How to Use a Muslin Burp Cloth as a Changing Pad Cover

Quick Answer

A muslin burp cloth doubles as a lightweight, absorbent changing pad cover that fits most standard pads and is easy to swap out between changes.

How to Set Up Your Muslin Burp Cloth as a Changing Pad Cover

1. 1. Prepare the Changing Pad: Place your changing pad on a flat, stable surface. If using a portable pad, unfold it completely. Wipe the surface clean so the burp cloth lays flat without slipping on dirt or residue. A clean pad helps the cloth stay in place and prevents stains from setting into the pad itself.
2. 2. Lay the Burp Cloth Evenly Over the Pad: Center the muslin burp cloth over the pad with the softest side facing up. Smooth out any wrinkles so there are no lumps under your baby’s back or back. The cloth should extend a few inches past the pad edges on all sides to tuck underneath. If the cloth is too small to overhang the pad, fold it in half to double the absorbency in the middle area.
3. 3. Tuck the Excess Fabric Under the Pad: Fold the overhanging edges of the burp cloth under the pad on all four sides. For a temporary cover, simply tuck the front edge under the pad’s front lip. For a standard pad, you can also tuck the back edge under the pad’s back edge to create a snug fit. Tucking prevents the cloth from bunching up when you lift your baby on or lift your baby off the pad.
4. 4. Secure the Cloth for On-the-Go Use: If you are using a portable changing pad inside a diaper bag, place the burp cloth on top of the pad and fold the bag’s carry loop or strap over the cloth to hold it in place. Alternatively, pack a separate burp cloth and lay it on the pad once you arrive at your destination. A separate cloth is the most practical option for travel because you can wash it after each use without having to remove the pad.
5. 5. Swap and Wash Between Changes: After a diaper change, remove the burp cloth and toss it in the diaper bag’s wet bag or laundry basket. Replace with a fresh cloth before the next change. Muslin dries quickly, so you can wash several cloths together on a gentle cycle and air-dry them in a few hours. Having a rotation of 3-5 burp cloths ensures you always have a clean cover available without doing laundry every day.

Product Used in This Guide

• Muslin Burp Cloths in Mauve: Super-soft, extra absorbent muslin burp cloths are an absolute essential for new parents, ideal for feeding, changing, or cleaning baby. The multi-layer muslin absorbs spit-up or leaks quickly, keeping the changing pad surface drier and more comfortable for your baby.