It is a myth that reusable diapers cause more leaks than disposable ones.  In actual use, most parents report less leaks with modern reusables.  If you are using cloth diapers and you experience leaks, there are some common causes and solutions.

1. Poor Fit

If your diapers do not fit properly, or you use adjustable-size diapers such as Smartipants and they are not set to the right size for your baby, you may experience leaks.  It is important to adjust the diaper before putting it on the baby.  Adjusting the size first provides a much better fit than attempting to snap the diaper into a smaller size while the diaper is being changed.  It is also possible to adjust the fit with different or additional inserts.  By doubling up inserts, you create a different fit, which can be helpful at times with growing babies.

2. Inadequate Absorbency

This is the most common problem with leaks in reusable and disposable diapers.  If the diaper has reached its absorbtion capacity, the only place for additional moisture to go is out of the diaper.  For this reason and for baby's skin health, it is best to change your baby's diaper every 2-3 hours, no matter which type of diaper you use.  If you find your baby cannot go 2-3 hours before being changed, you might consider using more than one insert.  You can also use more absorbent inserts, such as those made from materials such as hemp or bamboo, which tend to hold more liquid for heavy wetters.  Some babies do need to be changed more often than 2-3 hours and it is up to the parents to decided what the needs of their baby are.

3. Repelling

Repelling is another common problem with reusable diapers.  It is important to follow the manufacturers' instructions on laundering your diapering products.  No fabric softeners, additives, or natural soaps may be used on stay-dry fabrics, which line most of todays modern diapers.  These fabrics keep your baby's skin nice and dry without the need for additional barriers or creams.  They are also high performance and must be cared for properly in order to perform as designed.  Additives such as fabric softener leave a film on the fabric that makes it unable to perform.  Instead of allowing moiture to flow through the fabric and keeping baby dry, the fabric can repel the liquid and cause leaks.  Built-up laundry detergent can also cause this problem.  If this is the problem, wash the diapers with hot water and without detergent, and add a small amount of grease-fighting liquid dish soap.  A very small amount of bleach can also remedy build-up issues.  If the build-up or film on the fabric is very bad, then scrubbing the liner with a brush and dish soap is also helpful.