Washable nappies
Why use washable nappies
Ever thought about using washable nappies?
Not only the washable nappies reduce waste they're made from natural materials, so a kinder on skin.
And they can be cheaper than disposables in the long run, even with the water and laundry detergent costs.
There are no safety pins, no scrubbing and boiling with modern washable nappies.
They come in all sorts of shapes, sizes and colourful designs.
Washable nappies usually have popper or velcro fastenings with adjustable sizings.
They're typically made up of a waterproof cover, an inner absorbent fabric and a flushable paper liner.
So when a nappy needs changing, empty any wastes along with the flushable paper liner into the toilet.
Place the nappy in the nappy bucket.
The bucket seal will stop any smells getting out but, a few drops of tea tree oil can help keep things fresher.
When the bucket is full, put the nappies into a washing machine.
Start with a rinse or spin cycle, then other laundry can be included in a 40 to 60 degree wash.
After, just hang the nappies to dry,
Derby City Council is running a washable nappy cashback scheme for residents,
To find out more visit our website.
Babies typically need their nappy changing 5,000 times in roughly 2.5 years.
If you’re thinking of ditching the disposables for an option that’s kinder to your baby, your pocket and the planet, then washable nappies might be a good choice. We even offer a cashback incentive to help you with the costs.
The benefits of washable nappies
- they’re made from natural materials and don't use chemicals or gels.
- nappies made from bamboo fibre are up to 60% more absorbent than cotton.
- babies who use washable nappies tend to become potty-trained quicker than those who use disposable ones
- you can buy washable nappies made in adjustable sizes, so you can use the same one no matter what size your baby is.
- there is no connection between washable nappies and nappy rash.
The cost of washable nappies
Although initial costs are more expensive (around £200 and up), in the long run you could save more than £1000 by using washable nappies. That includes washing costs.
Are washable nappies more hassle?
Many of us think of washable or 'cloth' nappies as being DIY; that you have to fold them up yourself and wrestle with a safety pin to keep them in place. Nowadays, washable nappies are much simpler than that. The average washable nappy is fastened with poppers or velcro. When the nappy has been worn, you can store it in a secure box before washing it. Some people like to use this box to soak them in a solution of water and tea tree or lavender oil. They then go in the washing machine - alongside your other laundry. This Baby Centre article has some helpful information regarding cleaning cloth nappies.
Washable nappies cashback scheme
All Derby residents who buy washable nappies can benefit from our cashback scheme. We offer £25 cashback when you spend over £50 on washable nappies.
Where to buy
Washable nappies can be purchased on the internet. There are many websites devoted to selling nappies, some websites also offer impartial advice to help in choosing a nappy for you and your baby.
Babi Pur - Ethical shop for babies and children.
Cariad Babi - A not-for-profit local eco-store supplying a range of eco-products including cloth nappies. Cariad Babi also provide cloth nappy consultation sessions and nappy hire kits.
Cloth Nappy Shop - Buy reusable nappies and all the accessories from Cloth Nappy Shop as well as advice on the best washable nappies to use.
Earthlets - A wide choice of natural, chemical-free and eco-friendly mother and baby essentials.
EcoNaps - Soft and sustainable, plastic neutral cloth nappies that perform well and fit comfortably.
Little Lamb Nappies - Beautiful, baby-soft reusable nappies, in a choice of fabrics.
The Nappy Gurus - Their online shop has a range of cloth nappies, eco-friendly products, period pants and more. Their expert team also provide advice and support.
The Nappy Lady - Reusable nappies and real nappy accessories. Washable nappy advice.
The Washable Nappy Company - Provide reusable nappies, swim nappies, rocking green and more.
Tots Bots - Award-winning, UK designer and manufacturer of reusable nappies and accessories. Buy cloth nappies, liners and more.
Twinkle on the Web - Cloth nappies, advice, choosing and using washable nappies, great prices and special offers.
Pre-loved nappies
You can also find pre-loved washable nappies on the internet, which would make this an even more affordable option for you.
Where can I find more information?
Cariad Babi is an eco-store in Derby offering consultation sessions on washable nappies, including information on the different types and how they work. The store also provides nappy hire kits, a full range of products and they also offer demonstrations to help you get the most out of your nappies. It is a local, not-for-profit store.
Another option is our team! They are available to talk to your group about washable nappies, how they work, and how the council cashback scheme works. If you want to book a session, contact us online and we will get in touch with you.