Showing off the cloth

You may enter reusable nappy life thinking that covering up your babe’s bum is going to be a real drama (and if you do we have a blog for that). But once you get hooked on Modern Cloth Nappies (MCNs) and all of the printy-minky-rainbow goodness, the struggle to keep bums on show, no matter the occasion, is real. So what to do if you want to flaunt that fluffy behind 24/7? Don’t worry. We got you...

Suns out, bums out! Nappy and t-shirt – when it’s hot, finding a way to clothe the cloth is definitely less of a problem. What better way of showcasing your love for cloth than having it out on display? Obviously, not every occasion is suitable for just a nappy, but while baby is young or if the weather is warmer, it’s really no different than wearing bloomers or nappy covers over a disposable. It also gives you the chance to strike up a conversation about reusables and how incredible they are!

Here are some key pointers on how to get the best nappy-tee combo and really make that cloth nappy work:

• Keep it simple silly - choosing plainer tops in block colours will ensure that the patterns or prints on your toddler’s tooshie are able to make a statement
• The reverse is also true - choose a plain solid colour nappy to give you more T-shirt choice
• Complement the print - look for the secondary colour in the nappy and choose a tee that will bring the two together
• Matching motifs  - if you’re lucky enough, you might find a tee or singlet with animals or motifs that mirror the ones on your nappy for much-y matchy-matchy goodness
• For more formal occasions try a less fussy nappy in a muted shade with a button up shirt and maybe even some cute shoes

Dresses and skirts

Many of the same rules apply as t-shirts here, and how cute will that fluff bum look peeking out from underneath a darling dress or even a tutu!? You can choose to streamline the look with a plain hem, or look for lace or intricate fringing to accentuate it and draw attention to the pièce de résistance.

Leg warmers

If you’re looking for a way to get more nappy exposure in chillier seasons consider leg warmers. No longer the domain of Jane Fonda wannabes, leg warmers are sure to allow your bub’s bum to shine despite the rain outside. If leg warmers aren’t your thing, then longer socks are a readily available alternative for cosy thighs.

And finally... Consider wool

If you have a wool cover that you use as part of a night nappy combination or over a fitted nappy, why not try it outside the nursery? Natural fibres ensure that they’ll be suitable whatever the weather.

At the end of the day, it doesn’t really matter all that much if the nappy matches the clothes or not; when your babes start picking their own outfits they’ll be dressed in all kinds of crazy, matching superman capes with princess dresses. The real positive is being able to watch your bub run about in their cloth knowing that you’ve done your bit for the environment. ... Oh, and that it looks super pretty! ;)

- By Kat Ewards

Kat is currently on maternity leave with her adorable baby girl, and loving every minute. She and her partner are keen to do their bit for the environment and have been using cloth on bubs since she was 1 week old.