If you’re just stepping into the world of cloth diapers, one of your first questions is probably how to store dirty cloth diapers between changes and laundry day. (Along with how to wash them, but don’t worry, we’ve got decades of experience and a simple 2-step routine for you to follow!) Happily, with the right system, storing dirty diapers is easy, stink-free, and totally doable whether you’re at home or out and about.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to store dirty cloth diapers at home, how to store them on the go, and what to avoid so your diapers stay fresh, clean, and ready for anything!

Let’s dive in! 👇

When it comes to storing dirty cloth diapers between changes and wash days, the goal is simple: choose a setup that keeps things breathable, contained, and easy to access. A little airflow goes a long way in preventing moisture from getting trapped, which helps keep odors in check and protects against unwanted issues like mold and mildew.

1. Hang the Pail Pouch on its own
Many families like the simplicity of using our Pail Pouch by itself. It can hang on a doorknob or hook – no extra equipment needed. It has microscopic holes and a drawstring closure for airflow while keeping everything contained until laundry day. (Odors included! But you can always use a sprinkle of Pail Deodorant for extra freshness if desired)

2. Pair the Pail Pouch with a diaper pail
If you prefer a traditional diaper pail, you can absolutely use one with cloth. Just make sure the pail is large enough to allow for 2 - 3 days worth of cloth diapers (without having to stuff them in!), and that the mouth/opening of the pail will work with whatever reusable liner you decide on. We’re big fans of the Diaper Dekor Plus – it’s the pail featured on our site and it fits the Pail Pouch perfectly as a liner.

For more details on setting up at-home storage, you can explore our full guide here: https://esemblybaby.com/blogs/trash-talk/how-to-store-cloth-diapers

Cloth diapering away from home is really just about having a reliable place to put your dirty diapers until you’re back. With a waterproof storage bag and a few helpful habits – outings, errands, daycare drop-offs, and travel all fit easily into a cloth diapering routine.

And as many Esembly parents have discovered – including our co-founder Liz, who once tried switching to disposables for “convenience” and ended up with a…memorable blowout…(check out the story if you haven’t already 😂😅) – cloth can actually be the easier option.

Most families use some type of wet (or wet/dry) bag when storing dirty cloth diapers away from home. You have two great options within the Esembly system: the Day Bag and the Ditty Bag. Both bags do the job of containing dirties beautifully – the biggest differences are their capacity, structure, and of course, the fun prints and colors that most catch your eye. 

The Day Bag is helpful for longer outings or situations where you want a bit more organization. It includes:

• Two waterproof, odor-containing compartments (one for cleans, one for dirties)

• Drawstring closures to help contain moisture and smell

• A front flap over the dirty pocket for added coverage

• An easy-to-carry strap that works over the shoulder or on a stroller

• Enough space for 1 - 2 days’ worth of diapers and essentials

It’s designed to make outings feel calm and organized with just one step – one bag, clean diapers here, dirties tucked away there – so your cloth routine stays easy, sustainable, and totally doable wherever you are.

Some families prefer the simplicity and flexibility of Ditty Bags, especially for quick trips or when they want a smaller option. Ditty Bags are soft, stretchy, and made from GRS-certified recycled fabric. They fold up small, making them easy to stash in a diaper bag, backpack, car, or stroller pocket.

A few things to know about Ditty Bags:

• They’re waterproof and great for keeping wet or soiled items separate in whatever diaper bag you’re already using or plan to use (they only have one pocket, unlike the Day Bags with two)

• One Ditty Bag can hold 4 - 6 Esembly diapers and a handful of Wipe Ups

They’re simple, lightweight, and incredibly versatile and useful beyond diapering! (beach days, camping trips, lunch sacks, gym gear… anything damp or messy)

If you want an added layer of odor control during longer outings, you can sprinkle a little Pail Deodorant into the dirty compartment of your Day Bag or into the Ditty Bag you designate for dirties. That way you don’t have to bring the whole shaker with you.

Overpacking compresses the diapers and reduces airflow. A good rule of thumb: If you’re stuffing it, it’s too full. We recommend washing your diapers every 2 - 3 days, which will also help prevent issues like ammonia build-up.

Once you have a breathable place for diapers at home and a contained spot for them while you’re out, the whole process becomes surprisingly seamless. It’s one of the quiet strengths of cloth diapering with Esembly – small, dependable systems that support you day after day.

If you ever need personalized help setting up your wash routine or storage system, we’re always happy to chat. Just DM us on Instagram or send a note to our squad of cloth-diapering mamas at hi@esemblybaby.com!