Getting Started with cloth nappies.
Nappy Q & A
What do I need to get started?
The best way I found, is to start simple and build up. Select a few nappies to try, add liners if you wish to catch the poo and wee (not really required on a newborn) and then have a large wet bag or bucket to store them in when they are dirty.
If you want to go out and about it's good to have a few smaller wet bags.
How do I wash my nappies?
To cloth full time, washing every other day you would probably need approx 20 nappies.
To wash:
-cool rinse (approx 30 mins) to remove poo & wee
-long cotton wash on 40 or 60 degrees (approx 3 hours) with full powder (measure powder inline with your water area, avoid liquid and don't use fabric softner)
-repeat cold rinse at the end , hang out to dry.
Remember:
-fill your washing machine to 3/4 to enable good aggitation of the powder and to ensure a thorough clean.
- Use non bio
- Only tumble dry inserts on low
- Don't place in direct sunlight on hot days
Which are the best cloth nappies?
There are so many great nappies and styles. It really is down to personal preference and style and also the shape of your baby can mean some brands fit better than others.
I have tried all the brands I stock, so if you would like some recommendations then please just message me on instagram or use the contact page.
How easy are cloth nappies to use?
It's not as difficult as it looks. Whether you choose traditional terries and wraps, or a modern All in One, the concept is the same, you need a super absorbent inner and a waterproof outer, and a good wash routine and that's all the basics required!
What do you use at night time?
Using reusable nappies at night time is as easy as the day, if your baby wakes for regular feeds, then change as normal during the feed. If your baby sleeps through you may need something more absorbent. The most popular would be a 2 part nappy designed for night. People tend to favour hemp and bamboo for a super absorbent night time solution.
Can I use cloth nappies from birth?
Yes of course. A newborn requires more changes and sometimes you don't know how big your baby is going to be so muslins/flats with a wrap are the most economical and fit the smallest of babies. There are nappies called birth to potty (BTP) but these generally don't come in until the baby is a good 10 pounds, before this weight you would probably get leaks.
Can you get cloth nappies for older children?
Absolutely, look in the Toddler & Larger baby section for current options. You can get a larger nappy, so looks and acts like a nappy, or you can get more of a pull up style (useful for potty training) where you or your toddler can pull them up and down without having to undo like a traditional nappy.
My nappies are leaking what should I do?
If your nappies start leaking there are a few areas to check: is the nappy fitted into the knicker line? Then make sure there are no leg gaps.
Look at what inserts are you are using?
Are the inserts saturated whenleaking or not?
if saturated you probably need to add a booster, if not saturated you may have a flooder, and should try adding a quick absorber like micro fibre. Also check the settings on your nappy, sometimes your baby can change shape and you may need to go up or down a rise.
Have you considered a hire kit?
Get The Fit Right!
Prepare the nappy, remember nappies made up from natural fibres like bamboo will require several prewashes to build them up to full absorbency. So if the nappy is new you may need to add a little booster.
Main Points: Fit into the knicker line, make sure you can get two fingers in the waist band, so it isn't too tight.