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New nappies

​Now that you have your nappies, it is time to make them more absorbent. 

Prepare for first use

Like a new towel, new nappies will benefit from a wash before use to increase absorbency. In particular, the inserts will need this. 

Alternatively, you can soak them in cold water overnight. 
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Important: Never use fabric softener. It reduces absorbancy. 
Pre-loved nappies

​Pre-loved nappies are fantastic because the are low cost, and usually super absorbent. 

Check pre-loved nappies for damage
Check over the nappy for signs of wear, loose elastics, and delamination, where the waterproof layer has separated from the fabric. Replace worn elastic or broken snaps if necessary. 

Sanitise
Do a special wash to sanitise your nappies. Learn how on the Sanitise wash on the cleaning page, or visit Clean Cloth Nappies Sanitise guide. 
Download the 'Getting Started' information sheet:
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Getting to know your nappies

Assembling your nappy can be a bit daunting if you are not familar with the parts, so let's explore them. 
Nappy components
Click on each heading below to expand the section. 
​Outer Shell or Cover
This is the waterproof or water-resistant outer layer of the nappy. It prevents leaks and keeps moisture from escaping.
Shell outside
Shell inside
Insert or Absorbent Layer
​This is the absorbent part that soaks up the wetness. It can be made of various materials like bamboo, hemp, microfiber, cotton, or blends.
Booster
​An additional insert or layer that can be added for extra absorbency, especially for heavy wetters or nighttime use.
Liner (optional)
​This optional layer sits between the insert and the baby's skin. It can be made of a moisture-wicking material to keep the skin dry and help with clean-up.
Waist ​Snaps or Hook-and-loop Closures
​These are the fasteners that secure the nappy around the baby's waist. They can be adjustable to accommodate different sizes.
​Gussets or Elastic Leg Openings
These are elasticised parts around the leg openings that provide a snug fit and help prevent leaks.

The seond photo shows a double gusset for better leak protection. 
​Rise Snaps
Adjustable snaps on the front of the nappy that allow you to adjust the rise (height) of the nappy to fit your baby as they grow.
Snap to create four different sizes. Visit get the right fit page for more instructions on using snaps to adjust the fit.
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Newborn
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Small
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Medium
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Large
​Pocket
Many all in two (AI2) nappies will have a pocket where you can place an insert to boost absorbency or help you customise the nappy. 
​Inner Stay-Dry Layer
Some nappies have an inner layer that keeps moisture away from the baby's skin, providing a "stay-dry" feeling. This can be part of the shell, like in a pocket, or a special insert. 
​Back Elastic
​Elastic at the back of the nappy that helps keep it snugly against the baby's back, preventing leaks.