Medically Reviewed by: Lesley Bland
When I was a first-time mum, I had no clue what a muslin cloth was or why everyone kept raving about it. That changed quickly—and let's just say, I haven't looked back since! Any parent will tell you: you can never have too many muslin cloths and it's a baby essential you need from day one.
If you're new to the baby game, muslin cloths are soft, breathable squares (usually made from cotton) that quickly become your best friend during those early months. Why? Because they’re the ultimate multitaskers. From burping to feeding, swaddling, and even cleaning, muslin cloths are incredibly versatile.
One of the first things you'll notice about them is their ability to absorb spills—whether it's milk, saliva, or the occasional nappy leak. They're lightweight yet highly absorbent, making them perfect for cleaning up messes. Plus, their gentle fabric offers comfort, making them a go-to for babies who enjoy chewing or cuddling with them.
You'll likely find muslin cloths becoming a part of your everyday routine, always within reach for any mess or need that comes your way. Since they’re magnets for spit-ups and other baby fluids, it’s always a good idea to have plenty on hand. Keep a few in your changing bag, scatter them around the house, and have a stash ready for emergencies.
To save you time and guesswork, we’ve rounded up the softest, most practical muslin cloths out there—perfect for burping, feeding, cleaning, and snuggling.
The best baby muslin cloths at a glance
How we chose and tested the best muslin cloths
At Mother&Baby, we know that finding the right muslin cloths can feel like a never-ending search for the one. That’s why we put in the hours testing, washing, and evaluating a range of options to help you choose the best ones for your little one.
We also consulted with Lesley Bland, a registered midwife and consultant midwife for My Expert Midwife, about how to choose the right muslin cloth, the different sizes and uses, and the safety tips for using them with your little one.
Softness and comfort
Newborns have delicate skin, and rough fabrics can cause irritation. We carefully assessed how each muslin felt against the skin, prioritising soft, gentle options.
Absorbency
Muslin cloths need to handle everything from spit-ups to spills. We tested each cloth's ability to soak up messes without becoming heavy or soggy.
Durability
Baby essentials get washed A LOT. We evaluated how well each muslin held up after multiple washes, checking for fading, fraying, and shrinking.
Size and versatility
From tiny squares to larger wraps, we tested a range of sizes to find the most versatile options. We considered how easy they were to use for burping, swaddling, and even makeshift sunshades.
Breathability
Muslin fabric is loved for being breathable and lightweight—key features for keeping your baby comfortable. We ensured all our picks excelled in this area.
Design and style
Let's face it—function is key, but style matters too. We looked for muslins that come in a variety of colours and patterns to suit different tastes.
Value for money
We understand that parenting can be expensive, so we made sure to recommend muslins that offer great quality at a fair price.
Find out more about how we test products for Mother&Baby.
The best baby muslins for 2025
Best baby muslin cloths overall
MOTHER&BABYYou need Aden + Anais Cotton Muslin Squares in your life. These aren't just any regular muslins—they're super soft and absolutely gorgeous. With adorable designs ranging from bright colours to soft pastels and monochrome, there's something to suit every taste. Plus, they come in a handy pack of three.
Mother&Baby Reviews Editor Emily Gilbert tested these and admitted they're "a little pricey" but believes they're "worth every penny!" She praised their generous size, softness, and how well they wash.
One happy Amazon reviewer shared, "Really like this brand and this product. You can feel that it's good quality and very soft on baby's face."
Pros
- They are super durable and made with premium fabric.
- The muslin squares wash well, maintaining their quality and softness.
- These muslin squares come in packs of 5.
Cons
- Some found the muslin squares thinner than expected.
- Whilst the quality justifies the cost, they are more expensive than others.
| Material: | Cotton |
| Size: | 60 x 60cm |
| Design: | Multiple prints |
Designed with practicality in mind, these GLLQUEN BABY Muslin Squares for Baby are easy to wash, quick drying, and can be tumble dried on low heat. This is just what busy parents need when they have a million and one things to wash and dry.
Babies will love how soft they will feel against their skin, and we can't get enough of the warm brown designs to give all the cosy feel. However, if brown isn't for you, they're available in three other colours.
Parent testers love their versatility due to their large size but did note that they are a thinner option.
Pros
- They are easily washed and quick-drying, but they can also be used in the tumble dryer if needed.
- GLLQUEN BABY offer gender-neutral designs.
- These muslin squares come in packs of 6.
Cons
- Some parents may prefer a more colourful design to a set of colour themes.
- These muslin squares are a thinner material than expected.
| Material: | Bamboo, cotton |
| Size: | 70 x 70cm |
| Design: | Neutral rainbow (available in star, animal and flower prints too) |
Best organic cotton baby muslin cloths
nibbling.co.uk
Whether you use them as a burp cloth, a light summer blanket, or a cover for your changing mat, the possibilities are endless with these Bibs muslin cloths. We love this gorgeous sage green colour, but there are four other dreamy colours to choose from if green isn't for you. Danish-made, these are of very high quality with a real aesthetic design.
Shoppers said that they wash well, are high-quality, and are made to last, but they noted that they're a little thin.
Pros
- They are made from 100 per cent organic cotton.
- The muslin cloths are high-quality and long-lasting.
- These muslin cloths come in packs of 2.
- They are lightweight and breathable.
Cons
- Some reviewers expected them to be thicker.
- For the price, they have a limited pack size.
| Material: | Organic cotton |
| Size: | 70 x 70cm |
| Design: | Plain design in either sage, baby blue, blush, ivory, sand |
Best baby muslins for gifting
mamashack.co.uk
Lightweight, breathable, and absorbent, this set of three muslins from Mama Shack comes in sage spotty, woodland, and woodland leaf prints. They would make a lovely present and are wrapped in ribbon, ready for gifting. Use them to comfort, mop up spills, or even as a washcloth or bib.
Mother&Baby Reviews Editor Emily Gilbert said: "Just like their gorgeous changing mats, the Mama Shack designs are gorgeous, and I love how many different uses they have!"
Pros
- These are made from 100% cotton, ideal for sensitive skin.
- The muslin squares are designed to be lightweight and breathable.
- These muslin squares are perfect for gifting with their ribbon packaging.
Cons
- A bigger set of muslin squares would be preferred when considering the price.
| Material: | 100% Organic Cotton |
| Size: | 60cm x 60cm |
| Design: | Multiple options |
Currently unavailable
You get six muslins included in the price of this pack from Comfy Cubs Muslin Cloths for Baby because no parent can ever have too many muslins. Made from 100 per cent breathable cotton, they're super gentle to use on baby's delicate skin and extra absorbent, too, as it's easy to see why they have over 33,000 reviews on Amazon.
Reviewers love how absorbent they are (despite their small size) and how they retain their softness even after washing. They are available in 18 modern and stylish shades, plus a mixed pack.
Pros
- These muslin cloths come in packs of 6.
- They are made out of 100% breathable pure cotton.
- Comfy cubs offer a variety of different colours.
- The muslin cloths are extra absorbent.
Cons
- Not as large as some options.
| Material: | Cotton |
| Size: | 51 x 25cm |
| Design: | Choice of 13 colours |
Best supermarket baby muslin cloths
www.argos.co.uk
Sometimes you really can't go wrong with a supermarket bargain. Add to your everyday essentials with this handy pack of five blue and cream muslin Squares by Tu at Argos, which are made from pure cotton, with some finished with a charming space print. They're perfect as a newborn baby gift or for a practical baby shower present that will definitely get plenty of use.
Parent reviewers love that they maintain their softness after washing, which is great for a baby's delicate skin.
Pros
- These muslin squares come in packs of 5.
- They are made from 100% pure cotton.
- These muslin squares are good value for money.
Cons
- They could have a more unisex design.
| Material: | Cotton |
| Size: | 70 x 70cm |
| Design: | 3 x space print, 2 x plain blue |
Best animal design baby muslin cloths
These LEBCO Animal Friends muslin squares are made from 70 per cent bamboo and 30 per cent cotton, making them soft against baby's skin. They're a durable and sustainable option for regular machine washing and a great choice for our eco-conscious mums. We love the adorable animal print, which is ideal for all little ones. They're available in three different designs depending on your taste.
Regarding drawbacks, reviewers noted that they are on the small side, and there's potential for shrinkage during washing.
Pros
- The cute prints add an adorable touch.
- They are environmentally friendly and sustainable.
- These muslin squares come in packs of 4.
Cons
- Some reviewers wished the muslin squares were bigger.
- Due to the bamboo blend there is potential for shrinkage, once washed.
| Material: | Bamboo and cotton |
| Size: | 60 x 60cm |
| Design: | Three animal designs, white |
Currently unavailable
Best bamboo baby muslin cloths
This BabyBamba bamboo muslin blanket is made from 100 per cent bamboo, so you're saving the planet a bit as well as using a super-soft muzzy. It's also large in size, so it's big enough for anything really. Available in different designs and styles, this breathable muslin thermoregulates against babies' skin, is breathable, has antibacterial properties, and is grown ethically without pesticides.
Our mum tester Clare said: "I have swaddled my baby for sleeping since birth, so I was really pleased to receive these bamboo muslins. They are 100% bamboo and are extremely soft, almost silky, lovely to be close to the baby's skin. They are a decent size, so it is easy to fold them appropriately to be able to swaddle. They are too large to be useable as a muslin for posseting/baby winding, so I think they are really designed for swaddling."
Read our full Bamboo Muslin by BabyBamba review.
Pros
- It's material has thermoregulating and antibacterial properties.
- This muslin blanket has a soft and silky feel.
- The blanket has a generously large size, making it versatile for various uses.
Cons
- Some mums found these too large.
- The bamboo fabric may require special care instructions when washing.
| Material: | Bamboo |
| Size: | 120 x 120cm |
| Designs: | Elephant (Also available dinosaur, clouds, animals, giraffe, flamingo, and stars) |
Best multipurpose baby muslin cloths
This Cheeky Chompers 6-in-1 MultiMuslin is more than just a muslin. It's a large triangle, unlike the usual square, and features detachable teethers for little ones to get their teeth into. You can use this as a swaddle, dribble cloth, pram cover (not during hot weather), or breastfeeding cover—and it's cute, too.
Our mum testers love this product's versatility. They use it for everything from feeding to a pram cover to a sun shade. They also said it would make a great gift for an expectant friend. The attached teething rings also mean that it's one less thing for parents to have to remember.
If they had to change the product, they said they'd prefer a square shape instead of the current triangle one and that the attachments could be sturdier, as they occasionally came off in their changing bags.
Read our full Cheeky Chompers 6 in 1 MultiMuslin review
Pros
- It has six different uses, some being pram, breastfeeding cover and dribble cloth.
- The MultiMuslin comes with attachable/detachable teething rings.
- It is a triangle shape providing more coverage.
Cons
- The shape is a little odd for certain uses.
- Attachments could be sturdier.
| Material: | Cotton |
| Size: | 23.6 x 23cm |
| Design: | Pear Drop, Loveable Lion, Zebra Dreams, and Rosy Days |
Best colourful baby muslin cloths
These adorable Bright Bots Unisex Combo multi-colour muslin squares come in yellow, purple, turquoise, green, red, and orange, adding a pop of colour to the usual sea of white and grey. They are made from 100 percent cotton and measure 70cm x 70cm.
Coming in a handy pack of six, there's plenty to choose from, so you can keep one in every room of the house, plus one in your changing bag, too. Thanks to the high quality, mums have commented these wash really well and don't fade in the wash, plus are a generous size.
Some reviewers noted that they're not as absorbent as others they've tried and can be harder to store due to their size.
Pros
- They come in vibrant colours.
- These muslin squares are made from 100% cotton.
- They are generously sized at 70x70cm, making them versatile for various tasks.
- These muslin squares come in packs of 6.
Cons
- Some reviewers wished they were more absorbent.
- Due to their large size, they can be harder to store.
| Material: | Cotton |
| Size: | 70 x 70cm |
| Design: | Multi-colour |
11.
ABirdon Cotton Muslin Squares Baby 10 Pack
Best baby muslin cloths multipack
Your little one is sure to get through many muslins throughout the day, so you'll be pleased there are 10 in this ABirdon Cotton Muslin Squares Baby 10 Pack so that you won't run out in a hurry. They've got a six-layer design to ensure they're super absorbent, and they're available in three adorable pastel shades.
Mums loved the smaller size of these, making them ideal for wiping little mouths and for morning washes, but we'd love to see a wider colour variety on offer.
Pros
- Their six-layer design makes them super absorbent.
- They are easy to wash and dry whilst maintaining their quality.
- These muslin squares come in packs of 10.
- The smaller size of these muslin squares makes them ideal for wiping little mouths.
Cons
- Some parents may prefer a bigger size and slightly thinner material.
- There is not a wide range of colours available.
| Material: | Cotton |
| Size: | 30 x 30cm |
| Design: | Assorted cartoon prints (available in plain blue, green, pink and yellow too) |
12.
Bloomsbury Mill 100% Organic Cotton Muslin Squares
Best baby muslin cloths for versatility
These Bloomsbury Mill 100% Organic Cotton muslin squares come beautifully presented and tied together in a pretty satin bow. Whether at home or out and about, these squares have many uses, from burping and mopping up milk to using as a comforter. We particularly love using these muslins as a swaddle blanket, as they're big enough for growing babies.
Loved for their large size, reviewers mentioned that they're ideal for covering up while breastfeeding and that they don't shrink during washing. Though they are a thinner option, they may not be as absorbent as some options.
Pros
- They are made using 100% organic cotton, so perfect for delicate skin.
- These muslin squares come in packs of 6.
- They offer a generous size big enough for growing babies.
Cons
- Some reviewers found that they didn't maintain their quality after being washed.
- Limited designs are available.
| Material: | Organic cotton |
| Size: | 70 x 70cm |
| Design: | Grey and white star, chevron and polka dot prints (available in pink and blue too) |
What to look for in a muslin cloth
"Muslin cloths are synonymous with babies and have been used by parents for generations as burping cloths, to protect babies clothes from vomit, to safely swaddle babies, and as general multipurpose mop-up and cleaning cloths,” says registered midwife Lesley.
When choosing a muslin cloth, it’s important to keep a few key factors in mind to ensure you pick the best option for both baby care and practical uses.
Lesley says, "There are all sorts of sizes, colours and patterns but you should be looking for a good quality breathable, natural fibre and absorbent muslim which is soft and non-irritable to your baby’s delicate skin."
Here are some criteria to look for in muslin cloth:
Fabric: Choose lightweight and breathable materials like cotton or bamboo.
Softness: Make sure the muslin is soft on baby’s delicate skin.
Durability: Pick a cloth that can handle frequent washes without losing its shape or softness.
Size: Smaller muslins are great for on-the-go or for teething babies; larger ones are perfect for swaddling or as a breastfeeding cover.
Versatility: Muslins are multi-purpose, so it’s a good idea to have several in different sizes to cover various needs.
Lesley advises to "Avoid synthetic fabrics and instead look for 100% cotton, muslin, or bamboo. Muslin as a fabric is highly absorbent and is a very low allergy risk so is perfect for your newborn."
5 ways to use a muslin cloth
Muslin cloths are incredibly versatile and can be used in many different ways. Their soft, breathable fabric makes them perfect for a range of practical tasks for baby. From burping and to swaddling your little one, muslin cloths quickly become indispensable.
Here are just a few ways to make the most of them:
Burping
Use it to wipe away milk or spit-up after feeding.
Nursing
Ideal as a light breastfeeding cover or to clean up milk around baby’s mouth.
Swaddling
A soft, breathable option for wrapping your baby in comfort.
Sun shading
Perfect for providing light protection from the sun during outings.
Teething
Babies love chewing on muslin cloths for comfort.
How to safely use muslin cloths with your baby
Muslin cloths are incredibly handy for parents, but it's essential to use them safely to protect your baby. Whether you're feeding, playing, or cleaning up, here’s what to keep in mind.
During feeding time, muslins are great for wiping milk from your baby's mouth and catching spit-ups. Newborns feed frequently, so having plenty of muslin cloths on hand is a lifesaver. You can also lay one on your changing mat to protect it or use it to gently pat your baby dry after a nappy change.
Playtime? Muslins are lightweight and soft, making them great for games like peek-a-boo. They work as gentle washcloths during bath time or even as a lightweight towel. Babies also love chewing on them when teething because they are soft and soothing.
Expert-approved safety tips for using muslin cloths
"Muslin cloths can have many uses from burping cloths, catching vomit or even a washcloth. Because muslin fabric is breathable it can also be used to swaddle your baby (follow Lullaby Trust’s safe swaddling advice).
But there are always dangers with anything around babies; fabric items in particular can be associated with overheating, suffocation, and ligature," says Lesley.
If you're swaddling your baby, the Lullaby Trust offers some key advice. Use thin, breathable muslins and never wrap above the shoulders. Lesley advises to, "make sure the swaddle isn't too tight so your baby can move their hips freely. Always place them on their back when swaddled and check their temperature to avoid overheating."
She also strongly advises, "Do not leave material loose, as it could be kicked over a baby’s head and lead to suffocation."
For safe sleep, keep your baby's cot free of clutter. The Lullaby Trustrecommends no pillows, duvets, cot bumpers, soft toys, or loose bedding. Products that hold babies in one sleeping position should also be avoided.
The NHS also advises never to leave a loose muslin cloth near an unattended baby to prevent suffocation. However, with supervision, muslin cloths are safe, practical, and essential for day-to-day baby care.
Lesley cautions, "Avoid leaving your baby alone with a muslin cloth within reach. Even a young baby could manage to flick a muslin cloth over their head or face, which could cause suffocation. A wriggly baby might also get tangled in a muslin cloth, which, in extreme cases, could cause strangulation or act as a ligature."
Baby muslin cloth FAQs
How many muslins do you need for a baby?
The number of muslin cloths you need can vary depending on your baby's habits. If your baby has reflux or tends to spit up often, you'll likely need more. A good starting point is around 5-10 muslins. As they often come in multipacks, adding two packs to your shopping list should cover most scenarios. You can always purchase more if you find yourself constantly running out when they're in the wash.
Do I need to wash baby muslins before use?
Even if muslins are made from organic, chemical-free materials, it's still a good idea to wash them before your baby uses them. Some may have come into contact with chemicals or dust during production and packaging. Washing them and drying them outdoors (if possible) ensures they’re clean and safe for your baby's delicate skin.
How to wash baby muslins
Washing muslin squares is simple. Toss them in the washing machine along with your baby's other clothes.
1. Fasten any buttons or zips on other items to avoid snagging.
2. Keep velcro items out of the wash to prevent catching on the muslins.
3. Wash below 40°C to avoid shrinking.
4. Tumble dry on a low setting if needed.
5. Use gentle baby detergent to protect your baby's sensitive skin.
According to Lesley, it's important to care for muslin cloths properly to keep your baby’s skin safe from irritation. "Avoid using bleach, as it's too harsh for a baby’s delicate skin," she advises.
When washing muslins, opt for a non-bio washing powder or liquid to reduce the risk of skin irritation. Lesley also recommends skipping fabric conditioner, as it can reduce the cloth's absorbency and contains perfumes that may irritate sensitive skin, particularly in babies under three months of age.
Following these steps will help keep your muslin cloths soft, absorbent, and ready for daily use.
Why trust us?
Our product recommendations are based on a combination of real-world testing from our burgeoning army of mum testers and the extensive knowledge of our experienced editorial team and product specialists. Where we can, we also consult experts who specialise in that field to ensure you get the right advice along with the right product, and we listen to what you say as well.
Our thriving mum community on our Facebook group #mumtribe consistently provides great insights into which products mums like best and why, helping us highlight the products that will meet your needs.
For essential products, our annual Mother&Baby Awards shortlist the top products tested. Full reviews from our mum testers can be found on our product pages. The winners and runners-up for each category will also appear in our top picks article for that product, along with other products that were rated highly by our team.
About the expert
Lesley Bland has also provided her expert advice and medically reviewed this article. Lesley is a Registered Midwife and Consultant Midwife for My Expert Midwife. She began her Midwifery career working in large teaching hospitals rotating through all clinical areas with particular emphasis on antenatal and intrapartum care. Lesley qualified as a mentor of students and developed a passion for education specialising as a Clinical Educator teaching the maternity multidisciplinary team.
About the author
Emily Gilbert has been a journalist since 2015 and has worked across a variety of specialist and lifestyle brands both in print and online, including four years on Mother&Baby magazine where she was Senior Writer and wrote news, product pages, features and interviewed celebrities such as Paloma Faith and Fearne Cotton.