Having a baby leads to a constant cycle of buying and restocking your supplies to keep up with their needs.
But what if we told you that you could save money and reduce your waste at the same time? This is where reusable nappies come in handy. They’re effective, long-lasting, and will save you a lot of time and money in the long run.
Today, RE:GN will walk you through what reusable nappies are, their benefits, and how to use them. You'll wish you made the switch from disposable nappies sooner!
What are Reusable Nappies?
Reusable nappies are designed to be used multiple times. After every use, simply wash them and hang them to dry for a fresh appearance.
Made from various materials, such as cotton, bamboo, or hemp, they're designed to keep your baby dry and comfortable without the need for constant changes.
The Benefits of Reusable Nappies
So many parents are now making the switch to reusable nappies. Maybe the following benefits will convince you to follow suit:
- Cost-effective: While reusable nappies cost more up-front, you save money on replacements in the long run. Making the switch can save you an estimated £600 to £800 yearly.
- Eco-friendly: Choosing reusable nappies reduces your carbon footprint and the amount of landfill waste. You can go from purchasing 4000 nappies to 20-30 reusable nappies up until they’re potty trained.
- Gentle on your baby’s skin: Our reusable nappies are made from natural materials, reducing nappy rash and irritation, unlike disposable nappies, which contain dyes, perfumes, and toxic chemicals.
- Leak-proof: Reusable nappies feature elasticated waists, adjustable snaps, and velcro closings. This ensures a snug fit alongside a waterproof outer layer and double leakage gussets.
- Encourages early potty training: Toddlers can feel the wetness more in cloth nappies, which can encourage them to use the potty earlier.
The Different Types of Reusable Nappies
There are various types of reusable nappies on the market, allowing you to find the perfect option for you. This includes:
- All-in-one nappies: These offer the convenience of a disposable nappy with an absorbent inner layer and waterproof outer shell.
- Fitted nappies: These are made from entirely absorbent materials. They offer excellent absorbency, although you need to add a separate waterproof cover.
- Pocket nappies: This features a waterproof outer shell with a sewn-in pocket for inserting the absorbent pad.
- Pre-fold and flat nappies: Flat nappies are the traditional single fold-over design, whilst pre-folds are rectangular with a thicker, absorbent centre. Both require a bit of folding work and a waterproof cover.
Do You Need to Use Liners in Reusable Nappies?
Liners aren’t always essential, but many parents find them helpful. They act as a barrier, catching solids and making clean-up easier. You can choose between disposable liners (which you can throw away) or washable ones (that you can reuse with each wash).
Do You Need to Use Liners in Reusable Nappies?
Liners aren’t always essential, but many parents find them helpful. They act as a barrier, catching solids and making clean-up easier. You can choose between disposable liners (which you can throw away) or washable ones (that you can reuse with each wash).
Are Reusable Nappies Better for Nappy Rash?
Yes! Reusable nappies are often kinder to your baby’s skin. Since they’re made with natural, breathable fabrics, they reduce the risk of irritation from chemicals, fragrances, and plastics that are commonly found in disposables.
Save Money & the Planet – Shop Reusable Nappies
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How Many Reusable Nappies Do I Need?
The number you’ll need depends on how often you plan to wash them. Most parents find that 20–25 nappies are enough to cover regular use, especially if you wash every two to three days. Newborns will need more frequent changes, so having a few extras on hand can be useful.
How to Use Reusable Nappies
Making the switch to reusable nappies can be daunting, but we’re here to make the process easier. Read on to discover how to use reusable nappies.
- Choose the right design: Select a design that best suits your needs. Start by trying a few different designs to find the best fit.
- Prep your nappy: Cotton, bamboo, and hemp nappies will need to be washed before use. This will allow them to reach their full absorbency.
- Assemble the nappy: Insert any absorbent pads into the pocket or liner inside the waterproof cover.
- Adjust the fit: Fasten any adjustable straps to ensure the nappy fits snugly on your baby.
- Change regularly: Change your newborn's nappy around every 2 hours. Replace any absorbent pads between each use. For all-in-one nappies, change to a new nappy after each use.
How Often to Change Reusable Nappies
Just like disposables, reusable nappies should be changed every 2–4 hours, or sooner if they’re soiled. For newborns, expect more frequent changes, around every 2 hours. Regular changes help keep your baby dry and comfortable.
Cleaning Reusable Nappies
To efficiently clean reusable nappies whilst keeping them in good condition, follow these steps:
- Store the nappies: Once the nappy has been used, store it in a wet bag or nappy bucket until you wash it.
- Wash the nappies: Clean the used nappies every 2-3 days to prevent odours and staining. Wash them with non-bio detergent to prevent irritation and avoid fabric softeners, as they can decrease absorbency.
- Dry the nappies: Hang your reusable nappies to dry to maintain the quality of the materials.
How to Dry Reusable Nappies
The best way to dry reusable nappies is by air-drying. Hanging them outside in the sun naturally freshens them and helps remove stains. If that’s not possible, drying them indoors on a rack works well too. Tumble drying on a low heat is fine for some nappies, but always check the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Invest in High-Quality Reusable Nappies With Re:gn
At Re:gn, we want the best for the planet and your baby’s well-being.
That is why we sell a wide range of eco-friendly baby and child products to protect your little one from harsh chemicals and toxic products.
When you shop with us, you’re not only investing in the health of your family but the health of our planet.
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