Find out more about washable nappies at our Nappuccino coffee morning!
Everyone welcome and no need to book!
10am - 11.30am
Community @ 67 Centre, 67 Queens Rd, Keynsham, BS31 2NW
To coincide with Real Nappy Week, we are holding a free ‘Nappuccino’ event.
Nappuccino’s are 'coffee mornings' where you can have a chat and find out more about washable nappies from the experts - parents who already use them.
You will be able to see and handle a wide variety of washable nappies and to find out more about the different types and styles available over a free cup of tea/coffee. A nappy advisor will be on hand to give information on a variety of nappies, and you will have an opportunity to talk to other parents already using washable nappies.
For more information regarding this event or about washable nappies please contact Hannah Oakley on 07530263249 or email Hannah_oakley@bathnes.gov.uk
Each year we throw away up to 500,000 tonnes of disposable nappies, accounting for 2-3% of all domestic waste. This costs Councils up to £40 million every year to dispose of and is the equivalent in weight to 70,000 double decker buses.
Why choose reusable nappies?
Reusable nappies are cheaper
It is estimated that the cost of buying and using reusable nappies is between £182 and £359 (1)
The estimated cost of using disposable nappies is £922 (1)
Reusable nappies means less waste to landfill
Nearly 3 billion disposable nappies are thrown away in the UK each year. This works out as 8 million nappies every day. 90% of these end up in landfill. (1)
Reusable nappies can save energy and resources
The number of disposable nappies used over the average 2 ½ years that a child uses nappies is in the region of 3,796. (2)
The number of reusable nappies used for the same time is 30. (2)
A report by Defra (2008) provides further details on the environmental impact of real and disposable nappies. For more information please go to the Defra website.
Choosing the right nappy for you
Modern reusable nappies are practical and easy to use. There's no longer the need for lots of soaking and boiling and instead of safety pins there are now velcro fastenings, poppers and plastic grips.
There are lots of different types available so there's something to suit everyone. For those who don't want to wash nappies at home, there are nappy laundry services and it's always worth remembering that re-usable nappies are not an 'all or nothing' choice. Some parents use a mixture, with disposable nappies as a back up, for example when travelling.
Reusable nappies are made up of:
1. A liner – catches the solids and can be flushed down the loo
2. A nappy – absorbs the wetness
3. A wrap – waterproof layer that protects the clothes
There’s lots of choice on the market so you can make sure you find the right nappy for you. Things to bear in mind when choosing your nappies include cost and convenience:
Flat nappies Traditional square terry nappies or prefold nappies are the cheapest. They are easy to wash and dry and you usually just need to buy one size.
Fitted nappies These are already shaped to fit your baby like a disposable nappy. They are easier to use but are more expensive and take longer to dry.
All in ones These are most like disposable nappies because they include a outer waterproof layer as part of the nappy. This makes them convenient to use but they are also more expensive and take longer to dry.
‘Pocket’ nappies These have the convenience of all in ones but dry quicker as they have separate parts. They can be slightly more expensive than the other types of nappy available.
For more detailed information about nappy types, please go to the Go Real Nappy Information Service 0845 850 0606.
Washing and drying reusable nappies
Washable nappies can be washed at 40 degrees centigrade with a non biological detergent and a dessert spoon of eco friendly sanitiser or alternatively they can be washed at 60 degrees centigrade without any sanitiser.
They can be dried just as you would dry your normal laundry.
Biodegradable nappy liners can be flushed down the loo along with any solid waste and washable liners can go in the wash with your nappies.
Nappy laundry services
Alternatively you can use a nappy laundry service to do the washing and drying for you. The Go Real Nappy Campaign can provide details of local services or go to Local Reusable Nappy Services for details of services in the area.
Top tips for making the most of your reusable nappies
Using any nappy has an impact on the environment but the most environmentally friendly option is to follow the guidelines below when using reusable nappies:
• Use A rated appliances for washing your nappies
• Wash in full loads at no more than 60 degrees
• Avoid tumble drying – hang outside or use an airer
• Store used nappies in a lidded bucket – no need to soak
• Use an eco detergent but don’t use fabric conditioners, which reduce the nappy’s natural absorbency
• Use washable liners and wipes/flannels
• Never iron your nappies!
• Pass them on – reuse them on another baby or sell them on
Local reusable nappy services
The following is a list of local retailers that we are aware of who sell or provide reusable nappies/services in the local area. If you know of any other retailers in this area please let us know.
Local retailers
Small and Green, 0117 986 3655, www.smallandgreen.co.uk
The Green Shop, 01761 418857, Midsomer Norton, http://www.greenshopmsn.co.uk/
Newly new
Kidzkit, 01761 411666, Midsomer Norton
Roundabout, 01225 316696, Bath
Frequently asked questions
Do reusable nappies cause nappy rash?
Frequency of nappy changing is the important factor to reduce nappy rash. Your baby is no more or less likely to get nappy rash from using reusable nappies than from disposables.
Do reusable nappies leak?
It's important to select the right size for your baby's shape to avoid leakages and there is a wide choice of products available. You can also use booster pads to increase absorbency if needed.
Where can I get reusable nappies from?
Well known supermarkets and retailers now stock various brands of reusable nappies. The Go Real Nappy Campaign can also produce details of local outlets and agents supplying re-usable nappies. You may also be able to pick up good quality second hand nappies for little or no cost – look out for sales of second hand baby equipment or try websites such as your local Freecycle group. You can also go to Local Reusable Nappy Services for details of services in the area.
Useful websites