Nappy Cream and Reusable Nappies: Everything You Need to Know

Cloth nappies are such a great choice for your baby and the environment. They have a learning curve  that may worry some- read our blogs for help with this - I found them no harder than disposables, if it was a faff I wouldn't have persevered. Disposable nappies and reusables are pretty similar but there are some considerations you need to make with cloth.

While protecting your baby’s delicate skin is a top priority, choosing the right nappy cream for reusable nappies is important to keep then stain free and absorbent.

We’ll dive into everything you need to know about using nappy cream with washable nappies, including the best options, what to avoid, and tips to make it work effortlessly.

Can I Use Nappy Cream with Reusable Nappies?

Yes, you can use nappy cream with reusable nappies, but there are a few precautions to keep in mind. Some nappy creams can leave behind residue that builds up on the fabric, creating a barrier that impacts the nappy’s absorbency. This can lead to leaks—the last thing you want when you’re already busy managing nappy changes!

To safely use nappy cream with reusable nappies:

• Choose the right cream: Opt for one that’s compatible with cloth nappies (more on this below).

• Use sparingly: A thin layer of cream is usually enough to protect your baby’s skin without overloading the nappy.

• Add a liner: Using a nappy liner between the cream and the nappy creates a protective barrier, preventing residue from transferring.

Which Nappy Creams Can I Use?

Not all nappy creams are created equal, especially when it comes to reusable nappies. Look for creams that are:

• Made with natural ingredients: Ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and calendula are gentle on the skin and less likely to leave behind residue.

• Petroleum-free: Avoid heavy-duty creams like vaseline, as they can coat the nappy’s fabric and reduce absorbency.

• Cloth-nappy friendly: Some brands explicitly state that their creams are safe for reusable nappies, which makes it easier to choose.

Recommended Nappy Creams for Reusable Nappies:

Cheeky wipes coconut oil:

A popular choice for its soothing natural qualities. as it is antibacterial also it can help heal mild nappy rash irritation. Obviously, you can use it all over as a baby moisturiser, not just their bum, so if you are into baby massage oil, this would work a treat. 

Harry and Rose nappy spray:

Convenient and mess-free, designed with cloth nappies in mind. An indispensable addition to your nappy-changing routine. Infused with moisturisers including Organic Aloe Vera, Calendula, Witch Hazel, and Chamomile to ease minor rashes and shield sensitive skin with each diaper change! 

Poppets wipe solution:

Available in a variety of scents and completely cloth-nappy safe. Poppets ensuring your reusable wipes solution is naturally gentle, crafted with a special blend of shea butter and coconut oil, leaving your wipes feeling luxuriously soft. 

Bepanthen Nappy Care Ointment:

Generally considered safe if used sparingly as it soaks into the skin. Great to use if baby is prone to rashes, but most cloth bum babies have less irritation.

Always double-check the ingredients and reviews to ensure compatibility with your nappies.

Which Nappy Creams Should I Avoid?

Some creams can wreak havoc on reusable nappies, so it’s best to steer clear of these:

Petroleum-based creams:

Products like Vaseline and heavy-duty barrier creams create a waterproof layer that’s hard to wash out of cloth nappies, if you need prescription creams at any point make sure you use a liner.

Thick, greasy creams:

Creams like sudocrem can build up on the fabric and reduce absorbency over time.

Highly fragranced products:

Added perfumes can irritate sensitive skin and leave unwanted residues.

How to Use Nappy Cream with Reusables

Using nappy cream doesn’t have to be a headache! Here are some top tips to make it work:

1. Apply sparingly: A pea-sized amount is usually enough to cover the area. Less is more when it comes to cloth nappies.

2. Use a liner: Disposable or reusable liners act as a shield, preventing the cream from contacting the nappy directly.

3. Wash thoroughly: Ensure your nappies are washed properly in the washing machine to remove any cream residue. Consider an extra rinse cycle if needed.

4. Stick to cloth-friendly creams: Choose products designed with reusable nappies in mind to avoid issues.

5. Spot-treat stains: If you notice any cream residue, treat it with a bit of gentle stain remover or a cloth-nappy-safe detergent.

How Can I Tell If My Nappy Cream Is Causing Problems?

If your reusable nappies aren’t working as they should, nappy cream build-up could be the culprit. Here’s what to watch for:

Reduced absorbency:

The nappies may feel less effective at soaking up moisture.

Leaks:

Cream residue can cause liquids to repel instead of absorb.

Greasy feel:

If the nappies feel oily even after washing, it’s a sign of cream build-up.

Stains or discoloration:

Some creams can leave behind visible marks on the fabric.

If you spot any of these issues, try strip washing your nappies to reset them.

How Do I Remove Nappy Cream Build-Up from Cloth Nappies?

If you’ve accidentally used the wrong cream or applied too much, don’t panic! Here’s how to fix it:

Strip the nappies:

This involves a deep cleaning process to remove residue. Use a cloth-nappy-safe detergent and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for stripping.

Use warm water:

Wash the nappies in warm water to break down oils and creams more effectively.

Try a grease-fighting detergent:

A small amount of dish soap (cloth-nappy-safe) can help tackle stubborn build-up, but rinse thoroughly afterward.

Rinse, rinse, rinse:

Ensure all soap and residue are completely rinsed out to restore absorbency.

Once your nappies are back to normal, stick to using suitable creams and liners to prevent future issues.

Wrap-Up

Using nappy cream with reusable nappies doesn’t have to be complicated. By choosing the right products, using them sparingly, and following a few simple precautions, you can keep your baby’s skin protected and your nappies in great condition and reduce your carbon footprint.

If you’ve had experience with nappy creams and cloth nappies, we’d love to hear from you! Share your tips or questions in the comments below, and don’t forget to explore our other posts for more reusable nappy advice.

You can contact us directly for advice, the team chat pee, poo and periods all day long and are happy to help!  We’d also love to hear your experiences or answer any questions in the comments!

You can read more of our blogs for helpful tips and guides:

How to choose a great reusable nappy

Whats the difference between nappy inserts and boosters?

How to prevent nappy leaks

About the Author: Kirstin on our customer services team loves spending her days helping customers with their reusable period product needs and advising cloth nappy using families. Kirstin lives with her three teenagers and loves walking, cycling and sea swimming year round in our beautiful bay.She is excited to share her extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for all things reusable, helping a new generation of parents navigate eco-friendly choices for their children.