Babies are oh so gloriously, wonderfully messy. Between feeding, teething and general baby dribbles, it’s a miracle how quickly they can soak through an outfit. Cloth bibs are your first line of defense in the battle for keeping clothes cleaner. Whether you're navigating milk dribbles with a newborn or full-on food explosions with a toddler learning to self-feed, the right cloth bibs can make a big difference in the clean up job.
What Are Cloth Bibs Used For?
Cloth bibs catch drool and food spills to keep clothes clean. Essential during feeding, teething, and messy play, they save countless outfit changes. For messier mealtimes, check out smock bibs for more epic coverage.
What Key Features Should You Look For in Cloth Bibs?
The best cloth bibs combine practicality with comfort for everyday use:
Soft, absorbent fabrics – Cotton, bamboo, and terry cloth soak up spills and drool without irritating delicate skin
Adjustable snaps or ties – Grow with your baby and ensure a comfortable fit that won't be too tight or too loose
Easy-wash materials – Machine washable fabrics that hold up to frequent washing and maintain absorbency
Gentle on sensitive skin – Look for natural, breathable fabrics without harsh dyes or chemicals
Reusable and eco-friendly – Cloth bibs reduce waste compared to disposable options and save money over time. Parent math!
You can also pair cloth bibs with complete feeding sets for a coordinated mealtime setup.
What Materials and Fabric Types Are Commonly Used?
Different fabrics offer different benefits depending on your needs:
Cotton – Soft, breathable, and highly absorbent. Machine washable and gets softer with each wash. Perfect for everyday use and gentle on sensitive skin.
Bamboo – Naturally antibacterial and hypoallergenic. Extremely soft and absorbent, ideal for babies with eczema or sensitive skin.
Terry cloth – Extra absorbent with a textured weave that soaks up lots of liquid. Great for heavy droolers and messy eaters. Often used for burp cloths too (check our guide on how to burp your baby for more tips).
Organic fabrics – Made using fibres grown to organic standards. A gentle option for newborns and babies with sensitive skin
The Final Word
Cloth bibs are one of those simple things that make baby life so much easier. Soft, practical and ready to catch whatever mess comes next. Stock up, wash often and embrace the beautiful chaos of feeding time.