Having trouble with your cloth diapers leaking? You’re not alone! Leaks are one of the most common—and frustrating—challenges when using cloth diapers. Just like disposables, cloth diapers need the right fit, absorbency, and care to keep your little one dry. Here’s a comprehensive guide to troubleshooting leaks with Lil Helper cloth diapers and ensuring a snug, leak-free fit.
Check the Fit First
Most leaks happen because the diaper isn’t fitting correctly. Lil Helper one-size cloth diapers fit babies from 7–35 pounds, but every baby’s body is unique. Make sure your baby is filling the diaper properly; if they’re very small, waiting a week or two may solve fit issues. A well-fitted diaper should sit snugly around the waist without digging in and have no gaps at the leg openings. It should cover the belly fully, with flats and prefolds positioned even with the belly button, and fit into the natural leg creases rather than around the knees or thighs. When troubleshooting leaks, ask yourself if there are gaps at the legs or waist, if the rise is adjusted properly for your baby’s size, and if the diaper could be too tight, causing compression leaks. Check out this Blog post to learn more about fitting cloth diapers.
Snap Adjustments and Folding
For smaller babies not using the diaper’s full size, use the front snaps to reduce the diaper’s length. Fold any excess fabric back toward the belly to prevent leaks and ensure a snug fit. Proper snap placement and folding help the diaper adapt to your baby’s body as they grow.
Poor Fit from Loose Elastics
Over time, diaper elastics can lose stretch, which may allow leaks to slip through. Always check the elastics for firmness. When washing, use warm water with other diapers and avoid stretching them unnecessarily to maintain their shape. Proper elastic tension is crucial for keeping diapers snug around the legs and waist.
Compression Leaks
While loose diapers are a common problem, overly tight diapers can also leak. Compression leaks occur when external pressure—such as a snug car seat, tight pants, or a small onesie—forces liquid out of the diaper. These leaks are most common with microfiber inserts or older children who place more pressure on the diaper when sitting or moving. To prevent compression leaks, ensure the diaper is snug but not tight, balance absorbency without overstuffing, and dress your child in looser clothing to accommodate the diaper’s bulk. Using more absorbent fibers like bamboo or hemp can also help reduce leaks caused by compression.
Absorbency and Insert Placement
Lil Helper cloth diapers are designed to hold liquid efficiently, but all cloth diapers have limits. Microfiber inserts absorb quickly but can be prone to compression leaks, while bamboo inserts provide a good balance of absorbency and softness. Cotton inserts are budget-friendly and work well when layered for extra absorbency. If leaks continue despite proper fit, first check whether the inserts are fully saturated. Diapers generally need changing every two to three hours, and heavy wetters may need more frequent changes. You can also add extra absorbency with a second insert or booster.
Adjusting insert placement can make a big difference: for boys, place more absorbency toward the front; for girls, toward the center; and for babies beginning to sit, add extra absorbency in the back. For side or belly sleepers, flats or prefolds that provide absorbency across the entire diaper, not just the center, can help prevent leaks.
Flooding
Flooding happens when an insert cannot absorb liquid fast enough or in the right spot. It is common with babies who suddenly hold urine longer or during nighttime when a larger volume enters the diaper at once. Placing extra absorbency where it’s needed most can prevent this problem.
Repelling from Residue or Creams
Sometimes cloth diaper inserts start to repel liquid instead of absorbing it. This can happen when fabric softeners, soap residue, or petroleum-based creams build up on the fabric, causing water to bead on the surface rather than soaking in. For the most comprehensive wash routine information available online, check out Fluff Love University—follow this link and let your mind be blown. Wash them with a recommended detergent that doesn’t leave residue, and if petroleum-based creams were used, remove them first with a degreaser and a thorough scrub before washing again.
Wicking and Clothing Interference
Sometimes leaks aren’t caused by the diaper itself, but by moisture moving when absorbent fabric touches something wet. This can happen if onesies or leggings are tucked under the diaper, or if absorbent fabrics are layered over wool covers. To prevent wicking, ensure clothing fits comfortably over the diaper without pushing any absorbent material outside of it. When using wool covers, always wear them as the outermost layer. Fleece pants over wool are fine, but avoid placing any absorbent fabrics on top of wool.
When It’s Not the Diaper
Check the outer layer of the diaper. Lil Helper PUL is water-resistant, not waterproof. Cracks, delamination, or extreme wear can allow leaks through the outer shell. Inspect your diapers regularly, and replace them if you notice signs of wear.
Leaks are often caused by a combination of fit, absorbency, and external pressure. By checking elastics, adjusting snaps and folds, placing inserts correctly, and ensuring clothing doesn’t interfere, most leaks can be resolved. Cloth diapering takes a bit of practice, and every baby’s needs are different. For extra help, check out the Got Leaks App, our Helpful Guides or contact our Delight Team at delight@lilhelper.ca.
We also have a great Youtube Channel with useful videos like "How to Tell if your Diaper is Absorbing" and this playlist with "Fit Topic and User Guide" videos.
We’d love to hear from you! Have you discovered sneaky causes of diaper leaks? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below.
