A generation ago reusable cloth nappies were the norm with disposables not available or very expensive. The advent of disposables meant this declined massively as most parents opted for the convenience of throw-away nappies for their babies. Today, however, many parents are returning to reusable cloth nappies for a number of reasons including cost and the environment.
If you are reading this you are probably already considering using reusable cloth nappies and there are a number of factors to consider.
The cost - it is argued that over the nappy-wearing time of a child’s life, disposables work out more expensive, but this does depend on which type of reusable cloth nappy you go for as there are many varieties to choose from. Look into this carefully before you decide and also bear in mind that they can be used within your family for more than one child and/or can be sold on when you have finished with them.
Reliability – many users of reusable cloth nappies find them at least as reliable as disposables, but again this is down to the type you choose and your child. It is worth trying to hire a few types before you buy or just get a couple to start with in order to make sure you are happy with them.
The environment – this is a much debated subject which covers the initial production of nappies, the impact on landfill sites of disposables and the water and detergent used in washing reusable cloth nappies. Overall it is usually considered more environmentally friendly to use reusable nappies, particularly when you bear in mind that they can be used for more than one child.
The amount of washing – of course you will need to wash more if you use reusable cloth nappies so consider how this will affect you personally. Bear in mind that the nappies can usually be washed with other items so you don’t need to have a full load, and there is no need to wash them at high temperatures. Also consider how you will dry them. This could be another factor in your choice of reusable nappies as some dry more quickly than others. Tumble drying is an option, but one which should really be considered as a last resort due to the amount of energy required to dry nappies in this way.
If you are interested in finding out more about reusable cloth nappies, there are numerous internet-based companies and you could also speak to your midwife or health visitor for details of a reusable nappy agent in your area.
