FAQs

1. What are the benefits of using Real Nappies?

a) Cost

• On average a baby will use around 5,000 nappies (based on an average use of 50 nappies per week for a newborn and 35 per week for an older baby – this calculation is based on a 2 ½ year period many take longer to potty train, therefore this is a conservative estimate)
• For a 2 ½ year period disposable nappies will cost around £800 *

*These prices are based on Mothercare offers 2007 Spring Catalogue pages 268-269

b) Environment

Whatever type of nappy you use it will have an environmental impact. However, disposable nappies do cause a significant problem to our crowded landfill sites, where they take around 300 years to biodegrade and during the process of decomposition release methane gas, a more potent greenhouse gas than C02. If you wish to use Real Nappies and reduce the environmental impact you can do the following:

• Choose more environmentally friendly fabrics such as organic cotton, hemp and bamboo.
• Use ‘A’ rated appliances
• Wash at 40, or 60c. Do not boil wash
• Do not use fabric conditioner – it is unnecessary and reduces absorbency
• Use eco-friendly washing powders
• Minimise tumble drying – line dry, or use an airer
• Do not iron nappies
• Try and encourage potty training from around 18 months of age

c) Health

Real nappies keep babies hips apart at the right angle, they do not contain chemical gels so do not over dry babies skin, modern nappies are also more breathable as are often made of more natural materials. Babies in real nappies should potty train much earlier due to the association between being wet and emptying their bladder.