Disposable Nappies (or diapers) have been the automatic choice for the majority of mothers for well over a decade. But now more mothers are looking at alternatives to disposable nappies based on economic and environmental reasons.
Cloth nappies no longer require the art of origami or come with the obligatory safety pin to keep them together. Cloth nappies come in a variety of designs with most having Velcro or press studs, a liner which is either washable or disposable that deals with the worst of the content of the nappy, and a waterproof washable outside wrap. The main part of the real nappy can be washed as part of the normal whites wash.
The benefits of using real nappies are less landfill, and you could save the cost of buying the 4000 to 6000 disposable nappies estimated as needed until your baby becomes toilet trained. This could be a saving of between $600 and $1000 over the period.
Using cloth nappies is not carbon neutral however, and the amount of environmental benefit of using reusable nappies compared to disposable nappies is a subject of much debate. So tell help mothers wanting to do their bit for the environment, here are our top 10 tips for reducing the carbon footprint from washing and drying real nappies.
1. Use an energy and water efficient washing machine
2. Use a eco friendly washing powder when washing cloth nappies
3. Wash your nappies at 40oc rather than 60oc – there is no need to boil wash nappies
4. Don’t use fabric conditioner as it reduces the nappies absorbency
5. Dry your cloth nappies on a washing line or use an airer rather than a tumble dryer
6. Don’t iron nappies – there is no need
7. Use organic (non-bleached)
8. Buy second hand nappies if possible
9. Use real nappies for more than one child
10. Try toilet training your child earlier at 2 years old
To find out more about how you can save money, help save the planet, and care for your baby using reusable nappies go to http://www.goodpregnancyguide.com/
http://www.goodpregnancyguide.com
Has been produced to provide expectant mothers with answers to their common questions including subjects like breastfeeding, baby massage, nappies, and having twins.
