Wondering how long cloth nappies take to dry? Here’s a breakdown of drying times for covers and inserts, plus tips for quick, efficient drying — even in cooler months.
How Long Do Cloth Nappies Take to Dry?
If you’re considering switching to reusable nappies, one of the first practical questions that comes up is:
“How long do they take to dry?”
It’s a fair concern — and the good news is, cloth nappies are easier to manage than many parents expect.
Here’s what to know about drying times and how to make the process work for your family.
Outer Nappy Covers: Quick-Dry and Low Maintenance
Our Cloth Nappy 2.0 Covers are made from a soft, breathable fabric that has a thin waterproof layer bonded to it.
These covers are:
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Lightweight
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Fast-drying
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Ideal for line drying in Australian conditions
On a sunny day, they’re usually dry in less than 24 hours — often by late afternoon if you hang them out in the morning.
Absorbent Inserts: More Layers = More Drying Time
The inserts inside your cloth nappies are where all the absorption happens — and naturally, they take a bit longer to dry.
Our inserts are made with:
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An outer layer of 100% bamboo
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Three inner layers of ultra-absorbent microfibre
These layers work hard to soak up moisture during use, which means they’ll also hold onto water longer after washing.
Depending on the weather, inserts can take 12–36 hours to fully dry on the line.
Drying Tips for Busy Families
If you need faster turnaround times, here are a few tips:
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Hang inserts separately from covers to allow better airflow
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Use a clothes horse under a fan or in a breezy area overnight
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Pop inserts in the dryer on low heat (covers should be air-dried only to protect the waterproof layer)
Many parents find a rhythm by washing every second day and having a full stash on hand — our Cloth Nappy Bundles are a great way to get started without running short.
How Many Nappies Do I Need for Drying Time?
We generally recommend around 25 nappies for full-time use. That allows for:
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Some nappies in use
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Some in the wash
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Some drying on the line
You can see our Gentle Start Bundle for a perfect starter pack.
Still Have Questions?
For more detail on washing frequency, detergent tips, and drying hacks, visit our Washing & Care Guide.
Final Word
Drying cloth nappies doesn’t have to be a hassle. With the right routine, you’ll quickly find a rhythm that works for your home, your climate, and your lifestyle.
Reusable nappies are designed to be practical — and drying is just one more part of the process that becomes second nature.