Using cloth diapers with buttons, which are typically snaps, involves securing the diaper around your baby for a snug and leak-free fit.
Cloth diapers equipped with snaps offer adjustable sizing both in length (rise) and around the waist, allowing them to grow with your baby from newborn to toddler stage. The primary use of these "buttons" is to fasten the diaper securely and customize the fit.
Understanding Cloth Diaper Snaps
Modern cloth diapers often feature multiple sets of snaps:
- Rise Snaps: Located on the front panel, these snaps allow you to shorten the diaper's length to fit smaller babies. Snapping the top row down to a lower row reduces the rise.
- Waist Snaps: These are the main fasteners on the wings of the diaper that snap onto the front panel, securing the diaper around the baby's waist.
Step-by-Step Guide to Snapping a Cloth Diaper
Here's how to put on a cloth diaper using snaps:
- Prepare the Diaper: If using a pocket diaper, stuff the insert(s). If using a cover, lay the prefold or insert inside.
- Adjust the Rise (if needed): If your diaper has rise snaps on the front, adjust these first based on your baby's size. Snap the front panel to shorten the diaper's length for smaller babies. Leave them unsnapped for larger babies or toddlers.
- Position the Diaper: Lay your baby down and slide the prepared diaper under their bottom, bringing the front up between their legs.
- Secure the Waist: Bring the diaper wings around the baby's waist. Secure the inner snap secure around the baby's waist. Use the waist snaps on the wings to fasten the diaper to the front panel. Ensure the fit is snug but not too tight – you should be able to comfortably slide two fingers between the diaper and your baby's waist.
- Check the Fit: Once snapped, check the fit around the waist and legs. Make sure the leg gussets are tight enough to prevent leaks. Run your fingers along the leg openings to ensure the fabric is tucked neatly against the baby's skin all the way around, with no gaps. The leg gussets should sit in the crease of the leg, not up on the thigh.
Ensuring a Proper Fit
Achieving a good fit with snaps is crucial for preventing leaks and ensuring baby's comfort.
- Waist: The waist snaps should create a secure closure that prevents the diaper from gapping at the back or sliding down. Aim for a fit where the diaper isn't too loose (allowing leaks) or too tight (leaving red marks).
- Legs (Gussets): As highlighted, the leg gussets must be snug. This creates a seal around the baby's legs, containing messes. If you see gaps, the diaper is likely too loose around the legs, which is a common cause of leaks. Re-adjust the waist snaps or consider trying a different rise setting or diaper style if you consistently have gaps.
By using the rise and waist snaps correctly and ensuring the critical leg gusset fit, you can effectively use cloth diapers with buttons for reliable containment.
