As we become more and more aware of the need to reduce the amount of waste we produce, we switch to more sustainable and reusable products in our day to day lives. One of the easiest switches is to choose to use real nappies with your baby. This should not be considered as an all or nothing option, as you can choose to use real nappies at home and disposable whilst on holiday or travelling. As well as being kind to your baby's skin, there are real cost benefits to be had in choosing to use real nappies.
Your baby will require between 4000 and 6000 changes of nappy before toilet training is completed. Choosing disposable nappies can have a major cost implication on your finances. Researchers have suggested figures of between £480 and £730 per child. However, if you choose to use a reusable cloth nappy, you will only need between 25 – 30 nappies on average, at a cost of as little of £185, depending on the type of nappy you choose. The additional benefit of using the nappies for subsequent children can increase your cost savings significantly.
Everyday we throw away 8 million nappies into landfill sites, waste which is preventable.
You can choose from three basic types of real nappy;
Shaped nappies, All-in-one nappies or Flat nappies.
All three types are available in various colours complete with Velcro, pop button or plastic claw-grip fasteners. The nappies consist of three major parts, the nappy itself, a liner and waterproof cover. The nappy absorbs the wetness, the liner allows the wetness to pass though and catches the solids and the waterproof cover helps protect your baby's clothes.
Shaped nappies: similar in style to disposable but a waterproof cover requires to be worn on top of the nappy. These can either be one size style which can be used from birth until your baby is potty trained or different sizes which you will need to change as your baby grows.
All-in-one nappies: again these are similar in style to disposable with integral waterproof outer and Velcro fastenings. These fit easier but can take longer time to dry. You will need to buy larger sizes as your baby grows.
Flat nappies: these are two piece nappies consisting of a flat cotton square which is folded to fit inside a waterproof wrap. These are the most economical option and dry quickly.
Waterproof Wraps – use a wrap over cloth nappies to help prevent leakage. The are available in different sizes so take care to ensure it is the correct size for your child. Size is dependent on your baby's weight. The wraps can be used 3 or 4 times before washing. Always try and ensure the entire nappy is tucked inside the cover when fitting to help prevent any leakage. The wrap should be fastened so as not to leave and gaps but should not be tight enough to leave red marks on your baby's skin.
Nappy bucket – to reduce unpleasant odours and stains, the water should be changed daily and always fill with enough water to completely cover the nappies.
Line dried nappies – The most natural way to dry your nappies is outside in the fresh air, tumble drying them for a couple of minutes helps soften them.
Disposable liners – Placing a liner on top of the nappy helps simplify the clean up of soiled nappies. The liners can be composted or flushed away, as they are biodegradable.
Fleece liners – This type of liner is easy to use. It can quickly be washed and dried. It keeps your baby's bottom extra dry. They are a good alternative instead of disposable liners and are excellent for sore nappy rashed skin.
Nappy stains – Soiled nappies should be rinsed promptly to minimise any stains. Using a liner will help, as will sunshine drying. All stains do eventually come out. If nappies have been washed at 60 degrees centigrade, they are cleansed and pure, regardless of stain.
Nappy Rash – Research has shown that nappy rash is no more common from washable nappies compared against disposable. Most babies develop nappy rash from food they have eaten. (If your breast feeding, the food you eat can also cause nappy rash on your baby.) Teething, illness or changing washing powder also has an impact.
Night time – Once your baby sleeps through the night, you may need to add a booster liner to the nappy
For more information please visit the real nappy network website at:
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