Using real nappies

Home washing

Home washing is the real alternative to using disposable nappies. When you use real nappies and wash them at home your options are increased dramatically.

There are many different types of nappy on the market, and you can develop your nappy system to suit you, your child and your lifestyle. You will find the different nappies under choosing real nappies.

When you have chosen the type of nappy or nappies you want to use you, you need to choose liners, get a bucket, a washing machine and your sorted! You will probably need between 12 and 24 nappies depending on how often you are washing and how old your baby is, and 4-6 wraps at each size, as you do not need to change these at every nappy change, only if soiled or very wet.

Contrary to popular belief you don't need to soak real nappies any more, dry storing them in a bucket with a mesh is another option. Just do a wash when your bucket is full and as long as you wash them within a few days of use they will be fine, although you should remember to rinse any soiled nappies in the loo before putting them in your nappy bucket to prevent staining.

With most nappies you can wash wraps and nappies together at 60 degrees, but read your manufacturers guidelines to get the most from your nappies. You should use a non-bio washing powder and avoid using fabric softer when washing as this can have an effect on the absorbency of the nappy. When you are washing nappies at home there are lots of ways you can minimize the impact of child's nappy wearing lifetime on the environment, here are some of those ways:

Line or air dry your nappies.
Never iron your nappies
Use an A rated energy efficient washing machine
Choose nappies made in the UK
Go for organic cotton nappies
Don't use fabric conditioner
Use an eco friendly washing powder
Use your nappies for subsequent children and then pass them on or sell them
Use reusable liners