Cloth Diaper Liners 101: The Best Reusable & Disposable Options for Easy Cleanup
- Valinda
- Dec 23, 2022
- 17 min read
Updated: Mar 4
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If you’re new to cloth diapering, you’ve probably heard about the extra laundry, the poop cleanup, and the stains—but what if there was a simple way to make it all easier? Enter cloth diaper liners, a small but mighty tool that can save you time, reduce stains, and even help prevent diaper rash.
But here’s the catch: not all liners are created equal. Should you go for reusable fleece liners that wick moisture away, or opt for biodegradable disposable liners for convenience? And what if I told you that some disposable liners can actually be washed and reused—saving you money and reducing waste?
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cloth diaper liners, including the best materials, how to use them effectively, and why you should never flush so-called "flushable" liners. Whether you're just starting out or looking for ways to improve your routine, this post will help you make cloth diapering simpler, cleaner, and more sustainable. Let’s dive in!
Benefits of Using Diaper Liners
Switching to cloth diapers is a great step toward a more sustainable lifestyle, but let’s be honest—dealing with poop is one of the biggest challenges for parents. This is where diaper liners come in, making cloth diapering easier, cleaner, and more convenient. Whether you opt for reusable fleece liners or biodegradable disposable liners, these small additions can make a big difference. Here’s why:
1. Easier Cleanup (Especially for Poop!)
One of the biggest advantages of using diaper liners is that they create a barrier between your baby’s mess and the cloth diaper itself. Instead of scrubbing stains or dunking diapers in the toilet, you can simply remove the liner and dispose of or wash it. This makes handling solid waste far less daunting, especially for beginners.
For disposable diaper liners, you can simply toss them in the trash (not the toilet—more on that later!). If they’re only wet, they can often be washed and reused multiple times before falling apart.
For reusable cloth diaper liners, cleanup is just as simple. Shake off solids into the toilet, toss the liner into the wash, and you’re done—no stubborn stains, no hassle.
2. Protects Cloth Diapers from Stains & Buildup
Diaper stains are inevitable, but liners can help keep your cloth diapers looking fresh and stain-free for longer. They prevent thick diaper creams, oils, and other substances from soaking into the fabric, which can cause repelling issues over time.
If you use diaper rash creams, a liner is essential to prevent wax-based or petroleum-based creams from coating your diapers and reducing their absorbency. Fleece liners work especially well here because they provide a soft, moisture-wicking barrier while keeping creams from sticking to your diaper inserts.
3. Keeps Your Baby’s Skin Dry & Comfortable
A stay-dry feeling is important for keeping your baby comfortable and preventing irritation. Some cloth diapers naturally hold moisture against the skin, which can lead to diaper rashes—but the right liner can help.
Fleece diaper liners wick moisture away from your baby’s skin, keeping them dry and rash-free.
Bamboo disposable liners are breathable and gentle, helping to prevent irritation while still offering some absorption.
If your baby is prone to diaper rash, switching to liners made from soft, moisture-wicking fabrics can make a noticeable difference.
4. Cost Savings: Reusing Disposable Liners
Many parents assume that disposable diaper liners can only be used once—but that’s not always true. If a liner is only wet (not soiled with poop), you can wash and reuse it several times before it starts to break down. This simple trick can save you a lot of money over time while also reducing waste.
Unlike flushable wipes or toilet paper, disposable cloth diaper liners do not break down in water, making them a durable yet disposable option that can stretch much further than expected.
5. More Eco-Friendly Than Going Without
If you’re serious about sustainable living, diaper liners can help reduce the overall environmental impact of cloth diapering.
Reusable diaper liners can last for years, preventing waste and reducing the need for frequent deep-cleaning or stripping of cloth diapers.
Biodegradable disposable liners reduce waste compared to conventional disposable diapers, offering a more sustainable way to handle solids.
While flushing liners may seem like an eco-friendly option, it actually causes more harm than good. Wastewater treatment plants often cannot break them down properly, leading to plumbing blockages and environmental pollution. Always dispose of liners in the trash instead.
Are Diaper Liners Worth It?
If you’re looking for a simple way to make cloth diapering cleaner and more manageable, diaper liners are an absolute game-changer. Whether you prefer the reusability of fleece liners or the convenience of disposable ones, incorporating them into your routine saves time, protects your diapers, and keeps your baby comfortable—all while making your cloth diapering journey more eco-friendly.
Types of Cloth Diaper Liners: Which One is Right for You?
Cloth diaper liners come in two main types: reusable and disposable. Each has its own advantages, and choosing the right one depends on your lifestyle, budget, and sustainability goals. Below, we break down the key differences, benefits, and considerations for both options.
Reusable Cloth Diaper Liners
Reusable liners are designed to be washed and used again, making them the most eco-friendly and cost-effective option. They are typically made from soft, absorbent materials that provide a stay-dry feel for your baby while protecting the diaper from stains and buildup.
Common materials for reusable diaper liners:
Fleece: Known for its stay-dry effect, fleece wicks moisture away from your baby’s skin, helping to prevent diaper rash. It’s also budget-friendly and easy to wash.
Bamboo: A natural and breathable option, bamboo liners are incredibly soft and gentle, making them great for babies with sensitive skin. They offer some moisture-wicking properties but don’t feel as dry as fleece.
Cotton: While highly absorbent, cotton liners don’t provide a stay-dry effect, meaning your baby may feel wet more quickly. However, they are an all-natural option with no synthetic fibers.
Pros of reusable cloth diaper liners:
✔️ Cost-effective – A one-time purchase that lasts for years.
✔️ Eco-friendly – Eliminates waste and reduces reliance on disposables.
✔️ Stay-dry benefits – Fleece liners keep babies comfortable and dry.
✔️ Easy to maintain – Can be washed with cloth diapers.
Cons of reusable cloth diaper liners:
❌ Requires washing – Adds to laundry but is manageable with a cloth diaper routine.
❌ May shift inside the diaper – Depending on fit, some liners may move around.
Disposable Cloth Diaper Liners
Disposable liners offer convenience, especially when dealing with solid waste. These thin, absorbent sheets sit between your baby’s skin and the diaper, catching solids and making cleanup easier. Many are marketed as biodegradable or even flushable, but flushing them is not recommended, as they don’t break down quickly in water and can clog plumbing or contribute to sewage issues.
Common materials for disposable diaper liners:
Bamboo viscose: Soft and gentle on the skin, bamboo-based liners are the most common choice. Many claim to be biodegradable, but their breakdown time depends on environmental conditions.
Wood pulp fibers: Some brands use a blend of wood pulp for a more absorbent, paper-like feel.
Pros of disposable cloth diaper liners:
✔️ Convenient for on-the-go – Ideal for travel or daycare.
✔️ Easier cleanup – Catches solids, making washing cloth diapers simpler.
✔️ No extra laundry – Can be tossed after use.
Cons of disposable cloth diaper liners:
❌ Adds ongoing cost – Regular purchases add up over time.
❌ Environmental impact – Even biodegradable liners still contribute to waste.
❌ Not truly flushable – Can clog pipes and harm wastewater systems.
A Sustainable Hack: Reusing Disposable Liners
While disposable liners are designed for one-time use, they don’t always have to be thrown away immediately. If your baby only wets the liner and it isn’t soiled with poop, you can wash and reuse it multiple times until it starts to break down. This practice can cut down on waste and save money, making disposable liners a more sustainable option.
By understanding the differences between reusable and disposable cloth diaper liners, you can choose the best option for your family. Whether you prioritize convenience, sustainability, or a mix of both, the right liner can make cloth diapering easier and more effective.
Choosing the Best Cloth Diaper Liners
When it comes to cloth diaper liners, finding the right one can make all the difference in your diapering routine. Whether you're looking for reusable options that last through countless washes or disposable liners for convenience, understanding the different materials and their benefits will help you make the best choice for your baby and the planet.
Reusable Cloth Diaper Liners: Durable & Cost-Effective
Reusable liners are made from fabrics like fleece, bamboo, or cotton and are designed to be washed and reused, making them the most sustainable option. These liners sit between the diaper and your baby's skin, providing a barrier that helps with cleanup while offering additional comfort.
Fleece Liners – A popular choice for parents who want a stay-dry feel for their baby. Fleece wicks moisture away from the skin, keeping your baby dry and reducing the risk of diaper rash. They are also great for protecting cloth diapers from heavy stains.
Bamboo Liners – Known for being soft, breathable, and naturally antibacterial, bamboo liners are gentle on sensitive skin. They absorb moisture well but may feel wetter than fleece.
Cotton Liners – A natural, breathable option, though they do not provide the same moisture-wicking effect as fleece. Cotton liners are best for parents who prefer 100% natural fibers against their baby's skin.
Pros of Reusable Liners:
✔ Long-lasting and cost-effective
✔ Reduce landfill waste
✔ Can be used with any cloth diaper system
Cons of Reusable Liners:
✖ Require regular washing
✖ May need stripping if buildup occurs
Disposable Cloth Diaper Liners: Convenient & Travel-Friendly
Disposable liners offer a quick and easy cleanup solution, especially when dealing with solid waste. They are usually made from bamboo viscose or other biodegradable materials, though it’s important to note that biodegradable does not mean flushable.
Some brands claim their liners are safe to flush, but they do not break down quickly in water, leading to potential plumbing issues and environmental concerns. The safest disposal method is to toss them in the trash.
What many parents don’t know: Some disposable liners are durable enough to be washed and reused if they are only wet with urine. Based on personal experience, these liners can often be washed multiple times before they break down, making them a more sustainable and cost-effective choice than using a fresh liner for every diaper change.
Pros of Disposable Liners:
✔ Ideal for quick cleanup, especially for solid waste
✔ Great for daycare or travel
✔ No need for additional washing
Cons of Disposable Liners:
✖ Not truly flushable
✖ More expensive over time
✖ Some brands may feel rough against the skin
Which Type of Liner is Best for You?
Choose reusable liners if you want a budget-friendly, long-term solution with zero waste.
Choose disposable liners if you need a convenient option, but consider washing and reusing them when possible to extend their lifespan.
For maximum flexibility, keep both on hand—reusable liners for everyday use and disposable ones for travel or when dealing with messy diapers.
By understanding the benefits of each type of liner, you can make a more sustainable and practical choice that works for your baby and lifestyle.
Best Cloth Diaper Liner Brands: Top Picks for Reusable & Disposable Options
Choosing the right cloth diaper liner can make all the difference in your diapering routine. Whether you prefer reusable fleece liners for their stay-dry feel or disposable bamboo liners for convenience, selecting a high-quality brand ensures comfort for your baby and less hassle for you. Below, we break down the best cloth diaper liner brands based on material, performance, and sustainability.
Best Disposable Cloth Diaper Liners
If convenience is your priority, disposable liners can make diaper changes quicker by catching solids and reducing stains. While marketed as flushable, it’s best to dispose of them in the trash to prevent plumbing issues and environmental harm.
Mama Koala
Size: 7 x 12 inch
Price: $0.09 a piece
Material: Bamboo viscose
Mama Koala Disposable Cloth Diaper Liners offer the perfect balance of convenience and eco-conscious diapering. Made from ultra-soft bamboo viscose, these liners provide a gentle, breathable barrier that helps keep your baby’s skin dry while making diaper changes mess-free. Designed to catch solids, they prevent stains and reduce the need for heavy-duty washing. Plus, while they’re marketed as biodegradable, they’re also surprisingly durable—many parents find they can wash and reuse them multiple times when only wet, making them a budget-friendly choice for sustainable diapering.
Wegreeco
Size: 7 x 12 inch
Price: $0.10 a piece
Material: 100% Bamboo
Wegreeco Disposable Cloth Diaper Liners are a game-changer for parents who want the convenience of disposables without the guilt. Made from biodegradable bamboo viscose, these liners are ultra-soft, breathable, and gentle on sensitive skin—perfect for keeping your baby comfortable while making cleanup effortless. Though marketed as flushable, they hold up surprisingly well in water, meaning you can often wash and reuse them if they’re only wet. Whether you're at home or on the go, Wegreeco liners help protect your cloth diapers from stains while giving you an eco-friendly, hassle-free solution.
Bambino Mio
Size: 8.7 x 11.8 inch
Price: $0.21 a piece
Material: Viscose
Bambino Mio Disposable Cloth Diaper Liners are a game-changer for parents who want the convenience of disposables without sacrificing sustainability. Made from biodegradable, soft, and breathable materials, these liners create a gentle barrier between your baby’s skin and the diaper, helping to wick away moisture and make cleanup effortless. Unlike many disposable liners, they hold up well when wet and can often be washed and reused—a secret trick that saves money and reduces waste. Whether you’re at home or on the go, Bambino Mio liners offer a hassle-free way to keep cloth diapering simple and mess-free.
La Petite Ourse
Size: 6.7 x 11.5 inch
Price: $0.05 a piece
Material: Viscose
La Petite Ourse Disposable Cloth Diaper Liners offer the perfect balance between convenience and sustainability. Made from ultra-soft, biodegradable bamboo viscose, these liners create a gentle, breathable barrier that helps keep your baby’s skin dry while making cleanup effortless. Designed to be strong yet lightweight, they hold up well during wear and can even be washed and reused if only wet—helping parents reduce waste without sacrificing ease. While marketed as flushable, it’s always best to dispose of them in the trash to protect plumbing and the environment. If you’re looking for a reliable, eco-friendly liner that simplifies cloth diapering, La Petite Ourse is a fantastic choice.
OsoCosy
Size: 8 x 11 inch
Price: $0.09 a piece
Material: Viscose
OsoCozy Disposable Cloth Diaper Liners are a game-changer for parents who want the convenience of disposables without sacrificing the benefits of cloth diapering. Made from soft, biodegradable viscose, these liners create a gentle barrier that makes messy diaper changes easier—simply lift, toss, and you’re done! While marketed as flushable, they hold up well when wet, meaning they can often be washed and reused multiple times before disposal. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, eco-conscious liner that simplifies cleanup without clogging pipes, OsoCozy is a top contender.
Naturally Nature
Size: 7.5 x 12 inch
Price: $0.04 a piece
Material: Bamboo
Naturally Nature Disposable Cloth Diaper Liners offer the perfect balance between convenience and sustainability. Made from ultra-soft bamboo viscose, these liners provide a gentle, breathable barrier that helps keep your baby’s skin dry while making diaper cleanup effortless. While designed for single use, many parents find that they can be washed and reused multiple times if not soiled with poop—offering an unexpected way to reduce waste. Free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and chlorine, Naturally Nature liners are a great choice for eco-conscious parents looking for a biodegradable yet practical diapering solution.
Jumpy Moo’s
Size: 7.5 x 11.5 inch
Price: $0.06 a piece
Material: Bamboo
Jumpy Moo’s Disposable Cloth Diaper Liners offer a gentle, eco-friendly solution for parents who want convenience without compromising on sustainability. Made from ultra-soft, biodegradable bamboo viscose, these liners provide a breathable barrier that helps keep your baby’s skin dry while making diaper cleanup effortless. Unlike many disposable options, Jumpy Moo’s liners can often be washed and reused if they’re only wet, adding extra value to each pack. Free from harsh chemicals, dyes, and fragrances, they’re a safe and natural choice for both your baby and the planet.
Bumkins
Size: 8.5 x 11 inch
Price: $0,10 a piece
Material: Viscose
Bumkins Disposable Cloth Diaper Liners are a game-changer for parents who want the convenience of disposables without compromising on cloth diapering. Made from soft, biodegradable material, these liners help catch solids, making cleanup effortless while keeping your cloth diapers stain-free. Although marketed as flushable, they hold up remarkably well in water, meaning you can wash and reuse them multiple times if they’re only wet. Perfect for busy parents, these liners strike the right balance between practicality and sustainability, giving you an easier way to manage cloth diaper changes without excess waste.
AlvaBaby
Size: 7.1 x 11.8 inch
Price: $0.06 a piece
Material: Bamboo Rayon
AlvaBaby Disposable Cloth Diaper Liners offer a budget-friendly and convenient way to simplify cloth diaper changes. Made from soft, biodegradable bamboo rayon, these liners create a protective barrier between your baby’s skin and the diaper, making cleanup easier while reducing stains. Unlike some brands, AlvaBaby liners are durable enough to be washed and reused if they’re only wet, extending their lifespan and minimizing waste. While marketed as flushable, they should be disposed of in the trash to avoid plumbing issues. For parents seeking an affordable, gentle, and eco-conscious liner, AlvaBaby is a solid choice.
Esembly
Size: 8 x 11 inch
Price: $0,20 a piece
Material: Bamboo Viscose
Esembly Tossers Disposable Liners are designed to make cloth diapering effortless without compromising on sustainability. Made from biodegradable, fragrance-free materials, these ultra-thin yet durable liners sit between your baby’s skin and the diaper, catching solids for an easy, mess-free cleanup. While they’re meant to be tossed after use, many parents find they can withstand multiple washes when only wet, extending their lifespan and reducing waste. If you're looking for a gentle, eco-friendly solution that simplifies diaper changes, Esembly Tossers are a smart and practical choice.
BabyGoal
Size: 7 x 11.8 inch
Price: $0.07 a piece
Material: Bamboo
BabyGoal Disposable Cloth Diaper Liners are a game-changer for parents who want convenience without compromising on sustainability. Made from soft, biodegradable bamboo viscose, these liners provide a gentle, breathable barrier between your baby’s skin and the diaper, helping to reduce stains and simplify cleanup. Unlike many disposable options, BabyGoal liners hold up well when wet, meaning you can even wash and reuse them a few times before they break down—saving both money and waste. While they’re marketed as flushable, it's best to toss them in the trash to protect plumbing and the environment. If you’re looking for a versatile, eco-conscious option that works seamlessly with cloth diapers, BabyGoal liners are a fantastic choice.
Ravel
Size: 6 x 11.8
Price: $0.06 a piece
Material: Bamboo
Ravel Disposable Cloth Diaper Liners are a game-changer for parents who want the convenience of disposables without compromising on sustainability. Made from ultra-soft, biodegradable bamboo viscose, these liners create a gentle barrier between your baby’s skin and the diaper, making cleanup effortless. While marketed as disposable, they’re surprisingly durable—many parents find they can be washed and reused multiple times when only wet. Plus, they’re free from harsh chemicals, ensuring a safe, irritation-free experience for even the most sensitive little ones. If you're looking for a practical, eco-conscious solution to simplify cloth diapering, Ravel liners are a must-try.
Charlie Banana
Size: 6.2 x 12 inch
Price: $ 0.15 a piece
Material: Bamboo Rayon
Charlie Banana Disposable Cloth Diaper Liners offer a perfect balance between convenience and sustainability. Made from 100% bamboo viscose, these ultra-soft, biodegradable liners provide a gentle barrier that keeps your baby’s skin dry while making diaper cleanup effortless. Unlike many disposables, they’re free from harsh chemicals, dyes, and fragrances, making them ideal for babies with sensitive skin. Plus, they’re durable enough to be washed and reused a few times if only wet, helping you reduce waste and get more value out of each liner. While not flushable, they break down faster than traditional disposables, making them a smart choice for eco-conscious parents looking for a practical, planet-friendly diapering solution.
Kawaii Baby
Size: 7 x 11 inch
Price: $0.10 a piece
Material: Bamboo
Kawaii Baby Disposable Cloth Diaper Liners offer a practical balance between convenience and sustainability. Made from ultra-soft, biodegradable bamboo viscose, these liners provide a gentle, breathable layer between your baby’s skin and the diaper, reducing irritation while making cleanup effortless. Unlike some flimsy alternatives, Kawaii Baby liners are durable enough to be washed and reused multiple times if they’re only wet—helping you stretch their use while minimizing waste. Though marketed as flushable, they hold up in water, making it safer to dispose of them in the trash. For parents looking for an affordable, eco-conscious way to simplify cloth diapering, Kawaii Baby is a smart choice.
LVBB
Size: 5.9 x 11.8 inch
Price: $0.05
Material: Bamboo
LVBB Disposable Cloth Diaper Liners offer a perfect blend of convenience and sustainability for parents who love cloth diapering but dread the messy cleanups. Made from soft, biodegradable bamboo viscose, these liners provide a gentle barrier that catches solids while allowing moisture to pass through, keeping your baby’s skin dry and irritation-free. Unlike many disposable liners, LVBB liners hold up well when wet, meaning you can often wash and reuse them multiple times before they break down—saving you money and reducing waste. While they’re marketed as flushable, it’s best to dispose of them in the trash to protect your plumbing and the environment. For a hassle-free diapering experience that doesn’t compromise on comfort or sustainability, LVBB liners are a smart choice.
Best Reusable Cloth Diaper Liners
Reusable liners are a great option for parents looking to reduce waste and save money. They are typically made from fleece, bamboo, or cotton, and can be washed along with your cloth diapers.
DIY
If you prefer a reusable liner, you can easily DIY one. Lots of parents simply cut up an old fleece blanket into squares. Fleece doesn’t fray and doesn’t hold on to moisture which means it gives your baby a dry feel against their skin.
Esembly
Size: 4.7 x 11,8 inch
Price: $10
Material: Recycled Fleece
Esembly reusable cloth diaper liners are a game-changer for parents looking to simplify cleanup while staying eco-friendly. Made from ultra-soft fleece, these liners create a stay-dry barrier, keeping moisture away from your baby’s skin to help prevent rashes. Their generous size ensures full diaper coverage, making poop removal easier and reducing stains on your cloth diapers. Plus, they’re durable, easy to wash, and can be reused countless times, making them a cost-effective and waste-free alternative to disposable options. If you want hassle-free cloth diapering with less mess, Esembly liners are a must-try!
Bambino Mio
Size: 7.5 x 14 inch
Price: $12
Material: Microfleece
Bambino Mio Reusable Cloth Diaper Liners offer a gentle, natural solution for parents who want to keep their baby’s skin dry while making cloth diapering more convenient. Made from soft, biodegradable bamboo fibers, these liners provide a breathable barrier that allows moisture to pass through while keeping solids contained. Unlike synthetic fleece, Bambino Mio’s bamboo liners feel light and natural, making them perfect for babies with sensitive skin. Plus, they’re super easy to clean—just toss them in with your regular diaper wash and reuse them over and over again. A simple, eco-friendly way to keep your diapering routine smooth and sustainable!
Kushies
Size: 5.2 x 12 inch
Price: $12
Material: Cotton Flannel
Kushies reusable cloth diaper liners are a game-changer for parents looking to make cloth diapering even easier. Made from super-soft, breathable cotton flannel, these liners add an extra layer of comfort while keeping messes contained. Unlike fleece liners, which repel moisture, Kushies liners allow for better absorption, making them a great choice for babies prone to diaper rash. Plus, they’re durable, easy to wash, and budget-friendly, giving you a sustainable solution that lasts through countless diaper changes. If you're looking for a gentle, natural fiber liner that works seamlessly with any cloth diaper system, Kushies is a top pick.
How to Choose the Best Cloth Diaper Liner for Your Baby
The best cloth diaper liner depends on your priorities:
For cost savings and sustainability → Choose reusable fleece or bamboo liners.
For convenience and less mess → Opt for disposable bamboo or biodegradable liners.
For babies with sensitive skin → Look for organic cotton or bamboo options that are free from chemicals and fragrances.
By selecting high-quality liners, you can make cloth diapering easier, cleaner, and more sustainable while keeping your baby comfortable. Whether you go for reusable or disposable liners, these brands offer some of the best options available.
Final Thoughts: Simplify Cloth Diapering with the Right Liners
Cloth diaper liners might be small, but they make a big difference in your diapering routine. Whether you choose reusable liners for their sustainability and cost-effectiveness or disposable liners for their convenience, the right choice can save you time, reduce stains, and keep your baby more comfortable.
If you’re new to cloth diapering, experimenting with both types of liners can help you find what works best for your lifestyle. Reusable fleece or cotton liners are a fantastic long-term solution, while biodegradable disposable liners offer an easy way to handle messy diaper changes—especially when you wash and reuse them when possible. Just remember, even "flushable" liners should go in the trash, not down the toilet.
With so many great brands available, finding high-quality cloth diaper liners that fit your needs is easier than ever. Whether you’re looking for organic cotton, moisture-wicking fleece, or bamboo-based disposables, there’s a perfect liner out there for you.
By making thoughtful choices, you can simplify your cloth diapering routine, reduce waste, and save money—all while keeping your baby comfortable and dry. Ready to give cloth diaper liners a try? Explore the best options today and see how they can transform your diapering experience!
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