Image: MomJunction Design Team
Wet diapers are a common cause of rashes in children and can cause extreme discomfort when worn for a lengthy period. As a result, many parents prefer the best cloth diaper covers because they are breathable, reusable, and eco-friendly.
Cotton diapers are practical, but they aren’t water-proof. Thus, diaper covers are required to add a moisture barrier.. Cloth diaper covers are shaped like disposable diapers, but are made of waterproof material called PUL, or sometimes wool.
If you have cotton diapers on hand, your child will not need to use disposable diapers made of plastic and synthetic material. Now that you know the importance of diaper covers, let’s have a look at our top picks of cloth diaper covers. Additionally, we have included a buying guide to assist you in selecting the ideal baby diaper cover for your child. So keep scrolling.
Top Picks
13 Best Cloth Diaper Covers In 2024, And A Buying Guide
1. Best Adjustable:Kanga Care Rumparooz One Size Cloth Diaper Cover
This cotton diaper cover comes in various cute and vibrant designs and looks adorable on your baby. The one-size-fits-all organic diaper keeps your baby happy and rash-free until they are potty trained, making it suitable for infants and toddlers. It is suitable for babies weighing up to 35 lb. The baby-friendly diaper cover, made of water-resistant polyester TPU, can be paired with pre-folded, fitted, or flat cotton diapers and stays leak-proof throughout the night, making it an appropriate solution for cloth diapering. The diaper cover also features four adjustable rise settings, which means that it grows along with your baby.
Pros
- Double sidewall gusset
- Aplix and snap closure
- Available in a wide range of colors and prints
- Soft outer fabric
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Does not include inserts
- Fitting around the legs may be loose
"The newborn-sized diaper cover fits well thanks to its multiple buttons for customization. It has now become my dependable choice when I am out with my baby. The color options can be a wee bit deceiving, but this does not affect its efficiency in any way."
2. Best Eco-Friendly: KaWaii Baby Reusable Cloth Diaper Cover
The KaWaii Baby reusable cloth diaper cover is designed to be used with prefolds or cloth and disposable inserts for convenience. It comes with a leak-proof feature and has a universal fit for diapering your baby comfortably. The snap buttons enable you to adjust the diaper fittings as per your baby’s bottom, providing a custom and snug fit. In addition, the added elastic waistband and elastic leg cuffs prevent leakage. These long-lasting baby diaper covers can work for infants to toddlers or until your baby is ready for potty training.
Pros
- Made of eco-friendly TPU
- Ideal for sustainable parenting
- Water-proof material
- Easy to wash
- Available in attractive prints and colors
Cons
- May appear bulky
- May not be fade-resistant
"I bought these diaper covers in lovely prints for my little one and found them impressive. They have reduced my laundry load, and I hope they stand the test of time."
Point to consider3. Best Machine-Washable:Bambino Mio Miosoft Cloth Diaper Cover
This cloth diaper cover is equipped with double elasticated leg cuffs and a flexible and expandable waist area, making it a comfortable choice for your baby. The synthetic layer inside the stretchy diaper cover makes it leak-proof, letting your baby sleep through the night. This safe and effective diaper cover dries quickly and is made of an eco-friendly, breathable, and lightweight fabric for those who hate using diapers filled with excess materials, plastic, synthetic materials, and chemicals. It also comes with laundry tabs that keep it protected when washing.
Pros
- Slim fit
- Available in two sizes
- Skin-friendly diaper cover materials
- Has an adjustable Velcro design
- Double elasticated leg cuffs and waist
- Machine-washable
- Breathable diaper cover
Cons
- Inserts may not stay in place
- Velcro may be slightly rough for delicate skin
"The sturdy Velcro and stretchy material of these diapers are a hit with me and my baby. Despite no rise snaps, the sizing and cheerful prints make up for it. Overall, it is a well-made and easy-to-use diaper cover."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 2,076 positive reviews on Amazon are proof that this product meets customers' expectations.
4. Best Fashionable:Wrangler Infant Diaper Cover
Here’s a unisex diaper cover perfect for all occasions. Offered by a trusted brand, it is one of the most fashionable ones you will find in the market. Made of 100% cotton, this pair will look incredibly cool on your toddler and keep them dry throughout the day. It features the classic Wrangler pockets and the logo on the back and a button in the front, making it quite a stylish diaper cover.
Pros
- Soft and durable diaper cover
- Elastic waistband and leg openings
- Ideal for pairing with t-shirts
- Highly durable design
Cons
- May be tight on the legs
- May not be true to size
"The design of this diaper cover is quite endearing. It is perfect for festive occasions. However, keep in mind that it might be a tad large for slender babies."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 1,874 Amazon shoppers have left good reviews about this product, citing its quality features and benefits.
5. Best Breathable: Esembly Cloth Diaper Outer
Prevent diaper explosion with the Esembly cloth diaper outer. Made from recycled bottles, it is water-resistant and doubles as a swim diaper. This diaper accessory is compatible with Esembly inserts or prefold diapers from other brands. It has dual snap-button lines to adjust the waist and legs and provide a personalized fit. Additionally, the baby diaper covers are Standard 100 OEKO-Tex-certified and free from lead, BPA, phthalates, and PVC.
Pros
- Provides full coverage
- Adequate absorption
- Easy to clean
- Offers sustainable diapering options
- Available in various colors and kid-friendly patterns
Cons
- May run small
- May be less suitable for heavy wetters
"Using the Esembly Cloth Diaper Outer has been a delightful experience for my baby. These covers provide a comfy fit and are easy to wash. They are versatile—good for swimming and nighttime use. I also fancy the vibrant colors and trim fit."
6. Best Soft:Thirsties Duo Wrap Cloth Diaper Cover
Made of 100% polyester and TPU laminate, these cloth diaper covers are super soft. It acts as the perfect fit for pre-folded, fitted, flat, or contoured diapers. The leg gussets ensure that there is as minimal leakage as possible, and the outer shell features three adjustable size settings. These safe and effective diaper cloth covers are waterproof and available in many soft, pastel shades, offering you the best of cloth diapering benefits.
Pros
- Pliable and breathable wraps
- Durable design
- Hook-and-loop closure
- Wide range of fun patterns to choose from
Cons
- Has no snap for the inserts
- May not be fully leak-proof
"I am fond of these Thirsties diaper covers for their button/Velcro combo and thoughtful design, including double gussets and reliable stitching. I hope this would grow with my little one."
Do remember7. Best Snug Fit:Buttons Diapers Cloth Diaper Cover
Made of two layers of PUL, this diaper cloth cover is water-resistant and incredibly comfortable to wear over cotton diapers. The double gussets and snap-lock adjustment mechanism offer a snug yet breathable fit and prevent any leakages, making it suitable even for toddlers. Ideal for babies between nine to 35 lbs, these baby-friendly covers are available in two sizes, and are included among the best diaper cover brands.
Pros
- Button inserts to prevent insert shift
- Stain-resistant
- Super soft fabric
- Available in vibrant colors and kid-friendly patterns
Cons
- May hold the smell of pee
- Elastic may leave some marks on the skin
"This one-size cloth diaper cover provides a snug fit for my chunky baby. With its multiple snap button arrangement, it allows me to adjust the fit as per my baby's requirements. Overall, it is an awesome choice."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 549 reviews on Amazon indicate that this product has a loyal following.
8. Best For Swimming:Esembly Cloth Diaper Cover
Esembly’s colorful cloth diaper covers are made of soft recycled TPU fabric to keep the baby clean and comfortable. The safe and effective diaper covers are available in two sizes and feature two rows of snap buttons to secure the covers in place. You don’t have to worry about any dreadful blowouts with this diaper, as they have a cotton outer layer and a waterproof inner layer to keep things tidy. Moreover, these covers are sturdy enough to be used as a swim diaper.
Pros
- Stretchy waistband
- Waterproof diaper cover
- Suitable for potty training
- Machine-washable
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- Waistband may cause chafing
- Might be smaller than expected
"I love the quality, color, and sturdy snaps of the Esembly diaper covers. They fit well, even on wiggly babies. Despite no leg gussets, I have had no leakage issues so far. In short, they are my favorite and a reliable choice when it comes to organic cloth diapering."
9. Best Easy-To-Use:Thirsties Reusable Cloth Diaper Cover
Counted among one of the best cloth diaper brands, this diaper cover by Thirsties features a hook-and-loop closure, making it simple and easy to use. It is made of 100% polyester and urethane coating and comes in four sizes ranging from extra-small to large. The TPU laminate inside the diaper cover is easy to wipe, and the double-leg gussets provide superior leakage protection. The high-quality fabric is comfortable and pliable and keeps your baby rash-free, offering a feasible cloth diapering system. The waterproof exterior is an excellent fit for any cloth diaper.
Pros
- Breathable
- Multiple baby diaper cover sizes
- Ultra-comfortable
- Ideal for prefold and fitted diapers
- Velcro provides a perfect fit
Cons
- May not be true to size
- May not be fully leak-proof
"This one comes with the dual advantage of accommodating pre-fold or fitted diapers. It is waterproof, and the leg gussets help prevent leaks."
Point to consider10. Best With Two Closure Options:Kanga Care Rumparooz Newborn Cloth Diaper Cover
Made of durable 100% polyester with TPU laminate, this waterproof reusable diaper cover comes in different colorful, kid-friendly patterns, and is machine-washable. The elastic leg gussets and stretchable elastic on the waist keep the diaper in place and ensure that there are no leakages. You can use it with pre-folded, fitted, or flat cotton diapers, and the covers can be wiped clean between uses. It is ideal for newborns weighing between six to 35 pounds and the cloth diaper features two closure options — the Aplix hook and loop closure or the KAM snap lock.
Pros
- Fits over flats and prefold diapers
- Adorable cloth diaper cover patterns
- Four adjustable rise settings
- Soft outer shell
- Offers a good fit
- Eco-friendly diapers
Cons
- May not be quick-drying
- Quality of the snaps could have been better
11. Best Absorbent:GroVia Reusable Cloth Diaper Shell
GroVia’s reusable cloth diaper shell boasts a high absorbency rate and is suitable for babies weighing between eight and 40 pounds. It features multiple snaps that help prevent blowouts when used with diaper pads or cloth diapers. Moreover, this tried-and-tested baby diaper cover is machine-washable and requires no additional soaking or scrubbing to remain stain-free.
Pros
- Sap closure makes it to use
- Polyester lining
- Elasticated leg holes
- Available in multiple prints
Cons
- May not be odor-resistant
- Some might find it flimsy
"These hybrid cloth diaper covers fit snugly, even for my slim baby after she hit 13lb. The adjustability is commendable. They are comfortable and a trusted option for nighttime use, though I wish they had a double gusset design."
12. Best Color Selection: Buttons Diapers Cloth Diaper Cover
The Buttons Diapers cloth diaper cover has a wipeable interior which is a boon for mothers looking to use cloth diapers over conventional ones. With two rows of waist snaps, the cloth diaper cover stays in place no matter the baby’s movement. Choose any Button Diaper insert and it will be compatible with this toddler product. Further, it has an elastic waist feature to give breathing space for the baby all day, making baby care easier for you.
Pros
- Fits babies between 12 to 40 lbs
- Interior PUL flaps to keep diaper inserts secure
- Various colors
- Double leg gussets
Cons
- May become bulky
- May not be suitable for overnight use
"The adorable print and high-quality material of these diaper covers have won me over. They fit my toddler well, and the double layer helps avoid leaks. Unfortunately, the colors don't match their photos. Yet, the excellent performance helps overlook this trivial shortcoming."
13. Best Leak-Proof: KaWaii Baby One Size Cloth Diaper Cover
The KaWaii Baby one-size cloth diaper cover comes in a pack of six cloth covers. As they are easy to wash, use them with any inserts or cloth diapers to keep babies dry and rash-free. Besides, an extra leg-hole flap gives added leak protection. You can adjust according to the baby’s weight, and the buttons are easy to snap. Generally, it will accommodate babies between eight to 36 lbs from slim to chunky babies.
Pros
- Vibrant designs
- Suits newborns
- Waterproof cover
- Child-safe materials
Cons
- May not be double-gusseted around the legs
- Material may not be consistent throughout the pack
"The diaper covers arrived as depicted, which was a relief. I was apprehensive about the snap buttons—they seemed flimsy enough for a fidgety baby to undo them. However, I was surprised to notice that they provide a personalized fit and do not leak. They are a perfect companion for my flat-fold cloth diapers."
Rachel Nelson, a mommy influencer, entrepreneur, experienced in-home nanny, and child-care and sewing expert, says, “Keep your cloth diaper covers in good condition for a long time by closely following their wash and dry instructions. While many cloth diaper covers are machine-dryable on a low setting, some parents prefer to air dry PUL diaper covers to prevent heat damage in the dryer.”
How To Choose The Right Diaper Covers?
It is crucial to make the right choice when it comes to buying cotton diaper covers. It should primarily keep rashes at bay and should be leak-proof. Do keep these points in mind when purchasing a cloth diaper cover:
- Leak-proof
The first and foremost thing you need to keep in mind is how leak-proof the cloth diaper cover is. If you notice rashes and leakage issues throughout the day or night, it means that the diaper cover isn’t doing its job well. Ensure that the cloth diaper cover you buy is waterproof or at least water-resistant.
- Soft, breathable material
The material is as important as anything else. Babies have sensitive skin, and if you don’t choose a diaper cover made with breathable material, your baby might have a lot of rashes and hives. Choose a fabric like cotton that is not only breathable, but also ideal for your baby’s skin.
- Locking system
Ensure that your cloth diaper cover comes with well-aligned snap buttons. This way, it won’t move around too much and prevents leakages. Double gussets on the leg-opening make it extra secure, while offering a lot of flexibility for your baby.
- Fitting
The diaper needs to be adjustable as these diapers are reusable and will last long for a couple of months to a few years. Your baby will go through rapid growth, so it is important to choose one that is size adjustable.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often do I need to change cloth diapers?
It is best to change cloth diapers every two hours or whenever it gets wet. Otherwise, your infant may experience a diaper rash, which commonly occurs when a diaper is left unchanged for prolonged hours (1).
2. How can I travel with cloth diapers?
You can carry a dedicated bag with different compartments to store your wet as well as fresh cloth diapers. It helps prevent combining regular clothes or dry diapers with wet ones.
3. How long do cloth diaper covers last?
While cloth diaper covers generally last for six months,they can last even for ten months or longer when maintained with care.
4. How many times can I reuse diaper covers?
You can reuse a diaper cover twice if it is unsoiled. However, when you use the diaper cover, ensure that it is dry before the next use.
5. How do I use cloth diaper covers?
Place the diaper inserts into the diaper pocket. Lay the diaper on a flat surface and place your baby on it. Snap the buttons as per your baby’s waist size. Ensure that the diaper offers a snug fit.
6. How do I wash cloth diaper covers?
It is best to wash cloth diapers and diaper covers separately without combining them with another laundry. You must wash soiled diaper covers using warm water, and air dry them before use.
7. How do I restore waterproofness in cloth diaper covers?
The manufacturers usually incorporate a top waterproof coat into the printed layer of the diaper cover. Using them regularly can minimize the water-resistance and have them prone to leakage. Restoring waterproofness in cloth diaper covers can be tricky and may be ineffective if done at home. Therefore, it is best to discard the cover when it loses its waterproofness.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Vibha Navarathna specializes in pregnancy, nursing, and childcare products. She has a passion for writing well-researched content and strives to give her readers practical information to keep them hooked. Her article is no different and includes the best cloth diaper covers that are also water-resistant. It also consists of a buying guide that will give you all the information you need to purchase the best one for you and your baby.
The Bottom Line
Wet diapers can be quite uncomfortable for children, and they can cause skin irritations and infections. You can combat this issue by purchasing the right cloth diaper covers. Before choosing a suitable one, ensure it is leak-proof, breathable, has a secure locking system like snap buttons, and is well-fitted for optimal protection. Moreover, they come in various fun designs and adjustable sizes for your convenience. Our top picks include the Bambino Mio Miosoft Cloth Diaper Cover, which is an eco-friendly and lightweight option. The Kanga Care Rumparooz Cloth Diaper Cover is another good choice, which is adjustable and water-resistant, while the Wrangler Infant Diaper Cover provides a fashionable touch to your baby’s outfits. So, we hope our list of the best cloth diaper covers can help you understand your child’s needs and available options.
References
- What Is Diaper Rash?
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/diaper-rash.html
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