Frequently asked questions about real nappies.

Will I really save money by using cloth nappies?  What about the washing and drying costs?

Using real nappies can save you around £500.  Obviously this depends on the type of nappy you choose and how you are going to dry your nappies.  To save more money, avoid tumble drying your nappies and do not soak them.  Doing a wash cycle costs around 17p - around the cost of one disposable!

Are real nappies really better for the environment?  What about the energy used to wash and dry them?

A new report by the Environment Agency confirmed that using cloth nappies reduces your carbon footprint by 40%, provided you wash no higher than 60 degrees, do not tumble dry and ensure that your nappies are used on more than one child.  Don't forget there is a really good market for second hand nappies If you need more reasons to choose cloth nappies instead of disposables, have a look at this article.

Isn't it going to be hard work using cloth nappies?

NO!  Modern washable nappies are no more difficult to put on than a disposable.  Washing them is so simple and if you have enough nappies you should only have to do a nappy wash every 2 - 3 days. Please refer to our article What to do with a dirty/wet nappy

I don't have time to read all about cloth nappies, what's the simplest one to use that is also quick to dry?

In our opinion, you can't go wrong with the Bum Genius. A Pocket nappy that is reliable, fits from birth through to potty training, dries quickly and has a waterproof wrap built into it. You may find that you need a different nappy for night times when your baby is sleeping through.  Please have a look at our suggestions for night time nappies.

Can I get some money towards my nappy purchase?

Some councils do provide incentive schemes.  These vary from money back schemes, free trial kits and interest free loans.  Check out our nappy incentive schemes page for more info.

How do cloth nappies work?

There are various types of nappies.  Click here for a description of the different types of nappy and to find out how they work.

If you have a question that we have not answered here, please contact us and we will be happy to answer it.

Created: May 13, 2010