These cloth nappies are made from fabric that absorbs liquid. They can be made from terry, flannelette, hemp, bamboo, or any other blend. These nappies fit well, but they are best used with a waterproof cover. They can be quite bulky. These cloth nappies can be folded or fastened with pins or clips. These nappies dry quickly. They are suitable for children of all ages. These nappies are among the most affordable to purchase.
Pre-folds
These cloth nappies are made from soft layers of fabric like bamboo or cotton. They are then folded into a pad shape and then placed inside a leak-proof cover. These nappies are not bulky but they are less absorbent than other types. They dry quickly. Two or three sizes might be needed. Prefolds are quite cheap.
Fitted nappies
These nappies are also known as contoured or shaped nappies. These nappies can be made from layers of bamboo, fleece, hemp, or fleece. They can be used with a leak-proof cover and are usually fastened with Velcro or press studs. Some include an absorbent insert. You can find fitted nappies in different sizes and one-size-fits-all. They are easy to wash and change. They take longer to dry and are more expensive than pre-folds and cloth squares.
Pocket nappies
These cloth nappies are made with a waterproof outer shell and a soft inner layer. To absorb liquid, inserts are placed in the ‘pocket” between the outer shell and inner layer. You can make inserts from different materials that absorb different amounts. These inserts are easy to use and can be dried quickly. However, you will need to remove the inserts prior to washing them and then put them back in. You can choose from one-size-fits-all or different sizes.
All-in-ones
These cloth nappies have a water resistant outer layer that is sewn together with an inner layer. There’s no need to cover the entire thing or make separate layers. They can be shaped and fastened using velcro, clips, or press studs. They are easy to use but take longer to dry.
Deciding on cloth nappies
You’ll need between 20-24 cloth nappies depending on the season, washing routine, climate, and season.
It is a good idea to test a variety of types before buying one type in bulk. This can be done by:
A company selling samples will send you a sample pack.
You can rent a trial pack at a nappy store – This service is provided by some nappy companies as well as certain community groups and councils.
Ask your family and friends if they have any disposable nappies you might be able to use.
There is currently no Australian standard for modern cloth nappies. It’s worth checking the warranty or after-sales service before buying. Quality can vary between imports from overseas.
Disposable nappies
Disposable nappies typically have a plastic outer, super-absorbent chemical on the inner layer, and a liner. Disposable nappies can be used quickly and are easy to clean.
They are available in various sizes and can be used for different ages and weights.
It’s a smart idea to test out different brands if you decide to use disposable nappies.
For a newborn, you’ll need 12 nappies per day, and for a toddler, 6-8 per day.
Biodegradable disposable nappies
These disposable nappies can have different parts, such as bamboo fabrics or paper pulp. You should check the manufacturer’s website to see how many of these materials can be biodegradable.
These nappies should decompose faster than regular disposable nappies. However, how quickly they decompose will depend upon the landfill conditions.
Biodegradable nappies tend to be more expensive than regular disposables.
Comparison of cost, time, convenience, and performance of nappies
These are some things to consider if you’re unsure about what type of nappy you should use.
One set of cloth nappies or reusable nappies is half the price of disposables.
You will need to purchase a second set if you choose to buy larger reusable nappies than the one-size-fits-all. However, reusable nappies can be used on multiple children and will save you money.
You must buy new nappies if you are using disposables. You can calculate how many disposable nappies you use each day and the cost of disposables to compare brands.
You might only be able to wash your cloth nappies every other day, depending on how many you have. Keep used cloth nappies in an airtight container until you have enough to wash a load.
A nappy-washing service is another option. If you are able to get it locally, this is an environmentally-friendly and convenient option. However, it can increase your cost.
When you are out, disposable nappies may be more convenient than cloth nappies.
Consider using cloth nappies at your home, and disposables out.
Certain types of nappies are less likely to leak or require fewer changes. You will need to change cloth nappies less often than disposable, highly absorbent nappies.
Consider using cloth nappies during daylight hours and disposables at night.
Nappies have high environmental costs
Both cloth and disposable nappies can have an impact on our environment.
Every year, disposable nappies contribute hundreds of thousands of tonnes to global landfills. The environmental impact of disposable nappies is exacerbated by the fact that they require a lot more water and energy to make.
Disposables can be reduced by flushing the toilet, and not putting them in the trash.
Cloth nappies have the greatest environmental impact when they are used. For washing, drying, and rinsing cloth nappies, you will need to use detergents, water, and energy.
Cloth nappies can be reduced in their environmental impact by the following:
Even if they are advertised as being flushable, the nappy liners should not be flushed
Use biodegradable, non-phosphate detergents.
You should buy plenty of nappies to ensure you have enough nappies to last a full load of laundry without running out.
Hanging nappies instead of drying them in a dryer.
A front-loading washer machine will require less water.
They can be used on a second baby.
