How Many Cloth Diapers Do I Need To Start Cloth Diapering?

Calculate how many diapers you use daily to determine the number of cloth diapers needed. Then, multiply this number by the number of days between washes. Finally, add an extra day's worth of diapers.

The answer isn't straightforward—it depends. The amount of cloth diapers you need depends on your baby's needs. Plan on using around 12 diaper inserts and 4 waterproof covers each day for a newborn.

Style, budget, and lifestyle are key points to consider when determining the number of cloth diapers you'll need.

Laundry Frequency: How Often Will You Wash?

Your willingness and ability to do laundry play a big role. If you can wash diapers daily, you might only need enough for one day plus a few extras. If you plan to wash less often, you'll need more diapers. For laundry tips, check out our washing guide.

Cost and Style Considerations

If you're looking to save money, using waterproof covers with inserts, flats, or prefolds is a good option. You can reuse these systems until they are dirty, which results in lower costs and fewer covers needed.

A newborn will need at least 12 inserts and 4 waterproof covers daily. These covers are easy to hand wash and dry quickly. 

All-in-two diapers with snap-in inserts function similarly. You'll need enough for the full period between washes if you prefer all-in-one cloth diapers or pocket cloth diapers.

Wear and Tear from Frequent Washing

Frequent washing can wear out diapers faster. To make your diapers last longer for selling or later use, wash them daily or every other day.

Having more cloth diapers in your stash can help them last longer and stay in good condition. A larger supply of diapers can extend their lifespan and keep them in good condition. More diapers can help you use them again and keep them in good shape. Having more diapers allows you to rotate them, extending their life and maintaining their value.

How Many Newborn Cloth Diapers?

Newborns typically need a diaper change every two hours, which means about 12 diapers per day. If washing every other day, you'll need 24 diapers to ensure you have enough while others are drying. Some parents manage with 16-18 diapers, but drying time varies. Quick-drying diapers may allow you to use fewer if you wash daily.

How Many Cloth Diapers for Toddlers?

As babies grow, they pee less frequently and might not need a change for 10-12 hours at night. Toddlers (6-24 months) typically need 5-10 diapers a day. For washing every other day, 18-20 diapers should suffice. Always have a few extra for unexpected changes.

Comfort for Mom

While the essential number of diapers is important, having a few more can make life easier. You should wash every 2-3 days to prevent stink, ammonia, and mildew. For a newborn, 36 diapers should cover three days. An older infant needs about 24, and a toddler around 20. 

A handy equation:

Daily diaper usage ✕ number of days until next wash + Diapers for an additional day = Total amount of diapers required.

Cloth Diapering More Than One Child

If you have multiple children in cloth diapers, you'll do more laundry and may need more diapers. The same principles apply: enough diapers for each child’s needs and a wash schedule.

Personal Experience

For twins, I recommend preflats and covers, starting with 16 covers and 48 inserts. This worked well, but now I prefer all-in-ones for convenience. For daycare, we use pocket cloth diapers with Athletic Wicking Jersey, sending enough for each day.

Discuss with daycare how often they change diapers and whether you'll provide diapers daily or for a few days.

Final Thoughts: How Many Cloth Diapers?

Ultimately, there's no single right answer. Consider your baby's age, laundry schedule, budget, and diaper style preference. Always have a few extras for emergencies. More cloth diapers mean less frequent washing, saving water and energy.

Many parents find that a diaper sprayer helps rinse off diapers before washing, reducing stains and smells. Also, consider diaper liners, especially when your child starts solids. Liners catch solid waste, making cleanup easier. They can be disposable or reusable; reusable liners can go in the wash with the diapers.

Choosing the right number of cloth diapers is about finding a balance that works for you and your baby.