how to make baby bibs from washcloths

November 27, 2025

Making baby bibs from washcloths is one of the easiest, most affordable, and most practical DIY baby projects you can do. Washcloths are naturally absorbent, already hemmed, easy to find in multipacks, and soft enough for a newborn’s skin — making them the perfect base for homemade bibs.

Whether you’re sewing for your own baby or creating adorable baby-shower gifts, this guide walks you through multiple styles, no-sew options, safety tips, and size variations that most tutorials skip. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to create professional-looking washcloth baby bibs without buying a pattern.

Why Washcloths Make the Best DIY Bibs

Washcloths have three huge advantages:

✔ They’re super absorbent

Soft terry, bamboo, and microfiber washcloths catch drool and food mess better than many store-bought bibs.

✔ They’re budget-friendly

You can get a multipack for just a few dollars and turn each one into a bib.

✔ They’re already the right size

Most washcloths are perfectly sized for newborn–9 month drool bibs, while larger washcloths and hand towels create toddler or feeding bibs.

Plus, washcloth bibs wash beautifully, dry quickly, and are sturdy enough for daily use.

Supplies You Need to Make Washcloth Baby Bibs

You don’t need much to get started. Here’s what to gather:

Washcloth Options

  • Terry cloth (classic, durable, highly absorbent)

  • Bamboo washcloths (softest for sensitive skin)

  • Microfiber (thin but super absorbent)

  • Hand towels or fingertip towels for larger feeding bibs

Optional Extras

  • Bias tape or twill tape

  • Rib knit or stretchy t-shirt fabric for pullover neckbands

  • Plastic snaps or Velcro

  • PUL or vinyl-backed fabric for waterproof lining

  • Sewing machine (optional — we’ll also cover no-sew methods)

Understanding the Structure of a Washcloth Baby Bib

All versions, no matter the style, have three elements:

  1. Absorbent front — your washcloth

  2. A neck opening — cut and finished with a band, bias strip, or closure

  3. Optional backing — waterproof or decorative, depending on your needs

Once you understand the basic structure, you can create endless variations.

Pattern 1: Easy Pullover Washcloth Bib (Beginner-Friendly)

This is one of the simplest and most popular washcloth bib styles. The stretchy neckband slips comfortably over baby’s head — no snaps or ties needed.

Step 1: Fold & Cut the Neck Opening

  1. Fold the washcloth in half.

  2. Mark the center-top with chalk or a fabric marker.

  3. Use a small bowl, cup, or paper circle template to trace a round or oval neckline.

  4. Cut the opening.

Neck opening size guide:

  • Newborn: ~3.5 inches

  • 3–9 months: 4 inches

  • Toddler: 4.5 inches

Always test the size by slipping the neckband over a doll or stuffed toy.

Step 2: Create a Stretchy Neckband

You can use:

  • Rib knit fabric

  • A strip cut from an old t-shirt

  • Pre-made knit binding

Cut a strip about 15–18 inches long and 2 inches wide, depending on size.

  • Sew the short ends together to form a loop.

  • Fold the loop in half lengthwise.

  • Mark the loop into four equal points.

Step 3: Sew the Neckband to the Washcloth

  • Pin the quarter points of the band to the quarter points of the neck hole.

  • As you sew, gently stretch the band to match the neck opening — this ensures a snug but comfy fit.

  • Use a zigzag stitch or serger so the neckband remains stretchy.

And you’re done! The pullover style is secure, soft, and fast to make — great for everyday drool bibs.

Pattern 2: Washcloth Bib With Snaps or Ties (Bias-Tape Style)

If you prefer a bib that fastens behind the neck instead of slipping over the head, this version is perfect.

Step 1: Cut a Half-Moon Neck Curve

  • Fold washcloth in half.

  • Cut a U-shaped neckline along the fold.

  • Open to reveal a smooth neck curve.

Step 2: Add Bias Tape or Binding

  • Open your bias tape and sandwich the raw edge of the neck curve between the folds.

  • Pin or clip all the way around.

  • Sew once along the inside edge, catching both sides of the bias tape.

Step 3: Add Closures

Choose one:

Snaps

  • Plastic snaps are durable, secure, and wash better than Velcro.

  • Great for drooly babies who tug on their bibs.

Velcro

  • Easy for beginners but may pick up lint in the wash.

Fabric Ties

  • Only for supervised meals; keep ties short for safety.

Pattern 3: Bandana Washcloth Bib (Great for Dribblers)

Bandana-style bibs are popular for everyday wear and look adorable in photos. They fit close to the chin and catch drool effectively.

How to Make It

  1. Fold the washcloth into a triangle (or cut two triangles and sew them together).

  2. Round the bottom point if you prefer a softer shape.

  3. Add a snap closure at the back.

These are lightweight and perfect for teething babies who need constant drool control.

Pattern 4: Long Feeding Bib From a Washcloth or Hand Towel

If your baby is starting solids or is a naturally messy eater, a longer bib is ideal.

How to Make It

  1. Choose a larger washcloth, guest towel, or hand towel.

  2. Cut the neck opening closer to one end so most of the fabric covers baby’s chest and lap.

  3. Finish with:

    • A knit neckband (pullover),

    • Bias-tape neck with snap, or

    • Soft fabric ties.

  4. Optionally add a waterproof backing for puree-heavy meals.

These bibs also make wonderful toddler smocks.

No-Sew Washcloth Bib Methods (Perfect for Beginners)

If you don’t have a sewing machine — no problem! Here are simple alternatives.

No-Sew Pullover Bib

  • Cut the neck opening.

  • Hand-stitch or fabric-glue a stretchy headband around the opening.

Minimal-Sew Snap Bib

  • Use pre-folded bias binding and attach snaps.

  • Only a few inches of hand-stitching needed.

These options are great for last-minute gifts or crafting with kids.

Sizing & Fit Tips

Every baby is different, so it’s helpful to adjust your bibs as needed.

By Age

  • Newborn: Small washcloths, small neck hole

  • 3–9 months: Standard washcloth size

  • 9–24 months: Large washcloths or guest towels

Test Before Finishing

Slip neckbands or snap straps around a baby doll or stuffed animal to check fit before sewing permanently.

Fabric & Safety Considerations

Baby bibs touch your child’s skin and face — so safety matters.

✔ Always pre-wash washcloths

They shrink and soften after the first wash.

✔ Avoid rough or scratchy fabric

Stick to terry, bamboo, or soft microfiber.

✔ Choose safe closures

Plastic snaps are safest; avoid long ties unless supervised.

✔ Check stretch of neckbands

Ensure pullover bibs slip easily over baby’s head without resistance.

Cute Customization Ideas

Want to make your bibs extra special? Try:

  • Embroidering baby’s initials on one corner

  • Adding applique shapes

  • Using patterned bias tape

  • Mixing washcloth colors for sets

  • Sewing a matching burp cloth from leftover fabric

These simple additions make DIY bibs look boutique-quality.

Upcycling & Budget-Friendly Options

Washcloth bibs are already inexpensive — but you can make them even more budget-friendly by:

  • Turning old washcloths or towels into bibs

  • Using thrifted or clearance washcloth multipacks

  • Repurposing fabric scraps or old t-shirts for neckbands

  • Making a whole set from one towel and leftover binding

Eco-friendly and wallet-friendly.

How to Wash & Care for Your Washcloth Bibs

Washcloth bibs are durable, but here are tips for long-lasting results:

  • Pre-treat stains with a baby-safe stain remover

  • Wash in warm water

  • Air-dry knit neckbands when possible to prevent stretching

  • Fasten snaps or Velcro before washing to avoid snagging

Your handmade bibs will stay soft and fresh for months of daily use.

Make It a Baby Shower Gift Set

Homemade bibs make amazing gifts. Bundle them with:

  • A pack of matching washcloths

  • A handmade burp cloth

  • Travel-size baby soap or lotion

  • A pacifier clip

Tie everything with ribbon or roll bibs into “cupcakes” for a cute presentation.

FAQs: How to Make Baby Bibs From Washcloths

Do I need a pattern?

No. A simple circle or U-shaped neckline is enough.

Can I make bibs from dollar-store washcloths?

Yes — but they may be thinner. Double-layer them if needed.

Are washcloth bibs safe for newborns?

Yes, as long as the neckband fits comfortably and the bib is removed during sleep.

Can I make a no-sew bib?

Absolutely — fabric glue or a pre-made headband makes it easy.

How many bibs should I make?

At least 8–10 for daily droolers, or 3–5 for occasional use.

Final Thoughts

Making baby bibs from washcloths is easy, budget-friendly, and incredibly practical. With just a few stitches — or none at all — you can create durable, adorable bibs that rival anything in the stores. Whether you’re sewing for your own little one or crafting thoughtful gifts, washcloth bibs are the perfect DIY project for any skill level.