REASONS FOR USING REAL NAPPIES

Easy to use (back to reasons)

• Most real nappies consist of a soft, absorbent nappy, liners and breathable covers (also called wraps).
  
• New designs fit snugly and nappy pins have been replaced with Velcro® fastenings, poppers or plastic grips for quick and easy fastening .

• A machine wash at 60 °C is all you need to keep nappies clean and hygienic – it’s never been easier!
  
• Use bio-degradable liners inside the nappy to catch any solid waste - this can be flushed straight down the toilet.
  
• Download your free How to Nappy Guide

 Cost effective (back to reasons)

• The total cost of using real nappies can be half the cost of using disposables.
  
• To reduce expenditure, buy nappies that fit well and are adjustable so they can be made bigger as your child grows.
  
• You’re not throwing the money away as you are with ‘disposables’. They can be used again for your next child or sold or passed on for use by other children.

They don’t cost the earth (back to reasons)

• Modern real nappies offer parents more scope to reduce their environmental impact. Real nappy manufacturers have already made good progress in this area by producing nappies that don’t require pre-soaking and can be washed at lower temperatures.
  
• If you are concerned about the effects of energy consumption on the environment, don’t tumble dry and try to follow the Tips to reduce environmental impact.
  
• 1.5 million disposable nappies are sent to the Energy Recovery Plant in Lerwick each year.
  
• Shetland Islands Council’s Waste Services want you to reduce the waste you produce.

Comfortable (back to reasons)

• Real nappies are soft and breathable.
  
• Many shaped nappies are elasticated at the waist and legs, providing protection against leakage.
  
• Real nappies are available in a lot of different types and patterns. Click here to see our recommended nappy manufacturers or go to the Cloth Resource which has more information on nappy manufacturers.

Better for baby (back to reasons)

• There is no greater risk of nappy rash for babies in real nappies than babies in ‘disposables’
  
• Real nappies are mostly made of natural fabrics such as cotton or hemp and therefore contain no super-absorbent chemicals.

Tips to reduce environmental impact

1. Wash nappies at 60ºC and wraps at 40ºC – do not boil wash
   
2. Use A-rated appliances to reduce energy & water consumption
   
3. Minimise tumble drying – line dry or use an airer
   
4. Don’t use fabric conditioner – it is unnecessary and it reduces absorbency
   
5. Use eco-friendly washing powders
   
6. Try potty training early, around 2 yrs of age
   
7. Use real nappies for more than one child
   
8. Buy second hand nappies where possible
   
9. Use organic (non-bleached) products
   
10. Don’t iron nappies