According to new Defra research (1) and the latest energy statistics from the government (2), By choosing disposable nappies, you and your family will reduce your carbon footprint by around 36% compared to disposable nappies. This is a significant win for all! This is what the official statement says. However, the positive news is that if you’re using a green energy tariff, the CO2 savings are much more significant!
When Defra released the results from the Analysis of the 2023 Life Cycle Analysis, the outcome indicated that the carbon footprint from using disposable nappies between birth and 2.5 years is 456.91kg of CO2 as compared to 344.6kg of CO2 from reusable nappies (1).
Reusable nappies give you greater control over the amount of CO2 you release
The majority of carbon emission from disposable nappies occurs during manufacturing (1) and is a process that parents cannot influence. The average potty-trained child at 2.5 years of age uses 5,000 single-use nappies. These nappies generate 403.7kg of CO2 during production.
Reusable nappies, however, produce just 33.5kg of CO2 during production. Most CO2 emissions from reusable nappies are derived from that “use” phase, but the great thing is that there’s significant wiggle room as well! Think about renewable energy sources or line drying over tumble drying when possible.
Change to renewable energy to cut down on carbon emissions more
The switch to a 100 percent renewable energy tariff can make washing nappy diapers more eco-friendly and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 93% if you are using the nappy stash of two kids.
It is also worth noting that the Defra LCA (1) also informs us that 85 percent of reusable nappies’ carbon dioxide production is caused by drying and washing and is likely to decrease as the energy grid in the UK is decarbonized more and more.
Think of the future!
According to the federal government’s Net Zero forecasts (5), Reusable nappy systems will be 62% less than disposable nappies. In 2035, the carbon footprint is expected to fall to 84% less for a single child and 93% lower for families with two kids.
You can also stay ahead of the curve in 2035 when you switch to a renewable-only energy provider or install solar panels to ensure your power is clean before it gets to the washing machine.
How to clean your nappies that you reuse to help save more carbon
There’s no reason to wash your disposable nappies at 60C anymore! Many families who utilize disposable nappies wash their nappies at 40C. This is our advice also. It’s impossible to dry your clothes all day in the UK; however, an airing cabinet or clothes dryer will work well during the rainy season.
A big thank you to the latest technology!
Washing machines are becoming more efficient in energy use and are designed to use less water and to clean clothes more thoroughly. If you want to replace your washing machine shortly, search for a model with the A+ grade to get additional washing efficiency.
Also, we have smarter detergents
Utilizing a cold cycle for prewashing using a nappy sanitizer product can eliminate the same amount of bugs as 60C washes, Our latest products in our laundry are designed to operate in lower temperatures.
A lot of laundry products are free of fillers, phosphates, and other chemicals that could harm delicate skin and go into our drinking water systems.
You can reuse your nappies with another child
If you purchase a reusable set of nappies, you’re buying nappies for your second or even your third child. The most effective nappies that are reusable, cleaned, and dried correctly will be able to serve several children. Even if you are only using the reusables for just one child, it is possible to give the kit to an acquaintance or a relative to help reduce their impact on the environment and save money.
Six tips to make the most value from your disposable nappies
Reusables are only the first step toward an environmentally friendly future. You can get the most out of your cloth nappies investment by following these simple guidelines:
Change to a renewable 100% energy tariff. Invest in solar panels so that the power you wash your nappies with is pure.
Wash your nappies using biodegradable and phosphate-free detergents.
Purchase a complete set of boosters and nappies to ensure you can fully load with washing machines and have plenty to wash them. We have a bundle of nappies that is specially designed for you. The Changemaker package was explicitly made to ensure you have the best nappies you’ll require!
Make sure to wash your nappies at 40C, and then rely on our super-powerful and vibrant Nappy Cleaner to make your nappies sparkling clean.
Purchase an A or A+-rated washing machine that will help you save energy and water.
Dry outside if it’s sunny to reduce power consumption and benefit from the fantastic whitening power of the sun! On cold or rainy days, dry indoors on clothes on a horse or inside an airing cabinet.
Use nappies for another or third child for additional savings throughout the entire family. You can also transfer them to be loved again once you’ve napped!
Finally, enjoy yourself with your disposable nappies. You’re likely to meet a community for reusables within your region, where you can share tips and aid each other.
