Quantifying your child's urine volume
Coralie Mabouledecouche
Summary
Urine volume and cloth diapers: understanding, adjusting, and preventing leaks
The volume of your baby's urine directly affects the performance of your cloth diapers. Understanding these variations allows you to adjust the number of inserts, choose the right materials, and prevent leaks. It's an eco-friendly, practical, and caring approach for your child.
How to easily estimate urine volume
Three simple methods can be used to assess the amount of urine produced:
- Weighing the insert: weigh it dry, then after use. The difference in grams = the urine volume in milliliters.
- Syringe test: Pour water until a clean insert is saturated to determine its maximum capacity.
- Rhythm observation: if a diaper is saturated in less than an hour, your baby has a high urine volume.
Example: a dry insert weighs 55g and a wet one 205g → your baby has urinated approximately 150ml.
Average urine volume according to age
- Newborn (0–3 months) : 100 to 300 ml/day;
- Baby (3–12 months) : 300 to 600 ml/day;
- Toddler (1–3 years) : 600 to 900 ml/day.
These values are averages: they vary depending on hydration, temperature or diet.
Adjusting the absorbency of washable diapers
- Low volume → a thin insert like the Doux'Plis .
- Medium volume → a Bambelis Trifold with a small booster.
- Large volume / night → combine an Absorb6 with a DouxBoost Booster .
Modal absorbs quickly, bamboo stores a lot, hemp retains moisture for a long time — a winning combination without added thickness.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Stacking too many inserts creates leaks due to compression;
- Forgetting to strengthen at night: urine volume often doubles;
- Using a detergent that is too greasy: it clogs the fibers;
- Confusing leakage and compression: a poorly positioned saturated insert gives the same effect.
Frequently Asked Questions – Urine Volume and Cloth Diapers
How can I tell if my baby is urinating a lot?
If the diaper soaks up water in less than an hour, the volume is high. Weighing the inserts remains the most reliable method: 1 g = 1 ml.
What absorption rate should I expect for the night?
Nighttime urination is often doubled. Use an Absorb6 insert and add a DouxBoost booster for complete protection.
Can concentrated urine damage the inserts?
Yes, if they sit for too long. A clear rinse or short cycle preserves the fibers and absorbency.
How do I adjust my inserts if my baby urinates a lot?
Combine materials (modal, bamboo, hemp) according to the time of day to balance speed and retention.
Conclusion
Understanding your baby's urine volume allows you to adjust your cloth diapers for greater comfort and effectiveness. By observing and adapting, you prevent leaks while protecting the planet.
👉 Discover our washable inserts and boosters adapted to every need on Ma Boule De Couches® .
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