Real Nappy FAQs
Are real nappies more likely to
cause nappy rash?
Do real nappies leak?
Will there be much more washing to
do?
Will using real nappies take up more
time?
I use a
childminder - will they use real nappies, too?
Can I use real nappies on my new-born
baby?
Can I use real nappies at
night?
Are real nappies
practical?
How much money can
I save?
Where can I buy real
nappies?
Are real nappies more likely to cause nappy rash?
Nappy rash is often wrongly associated with real nappies. Make
sure you change the nappy as soon as is required whether you use a
disposable or reusable nappy.
Do real nappies leak?
All nappies leak at some point. Depending on the type of system
you use you can keep any possible leakage to a minimum by using
booster pads and liners and making sure you're using the correct
size of nappy for your baby. Elasticated legs and waist bands are
also beneficial to ensure a secure fit.
Will there be much more washing to do?
Babies do produce a lot more washing and you can choose to wash
your nappies in with your baby's other clothes.
Nappy liners should be lifted off and flushed away and modern
machines are well equipped to give all the clothes a thorough
clean. Alternatively, use a nappy bucket and net to store nappies
until you have a full load - the frequency of washing depends upon
how many nappies you have available to rotate and how many your
baby actually uses but is normally every day-and-a-half at birth
and every two days from one year onwards.
Will using real nappies take up more time?
At first they will until you get the knack of using them. It
also depends on what system you use - an all-in-one is much quicker
than a terry or pre-fold and you may choose to keep a couple of
these for trips out, even if you use a different system at home.
Pocket nappies can also be prepared with the booster pad in advance
to make them as convenient as an all-in-one.
I use a childminder - will they use real nappies, too?
Check before you sign on with a childminder or nursery and
enquire whether they will be willing to use them - give them the
link to this guide! If they do accept real nappies, make sure
you provide them with enough spare nappies, liners and
biodegradable nappy bags or a reusable cotton bag to keep soiled
nappies in.
Worcestershire's
Family Information Service can provide you with a list of local
childcare providers that have been asked to supply details of
whether they support the use of real nappies. Some nurseries are
even part of the Eco-Schools programme which
takes into account all aspects of sustainability and the
environment.
Can I use real nappies on my new-born baby?
Yes. Some reusable nappies are designed especially for tiny
babies and birth-to-potty nappies can be used on babies that weigh
as little as 5 lbs. Check with the manufacturer before purchasing
as restrictions in the structure or material of the nappy may limit
its use for very small babies.
Can I use real nappies at night?
Yes. Use a booster pad or extra insert in a pocket-nappy for
increased absorbancy during the night. You may also prefer to use a
different type of nappy at night than during the day.
Are real nappies practical?
Modern reusable nappies are highly practical and allow parents
to make an informed choice from a range of options - there are over
30 different types available.
- Most real nappies are composed of a liner, a soft, absorbant
nappy and a breathable, washable cover (also known as a wrap)
- Nappy pins are a thing of the past, being replaced with
poppers, velcro and plastic grippers
- Elasticated waists and leg grips allow for a snug, comfortable
fit whilst minimising the possibility of leakage
- Real nappies are soft and comfortable and can be made from
cotton, wool, bamboo, mirofibre, fleece or hemp
- Washing and drying are easy and there is normally no need for
soaking
Laundry services are available that will collect your soiled
nappies from you in a specially designed nappy bin and provide you
with a pile of clean nappies
If you're not comfortable with
using real nappies all the time, you can always mix and match with
disposables for holidays and days out.
If you do use disposables at any
point, try to use biodegradable ones as they contain far fewer
chemicals than normal disposable nappies and, under the right
conditions, should break down within 8 weeks.
How much money can I save?
The Womens
Environmental Network (WEN) have conducted a cost comparison
for some of the different options of reusable nappies versus
disposable ones. Based upon average use assumptions, cost savings
have been calculated to be between £256 and £740.
Reusable nappies do have an initial outlay cost but after this
one-off payment you don't have to keep paying out for nappies.
Washing the nappies can cost as little as £1 per week, taking
into account electricity usage, washing powder and even washing
machine depreciation values.
View
WEN's Nappy Cost Comparison
Extra savings can also be made by:
Where can I buy real nappies?
View a list of local Real Nappy stockists
Find out more information about Real Nappies by attending a free
Nappaccino Morning
