Real Nappy hints & tips

Reusable nappy FAQ`s

Q. What are my reusable nappy options?

There is a growing range of reusable nappies available including different styles and, of course, sizes. There are three main types of nappies to choose from:

• Flat nappies, such as the traditional terry square, need to be folded, secured with a plastic fastening and covered with a wrap.
• The shaped nappy is designed to fit your baby snugly and are often sized from birth to potty. These also require an outer wrap.
• All in ones include a cotton liner and waterproof cover with fastenings.

Contact your preferred reusable nappy retailer and they will be happy to talk you through all of the options available to you. One thing to remember is that reusable nappies are not an all or nothing option - you can do what is right for you. You could even use reusable nappies most of the time but perhaps use the odd disposable when you are travelling.

Q. Where do I get my reusable nappies from?

You should contact one of Cumbria`s reusable nappy retailers in the first instance. Once you are up and running there are other options that might be more convenient for you. You can even shop for reusable nappies online. Sites such as Ebay or online pre-loved clothing Apps offer a good choice of brands.

Q. What do I need to get started?

You may need to buy some equipment to get started but this is a one off payment unlike the weekly cost of disposable nappies. You will need:

• A nappy bucket to store your used nappies before washing.
• A nappy net to line your bucket and transfer nappies to the washing machine.
• Liners which can be either biodegradable/flushable or washable.
• 16 - 24 nappies. A newborn will need changed at least 8 times a day on average. You should allow at least 2 days worth if you plan on using them full time.
• 3 or 4 wraps. These don`t need to be changed every time you change the nappy. You should work on a minimum of one on, one in the wash, and one in the changing bag for emergencies.
• Washable wipes. You can buy specially made ones or simply use old flannels and wash them with the nappies.
• Booster pads. These are completely optional and add extra absorbency to nappies at night time.
• Non biological/eco friendly washing powder. This is kinder to fabric and to young skin.
• Sanitizer. For if you decide to soak your nappies. Try 2 tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda, 2 tablespoons of white vinegar or 5 drops of tea tree oil.

Q. What is the Environmental impact?

The main environmental benefit of using real nappies is to reduce the amount of rubbish in your bin which is being sent to for treatment. Around 8 million disposable nappies are thrown away in Britain every day. Every single child uses on average 5850 disposable nappies in their lifetime. That`s the same weight as two fully grown dairy cows. Furthermore reusables reduce the amount of energy and raw materials used in the manufacture of disposables in the first place.

Q. What tips can you suggest for reducing the environmental impact of reusable nappies?

• Only tumble dry when you have too. Line drying or airers are not only cheaper but also better for the environment.
• Don`t use fabric conditioner - it reduces absorbency.
• Use eco-friendly washing powders.
• Try potty training early - around two years of age.
• Use your reusable nappies for more than one child.
• Buy second hand/pre-loved nappies and sell yours on when you no longer need them.

Q. Are they difficult to wash?

Reusable nappies don`t need to be boiled, scrubbed, soaked or machine washed at 95 degrees.

• Biodegradable nappy liners can be flushed down the loo with any solid waste. Washable liners can go in the wash with your nappies.
• Modern washing machines wash so well that reusable nappies do not have to be sterilised.
• Most reusable nappies can be line or tumble dried or simply placed on an airer in a warm room to dry.

Q. Do they leak?

Reusable nappies should not leak more than disposables. It is important to choose the right sized nappy for you baby. If you do have problems with leakages then contact your retailer.

Q. Will my baby get nappy rash?

Your baby is no more or less likely to get nappy rash through reusable nappies than from disposables. Frequency of nappy changing is the important fact to avoid nappy rash.

Q. What can I buy if I still have a voucher to redeem by 31st March 2023?

You can use your voucher as full or part payment for any of the following:

• Reusable nappies
• Waterproof nappy covers (wraps)
• Nappy bucket
• Bucket liner (nappy net)
• Nappy liners (biodegradable/flushable or reusable)
• Washable booster pads
• Washable wipes
• Washable potty training pants
• Wet nappy bag
• Reusable swim nappy

Q. Is there anything that I can`t buy with my voucher?

Your reusable nappy voucher cannot be used to purchase any of the following:

• Disposable nappies
• Eco disposable nappies
• Plastic `nappy sacks`
• Disposable wet wipes
• Disposable `pull ups`/trainer pants

Q. How long will my voucher be valid for?

If you still have a nappy voucher to redeem, you must spend it by 31st March 2023

Q. My voucher has expired, is there anything I can do?

Vouchers are now only redeemable until 31st March 2023.

Q. What happens if I don`t spend the whole £30 voucher at once?

Vouchers are now only valid until 31st March 2023. Please make sure that if you still have an outstanding voucher, that you have the full amount spent by then. The voucher can only be used once with the retailer of your choice, it is in your own interests to spend £45 or more to make the best use of it. No change can be given.