12 Best Cloth Diapers for Newborns in 2024 (NB-Sized)

Best cloth diapers for newborns are adjustable, super absorbent, and easy to use. 

But there’s no one “perfect” diaper. Every baby is different and as parents, our job is to test what works best for our little ones. 

My newborn hated being wet and I ended up washing 25 diapers daily. To avoid running out of diapers on day 1, get at least 24-30 newborn diapers.

This will last you up to 2 days, and then you will have a better understanding of your family’s needs. To make life easier for yourself, stick with AIOs and pockets.

Our Favorites

Best Cloth Diapers for Newborns

1. OsoCozy Better Fit Infant Prefold Cloth Diapers

OsoCozy Better Fit prefold diapers are more compact than traditional prefold diapers resulting in less bulk and a better fit. Osocozy prefolds come in three sizes designated by the stitching color on the trim. The newborn size is designed to fit newborns as small as six pounds. 

Prefolds are designed essentially to be newborn cloth diaper inserts inside a hybrid diaper or waterproof diaper cover. Made with 100% cotton, these diapers are incredibly soft and become softer each time you wash them. 

Because their infant cloth diapers only go up to sixteen pounds, you will need to purchase a larger size after a few months. However, prefolds are much less expensive than pocket or all-in-one diapers. In addition, you can use old prefolds as extra padding, burp cloths, bibs, or even cleaning towels!

What We Liked

• Discounts for buying sets of four or more and seven or more
• 100% unbleached natural cotton
• Small enough to fit preemies but large enough for the first few months.
• An inexpensive way to give cloth diapering a try
• Easy to wash and line dry quickly, especially in the sun

Type: Prefold
Weight: 6-16 lbs
Closure: Need a pocket diaper, outer shell, or diaper pins
Fit: Must be folded
Softness: Soft, natural cotton

2. Thirsties Newborn All-In-One Cloth Diaper

Thirsties Natural Newborn AIO diapers are specifically designed for newborn babies. These uniquely designed diapers include an umbilical cord snap down to make healing easier. Once the umbilical cord has fallen off, simply undo the snap. 

Thirsties AIO newborn cloth diapers have gentle elastic in the legs so you can adjust for the perfect fit. They also have a bigger weight range for newborn diapers (up to 14 pounds) than other diaper manufacturers. Therefore your money will stretch further since you won’t need to purchase a larger size as quickly as other brands. 

Thirsities AIOs are the best newborn cloth diapers for parents who want the newborn all-in-one option and wish to extend their diapers’ life into the first few months. 

What We Liked

• Unique, fun, and stylish designs and patterns
• Competitive pricing with other AIO brands
• Small enough to fit preemies
• Super absorbent and soft
• Easy to wash and quick-drying even when line dried

Type: All-in-one
Weight: 5-14 lbs.
Closure: Snaps
Fit: Adjustable trim fit
Softness: 100% soft polyester microfleece

3. Grovia All-In-One Newborn Cloth Diaper

As one of the most trusted brands in cloth diapers, parents should feel confident when choosing a Grovia newborn cloth diaper. The Grovia newborn all-in-one cloth diapers are a complete diapering system. Therefore, parents do not need extra inserts, covers, or liners. 

The newborn AIO diaper is specifically designed for newborns and fits babies 5-12 pounds. Its adjustable hourglass shape will fit your baby snuggly to prevent leaks. In addition, the diaper is equipped with three layers of absorbent material: hemp, cotton, and ultra-soft microfleece.

An AIO is the best cloth diaper for a newborn whose parents want a no-fuss, simple system. However, once your baby outgrows the newborn size, you will need to purchase an entirely new set of diapers.

What We Liked

• Comes in a wide range of colors and patterns
• Parents can bundle purchases to save money
• All-in-one diapers are simple to wash and dry
• Adjustable elastic in the legs to achieve the perfect fit
• No pre-soaking is needed before washing

Type: All-in-one
Weight: 5-12 lbs
Closure: Snaps
Fit: Adjustable trim fit
Softness: Buttery-soft polyester micro-fleece

4. Lighthouse Kid’s Company Signature Infant All-In-One-Diaper

Lighthouse Kid’s All-in-one diapers are the ideal option when cloth diapering a newborn because they can diaper your baby from start to finish. The downside is they may be a little large for some newborns. Therefore, parents should consider disposables or special newborn cloth diapers for the first few weeks. 

These diapers aren’t just great for daytime, but with 12 hours of absorbency, parents can trust these at night. All-in-ones are an excellent cloth diaper for a newborn baby for parents who only want to buy one set of diapers.  

To increase absorbency, a booster bamboo is included with each diaper.

What We Liked

• They only need to be washed once to prep for use.
• Can be tumbled dry on low
• Lighthouse Kid donates 5% of Hannah’s Home in South Florida to assist mothers and babies.
• The tummy panel prevents leaks from the top.
• The outer layer is made from stretchy TPU for flexibility.

Type: All-in-one
Weight: 9-32 lbs.
Closure: Snaps
Fit: Adjustable trim fit
Softness: 

5. Rumparooz G2 One-Size Infant Cloth Diaper

The Rumparooz One Size Cloth Diaper is the only diapering system your baby will need from birth until potty training. Designed to fit newborns to thirty-five plus pounds, parents can purchase one set of cloth diapers without worrying when and if their little one will outgrow them.

Newborn cloth diapering can be challenging, especially for parents new to the practice. Rumparooz pocket diapers make it easy with simple to adjust sizing. In addition to the adjustable snaps and elastic, you can add extra inserts as needed for absorbency. 

Rumparooz diapers are slightly more expensive than other pocket or all-in-one diapers. However, parents will only need to purchase one set, making them the best newborn cloth diaper for parents who want a one-and-done system. 

What We Liked

• Customizable sizes and sits based on size and gender
• Only require one pre-wash before using
• Parts of the diaper are U.S.A. manufactured
• Bright and colorful designs and patterns
• Ultra soft, no-pill micro-chamois fabirc

Type: Pocket
Weight: 6-35 lbs
Closure: Snaps or hook & loop
Fit: Adjustable trim fit
Softness: 100% polyester micro-chamise

6. Thirsties One-Size Snap Pocket Diaper 

Thirsities one-size pocket diapers are designed to fit newborns through toddlers. While not specifically newborn pocket diapers, the adjustable straps and closures allow parents to adjust the fit for babies as tiny as 8lbs. If you’re expecting a smaller baby, you may want to have a handful of specific newborn pocket cloth diapers or disposables on hand for the first few days. 

Thirsties pocket diapers are designed for use with their 100% ultra-absorbent microfleece inserts. The inserts come in two different sizes so parents can adjust based on absorbency needs and their baby’s size.

Because Thirsties uses recycled materials and is committed to sustainability, they are the best infant cloth diaper for eco-conscious parents. 

What We Liked

• Fun, bright, colorful, and unique patterns and designs
• You don’t need to remove inserts before washing
• Inserts use hemp and organic cotton for maximum absorbency.
• Snap closures make potty training easy for children to remove themselves
• All Thirsties products are manufactured in the U.S.A.

Type: Pocket
Weight: 8-40 lbs. 
Closure: Snaps
Fit: Adjustable trim fit
Softness: Soft cotton/hemp layer

7. OsoCozy Newborn Diaper Cover

The OsoCozy Newborn Diaper Cover is made specifically for newborns and fits babies as small as six pounds. Since these are simply newborn diaper covers, parents can choose which type of prefold or insert they prefer. Using diaper covers in conjunction with flats or prefolds is an affordable way to cloth diaper with convenience.

Lower in cost than other brands, pockets, or AIOs, these are the best cloth diaper covers for newborns whose parents are looking to economize on money. Diaper covers are also an excellent way to economize on space since a baby can typically wear one three or four times before it needs washing. 

What We Liked

• Small enough to fit preemies
• A large variety of fun colors and designs
• Bundling your purchase saves money
• Double leg gussets for extra leak protection
• Wipe clean inside makes washing easier

Type: Diaper cover
Weight: 6-12 lbs
Closure: Snaps
Fit: Adjustable trim fit 
Softness: PUL breathable fabric

8. Thirsties Natural Newborn Fitted Diaper

Thirsties Natural newborn diapers are the best natural newborn diapers for parents who want natural fabrics and a fitted diaper experience. Thirsties newborn fitted diapers are made from bamboo rayon and cotton. Eleven layers of fabric make these fitted newborn cloth diapers ultra-absorbent. 

To complete the Thirsties diapering system, combine the fitted diaper with the Thirsties Duo Wrap. The Duo Wrap is waterproof and comes in two sizes. Size 1 is designed to fit 6-18lbs. The inside of the cover is easy to wipe and clean. These are the best newborn cloth diaper cover because you can pair them with fitted diapers, prefolds, and flats. 

What We Liked

• The Duo Wrap comes in a variety of bright colors, patterns, and designs
• Adjustable leg gussets to prevent leaks and make baby’s legs comfortable
• The diapers and covers are manufactured in the U.S.A.
• Umbilical cord snap down, which makes healing easier
• Newborn size small enough for newborns but expand large enough for the first few months

Type: Fitted diaper
Weight: 5-14 lbs
Closure: Snaps
Fit: Adjustable trim fit
Softness: Soft bamboo and rayon

9. Charlie Banana One-Size Cloth Diaper for Newborns

Charlie Banana One-SIze Diapers are your go-to diaper for the entirety of your baby’s diaper years. This one-size newborn diaper adjusts to fit babies from 0-30+ months. All you need to do is follow the sizing guidelines and adjust accordingly. 

Some parents don’t like using one-size diapers for newborn babies because it is challenging to get the correct fit. However, if the diaper is too loose or you are experiencing leaks, you can add a prefold or extra soaker. 

Charlie Banana reusable newborn diapers are the best option for parents who only want to buy diapers once. 

What We Liked

• Climate Neutral Certified & Members of 1% For the Planet
• The diapers come in a wide range of adorable patterns and designs
• The 2-step pocket system is easy to use
• The start-up system comes with diapers and two different-sized inserts.
• Machine washable and can be tumbled dry on low.

Type: Pocket
Weight: 0 – 30+ months
Closure: Snaps
Fit: Adjustable trim fit
Softness: Super soft polyester fleece

10. Sloomb Overnight Infant Fitted Diapers

Sloomb overnight diapers are made from a combination of bamboo and organic cotton. Each diaper comes with an adjustable snap-in soaker. The XS size has an umbilical snap down, perfect for a baby’s healing umbilical stump.

Sloomb fitted diapers are the perfect fitted diaper for nighttime, especially when paired with Sloomb’s newborn snap diaper cover. Parents can also use the newborn diaper cover with flats or prefolds. 

Sloomb XS diapers are tiny and will likely only fit your baby for a few weeks. Therefore these are the best newborn-fitted diapers for parents who plan to have more than one baby or are expecting a preemie. 

What We Liked

• Sloomb plants a tree for every cloth diaper purchased. 
• The diaper cover has a wipe-clean interior.
• Parents can use these diapers for both daytime and nighttime.
• Ultra-soft stitching won’t irritate your baby’s skin. 
• Unique and brightly colored designs to fit every personality.

Type: Fitted diaper
Weight: 5-11lbs
Closure: Snap
Fit: Adjustable trim fit
Softness: Ultra-soft bamboo and cotton

11. Nicki’s Diapers Bamboo Newborn Flat Cloth Diapers 

Parents experienced with cloth diapering will tell you it can be challenging to find newborn-size cloth diapers. Or, if you do purchase newborn diapers, your baby quickly outgrows them. Therefore, flats are excellent if you’re looking for a cloth diapering newborn option.

Nicki’s bamboo cloth flats come in two sizes and will last your baby from birth through potty training.  Nicki’s are some of the best flats for newborns because they are inexpensive and ultra-absorbent. Plus, once your baby outgrows them, you can use them as burp cloths or cleaning cloths. 

What We Liked

• You can prep them for use by washing them with regular laundry
• They line dry quickly, or you can tumble dry on low

Type: Flat
Weight: Not Listed
Closure: Need a pocket diaper, outer shell, or diaper pins
Fit: Must be folded
Softness: Soft cotton/bamboo blend

12. Grovia Newborn Prefold Cloth Diaper

New parents may feel hesitant about cloth diapering a newborn with prefolds, but Grovia makes it simple! Prefolds are some of the cheapest newborn cloth diapers, but that doesn’t mean they are poor in quality.  Grovia prefolds come in four sizes; Size 1 is for newborns 4-9 pounds.

Unlike all-in-ones, prefolds require extra steps and supplies. Parents can use prefolds with pocket diapers or diaper pins with a waterproof shell. Parents review Grovia as the best newborn prefolds for absorbency but warn they shrink significantly. Specific newborn sizing guarantees a better fit for your baby and fewer leaks. 

Once your baby outgrows the newborn size, you will need to purchase bigger prefolds, but you can use the old ones as liners, burb cloths, or washable diaper cloths!

What We Liked

• Made with bamboo rayon and organic cotton
• No scratchy tags, specifications are stamped onto the diaper
• Affordable and sold in packs of three, bulk purchases save money
• No pre-soaking is needed before washing
• Can be tumbled dry on low 

Type: Prefold
Weight: 4-9 lbs.
Closure: Need a pocket diaper, outer shell, or diaper pins
Fit: Must be folded
Softness: Smooth, soft cottony feel

Newborn Cloth Diapers vs. Newborn Disposable Diapers

Both cloth diapers and disposable diapers have pros and cons depending on how you view them. Cloth diapers are undoubtedly more eco-friendly because they are washable, reusable, and in many cases biodegradable. However, there are some companies now making disposable diapers that are biodegradable. 

Newborn disposable diapers are more convenient in many ways, and most child care centers will only accept disposables. Therefore, if your child is enrolled in childcare, you may be required to use disposables at least part-time. 

Clothing diapering part-time is quite common and is easily accomplished. Many parents also find it easier to use disposables while traveling or running errands. Although you can use a wet bag to store soiled diapers on the go, you will need access to washing while traveling. Cloth diapers need to be washed every 2-3 days. 

Types of Newborn Cloth Diapers

There are several types of newborn cloth diapers parents can choose from. All-in-ones are the simplest for new parents to use; they work like disposables. On the other hand, flats and prefolds are the most economical choice. 

All-in-Ones (AIO)

For parents new to cloth diapering, all-in-ones are the simplest to use. They are a one-piece unit that goes on and off like disposable diapers. There is nothing to assemble or take apart before washing or fitting them on your baby.

All-in-ones are the most expensive style of cloth diaper, and they also take the longest to dry. It can sometimes be challenging to find all-in-ones in a newborn size. In addition, purchasing newborn-sized all-in-ones is a costly investment when your baby is likely to outgrow them in a matter of weeks.

All-in-Twos/Hybrids (AI2)

Hybrids are another excellent option for parents who are inexperienced in cloth diapering. They work similarly to an all-in-one except that the inner absorbent layer is snapped in and removed before washing. In some cases, the out layer can be used more than once if it is not saturated. 

They are similar in price to all-in-ones, but because the outer layer can typically be used more than once, you might not need to purchase as many covers.

Pocket Diapers

Pocket diapers have an inner pocket in which a padded, absorbent layer is stuffed. Parents can choose from various inserts, including cotton, hemp, microfleece, or microfiber. Pocket diapers work well for parents who wish to use ultra-absorbent microfiber inserts. Microfiber is the most absorbent style of diaper liner but cannot be placed directly against your baby’s skin. Therefore pocket diapers work best with microfiber.

Flats and Prefolds

Flats and prefolds are typically best for experienced cloth diapering parents. However, with a bit of patience and practice, any parent can master the use of flats and prefolds. In addition, flats and prefolds are the most economical choice and easiest to wash and dry. 

You need to pair flats and prefolds for newborns with a fitted waterproof diaper cover. Parents also need diaper pins or diaper fasteners. 

Fitted Diapers

Fitted diapers are another wallet-friendly option as they cost less than pockets, hybrids, or all-in-ones. They are also easier to use than flats or prefolds since they go one and off with snaps or fasteners. 

Flats and prefolds need to be used with waterproof diaper covers. In most instances, covers can be used multiple times before they need washing. Fitted diapers are a great option for parents who wish to use organic newborn diapers. They are often made from hemp, bamboo, or cotton.

How to Choose Cloth Diapers for Newborns?

Parents have a lot to consider when choosing which cloth diapers will work best for their newborn. New parents should consider material, absorbency, fit, the type of closure, and more. 

Material (Softness)

Cloth diapers are available in a variety of different types of fabrics. Fabrics like cotton and bamboo are naturally soft and become softer with each wash. Hemp begins somewhat rough but will become softer over time. If using diaper inserts, microfiber is absorbent but scratchy and rough. As a result, it cannot be placed directly next to your baby’s skin. 

Absorbency

Newborns go through many diapers, on average 10-12 per day. Therefore, absorbency is extremely important in a cloth diaper. Natural fibers like hemp and bamboo are highly absorbent; however, synthetic fabrics like microfleece and microfiber are even more absorbent. 

One option is to combine natural and synthetic materials to optimize absorbency and softness. 

Fit and Leakage

Proper fit is essential to prevent leaks when using cloth diapers. Depending on the size of your newborn, it can be challenging to find the perfect fit at times. Parents should look for specifically sized newborn diapers or ones that can adjust from newborn size to a larger size. 

If your cloth diapers are leaking, probably, the fit is off; you may need to adjust the leg gussets or the waist closure.

Sizes

Newborn-size cloth diapers vary from brand to brand and type to type. For example, Grovia newborn all-in-one diapers fit babies 5-12 lbs, whereas OsoCozy prefolds fit 6-16lbs. Some all-in-one diapers only go down to 8lbs. If you are unsure what size your baby will be, you may wish to have some disposables on hand in different sizes just in case the cloth diapers are too big to start.

Umbilical Cord

A newborn’s umbilical cord stump takes roughly 5-15 days to heal and fall off. In that time, parents need to use care when diapering to ensure the diaper doesn’t rub and irritate the stump. With disposable diapers, parents usually fold down the front of the diaper. 

Some newborn cloth diapers have an umbilical cord flap that can fold down and snap into place until the stump heals. Once it heals, the flap unsnaps and provides full coverage at the top of the diaper.

Type of Closure 

Most parents will likely prefer snap or hook and loop (Velcro) closures. However, prefolds and flats will require diaper pins or Snappi diaper fasteners. Prefolds and flats used with pins or Snappi fasteners are the easiest way to ensure the perfect fit. 

Fitted, pocket, hybrid, and all-in-ones usually have adjustable elastic in the legs to help prevent leaks. These styles will also use snaps or hook and loop to close around the baby’s waist. 

FAQ

Is cloth diapering a newborn worth it?

If cloth diapering is important to you, it is always worth it! However, consider using flats, prefolds, or one-size all-in-one diapers if you are worried about costs.

When should I start cloth diapering my newborn?

You can begin as soon as you bring them home from the hospital! However, some parents prefer to use disposables for the first few weeks until their baby is at least eight or nine pounds and fits into one-size diapers. 

How to cloth diaper a newborn?

You can use any style of cloth diaper on your newborn. The important factor is using an appropriate size based on your baby’s weight.

How many cloth diapers does a newborn need?

A newborn will go through roughly 10-15 diapers in 24 hours. So unless you plan to do laundry daily, you will need at least double that number. 

How to use prefold cloth diapers on newborns?

You will need the smallest size prefold available for newborns. It is recommended you practice folding and fitting prefolds on the doll before the baby arrives.

How to use all in one cloth diapers on newborns?

All-in-ones fit on a newborn like a disposable diaper. However, depending on the all-in-one style, you may need to adjust the size to fit your baby.

How to use pocket cloth diapers on newborns?

You will need inserts with your pocket diapers. You may also need to adjust the sizing depending on the style of the pocket diaper. 

How to use fitted cloth diapers on newborns?

Fitted diapers snap or fasten on like a disposable; however, you will need a newborn-size waterproof diaper cover. 

How to use newborn cloth diapers with the umbilical cord?

When cloth diapering a newborn, you must use diapers with an umbilical cord flap that folds down. Or, if using flats or fitted, fold them so that the stump isn’t rubbed or covered.

Which cloth diapers are best for newborns?

All-in-ones are the easiest style of cloth diapers for new parents to use. They are the simplest to place on your baby and the easiest to wash.

Can you use one-size cloth diapers on newborns?

Assuming your baby fits the recommended weight guidelines, you can use one-size cloth diapers on newborns. If you’d like to use one-size diapers but are unsure of your baby’s birth weight, has newborn disposables on hand. 

What are the easiest newborn cloth diapers to use?

All-in-one diapers are probably the easiest newborn cloth diapers to use. However, any style is workable once parents learn how!