Any parent will know that you can never have too many baby muslin cloths, and it's understandable why you might want the best baby muslins for your little one. If you're not familiar with a muslin square yet, it's basically a small square cloth usually made from cotton, and it's an essential baby item you'll need plenty of.
The reason us mums can't get enough of them is because you can use them in so many different ways. From burping cloths to bibs, to a coverup when breastfeeding, for swaddling, a blanket, playing peek-a-boo, something to suck when teething, the list really can go on and on.
Editor's Choice:
• Best baby muslin cloths overall: Aden + Anais cotton muslin squares 5-pack, £18.39
• Best bamboo baby muslin cloths: BabyBamba Bamboo Muslin Blanket, £9.99
• Best baby muslin cloths for using organic cotton: Bibs Muslin Cloth 2-Pack - £11.95
• Best quality baby muslin cloths: Bloomsbury Mill 100% Organic Cotton Muslin Squares - £16.99
• Best multipurpose baby muslin cloths: Cheeky Chompers 6 in 1 MultiMuslin - £24.99
Since it's a given that your muslins will get covered in baby's sick, saliva and other fluids, muslins are often sold in multipacks as you'll probably get through a couple a day with a baby. We'd recommend having a few in your changing bag and some dotted around the house for those emergency moments.
What to look for in a muslin cloth
Look for lightweight breathable fabrics, you'll often see cotton or bamboo muslins for example. You want something that is soft on baby's skin but also absorbent and hard-wearing as it will likely go in the washing machine pretty often!
It's also worth considering the size of the muslin. They are such versatile products that you'll find hundreds of uses for them, you may decide you want a few smaller muslin squares to have for on the go, or if your little one takes a liking to them while teething. Larger muslins are perfect for swaddling, or using as a cover when breastfeeding if you'd like to. They really are a must-have parenting product, and it's definitely a good idea to buy multiple muslins!
How to use a muslin cloth safely
You'll use a muslin when you are breast or bottle-feeding to wipe milk away from baby's mouth and clean up any spit-up. Given how often a newborn feeds (sometimes it feels like constantly), you'll need a lot of muslins.
You can use one on your changing mat and as a cover-up, while breastfeeding in public if you want. You can use a baby muslin to pat bottoms dry after changing nappies, to play peek-a-boo, at bath time as a washcloth or even as a towel, and also as a teething toy: they're great for chewing or sucking on.
The best baby muslins for 2024
Best baby muslin cloths overall
www.adenandanais.co.uk
Description
You need aden + anais Cotton Muslin Squares in your life. Not only do they do the job of any normal muslin, but they're also super soft and really gorgeous too. This adorable design is far too cute, and there are loads of designs available, from bright colours to soft pastels and monochrome, too. There truly is something for every taste, and they come in a handy pack of three.
Reviews Editor Emily Gilbert said: "They may be a little pricey but I truly believe this brand is worth every penny! The muslins are a really decent size and so lovely and soft. They wash really well too."
Pros
- Super durable and made with premium fabric
- Pack of 5
Cons
- Some found them thinner than expected
Best colourful baby muslin cloths
Description
We like these adorable Bright Bots Unisex Combo multi-colour muslin squares that come in yellow, purple, turquoise, green, red and orange. They are made from 100 per cent cotton, measuring 70cm x 70cm. Coming in a handy pack of six, there's plenty, 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 their vibrant colours.
A parent reviewer said: "These are not your normal tiddly-sized Muslin clothes, these clothes are huge. I would say at least twice the size of some you can buy. Admittedly not the cheapest but so bright, colourful and large, these will work perfectly for mopping up any spills and explosions the pending baby may throw at us. I learnt my lesson from child #1, who was a reflux baby, big muslins are the way to go and have so many uses, I'm looking forward to trying these out in the near future."
Pros
- Vibrant colours
- 6 pack
Cons
- Some reviewers wished they were more absorbent
Best animal design baby muslin cloths
Description
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, durable for regular machine washing and also sustainable, a huge bonus for our eco-conscious mums. We love the adorable animal print, ideal for all little ones, and they're available in three different designs depending on your taste.
One reviewer said: "Nice size and cute patterns. So soft! Our daughter loves snuggling them and have now bought a few sets to replace the rougher cotton ones we had previously."
Pros
- Cute print
- Pack of 4
Cons
- Some reviewers wished they were bigger
Best supermarket baby muslin cloths
www.argos.co.uk
Description
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 have been 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.
One parent reviewer said: "Good sized muslins, with lovely designs and very soft. Maintain their softness even after washing."
Pros
- Made from pure cotton
- Pack of 5
Cons
- Could be a more unisex design
Best bamboo baby muslin cloths
Description
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 14 different designs and styles, this breathable muslin thermoregulates against babies' skin, is breathable, it has antibacterial properties, and they are grown ethically without pesticides.
Our mum tester Clare said: "I have swaddled my baby for sleeping since birth, so was really pleased to receive these bamboo muslins. They are 100% bamboo and are extremely soft, almost feeling silky, lovely to be close to 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
- Material has thermoregulating properties
- Super soft fabric
Cons
- Some mums found them too large
Best baby muslin cloths for using organic cotton
Description
Whether you use them as a burp cloth, a light summer blanket or as a cover on your changing mat, the possibilities are endless with this Bibs Muslin Cloth 2-Pack. We love this gorgeous sage green colour, but there are four other dreamy colours to choose from too if green isn't for you. Danish-made, these are of very high quality with a real aesthetic design.
One mum reviewer said: "I was given quite a few muslins of some brand I don't know, and after the first wash, they were already shedding a lot of threads and leaving fluff (???) everywhere - so I decided to buy these instead. These ones are amazing. Thinner than I had expected, but the quality feels amazing, they wash so well and don't leave any random fluff anywhere. I am tempted to buy 4 more of these as they are just much better than any of the other muslins I have right now."
Pros
- Made from 100 per cent organic cotton
- Pack of 2
Cons
- Some reviewers expected them to be thicker
Best highly rated baby muslin cloths
Description
You get six muslins included for the price in 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. Available in 12 modern and stylish shades, we'd recommend buying a few different colours.
One parent review said: "There are amazing, very absorbent, lovely and soft and wash beautiful to brand new again. Perfect size and thickness for general wipes, face wipes, over the shoulder. I use these for everything!"
Pros
- Pack of 6
- Pure cotton
Cons
- Could include a variety of colours per pack
Best baby muslin cloths for a more neutral colour palette
Description
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, which is just what us busy parents need when we've got a million and one things to get washed and dried. 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.
A parent reviewer said: "These are perfect! I got the neutral-coloured rainbow set, and they are lovely quality, lightweight with a soft feel against the skin that makes them very baby-friendly. They perform exactly as you'd expect with muslin fabrics, and the colours and prints are contemporary, all as pictured. A good large size too, making them really versatile for wrapping, covering, wiping etc. - very practical for everyday use."
Pros
- Gender-neutral design
- Pack of 6
Cons
- Some parents may prefer a more colourful design
Best baby muslin cloths multipack
Description
Your little one is sure to get through a lot of muslins throughout the day, so you'll be pleased there are 10 in this ABirdon Cotton Muslin Squares Baby 10 Pack, so you won't run out in a hurry. They've got a six-layer design to ensure they're super absorbent, they're available in four adorable pastel shades. Mums loved the smaller size of these, making them ideal for wiping little mouths and for morning washes.
One mum reviewer said: "I've been using them for my baby, from bathing to wiping the saliva to anything I need it. The size is great, very convenient opposed to bigger muslins. Soft and easy to clean. Great value for money."
Pros
- Great present for a newborn
- Easy to wash and dry
Cons
- Some parents may prefer a bigger size
Best baby muslins for gifting
mamashack.co.uk
Description
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 come wrapped up in ribbon, ready for gifting. Use to comfort, mop up spills or even as a washcloth or bib.
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
- Made from 100% cotton
- Light weight and breathable
- Great for gifting
Cons
- Could do with a larger set
Best quality baby muslin cloths
Description
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 a multitude of uses, from burping and mopping up milk to using as a comforter. We particularly love to use these muslins as a swaddle blanket, as they're plenty big enough for growing babies.
A mum review said: "Bought this for a newborn baby gift and was so very pleased with product quality - it is everything it says it is and more! New parents happy too 😊"
Pros
- Made using organic cotton, so perfect for delicate skin
- Pack of 6
Cons
- Some reviewers wished they were bigger
Best multipurpose baby muslin cloths
Description
This Cheeky Chompers 6 in 1 MultiMuslin is more than just a muslin. It's a large triangle, as opposed to the usual square muslin, and features detachable teethers for little ones to literally get their teeth into. You can use this as a swaddle, dribble cloth, pram cover (not during hot weather), breastfeeding cover... and it's cute, too.
One parent reviewer said: "Excellent product! We've had Cheeky Chompers' bibs before and absolutely love them! Great size and super versatile. Gorgeous designs too! Highly recommended!"
Read our full Cheeky Chompers 6 in 1 MultiMuslin review
Pros
- Has six different uses
- Comes with attachable teething rings
Cons
- Some found it nearly too big
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Are muslin cloths safe?
Muslins are also great to use to wrap or swaddle your baby, to replace a comforting toy, and when burping your baby. Just keep in mind the safety surrounding swaddling and leaving muslins in your baby's cot while they're sleeping. According to the Lullaby Trust, there are some important safety factors to keep in mind.
"If you decide to adopt swaddling, this should be done for each day and night time sleep as part of a regular routine; use thin materials, do not swaddle above the shoulders, never put a swaddled baby to sleep on their front, do not swaddle too tight, check the baby's temperature to ensure they do not get too hot."
In order to avoid the risk of SIDS, it's a good idea not to keep any unnecessary items in your baby's cot. 'We recommend babies sleep in cots or Moses baskets that are kept as clear as possible. We specifically advise no pillows or duvets, no cot bumpers, no soft toys, no loose bedding, and no products (such as wedges or straps) that will keep your baby in one sleeping position.' Says the Lullaby Trust.
The NHS doesn't recommend using any spare piece of fabric on your unattended baby. This is to avoid suffocation, however, under supervision, a baby muslin is a must-have baby essential.
How many muslins do you need for a baby?
The amount of times you find yourself grabbing a muslin cloth can vary depending on your baby. If they suffer from reflux or are regularly sick, then you'll probably find yourself needing more. To put a figure on it, you might want to start with around 5-10 muslins and purchase more if you find you're always running out when they're in the washing.
As you can see from the products we've featured, the majority of muslin squares come in multipacks, so you may just want to add two packs of baby muslins to your baby shopping list.
Do I need to wash baby muslins before use?
Although many modern muslins are made using natural and organic fibres where they've not come into contact with chemicals or pesticides, some cloths have come into contact with nasties during the production process. Either way, we'd recommend giving your muslin squares a was before your baby arrives and drying them outdoors if possible. This will mean that any harmful chemicals that may have come into contact with the muslin is washed out before coming into contact with baby.
How to wash baby muslins
If you're currently prepping for the arrival of your little one and popping all their baby grows and clothes into the wash, ready to be worn, you might want to toss the muslin squares in, too, for a wash before using them.
Muslin squares can be washed in the washing machine with the rest of your baby's clothes. Just be sure to fasten up any buttons and zips to avoid them catching on the cloth, and don't wash with Velcro items. Wash them below 40 to avoid shrinking and tumble dry on a low setting. In terms of detergent, it's up to you, but it's a good idea to go for a gentle baby washing powder that will be gentle and kind to your baby's delicate skin.
Other muslin cloth uses
Not only are muslin squares brilliant when it comes to burping, nursing, using as a baby swaddle blanket, sun shading... the list goes on, but they can also come in handy for loads of other things.
Looking for a new facial exfoliator? A damp muslin cloth will work the same, especially when exfoliating dry skin from your lips.
If you love to make homemade jams and marmalades, you can use a muslin square to strain the mixture. Removing any lumps or seeds to leave you with a tasty, smooth spread.
There's nothing worse than getting little lemon pips in your food when cooking, so a good solution is to wrap your lemon wedge in a muslin cloth before squeezing the juice out - you'll still get the lovely lemon flavour, minus the pips.
For an alternative gift wrap, you could use a muslin cloth to gift wrap some presents. Add a colourful ribbon or bow for a chic-looking gift.
Got a blocked nose? Dab some airway-clearing oils to a muslin cloth and sleep with it under your pillow at night.
You can never have too many dusters. Add your old and unwanted muslin cloths to the under-the-sink cupboard collection.
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.