations from Mumsnetters from our forums, researched expert opinions, and reviews from trusted online sources, to compile this list of the best reusable nappies on the market right now.

Why you should trust us

All Mumsnet product reviews are written by real parents. We work hard to provide honest and independent advice you can trust – brands can’t pay to be featured in our articles or win a Mumsnet Best award.

We spend hours researching, speaking to parents, analysing data and listening to experts before we test out the products on our shortlist. Transparency is really important to us and that's why we're always upfront about how we tested the products we recommend. We won't always recommend the cheapest products, or the ones with the most extra features. We write about products that we feel offer the best value to most parents – the ones we'd recommend to our own friends and family.

There's no incentive for us to be lazy with our research or in our testing process. There's no reason for us to respond to pressure from retailers or brands trying to promote new products. It's actually quite the opposite and we think it's a good system, one that keeps us focused on making parents lives' easier. We hope it helps you.

We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust with help of parents and experts. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles, however we never allow this to influence our coverage.

Read next: Best nipple shields for breastfeeding mums