Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of attending HENRY‘s (Health, Exercise, Nutrition for the Really Young) Postnatal Fair celebrating World Breastfeeding Week in Walthamstow.
The event brought together parents, carers, and local community groups. It was lovely talking to curious visitors drawn in by the colourful display of reusable nappies and the promise of practical, planet-friendly solutions for baby care.
It was rewarding to be able to explain how Real Nappies for London offers a free reusable nappy voucher scheme to residents across participating London boroughs, including Waltham Forest. There were lots of “I didn’t know this existed!” moments, followed by excitement about applying for the voucher and giving reusable nappies a try.
Others were seasoned reusable nappy users who stopped by to share their tips, favourite brands, and laundry routines. These conversations felt more like a knowledge exchange than a presentation, exactly the kind of peer-to-peer support that helps grow a strong reusable nappy community.
A key part of the day involved busting some common myths:
- They’re expensive – With the voucher scheme, families can offset the upfront cost, and in the long run, reusable nappies can save hundreds of pounds. On average saving you around £300 per year compared to disposables.
- Reusable nappies are hard to clean – Not true! A quick demo and chat about modern washing routines helped clear up that misconception.
- They’re bulky and uncomfortable for babies – Many were surprised at how slim-fitting and stylish modern reusable nappies were.
It was heartening to see how family friendly the whole event was. Events like this are such an important part of what Real Nappies for London is all about. Beyond the voucher, it’s about empowering parents with choices that align with their values. It’s about reducing waste, supporting local economies, and fostering a culture of sustainability from the very start of a child’s life.
If you live in a participating borough and haven’t claimed your free reusable nappy voucher yet, check your eligibility and apply today at Apply Online – Real Nappies for London.