Potty training can be a significant milestone in a child's development, marking the transition from nappies to using the toilet independently. While it's a process that requires patience and consistency, it's also an opportunity for growth and learning for both the child and the parent. One approach that has gained popularity in recent years is using reusable toddler pants, which offer numerous benefits for both the child and the environment.
Understanding the Process
Before delving into the benefits of reusable toddler pants, it's essential to understand the potty training process itself. Every child is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. However, there are some general steps that can help guide parents through this journey.
Readiness
Look for signs that your child is ready to start potty training, such as showing interest in the toilet, staying dry for longer periods, or expressing discomfort with wet or dirty nappies.
Introduction
Introduce the concept of using the potty or toilet by reading books about potty training, letting your child observe others using the toilet, and discussing the process in a positive and encouraging manner.
Consistency
Establish a consistent routine for potty or toilet visits, such as after meals and before bedtime, and encourage your child to sit on the potty regularly, even if they don't need to go.
Positive Reinforcement
Praise your child for any progress they make, whether it's sitting on the potty, using it successfully, or simply showing interest in the process. Avoid punishment or negative reinforcement, as this can create anxiety and hinder progress. You could look at a reward chart to encourage your child, we love this one on Amazon.
Patience and Persistence
Understand that accidents are a natural part of the learning process and remain patient and supportive throughout. It may take time for your child to fully grasp the concept of using the potty independently.
The Benefits of Reusable Toddler Pants
While disposable nappies have long been the norm for infants and toddlers, reusable toddler pants offer several advantages that make them worth considering during the potty training process:
Environmentally Friendly
One of the most significant benefits of reusable toddler pants is their environmental impact. Disposable nappies contribute significantly to landfill waste and can take 500 hundred years to decompose fully. By using reusable options, parents can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and minimise their contribution to environmental pollution.
Cost-Effective
While the initial investment in reusable toddler pants may be higher than disposable nappies, they can ultimately save parents money in the long run. Instead of continuously purchasing disposable nappies, reusable options can be washed and reused multiple times, reducing ongoing expenses.
Comfort and Breathability
Our reusable toddler pants are made from soft, breathable fabrics that are gentle on a child's skin. Unlike disposable nappies, which contain chemicals and synthetic materials, reusable options provide a more natural and comfortable experience for the child.
Promotes Independence
Reusable toddler pants are designed to resemble underwear, making them easier for children to pull up and down independently. This promotes a sense of independence and self-reliance, which is essential for their overall development.
Customisable Absorbency
Some reusable toddler pants come with adjustable absorbency levels, allowing parents to customise them based on their child's needs. This can be particularly beneficial during the potty training process, as it allows for gradual transition from nappies to underwear.
Take a look at our range of reusable toddler pants here.
Tips for Using Reusable Toddler Pants
To maximise the benefits of reusable toddler pants during the potty training process, consider the following tips:
Choose the Right Style
Reusable toddler pants come in a variety of styles and designs, so be sure to choose one that fits your child comfortably and meets their needs.
Stay Consistent
Use reusable toddler pants consistently throughout the potty training process to reinforce the transition from nappies to underwear.
Practice Patience
Understand that accidents will happen, and remain patient and supportive as your child learns and grows.
Celebrate Progress
Praise your child for any progress they make, no matter how small, and celebrate their achievements along the way.
In conclusion, potty training is a significant milestone in a child's development, and using reusable toddler pants can make the process smoother and more environmentally friendly.
By choosing reusable options, parents can reduce waste, save money, and provide a comfortable and supportive experience for their child as they navigate this important transition.
With patience, consistency, and the right tools, potty training can be a positive and rewarding experience for both parent and child alike.
]]>Morning sickness, or nausea and vomiting during pregnancy (NVP), typically starts around the sixth week of pregnancy. However, it can begin as early as the fourth week and may continue until the end of the first trimester, around the 12th to 14th week. In some cases, morning sickness may persist throughout the entire pregnancy, though this is less common.
This phenomenon, characterised by nausea and vomiting, can vary in intensity and duration. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and effective remedies for pregnancy morning sickness, providing valuable insights for mothers-to-be.
Causes
Morning sickness, also known as nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (NVP), is a common occurrence that affects approximately 70-80% of pregnant women. While the exact causes are not fully understood, several factors contribute to the development of morning sickness:
Hormonal changes
The surge in pregnancy hormones, particularly human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and oestrogen, is believed to play a significant role in triggering morning sickness. These hormonal fluctuations can affect the gastrointestinal system and contribute to nausea.
Sensitivity to odours
Pregnant women often experience heightened sensitivity to smells, which can trigger nausea. Certain odours that were once tolerable may become overwhelming during pregnancy.
Increased stomach acidity
The rise in stomach acid levels during pregnancy can lead to irritation and nausea. This increased acidity is a common feature of morning sickness.
Symptoms
Morning sickness typically begins around the sixth week of pregnancy and peaks around the eighth to twelfth week. While it is commonly referred to as "morning" sickness, symptoms can occur at any time of the day.
Common symptoms include:
Remedies
Managing morning sickness involves a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and, in some cases, medical interventions. Here are some effective remedies to alleviate morning sickness:
Dietary changes
Stay hydrated
Ginger
Acupressure bands
Prescription medications
It's important to note that the term "morning sickness" can be misleading, as these symptoms can occur at any time of the day. The severity and duration of morning sickness can vary from woman to woman. Some may experience mild nausea, while others may have more intense symptoms.
While morning sickness can be challenging, it is often a temporary and normal part of your pregnancy. Understanding the causes, recognising the symptoms, and implementing effective remedies can help expectant mothers navigate this phase with greater ease.
If symptoms persist or become severe, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider for personalised guidance and support. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure a healthy and comfortable pregnancy journey for both the mother and the growing baby.
A Guide to Embracing Sustainability for Expectant Parents
We have put together this guide to embracing sustainability for expectant parents to ensure a sustainable and healthy future for your child. As you eagerly await the arrival of your little one, it's an opportune time to embrace sustainable practices that not only benefit your family but also contribute positively to the environment. Here are some practical and impactful ways to be a sustainable parent when expecting your first baby.
]]>We have put together this guide to embracing sustainability for expectant parents to ensure a sustainable and healthy future for your child. As you eagerly await the arrival of your little one, it's an opportune time to embrace sustainable practices that not only benefit your family but also contribute positively to the environment. Here are some practical and impactful ways to be a sustainable parent when expecting your first baby.
Mindful Consumption
Before your baby arrives, take some time to assess your consumption habits. Choose eco-friendly and organic products for your baby, such as clothing, nappies and bedding made from sustainable materials and chemical-free baby care items. Consider buying second-hand items, like cribs and strollers, to reduce your carbon footprint and minimise waste.
Cloth Nappies
Disposable nappies contribute significantly to landfill waste and take up to 500 years to decompose. Consider using cloth nappies, which are not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective in the long run. Modern cloth nappies are designed for convenience and easy washing, making them a sustainable choice for parents looking to minimise their impact on the planet. View our range here.
Breastfeeding and Sustainable Feeding Practices
Breastfeeding is not only beneficial for the health of your baby but also an inherently sustainable choice. Breast milk is a natural, renewable resource that requires no packaging and minimal processing.
If breastfeeding is not an option, choose formula brands that prioritise sustainable and ethical practices in their production and packaging and is made in the UK to reduce its carbon footprint.
Create a Green Nursery
Designing a sustainable nursery is a great way to introduce eco-friendly practices into your baby's life from the start. Choose non-toxic and low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints for the walls, opt for sustainable furniture made from recycled or responsibly sourced materials, and use energy-efficient lighting. Consider decorating with second-hand items or handmade crafts to reduce your environmental impact.
Choose baby bedding which is made using organic materials which have been sustainably grown without the use of pesticides and sourced from reputable suppliers. Many of these organic fabrics will be much better for your baby’s skin too! We love the Little Green Sheep range.
Many baby brands now design and manufacture products which are designed to grow with your child. Look for furniture that grows with your little one to reduce the amount of products which end up in landfill. Look at pushchairs which have the option to be converted to a tandem should you have a second child - all of which will be easier on your purse too.
Energy-Efficient Parenting
Parenthood often involves increased energy consumption, from heating bottles to washing baby clothes. Make your parenting journey more sustainable by investing in energy-efficient appliances and practices. Look at switching to an eco-friendly laundry product brand, we love Wilton London. Many laundry brands now available encourage you to wash at lower temperatures which will save money on energy costs.
Use LED bulbs, turn off lights when not needed or install sensors so that lights don’t get left on. Consider using a programmable thermostat to regulate your home's temperature efficiently and remember, turning your thermostat down just one degree makes a big difference.
Waste Reduction
Minimise your waste by opting for reusable items whenever possible. Use reusable cloth wipes instead of disposable ones. Reusable wipes can be used for all kinds of clean up missions, from bums to faces and sticky hands. Easy to wash at low temperatures make these a super eco-friendly option. You will save pounds on disposable wipes and help to reduce household your waste.
Choose reusable baby food containers. When weaning and preparing your baby’s meals choose silicone moulds which are dishwasher friendly for early weaning days. Use BPA free reusable containers with lids to store prepped meals. This is perfect also for planning and prepping meals as you can freeze them. Cooking in batches will help you save on energy costs too.
Implementing a composting system for food scraps and exploring ways to reduce single-use plastics in your household can also contribute to waste reduction. You can use the compost the following year to feed and nurture your garden or even plant some veggies for sustainable, homegrown food!
Green Transportation
As you navigate the challenges of parenthood, consider sustainable transportation options. Choose eco-friendly and fuel-efficient vehicles or explore alternative transportation methods such as biking or walking when possible.
Carpooling with other parents or using public transport are additional ways to reduce your family's carbon footprint.
Educate and Inspire
Lead by example and instil a sense of environmental responsibility in your child from an early age. Teach them about the importance of recycling, conserving resources, and respecting nature. Engage in activities that connect your family with the environment, such as gardening and growing your own vegetables, walking or hiking. This will foster a love for the planet and a commitment to its preservation.
Becoming a sustainable parent requires conscious choices and a commitment to reducing your environmental impact. By incorporating these practices into your parenting journey, you not only contribute to a healthier planet for your child but also set the foundation for a more sustainable and mindful lifestyle.
Embrace the opportunity to make a positive difference for future generations and create a nurturing environment that reflects your love for your family and the Earth.
Remember it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Each eco-friendly action you choose to embrace will help to reduce our carbon footprint, reduce carbon emissions, reduce landfill and lead to a healthier planet for our children and future generations.
]]>One of the primary considerations when comparing reusable and disposable nappies is their environmental impact. Disposable nappies contribute significantly to landfill waste, with estimates suggesting that it takes 500 hundred years for them to decompose fully. Furthermore, the manufacturing process and materials used in disposable nappies contribute to resource depletion and environmental pollution.
On the other hand, reusable nappies, also known as cloth nappies, are designed to be washed and reused multiple times. While the production of cloth nappies has its environmental footprint, the long-term impact is significantly lower when compared to disposable counterparts. Modern reusable nappies often come in eco-friendly materials, further reducing their environmental impact.
Another factor influencing the choice between reusable and disposable nappies is the cost. While disposable nappies may seem more convenient upfront, the long-term expenses can add up considerably. Families using disposable nappies can spend thousands of pounds over the nappying period, considering the constant need for replenishment.
Reusable nappies, on the other hand, require an initial investment in purchasing the nappies and associated accessories, such as liners. However, in the long run, they prove to be more cost-effective, especially when considering the savings on a per-nappy basis over the course of a child's nappying years.
The practicality of using reusable or disposable nappies depends on individual preferences, lifestyle, and convenience. Disposable nappies are undeniably convenient, especially for parents with busy schedules or those who are always on the go. They require no washing, folding, or storing – simply use and dispose.
On the flip side, reusable nappies demand a more hands-on approach. Regular washing and drying cycles are necessary, and parents need to plan ahead to ensure an adequate supply of clean nappies. However, modern reusable nappies often come with user-friendly features, such as snap closures and adjustable sizing, making them more convenient than their predecessors. Read more on how easy it is to use reusable nappies here.
In the end, the choice between reusable and disposable nappies is subjective and depends on individual priorities and circumstances. Those concerned about the environmental impact and seeking long-term cost savings may find reusable nappies to be a compelling option. However, for parents prioritising convenience and simplicity, disposable nappies may still be the preferred choice.
Ultimately, the key lies in striking a balance that aligns with your values and lifestyle.
We believe it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. You could try using reusable nappies at home and disposables when out and about. At the end of the day we all tend to have very busy lifestyles these days, so make it work for you.
]]>Reusable nappies, also known as cloth nappies, have gained popularity for their eco-friendly attributes. Beyond the positive environmental aspects, you may wonder how easy it is to incorporate reusable nappies into your parenting routine.
Let's delve into the ease of using cloth nappies and why an increasing number of parents are making the switch, as well as the financial and environmental benefits.
Getting Started
The process of using reusable nappies starts with a simple but essential step: choosing the right type and brand. Today, there is a wide variety of reusable nappies available, ranging from prefolds and flats to modern pocket nappies with adjustable poppers. Researching and selecting a style that aligns with your lifestyle can significantly impact the ease of incorporating them into your daily routine.
Ease of Use
One of the common misconceptions about reusable nappies is that they are cumbersome, messy and time-consuming. However, you will find that once you establish a routine, using reusable nappies becomes second nature. Modern cloth nappies often come with user-friendly features like adjustable poppers or velcro, making them as convenient as their disposable counterparts.
Practise at home when you are in your own, comfortable environment and if you don’t get it right the first time you’re not going to get too flustered. Trust us though, you’ll be a pro in no time at all!!
Cleaning and Maintenance
One of the primary concerns about reusable nappies is the perceived hassle of cleaning. However, advancements in fabric technology and washing machines have simplified this process. Most reusable nappies can be easily rinsed, and many are machine washable.
Financial Considerations
While the initial investment in reusable nappies may seem higher than purchasing disposable ones, the long-term financial benefits are significant. Over time, reusable nappies can save parents a substantial amount of money. And if you purchase a reputable brand, they can even be used for your second or third baby!
Environmental Impact
Did you know that it takes 500 years for a disposable nappy to decompose?! Frightening facts. The environmental benefits of reusable nappies are undeniable. The reduction in landfill waste and the conservation of resources make them an attractive option for environmentally conscious parents. Knowing that your choice contributes to a sustainable future can add to the overall ease and satisfaction of using reusable nappies.
Using reusable nappies is not as daunting as it may seem at first glance. The initial learning curve is relatively short, and the long-term benefits in terms of ease of use, financial savings, and environmental impact make them a compelling choice for many parents.
As the world continues to prioritise sustainability, embracing reusable nappies is a simple yet impactful step towards a greener and more conscientious parenting journey.
]]>So OK we have to buy reusable nappies to start with BUT once you own them, they are there! No subscriptions, or late night trips to the supermarket required.
So let's look at the basic maths....
1 Baby = Nappies
So how many nappies? This is a question I hear frequently from new parents and parents to be, looking to get their nappy system sorted before their baby is born. So simply put if the Baby needed 7 nappies a day (probably more in the early days as a newborn is changed every 2 hours or more) but for arguments sake and simplicity we will say 7, imagining your baby is past the early newborn stage.
7 nappies a day = 49 Nappies a week = 2548 nappies a year
So you would need to go to the shop each week and be buying around 2500 nappies a year. There are many disposable brands out there ranging from a premium range cost down to a lower price point usually found in your local budget supermarket. Costing you on average £1000 for the year, this is the lower end of the price you would probably end up paying.
So it's clear to see how this figure will grow if your child potty trains at 2 or 3 years old.
With reusables you could save over £1000 by buying a set of resables.
You can source second hand nappies or save money by buying a starter kit. But on average you should be able to get enough to cloth full time for £300. Factor in the cost to wash, then line dry you will still make a huge saving! Make sure you check out your local council to see if they run an incentive or cashback scheme, visit my page on councils to check your local area here.
Also you may have a nappy library in your area, that will help you try before you buy, if you live in Lincolnshire my home county, contact Lincolnshire Cloth Nappy NCT group here.
So saving you money is so important when you have a baby, as you find yourself needing to buy lots of new items to support their development. So it is definitely worth considering reusable nappies, if you're looking to reduce your footprint and save money. Plus don't forget all the other benefits the reusable nappies bring like, kinder to babies skin, no harsh chemicals, less waste going to landfill.
Why not try a Starter Kit from The Nappy Den TODAY Click here!
]]>Not only does the global disposable nappy industry extract over 248 million barrels of crude oil annually, but it creates over 38 million tons of solid waste per year.
Did you know that disposable nappies will take roughly 500 years to fully decompose because of the plastic outer shell? Disposable nappies represent a massive 3% of all solid waste thrown into landfill and they use 20 times more raw materials than natural nappy alternatives.
An estimated 400,000 disposable nappies are thrown into landfill worldwide every minute. Imagine the wreckage we are leaving behind for our future children with disposable nappies that will take roughly 500 years each to decompose. Moreover, many of the chemicals used in disposable nappies will recirculate through the Earth.
At The Nappy Den, we appreciate that reusable nappies need to be washed and dried which has an impact on the environment, so be mindful to wash at lower temperatures and line dry to help to reduce your carbon footprint.
Your baby’s health and development.
If you know what goes into a nappy, you can make an informed decision about how it will affect your child.
Traditional disposable nappies use plastic in their construction that contains phthalates. Phthalates can be found in food packaging and detergents. These harsh chemicals can cause irritation to your baby’s skin. A large number of disposable nappy brands continue to use fragrances in their products which can potentially cause skin irritation. Fragrances are one of the prime culprits for causing eczema and other allergies, it is also a significant contributor to the dreaded nappy rash.
It is also thought that toddlers wearing disposable nappies are harder to potty train as they can’t feel when their nappy is wet.
Small steps to make a change.
Let’s face it, whether you’re a parent or soon-to-be parent, we can all acknowledge parenthood comes with many surprises and pressures. It simply isn’t the case that you need to choose between disposable and reusable nappies, you can use both and make a huge impact both on the environment and financially. The arrival of a new baby can be very challenging for many reasons and we can never prepare fully for our own individual journey.
If you are unsure of how reusable nappies would work for you and your family, we would recommend trying them on a day you and baby don't have to leave the house. This gives you time to practice using and changing the reusable nappies in your own time and space without external pressures. We are confident you will be comfortable in the capabilities and ease of use in no time!
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Let’s face it whether you’re a parent or soon to be parent, we can all acknowledge parenthood comes with many surprises and pressures. It simply isn’t the case that you NEED to choose between disposable and reusable nappies, you CAN use both and make a huge impact both on the environment and financially. The arrival of a new baby can be very challenging for many reasons and we can never prepare fully for our own individual journey.
Taking this approach in my opinion takes the pressure off you and gives you options to explore. Hospital stays can mean cloth can be difficult in the early days with no washing facilities if your stay is extended. Why not try reusable nappies in the comfort of your own home. Generally, we feel more relaxed in our own space and knowing that if you get the fit wrong, or the nappy leaks you have all your home comforts around you so any issues can be easily fixed, like spare clothes, baby wipes, a change area your little one is familiar with.
So let's say you swapped out 2 disposable nappies a day for reusable nappies, that would save you 14 disposable nappies a week, and over the time (say 2.5 years the average potty training age) would subsequently save you 1820 disposable nappies.
That’s 1820 nappies you didn’t have to buy (you just needed 2 reusable nappies) and 1820 disposable nappies that aren’t sent to landfill for the next 400 years. THAT was just by using 2 nappies a day. So think of the impact you could make on your wallet and your waste by switching out more than 2 reusable nappies a day!
It definitely doesn’t have to be all or nothing, if every baby in the UK used a few reusables a week we could contribute to reducing our household waste, which would then reduce our landfill, which would reduce the single use nappies contribution to global warming through their Co2 emissions.
Together we can make a difference.
#clothnappies #realnappies #reusablenappies
]]>If you didn’t see the article to it explained that Tony’s have been removed from a list of ethical chocolate producers due to its partnership with Belgian Chocolate producer, Barry Callebaut. Callebaut is one of 7 companies in the US who are respondents in a lawsuit. The claim was filed on behalf of former cocoa plantation workers alleging they were forced to work, as children, with zero pay.
Tony’s have addressed this in a statement on their website , explaining the partnership is to enable them to make their chocolate “mainstream”. They get to use the pre-existing, global supply network, of Callebaut, and show that a large processor can achieve 100% traceability. Its their hope that this model sets a precedent to be adopted by others.
Tony’s have still retained their Fair Trade and B-Corp certifications. They maintain their pledge to remain ethical, slavery free, traceable, and fair trade, this has not changed.
Tony’s acknowledge that Barry Callebaut is not a Fair Trade Brand but without the partnership they would not have been able to grow as they have and catch our attention which enables them to raise awareness and make greater changes.
This week has made me reflect as a retailer and want to find out more about the chocolate industry. I will be taking time to educate myself further on the hidden injustices, which Tony’s are not scared to shout about and want to change.
As I have stated above The Nappy Den WILL continue to stock Tony’s for the following reasons
However once you try the wool, and as with most things it really isn't as difficult as it may first appear, you will find that a wool wrap probably requires less of your time than a PUL cover.
Below is a little video by the amazing Becky Burdon #nappydenambassador showing the principles of caring for your wool and how to get started.
You can follow Becky on instagram @littlewednesdaylou
I hope this is of help to people x
]]>Pocket nappies consist of two main parts - the main outer nappy, which has a “pocket”, and the insert which is what you put inside the pocket to create the absorbency. They fit like a traditional disposable nappy, with either velcro or poppers, and most come in birth to potty size, which means they last for ages.
]]>Pocket nappies consist of two main parts - the main outer nappy, which has a “pocket”, and the insert which is what you put inside the pocket to create the absorbency. They fit like a traditional disposable nappy, with either velcro or poppers, and most come in birth to potty size, which means they last for ages.
At The Nappy Den, they sell plenty of fab pocket nappies for all budgets. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, Alva Baby nappies come in gorgeous, bright designs for under a fiver, or the other end of the scale are Econaps which offer a snap-in or pocket option at £21.50.
My Little Gumnuts have stunning, earthy designs, and a five-layered Bamboo Insert (made with 2 layers of bamboo and 3 layers of microfiber) for great absorbency.
Seedling Baby has twin gussets to avoid leaks and a bamboo prefold and a microfibre booster, which can be used together or individually depending on your child’s needs and the size setting of the nappy.
Another example of a nappy that offers a popper or insert pocket option is Little Love Bum, which are incredibly popular due to their beautiful designs and a fantastic fit.
With La Petite Ourse you get 2 thick inserts which are 70% bamboo and 30% polyester, plus microfleece on the inside to keep your baby dry.
As you can see, there are plenty of benefits to pocket nappies, and there is an option at every price point.
Do you use pockets? What do you love about them?
]]>Photograph by Pink Feet Photography
So for many people the winter months can be difficult to dry cloth nappies. We all know that drying our reusable nappies outside is amazing in the summer time and even the slowest of drying nappies (natural fibre all in ones especially) can dry pretty quickly in the summer breeze outside. So what happens when an outside drying space is no longer available?
Well there are several options, obviously increasing your stash is a good idea, because having more nappies on rotation means drying time becomes less of a factor, however we don’t always have money for extra nappies, so why not consider adding the following to your stash….
So what happens to my beloved natural fibre All In Ones during winter……..
So some All in Ones dry quicker than others, opt for stay dry like a Little LoveBum Quickdry , this will usually be dry in 24 hours from indoor drying or if you prefer a natural fibre then opt for a Smart Bottom 3.1, as the insert of a 3.1 can lay out flat which means a dries quicker than a nappy that has lots of layers sewn in.
Quickest Drying All I One Options(still slower than pockets):
Is there anything we can do to speed up that actual drying process?
So most inserts, prefolds and flats can be tumble dried on a low setting, this can be useful to just finish them off after they have been hanging on an airer. Also a soctopus or high up airer is good above a warm area in your house. Make sure they are spread out so the air can circulate well and turn All In Ones inside out and rotate regularly. As I did previously live in a damp house I was lucky enough to own a dehumidifier, you would need to spend a decent amount (you get what you pay for is definitely evident for these), I would say mine was mid range approx. £150 , but as it has helped our house so I think a good investment, it doubles the speed of the nappy drying in my opinion.
]]>Like many things in life (especially when it comes to babies!), the thought of using cloth nappies can be incredibly daunting, and many people find themselves asking, “what do I need to start using cloth nappies?!”. Seeing nappy experts in groups talking about a whole host of complicated systems, accessories, must-have new prints can make the whole thing feel far too overwhelming and put off cloth newbies!
Firstly, the nappy. There are a few different types of nappy to choose from. There are pros and cons for each, which we will go through in another blog, but for now, the choices are:
Terries/Muslins
Pocket nappies (& inserts!)
All in Ones (AIOs)
All in Twos (AI2)
Fitted Nappy
Wraps (these go on top of pre-folds or fitted nappies)
The type you choose depends on things like drying times, budget, and personal preferences. There is no right or wrong answer, but us nappy-types can be pretty passionate about our own favourites!
Your nappy/nappies of choice. How many you need depends on the age of your baby, how often you’re willing to wash them, and your price range. We would recommend starting out with a few and seeing how you get on with the brand (or trying a few!) before you buy 30 nappies all in one style and realise that you don’t like them!
Check out how to wash your nappies here.
Somewhere to keep wet nappies
You’re going to want somewhere to keep your dirty nappies until you have enough for a full wash. Some people prefer a large wet bag, whereas others use a nappy bin. You don’t have to shell out for anything fancy - just a plastic bucket with a lid will be perfect. This is called dry pailing and is the simplest option.
Invest in a few wet bags for when you are out and about to keep your wet or soiled nappies away from everything else in the changing bag.
Top tip: If your baby is breastfed, the poop comes out easily without doing anything; however, when they move onto solids, you may have to flush the poo into the toilet and do a little rinse before storing.
A washing machine
You could handwash your nappies(!), but a washing machine is much easier. You’ll need a Non-Bio powder (powder works a better than liquid or tabs) and never use softener as it can ruin the absorbency.
Optional
These are totally optional, but some people like to put liners (you can get reusable or disposable options) on top of the inside of the nappy. The idea is that it draws the wetness away from the baby’s skin and also catches most of the poop, making it easy to flush away and protecting your nappies. Some people make their own liners by cutting up fleece blankets into the right size for a super cheap alternative. They won’t fray, so they don’t need hemming - perfect.
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