Waking up to a soaked sleepsuit, wet sheets and a cold, unhappy baby is no way to start the day. As babies sleep longer, a nappy has to last longer too. Good overnight diapering is mostly about fit, absorbency and skin protection. Here is how to keep your baby dry through the night.
Quick answer: overnight diapering
- Size up or use a night-time nappy for extra absorbency.
- Check the fit: snug at the waist and legs with cuffs pulled out.
- Apply barrier cream at bedtime to protect the skin.
- Change dirty nappies at night, even if your baby is asleep.
Free printable: track feeds and wet and dirty diapers with our Feeding & Diaper Log. Handy to bring to checkups with your pediatrician.
Why night leaks happen
- the nappy is too small for longer stretches
- leg cuffs are tucked in
- the nappy is fastened unevenly or too loose
- your baby sleeps on their tummy or side once they can roll
- more milk feeds at night mean more wee
Tips to stay dry
- Try one size up at night for more absorbent material. See signs your baby needs a bigger nappy.
- Use a night-time nappy or a booster pad.
- Point boys’ penises downwards before fastening.
- Fasten tabs evenly, slightly higher at the back for tummy sleepers.
- Change right before bed, after the last feed if possible.
- Use a waterproof mattress protector and keep spare sheets nearby.
Cloth nappies at night
Add extra inserts made of absorbent fabrics like hemp or bamboo, and use a well-fitting waterproof cover. See cloth diaper care.
Protecting your baby’s skin
A thicker layer of zinc oxide or petroleum jelly cream at bedtime helps protect the skin during long stretches. See diapering at night.
When to talk to your doctor
- a nappy rash that keeps getting worse overnight
- sudden, very wet nappies with increased thirst
- fewer wet nappies than usual
- pain or crying when weeing
Frequently asked questions
Should I wake my baby to change a wet nappy?
Usually not, unless it is dirty or your baby has a sore rash.
Do night-time nappies cause rash?
Not if your baby’s skin is protected and dirty nappies are changed promptly.
When will my child be dry at night?
Night dryness often comes well after daytime potty training, sometimes after age 5.
Free printables: get our Safe Sleep Checklist, Feeding & Diaper Log and Hospital Bag Checklist, plus one short tip email a week. Join Babypino Weekly.
Sources
- NHS: Nappy rash; Bedwetting in children
- American Academy of Pediatrics, HealthyChildren.org: Diaper Rash
This guide is general information. If you are worried about your baby’s skin or health, talk to your doctor.