- Most disposables are made largely of plastics with a superabsorbent chemical centre. Do you really want that next to your baby's skin?
- Modern washables come in great-looking, easy-to-use designs.
- You can save hundreds of pounds using washable nappies – and that includes the cost of washing.
- A baby typically gets through 4-6,000 nappy changes! If those nappies are disposable, this is a serious waste issue. In the UK, ninety per cent of disposables go to landfill where conditions are no good for biodegrading – and the larger part of conventional disposables are synthetic and not biodegradable in any case.
- Since more people started using disposable nappies children are potty training at 3 years rather than 2 years old.
- Used as recommended, real nappies not only save that waste, but use less energy – even taking washing into account.
Is my baby more likely to get nappy rash?
The type of nappy used is not a significant factor in nappy rash. Nappy rash is caused when a wet or soiled nappy is left on for too long, or by some illnesses or with weaning. Nappies should be changed after every feed and sleep and as soon as they are wet or soiled, regardless of what sort of nappy is used. Fresh air is important too - let babies go bare as much as possible!
Do real nappies leak?
All nappies (including disposables) leak at some point. Make sure that the nappy is the correct size - fitting well at the waist and legs and that no part of the cloth is poking out of the wrap.
Isn’t there a lot more washing?
With a baby there is always a lot more washing. Wet nappies can be added to the rest of the household washing, so there is no need for extra piles to build up in buckets. Alternatively you can opt for the convenience of a nappy laundry service.
Don’t they take up a lot of time?
They will take longer than disposables at first, but you will speed up as you become used to them. However, if you look at changing nappies in the same way as you would changing your baby’s clothes, it is not ‘wasted’ time. It may also help you develop your skills in observing your baby’s health and behaviour.
Are real nappies really better for the environment?
Definitely. Washables are not being sent to landfill at a rate of 8 million a day in the UK. If you care for them in the recommended way you will also be reducing your nappy carbon footprint to significantly less than disposables.
Can nurseries and childminders use them?
They can and some do. There are no health and safety issues, but many are not confident with them yet and may have unfounded concerns. Some local authorities are supporting nurseries in taking on real nappies. It is always worth asking, especially if you are happy to take your nappies away with you.
Can I use them on newborn babies?
Yes. Some wraps are specially designed with a low cut front to accommodate the navel.
Can I use them at night?
Yes. You can use booster pads for extra absorbency and may find you prefer a different style of wrap and nappy from those that you use during the day.
Don’t real nappies cost a lot to start with?
There is an initial outlay, but you can save hundreds of pounds in the long run. Council incentive schemes help cut that initial cost, retailers provide good value packs, you can use them on a second child and buy used nappies through Real Nappy Exchanges. Using a laundry service spreads the cost.