If you are new to cloth nappies – all the choices can seem more than a bit confusing...... let me help to make it a little clearer for you!

 

Nappies

Shaped nappies are shaped in a similar way to disposables and require a wrap (more later)  and will either be

a)      Sized  - to suit your babies weight and size to ensure a snug fit.

b)      One size – Also known as Birth to Potty (BTP) this is an adjustable nappy that fits from aprox 8-35 lbs and is adjusted using poppers to increase or decrease the size.  Can be very handy if you have more than one child in nappies at one time as you don’t have to worry about having the right size to hand!

c)       Pocket nappies – Between the inner liner and the waterproof outer there is a gap to ‘stuff’ with absorbent boosters usually hemp, terry or microterry.  The advantages of these are you can increase the boosters to match the absorbency needed and no separate wrap is needed.

d)      All In Ones – which is really a cloth version of a disposable!  No separate wrap needed, simply put it on and go!  Great for babysitters  and dads! 

 

Wraps

Wraps are generally made of PUL –Polyurethene Laminate – a breathable waterproof fabric.  It is important that the wrap fits your baby and covers the entire nappy to prevent leakage and wicking.  You can make quite a fashion statement as they are available in a variety of prints and colours to match the occasion and your mood!

 

Liners

Paper Liners – can be flushed down the toilet – along with any solids.

Fleece – Is excellent at keeping bottoms dry!  Some nappies are fleece lined already so no separate liner is needed.

Silk – Excellent for sensitive skin and if suffering from nappy rash.

 

 

Using cloth nappies is not as much hard work as you may think, but there is some additional work – mainly how to care for them.

 

You will need to change the nappy every 3-4 hours or as required.  Simply place the used nappy into the mesh bag inside the nappy pail and replace the lid.  When you come to wash the nappies simply lift the mesh bag into the washing machine (be sure to fasten any aplix (Velcro)  tabs to prevent any snagging in the wash) – leave the bag open so the nappies will come out and circulate in the machine .  Use aprox ⅓ of your usual washing detergent and use no fabric softener.  Using more washing powder doesn’t get them any cleaner and can result in build up and effect the absorbency of the nappy.  Fabric softener has the same effect!  To keep nappies soft you can tumble dry them, or just pop them in the tumble drier for a few minutes to soften them.

 

When dealing with a soiled nappy, clean the area with toilet tissue first which can be flushed down the toilet and then clean with either a washable wipe, cotton wool or a disposable wipe.  I prefer bamboo washable wipes.  Ensure the nappy area is completely dry before putting a clean nappy on.  If you stretch the inner fabric of the nappy over the toilet some/most of the solids should drop off, or the nappy can be sluiced before pailing.

 

To keep the nappy pail smelling fresh, I place some kitchen paper in the bottom with a few drops of essential oil (orange is my current favourite!)  replace this paper each time you empty the pail.  Wash the pail with warm soapy water every few days or when needed.

 

If you find that your nappies are not as absorbent as they once were, I would advise running a couple of detergent free washes to remove any residue / build up.  This should solve the problem.

When you buy a new nappy it is advised to wash them first.  The more you wash nappies the more absorbent they become – a bit like towels!

 

Please be sure of your purchase before washing any items, as only items in their original condition can be returned unless faulty.

 

 

If you require any further information or advice – please contact us we will aim to reply to your query within 24 hours.

 

Or call us on 01494 716389