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Types of Waterproof Fabric and Recommendations for Baby Bibs

Diana Cison

Waterproof fabrics are essential for a variety of sewing projects, especially when you need to keep items dry or protect them from spills and stains. In this post, we'll explore the different types of waterproof fabric and recommend the best options for making baby bibs.

Types of Waterproof Fabric

  1. PUL (Polyurethane Laminate)

    • Description: PUL is a polyester or cotton fabric that has been laminated with a thin layer of polyurethane. It is soft, flexible, and durable, making it a popular choice for many waterproof applications.

    • Uses: Ideal for diaper covers, mattress protectors, and baby bibs.

    • Pros: Breathable, machine washable, and available in a wide variety of colors and prints.

    • Cons: Can be slightly more expensive than other waterproof fabrics.

  2. Oilcloth

    • Description: Oilcloth is a cotton fabric coated with PVC (polyvinyl chloride), giving it a shiny, waterproof surface.

    • Uses: Often used for tablecloths, aprons, and outdoor cushions.

    • Pros: Easy to wipe clean and comes in a variety of vibrant patterns.

    • Cons: Not as flexible as PUL, and the PVC coating can crack over time.

  3. Vinyl

    • Description: Vinyl is a synthetic plastic material that is completely waterproof and often used for upholstery.

    • Uses: Great for outdoor furniture, raincoats, and protective covers.

    • Pros: Highly durable and completely waterproof.

    • Cons: Stiff and less comfortable against the skin, making it less suitable for clothing.

  4. Ripstop Nylon

    • Description: Ripstop nylon is a lightweight, durable fabric that is resistant to tearing and ripping, often used in outdoor gear.

    • Uses: Perfect for rain jackets, tents, and kites.

    • Pros: Lightweight, strong, and available in various weights and finishes.

    • Cons: Not breathable, which can be uncomfortable in clothing.

  5. Laminated Cotton

    • Description: Laminated cotton is a cotton fabric that has been coated with a thin layer of plastic to make it waterproof.

    • Uses: Suitable for bags, tablecloths, and baby bibs.

    • Pros: Soft and flexible, easy to sew, and available in many prints.

    • Cons: Can be less durable than PUL and may delaminate over time.

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Recommendations for Baby Bibs

When it comes to choosing waterproof fabric for baby bibs, comfort, durability, and ease of cleaning are key considerations. Here are our top recommendations:

  1. PUL (Polyurethane Laminate)

    • Why It's Great for Baby Bibs: PUL is soft and comfortable against the skin, making it perfect for baby bibs. It's also breathable and machine washable, which is essential for items that will need frequent cleaning. The variety of colors and prints available means you can find a design that suits your style.

  2. Laminated Cotton

    • Why It's Great for Baby Bibs: Laminated cotton offers the softness of cotton with the added benefit of a waterproof layer. It's flexible and comfortable for babies to wear, and the fun patterns make it a stylish choice. It's also easy to wipe clean after mealtime messes.

  3. Oilcloth

    • Why It's Great for Baby Bibs: Oilcloth is durable and easy to clean, making it a practical option for baby bibs. Its shiny surface repels liquids effectively. However, it's a bit stiffer than PUL or laminated cotton, so it's best suited for bibs that need to withstand heavy use.

  4. Vinyl-Coated Polyester

    • Why It's Great for Baby Bibs: This fabric is very durable and completely waterproof, making it an excellent choice for bibs that will see a lot of use. It's easy to wipe clean, but it can be a bit stiff, so it might be best used in combination with a softer fabric on the side that touches the baby's skin.

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Where to Buy

Here are some affiliate links to purchase high-quality waterproof fabrics for your baby bib projects:

Shop on Amazon:

Tips for Sewing with Waterproof Fabrics

  1. Use Clips Instead of Pins: Pins can leave holes in waterproof fabric, so use sewing clips to hold pieces together.

  2. Adjust Your Sewing Machine: Use a longer stitch length and a Teflon presser foot to help the fabric glide smoothly.

  3. Seal Seams: To maintain the waterproof integrity, consider using seam tape or a waterproof seam sealer.


Sewing Bee University

For more sewing tips and free tutorials, check out Sewing Bee University on our main site, sewcutepatterns.com.


We hope this guide helps you choose the perfect waterproof fabric for your next baby bib project. Happy sewing!





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