Frequently asked  questions

Frequently asked
questions
Frequently asked
questions

Get your questions answered. Get your questions answered.

About Charlie Banana

What are Charlie Banana diapers made of?

What are Charlie Banana diapers made of?

Charlie Banana cloth diapers consist of a waterproof polyester layer with a luxurious fleece lining, selected to be soft against your baby's skin, but also stain-resistance, easy to wash and durable. Charlie Banana reusable inserts are made of 4 layers of absorbent microterry, topped with a layer of fleece or hemp/cotton fabric.

What makes Charlie Banana special?

What makes Charlie Banana special?

Charlie Banana diapers have been around for over a decade, and over the years, we've perfected our design and fabrics to maximize softness, absorbency and fit. Here are the top 5 things our customers rave about:

Edge-to-edge softness. Our diapers are made with a supersoft and comfy fluffy fleece lining, so only soft materials touch your little one.

Safe materials only. All our diapers are rigorously tested for harmful substances and certified under STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® to care for your baby’s delicate skin.

Adjustable fit to help prevent leaks. Wide back elastic, waist snaps, and inner leg elastics allow you to achieve a perfect, snug, fully customized fit.

One size that grows with your baby. Made with high-quality materials for lasting usage, our diapers fit children from birth to 36 months, thanks to adjustable leg elastic straps and waist snaps.

Easy to use and clean. Our diapers are machine washable, with removable, reusable inserts for faster drying. Plus, you can use them with a disposable insert or liner for even easier cleanup!

What Charlie Banana products are Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX® certified?

What Charlie Banana products are Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX® certified?

As of now, we have successfully completed certification for the following products:

  • cloth diapers
  • swim diapers
  • training pants
  • wipes
  • cloth diaper & training pants inserts
  • cloth diapering accessories (Changing Pad, Waterproof Tote Bag, Hanging Diaper Pail, Multipurpose Wet Pouch)

Do you offer free diaper samples?

Do you offer free diaper samples?

Unfortunately, we are not able to offer free samples at this point. If you are interested in trying Charlie Banana cloth diapers with minimal investment, we recommend buying a single diaper, or renting a stash for a month through Loop x Charlie Banana program.

What is Loop x Charlie Banana?

What is Loop x Charlie Banana?

In 2021 we partnered with Loop to create a simple, eco-conscious cloth diaper rental + cleaning program takes the work and the worry out of cloth diapering — so that you can focus on the joy of being a parent. You can learn more here.

Where can I contact Charlie Banana?

Where can I contact Charlie Banana?

You can message us or give us a call using our Contact Us page.

Where can I shop for Charlie Banana® products? 

Where can I shop for Charlie Banana® products? 

Charlie Banana® diapers are sold on our website and at a growing number of independent retailers worldwide. In the USA, our products are available on Amazon.com, Target.com, BuyBuyBABY.com, Walmart.com, Kroger.com and in some 135 BuyBuyBABY stores nationwide.

Where are Charlie Banana products made?

Where are Charlie Banana products made?

Charlie Banana products are manufactured by a family-owned sewing company located in China. They have over 10 years experience in manufacturing top-quality Charlie Banana products plus other high-end baby products. We carefully check their facilities, materials, working conditions and test methods - to ensure our products are of the highest quality and are made to last.

Cloth diapering 101

What are cloth diapers?

What are cloth diapers?

Cloth diapers are diapers you can wash and reuse. They have a waterproof outer lining and absorbent padding or inserts. Cloth diapers come in many varieties; in "all-in-one" diapers the absorbent padding is attached to the diaper, while other cloth diapers have a system with a separate diaper shell and absorbent padding.

Charlie Banana is a versatile pocket-style diaper that allows you to use either washable or disposable inserts — or both!

What is a pocket diaper?

What is a pocket diaper?

A pocket diaper has an opening between the waterproof outer fabric and the fabric lining that touches the skin, where you  place the absorbent insert into.  Compared to an all-in-one diaper, a pocket diaper has several benefits:  the absorbent insert is not directly touching the skin when inside the pocket, you can separate the absorbent insert from the diaper before laundry,  the pocket keeps the insert in place, and you can use any type of reusable  insert (or 2!) in the pocket.  The Charlie Banana pocket is made from super-soft fleece that is selected to be dry-to-the-touch, and has a wide opening located at the front end of the diaper, so it is easy to access the reusable insert - even during a diaper change.

What kind of diaper is Charlie Banana?

What kind of diaper is Charlie Banana?

Charlie Banana is a one-size pocket diaper with a waterproof outer fabric and a soft lining. The diaper size can be adjusted to fit babies of any shape between 0 and 36 months (or 8 to 36 lbs), by using the snaps along the waist and adjusting the size of the leg elastic for a snug fit around the waist and legs to help prevent leaks. An absorbent insert is stuffed into the pocket, which is made from a super-soft fabric that lines the entire diaper so baby's skin is only in contact with the soft lining fabric.

How do cloth diapers work and where do I start?

How do cloth diapers work and where do I start?

Getting started with cloth might feel intimidating — but it doesn't have to be. Here is our easy guide to cloth diapering.

(And if you ever need more help, just let us know through Contact Us page)

What should I buy to try cloth diapering without investing too much?

What should I buy to try cloth diapering without investing too much?

If you want to try out cloth diapering, we recommend buying 1-3 Charlie Banana® reusable diapers and a pack of Disposable Liners. Our value packs of 3 or 5 diapers are also a great way to experience the unique Charlie Banana® cloth diapering system at a lower cost.

We also offer flexible payment options with Affirm (see details here).

Once you are ready to take your cloth diapering experience one step further, we also recommend getting Disposable Inserts, Reusable Organic Cotton Wipes and a Waterproof Tote Bag.

I want to switch to cloth diapers, but I'm afraid I just can't commit to doing it full-time. What should I do?

I want to switch to cloth diapers, but I'm afraid I just can't commit to doing it full-time. What should I do?

Trust us, you're not alone in these feelings. A lot of parents are facing the same choices, and there is no right or wrong solution to this.

The truth is, very few people use cloth diapers 100% of the time. The best thing to do is to commit to whatever you can at the moment and adjust your routines as you go.

You can start with as little as one cloth diaper a day or even a week. "Switching" to cloth diapers doesn't have to go from 0 to 100, and it certainly doesn't have to happen overnight. Even if you only use one cloth diaper a day, after a year, you will save 365 disposable diapers!

If you need help figuring out the best cloth diapering routine for your family, just reach out to our Customer Care team. We love chatting about cloth and are always here to help.

Are cloth diapers easy to use?

Are cloth diapers easy to use?

Charlie Banana® cloth diapers are extremely user-friendly. They are designed to be easy to put on, take off and clean, and they can be machine washed, just like regular laundry.

Charlie Banana cloth diapers can be used with reusable (washable) inserts, disposable inserts, or a combination of both. Many parents find this hybrid approach helps make cloth diapering less intimidating, as it provides more options and flexibility.

I want to use cloth diapers, but I don’t like dealing with the mess. How can I make cleanup easier?

I want to use cloth diapers, but I don’t like dealing with the mess. How can I make cleanup easier?

We recommend trying our Disposable Liners, which trap poo and prevent it from reaching the diaper lining. When it's time to clean up, simply lift the liner with the mess, shake off the solids into the toilet, and throw the liner in the trash (do not flush).

Disposable Inserts could also be an option for simplifying cleanup as you are getting the hang of cloth diapering. They trap both solids and liquid waste and can be discarded after use.

How many diapers do I need?

How many diapers do I need?

If you are planning on cloth diapering full-time, we recommend building a healthy stash of 24 or more cloth diapers. In a typical day, you may go through 6 to 10 diapers, and many parents do their laundry every other day, to collect enough dirties to fill a machine.

However, you can always start with just 3 or 6, as most parents will use a combination of cloth diapers and disposables, at least at first. Once you get the hang of cloth diapering, you can grow your stash as needed.

How many inserts should I buy?

How many inserts should I buy?

Most parents will change a reusable diaper 6 to 10 times a day, so you should have at least 12 diapers and 12-24 inserts in your stash, or ideally, 18-24 sets of diapers + inserts, so you don't have to do the diaper laundry every day.

Our reusable diapers always include at least 1 insert, and most packs come with 2 inserts. Because the inserts take longer to dry than the diaper cover, it is wise to buy a few additional inserts, especially if you live in a humid climate area or if you have no dryer. That way you will have enough dry inserts at hand for changes and can double-up on inserts for extra absorbency for naptime or overnight.

How many inserts should I put into the shell?

How many inserts should I put into the shell?

You can use 1 or 2 reusable inserts at a time. For daytime, you can either stuff 1 insert inside the diaper pocket, or lay it on top of the diaper lining, label side down. For nighttime, we recommend using 2 reusable inserts, or 1 reusable + 1 disposable insert for maximum absorption.

When using two reusable inserts, you can either stuff both inside the pocket or lay one on top of the diaper lining with the label facing down, so that only the soft fleece or hemp/cotton fabric touches baby's skin. A disposable insert always goes on top of the diaper lining.

Can my child use both cloth diapers and disposables?

Can my child use both cloth diapers and disposables?

Definitely! Some parents opt for reusable diapers at home and use disposables for daycare or when they are out and about. Others use cloth diapers during the day and disposables at night. Some only use cloth on the weekends.

With Charlie Banana, you also have an option to use disposable inserts with your cloth diapers, so that you have even more flexibility with your choices.

There is no right or wrong way of doing this. You just need to figure out a routine that works best for you and your family. Give yourself grace when you need it and remember that using even one cloth diaper a day saves 365 disposable diapers a year.

What is the difference between disposable liners and disposable inserts?

What is the difference between disposable liners and disposable inserts?

A disposable liner is a very thin sheet of bamboo rayon that goes on top of the diaper’s inner lining and catches the poop. Liners are not absorbent, so the liquid waste will pass through, but the solids will stay on top of the liner. When baby does #2, simply lift the liner with the mess, shake off the solids into the toilet, and throw the liner in the trash (do not flush).

Disposable inserts not only trap solids, but also absorb liquids. You can use them together with or instead of reusable inserts. Disposable inserts are laid on top of the fleece of the diaper shell and need to be discarded after use. They come in handy when traveling, at certain daycares, when applying ointments etc.

Do I need to use disposable inserts or liners?

Do I need to use disposable inserts or liners?

It really depends on your personal preference and your lifestyle. You can certainly cloth diaper with only reusable diapers and inserts, but disposable inserts and liners can make life way easier.

Disposable liners are great for simplifying cleanup. These thin non-woven rayon viscose sheets made with bamboo-derived fibers allow you to easily separate solids from the diaper lining. Simply lay a thin disposable liner on top of the diaper to catch solids, then lift the soiled sheet, so you can shake the solids into the toilet and dispose of the liner in the trash. Do not flush disposable liners.

Disposable inserts come in handy when traveling, at certain daycares, for applying ointments, or getting a cheat day on laundry (hey, we all need one once in a while). Disposable inserts contain absorbent padding and go on top of the diaper lining. You can use them instead of a washable insert (this often helps reuse the diaper cover), or in addition to a reusable insert for extra absorbency (stuff a washable insert inside the pocket and lay a disposable insert on the the diaper lining).

Can I flush disposable liners or inserts?

Can I flush disposable liners or inserts?

Our Disposable Liners and Disposable Inserts are not flushable. When it's time to discard them, simply shake off the solids into the toilet and throw the used disposable insert or liner into the trash.

Do I need to stuff the inserts inside the diaper pocket?

Do I need to stuff the inserts inside the diaper pocket?

It depends on your preference. With reusable inserts, you can stuff 1 or 2 inserts inside the diaper pocket, or lay one reusable insert on top of the diaper lining (always label side down).

A disposable insert always goes on top of the diaper lining. You can pair it with a reusable insert inside the pocket for ultimate absorbency.

Do I need to change the whole diaper every time?

Do I need to change the whole diaper every time?

If you use are using washable inserts inside the pocket, you need to change the entire diaper every time it gets soiled or wet.

If you are placing a washable or a disposable insert on top of the diaper lining, you can reuse the shell if it's not soiled.

Will the diapers leak?

Will the diapers leak?

While blowouts and leaks are possible with any type of diaper, finding the right diaper fit will prevent most leaks. Charlie Banana® diapers are equipped with a waterproof outer layer, wide back elastics, and adjustable leg elastics to help contain the mess.

To create a gap-free fit, make sure to adjust the length of the leg elastic as your baby grows. Our patented leg elastic sizing system enables you to find the perfect fit around your baby's thighs — no matter how skinny or chubby they might be.

Find the leg elastic inside the pocket, and set it to XS, S, M or L depending on your baby's age and size (check Size & Fit section for detailed guidance). The rule of thumb is that the diaper fit should be tight, snug and secure, but not as to leave any red marks.

If your diaper is adjusted properly, but you are still experiencing leaks, this may be due to detergent residues accumulating on diapers. Please refer to Troubleshooting section for more details, or contact our Customer Care.

How much pee or poo can the diaper absorb?

How much pee or poo can the diaper absorb?

Our One M/L insert absorbs 225g (about 8 oz) of liquid, which is enough capacity to soak up three 75ml (2.5 fl. oz) doses of liquid, a typical amount of pee for a baby weighing over 20lbs.

The XS and S inserts have fewer terry layers, and thus absorb less liquid.

What is the difference between the Small and M/L inserts?

What is the difference between the Small and M/L inserts?

The M/L inserts for One Size Diapers contain 4 absorbent terry layers, with either a deluxe fleece top layer or a hemp/cotton top layer. These are our most absorbent inserts, each holding up to 225g/8 oz of liquid.

All our One Size Diapers come with a M/L insert, while some diaper packs include both a M/L and a S insert for each diaper. The Small insert is designed to be used with the One Size Diaper on the XS or S leg elastic setting, or as a booster with the M/L insert.

Newborn Diapers come with one XS insert which is smaller and thinner than the M/L and S inserts and has fewer absorbent terry layers. The S size inserts will fit inside the Newborn diaper pocket, but the M/L insert will be too big and bulky.

Can I use ointment/balm/diaper rash cream on my baby?

Can I use ointment/balm/diaper rash cream on my baby?

During the times when you need to apply ointment or rash cream, we recommend using a disposable liner or disposable insert on top of the diaper lining to prevent contact with the diaper fabrics, as creams and ointments can decrease the absorbency of cloth diapers. These days, there are also some "cloth diaper safe" ointments.

If you think that a rash cream or ointment may have caused build-up or affected diaper absorbency, we recommend that you strip your diapers.

Do you offer starter kits?

Do you offer starter kits?

We are working on creating special bundles that would make it even easier to try cloth diapering.

For now, we recommend picking up a pack of 3 or 6 cloth diapers, a pack of disposable liners and a pack of disposable inserts.

If you want to take your reusable journey one step further, we suggest that you add a pack of reusable organic cotton wipes, a handy diaper pail for storing used diapers, and a waterproof tote bag for storing and transporting used diapers on the go.

Does cloth diapering save money?

Does cloth diapering save money?

Using cloth diapers can save money compared to disposable diapers, but the actual savings will depend on your diapering & laundry habits and your local regulations. (In some states, you have to pay for generating trash, while the cost of energy also varies greatly from state to state.)

If you invest in 30 cloth diapers to last through your child's diapering years, you will likely spend less than you would buying 4,000-5,000 disposables — even if you add the cost of laundry.

According to Babylist, the savings become tangible once you get into the second year of cloth diapering, especially if you plan on having more babies. If you stick with cloth for long enough, you could be looking at saving $1,500-$2,000 per child over the course of your diapering journey!

Can I use Charlie Banana cloth diapers for my daycare?

Can I use Charlie Banana cloth diapers for my daycare?

Whether your daycare accepts cloth diapers largely depends on your state and daycare policies, so we recommend talking to your childcare provider first. While not all daycares might be familiar with cloth diapering, some of our customers have had great success educating their childcare teams on the subject.

Disposable inserts could be a great solution for helping others get used to washable diapers.

If you are looking for some basic information about cloth diapering to share with your childcare provider, try referring them to our Get Started and How to Use pages, or the current section of our FAQs.

How do I cloth diaper on the go?

How do I cloth diaper on the go?

Cloth diapering when running errands or traveling is easier than you might think. At Charlie Banana, we have products that help with the task.

Disposable Inserts were specially designed to make cleanup on the go a breeze. They are absorbent and can be discarded after use. Simply lay a disposable insert on top of the diaper lining and discard it once it get wet or soiled (do not flush).

With reusable inserts, you can simplify the diaper change with the help of our Disposable Liners. These thin sheets, made from bamboo-derived viscose rayon, are great for catching solids and allow you to quickly remove the mess. Simply lay a disposable liner inside the diaper, then pick it up to remove solids. Shake off the solids into the toilet and discard the liner in the trash (do not flush).

Finally, a Waterproof Tote Bag comes is a game changer when it comes to storing and transporting used diapers on the go.

Wash & care

How do I remove poo from cloth diapers?

How do I remove poo from cloth diapers?

The fleece diaper lining is designed so that most solids will come off easily. Simply shake off as much solid waste as possible directly into the toilet, remove the diaper insert, and rinse the diaper under running water or using a diaper sprayer. You can also use an old dish brush or silicone spatula to remove any residue. For breastfeeding babies, you don’t have to worry too much about this step, because their poop is water-soluble! For easy cleanup, consider using our disposable liners. Simply lay a liner inside the diaper and lift any solid poo off at the diaper change. Drop the poo in the toilet and throw the lining sheet in the trash. Do not flush the liner.

How do I wash cloth diapers?

How do I wash cloth diapers?

Remove solids by shaking solid poo directly the toilet, or use a diaper sprayer. Store diapers in a moisture-proof wet bag until laundry day – for example, our hanging diaper pail. Remove inserts from the diaper pocket before washing.

Wash on warm (40°C/104°F max) with a full dose of good-quality detergent without fabric softener, and with plenty of agitation. The fabrics we use do not require high temperatures to get thoroughly clean. For a deeper-clean, you can run a second wash on cold or warm, again with a full dose of a good-quality detergent. Wash your reusable wipes and wet bag with your diapers.

Do I need to wash the diapers before first-time use?

Do I need to wash the diapers before first-time use?

Always wash diapers and baby clothing before use. You may need to wash absorbent inserts twice before use, as the microfiber material needs to swell and shrink a couple of times to maximize its absorbency.

How do I dry cloth diapers?

How do I dry cloth diapers?

We recommend line drying whenever possible, because it requires the least energy and the sun also helps to naturally "bleach" stains. You can also tumble dry diapers, inserts, wipes and accessories on low. Consider drying your clean diapers in the tumble dryer mixed with other clothes to save energy.

How long can I store diapers before washing?

How long can I store diapers before washing?

We recommend storing dirty diapers no longer than 5 days before washing. It makes sense to collect enough dirty daipers for a sizeable load of laundry, rather than just a few at the time. But the longer a dirty diaper sits in your diaper pail, the more difficult it is to remove stains and odors.

Always remove solids before storing diapers in a diaper pail. If you pre-soak your diapers in a bucket of water, we recommend mixing in a little bit of detergent to help with stain and odor removal.

Can I use any additives in the wash (stain remover, softener, bleach)?

Can I use any additives in the wash (stain remover, softener, bleach)?

Avoid the use of fabric softeners or detergents with fabric softeners when washing cloth diapers, as they can cause a build-up on fabrics that may decrease the absorbency of your diapers and inserts.

Non-chlorine bleach or oxygenated bleach is ok to use when needed, but avoid chlorinated bleach, as it may fade the cute prints or damage the waterproof fabric and elastics.

What is the best detergent for cloth diapers?

What is the best detergent for cloth diapers?

Always choose a detergent without fabric softener. Many cloth diaper parents prefer powder detergents like Tide Original powder or Tide Ultra Oxi, but liquid detergents like Tide Free & Gentle or the new Tide for Baby Cloth Diaper Detergent are also well-suited for cloth diapers, as they are hypoallergenic and don’t leave residue.

It is a myth that liquid detergents leave more residue on fabrics than powder, as the build-up is caused by the fatty acids in dirty laundry combined with minerals in hard water. So it is important to clean diapers well by using a detergent with plenty of surfactants, to not skimp on the detergent dosage and to ensure plenty of agitation during the wash cycle.

How much detergent should I use for washing cloth diapers?

How much detergent should I use for washing cloth diapers?

We recommend using the amount suggested on the detergent packaging to ensure proper cleaning. A popular cloth diapering myth can say otherwise, but do not be stingy with your detergent if you want your diapers to come out clean!

How long can I store diapers before washing?

How long can I store diapers before washing?

We recommend to store dirty diapers no longer than 5 days before washing. It makes sense to collect enough dirty daipers for a sizeable load of laundry, rather than just a few at the time. But the longer a dirty diaper sits in your diaper pail, the more difficult to remove stains and odors. Always remove solids before storing diapers in a diaper pail. If you pre-soak your diapers in a bucket of water, we recommend mixing in a little bit of detergent to help with stain removal and odors.

Can I wash cloth diapers with my other clothes?

Can I wash cloth diapers with my other clothes?

For hygienic reasons, we recommend washing diapers and inserts separately from your regular laundry, especially if they are soiled.

You can tumble dry washed diapers and inserts with your regular clothes to save energy.

How do I sanitize cloth diapers?

How do I sanitize cloth diapers?

Long story short, you cannot sanitize your diapers. No matter what you do, the diapers will never be sterile. The good news is, they don't have to be!

If you follow the recommended washing instructions, use quality detergent without fabric softener, and allow for plenty of agitation. the diapers will be clean and safe to use on your baby. You can use non-chlorine bleach if needed.

If you are experiencing issues like a persistent odor, or you got your diapers pre-loved and worry about hygiene, we recommend stripping the diapers. You can find detailed instructions on how to strip cloth diapers here.

How often do I need to sanitize my washer?

How often do I need to sanitize my washer?

Deep-cleaning your washing machine should be done monthly, whether you are cloth diapering or not. If your washer starts to smell, it is probably due to a build-up of odor-caussing residues left behind from dirty laundry, detergent, and hard water minerals.
To sanitize, place washing machine cleaner (we recommend Tide) into your empty machine and run it on a hot cycle. You can also use 2 cups of white vinegar and run the empty washer on hot, followed by another hot cycle with 1 1/2 cups of baking soda.

How do I get rid of stains on cloth diapers?

How do I get rid of stains on cloth diapers?

Charlie Banana® diapers with fleece lining are designed to resist stains. For stubborn stains, try "sunning" your washed diapers and inserts, so the UV rays can naturally "bleach" the stains.

If sun-bleaching is not possible, we recommend a deep-clean with non-chlorine bleach (rinse thoroughly), or a detergent with oxygenated bleach, like Tide Ultra Oxi powder. You can also spot-treat stains with a mixture of detergent + water, or with a stain remover or spot-treater. Make sure to wash the diapers after spot-treatment.

Can I use bleach on my Charlie Banana cloth diapers?

Can I use bleach on my Charlie Banana cloth diapers?

You can use non-chlorine bleach as needed, but avoid chlorinated bleach, as it can affect the cute prints, waterproof outer fabric and elastics. Hanging the diapers to dry in the sun can also helps with stubborn stains, as UV light acts as natural bleach.

Can I iron cloth diapers?

Can I iron cloth diapers?

Do not iron our cloth diapers, the high temperatures will ruin the waterproof fabric and might damage the other fabrics.

Do I need a diaper sprayer?

Do I need a diaper sprayer?

A diaper sprayer makes it easy to remove solids by spraying them directly into the toilet, but you can also use a specially designated dish brush or a silicone spatula to remove the solid poo from the diapers, or you can rinse the diapers in the sink.For easy cleanup without the diaper sprayer, consider using our disposable liners. Simply lay a liner inside the diaper and lift any solid poo off at the diaper change. Drop the poo into the toilet and throw the lining sheet in the trash. Do not flush the liner.

How do I clean the diapers after my child had a yeast infection?

How do I clean the diapers after my child had a yeast infection?

If your child had a yeast infection, we recommend consulting your pediatrician.

How can I revive the inserts that lost absorbency?

How can I revive the inserts that lost absorbency?

If your inserts lost absorbency, we recommend stripping them. You can find detailed instructions on how to strip your diapers and inserts here.

What is stripping cloth diapers and do I need to do it?

What is stripping cloth diapers and do I need to do it?

Stripping cloth diapers is a method to remove mineral or bacteria buildup that can cause persistent odor and help diaper fabrics regain their absorbency.

Stripping cloth diapers does not need to be a part of your regular washing routine, and, in fact, can take a toll on fabrics. Stripping is only required if your diapers or inserts have lost their absorbency. There’s a chance you’ll never have to strip your diapers at all!

You can find detailed instructions for stripping cloth diapers here.

Do you offer a diaper cleaning service?

Do you offer a diaper cleaning service?

At this time, we do not offer cleaning services for the diapers that you own. However, we do offer a convenient cloth diaper rental + cleaning program through our partnership with Loop. Learn more here.

Size & fit

What is the right setting of the leg elastic for my baby?

What is the right setting of the leg elastic for my baby?

Please refer to the chart below for guidance. Note that the age ranges in this chart are approximate, and settings could vary for each child. The rule of thumb (or rather the rule of pinkie) is that the diaper leg cuff should be tight, but not leave any red marks, and you should be able to fit your pinkie finger under it.

Elastic position XS S M L
Age (months) 0 - 6 6 - 12 12 - 18 18 - 36

How can I adjust the diaper size?

How can I adjust the diaper size?

3 easy steps to adjust the leg elastic

Step 1

Find the adjustable leg sizing strap inside the pocket. A new diaper is typically set at M.

Find the adjustable leg sizing strap inside the pocket. A new diaper is typically set at M.

Step 2

Adjust the elastic to the desired length (XS to L) based on your baby's weight.

Adjust the elastic to the desired length (XS to L) based on your baby's weight.

Step 3

Tuck the sizing strap back into the pocket, so it's covered by the soft lining fabric.

Tuck the sizing strap back into the pocket, so it's covered by the soft lining fabric.

How should the diaper fit on my baby?

How should the diaper fit on my baby?

The diaper should fit snugly, but without leaving any red marks. There should be no visible gaps around legs or waist. The rule of thumb (or rather the rule of pinkie) is that the diaper leg cuff should be tight, but you should be able to fit your pinkie finger underneath it.

On the waist, use symmetrical snap setting and make sure all three snap buttons are engaged (for super small babies, you can overlap the fasteners using the single button on top of the right diaper ear).

My One Size Diaper at the X-Small size setting is too big for my baby.

My One Size Diaper at the X-Small size setting is too big for my baby.

If you have a gap at the leg at X-Small setting, it means that the diaper is still a bit too large for your gorgeous little one. You should wait a couple of weeks until your child accummulates a little more baby fat.

Meanwhile, consider trying our Newborn Diapers. Many parents buy Newborn Diapers for the first 4 months, as they were specially designed to fit perfectly during that special time.

Do I need Newborn Diapers?

Do I need Newborn Diapers?

Our Newborn Cloth Diapers were specially designed for newborn babies (0 - 4 months) and preemies. While our One Size Diapers fit most newborns, some parents prefer the trim look and fit of the newborn diapers until their babies get a little bit bigger.

Where can I find size charts for Swim Diapers, Training Pants and SuperPro Training Underwear?

Where can I find size charts for Swim Diapers, Training Pants and SuperPro Training Underwear?

Age Weight Waist Swim Diaper Training Pants Training
Underwear
3-9m 10-14 11-14 S S
9-18m 14-20 13-16 M M
18-36m 20-27 15-18 L L
3-4y 27-44 18-21 XL XL
4-6y 35-50 20-26 S
6-8y 46-68 21.5-27.5 M
8-10y 60-80 23-29 L
10+y 70-100 24.5-31 XL
Age Weight Waist Swim Diaper Training Pants Training
Underwear
3-9m 4.5-6.5 28-36 S S
9-18m 6.5-9 34-46 M M
18-36m 9-12 39-46 L L
3-4y 12-20 44-53 XL XL
4-6y 16-23 50-66 S
6-8y 22-31 54-70 M
8-10y 27-36 58-74 L
10+y 27-36 62-78 XL
Age Weight Waist (1) (2)
3-9m 10-14 11-14 S
9-18m 14-20 13-16 M
18-36m 20-27 15-18 L
3-4y 27-44 18-21 XL
4-6y 35-50 20-26 S
6-8y 46-68 21.5-27.5 M
8-10y 60-80 23-29 L
10+y 70-100 24.5-31 XL
Age Weight Waist (1) (2)
3-9m 4.5-6.5 28-36 S
9-18m 6.5-9 34-46 M
18-36m 9-12 39-46 L
3-4y 12-20 44-53 XL
4-6y 16-23 50-66 S
6-8y 22-31 54-70 M
8-10y 27-36 58-74 L
10+y 27-36 62-78 XL

(1) Swim Diaper and Training Pants
(2) Training Underwear

Where can I find the size chart for Rash Guards?

Where can I find the size chart for Rash Guards?

Size S M L XL
Age (months) 6-12 12-18 18-24 24-36
Chest (1/2) 9.4 10.0 10.6 11.2
Sleeve length 12.6 14 15.4 16.7
Total length 13.4 14.4 15.4 16.3
Size S M L XL
Age (months) 6-12 12-18 18-24 24-36
Chest 24 25.5 27 28.5
Sleeve length 32 35.5 39 42.5
Total length 34 36.5 39 41.5

Where can I find the size chart for Jumpsuits?

Where can I find the size chart for Jumpsuits?

Age (months) 6-12 12-18 18-24 24-36
Chest (1/2) 9.6 10.2 10.8 11.4
Thigh (1/2) 5.1 5.3 5.5 5.7
Sleeve length 13.6 14.6 15.6 16.5
Total length 20.0 21.1 22.1 23.2
Age (months) 6-12 12-18 18-24 24-36
Chest (1/2) 24.5 26 27.5 29
Thigh (1/2) 13.0 13.5 14.0 14.5
Sleeve length 34.5 37.0 39.5 42.0
Total length 50.8 53.5 56.3 59.0

Troubleshooting

I am experiencing some leaks, what am I supposed to do?

I am experiencing some leaks, what am I supposed to do?

Leaks and blow-outs can happen with any type of diaper. Here are the most common causes of leaks and what you can do to prevent them:

  • Diapers might leaks if they are saturated. If you are using 1 insert and notice that it is fully wet, we recommend switching to 2 inserts for extra absorbency. We also recommend 2 inserts for overnight usage or heavy wetters. You can also try changing more frequently

  • Leaks can also be caused by poor fit. The waist elastic is extra wide and helps prevent blowouts at the back, as long as you create a gap-free fit via the snap fasteners. Also make sure that the leg elastic is adjusted so it forms a snug yet comfy fit around the thighs. If the diaper is too tight on you baby, it may cause compression to the inserts, which will prevent the liquid from being absorbed. So adjust the waist and leg openings, so that they are snug and secure, but do not leave any marks.

  • Sometimes leakage can be caused by the damage to the waterproof outer layer. Remember that hot washing and drying temperatures can damage the waterproof fabrics of the diaper. Always wash your diapers on warm (40°C/104°F max) and dry on low.

  • If the diaper is fitted properly, has no visible damage, is not fully saturated, but still leaks, the issue is likely caused by the buildup on the diaper or insert fabric. Minerals in hard water can combine with fatty acids in detergent, fabric softener or poop, causing a build-up that reduces absorbency and may cause odors. Stripping your diapers and inserts can help.

The leg sizing elastic wore out/broke. What do I do?

The leg sizing elastic wore out/broke. What do I do?

You can purchase leg elastic replacement sets on our website. Next, follow the step-by-step instructions here.

Swim & training pants

What is the difference between Training Pants and Training Underwear?

What is the difference between Training Pants and Training Underwear?

Our Training Pants are expertly designed for children from 6 months to 4 years old who are potty training.

Training Underwear, on the other hand, was created for older children who might still need some absorbency support.Training Underwear can be used with special reusable inserts for extra protection.

Weight(lbs) Waist(in) Thigh(in) Rise(in) Swim Diaper Training Pants
<14 5.7 3.9 5.9 XS Not Applicable
12-20 6.6 4.3 6.2 S S
16-28 7.4 5.1 6.6 M M
22-34 8.2 5.5 7.4 L L
28-41 9.3 6.2 8.1 Not Applicable XL
Weight(kgs) Waist(cm) Thigh(cm) Rise(cm) Swim Diaper Training Pants
<6 14.7 10 15.3 XS Not Applicable
5-9 17.2 11.8 16.4 S S
7-13 19.7 13.5 17.5 M M
10-16 21.5 14.5 19.2 L L
13-18.6 23.7 15.9 20.6 Not Applicable XL
Weight
(lbs)
Waist
(in)
Thigh
(in)
Rise
(in)
Swim Diaper Training Pants
<14 5.7 3.9 5.9 XS Not Applicable
12-20 6.6 4.3 6.2 S S
16-28 7.4 5.1 6.6 M M
22-34 8.2 5.5 7.4 L L
28-41 9.3 6.2 8.1 Not Applicable XL
Weight
(kgs)
Waist
(cm)
Thigh
(cm)
Rise
(cm)
Swim Diaper Training Pants
<6 14.7 10 15.3 XS Not Applicable
5-9 17.2 11.8 16.4 S S
7-13 19.7 13.5 17.5 M M
10-16 21.5 14.5 19.2 L L
13-18.6 23.7 15.9 20.6 Not Applicable XL

Do I need to use a disposable diaper under the swim diaper?

Do I need to use a disposable diaper under the swim diaper?

Charlie Banana® Reusable Swim Diapers are expertly designed to help prevent accidents in the water. The snug elastics around the waist and thighs help to contain messes, and the Tencel® lyocell lining wicks wetness away without swelling. However, our swim diapers do not contain absorbent padding.

Normally, you don't need to put a disposable diaper underneath the reusable swim diaper, but if you are attending a public pool or swim school, we always recommend checking the pool's or school's policies.

Can I use a cloth diaper shell instead of a swim diaper?

Can I use a cloth diaper shell instead of a swim diaper?

Charlie Banana® pocket cloth diapers are designed to be used as a diaper, while Charlie Banana® Swim Pants are specifically designed for protection at the beach or in the pool.

Both have a waterproof outer fabric, but the lining and fit are different. The lining of our Swim Pant is made with 100% lyocell fibers. This plant-based Tencel® fabric is soft, breathable, and dries quickly for maximum comfort during swimming.

Charlie Banana Swim Pants are available in two versions: with an adjustable drawstring at the elastic waist for extra security, and with openable snaps on both sides for easy changing. To ensure a snug and protective fit, our Swim Pants come in four sizes: XS, S, M and L.

If you choose to use a One Size Cloth Diaper cover for swimming, make sure that the leg elastic is set to a snug setting for containment.

Shipping & returns

How fast will my order ship?

How fast will my order ship?

All orders take 2-3 days to process before they are shipped.

Currently, we offer shipping via UPS Ground and UPS 3 Day Select.

Orders that include free shipping are shipped via UPS Ground.

Please note that the estimated shipping speed does not include the order processing time (2-3 days).

Do you ship internationally?

Do you ship internationally?

Right now we can only ship within the US, as well as to APO addresses, Puerto Rico and U. S. Virgin Islands.

If you are located outside the United States, we encourage you to check the list of the retailers that stock Charlie Banana in your area.

If you are located in India, please visit here.

I am located outside the United States. Where can I buy Charlie Banana products?

I am located outside the United States. Where can I buy Charlie Banana products?

We have a wide network of dedicated retailers selling our products around the world. Please check our Find a Store page to find a retailer closer to you.

You can also check our India website.

Whom do I contact to return an item? 

Whom do I contact to return an item? 

Drop a message to our Customer Care team here.

What is your return policy?

What is your return policy?

You can find our Returns and Exchanges policy here.

Do you have a money-back guarantee?

Do you have a money-back guarantee?

We offer a 14-Day Money Back Guarantee on all purchases. If you don’t absolutely love your Charlie Banana products, simply donate them to a local charity of your choice within 14 days of receipt of the product. Next, send us the donation receipt, and we will issue you a full refund.

This way we reduce our carbon footprint by avoiding return shipping, and you create a positive impact on families in need in your local community.

Please see this page for full details.

Do you offer diaper diaper warranty?

Do you offer diaper diaper warranty?

Yes, we do. You can find our Warranty policy here.

Partnerships
& wholesale

Where can I inquire about writing a blog or review?

Where can I inquire about writing a blog or review?

Please email us at: marketing@charliebanana.com

Whom should I contact with an editorial or marketing proposal? 

Whom should I contact with an editorial or marketing proposal? 

Please email us at: marketing@charliebanana.com

Do you have an affiliate program?

Do you have an affiliate program?

Yes, we do! Our Affiliate Program is a great way to earn commission when you recommend and review Charlie Banana products you love. You can find more details and apply on our Become an Affiliate page.

Do you have a referral program?

Do you have a referral program?

Yes, we do, and it's a great way to earn exclusive Charlie Banana rewards (and good karma). You can refer your friends here.

Can I become a brand ambassador?

Can I become a brand ambassador?

We'll be thrilled to review your application for our Brand Ambassador program. Please visit this page to apply.

I am an influencer and would love to partner. Whom do I contact?

I am an influencer and would love to partner. Whom do I contact?

Please email us at: marketing@charliebanana.com. Please make sure to include your social handles and kid(s) age in the email.

Please note that we are rarely able to offer paid sponsorships to the creators with whom we don't have established relationships. However, we are always happy to offer samples to influencers with relevant engaged audiences who are curious to explore cloth diapering and our brand.

Do you do wholesale? How can I resell Charlie Banana products? Can I become a distributor?

Do you do wholesale? How can I resell Charlie Banana products? Can I become a distributor?

We are always happy to welcome new retailers to our growing Charlie Banana family. Please fill out the form on our Become a Retailer page and a member of our Sales Team will reach out shortly.

Where can I find wholesale pricing and catalog?

Where can I find wholesale pricing and catalog?

To get access to our wholesale catalog, please fill out the form on Become a Retailer page.