Flat nappies (terry squares and prefolds) and Shaped nappies – these require separate waterproof wraps and can also be called ‘two part systems’. The inner nappy part represents the absorbency and the outer wrap the waterproof barrier.
Pocket nappies – these nappies have a ‘pocket’ in the back where you stuff an insert (or a variety of inserts) for absorbency as needed. The outer of the nappy is waterproof and so does not require a separate wrap.
All In One nappies – these nappies are most similar to a disposable nappy as they come in one piece. They require no separate inserts or wraps.
Flat nappy facts
The most economical way to nappy your child
Some people find the notion of ‘folds’ as overwhelming, however the ‘degree in origami’ theory is a MYTH!
Fast drying as they can be ‘spread out’
No pins any more: use a ‘nippa’ or the wrap to hold in place
Good at keeping pooh explosions in – two lines of defense along with wrap!
Good as stuffing for pocket nappies later
Wrap can be wiped down and re-used if not soiled, plus take no time at all to dry
Shaped nappy facts
Good at keeping pooh explosions in – two lines of defense along with wrap!
Easier to use that flat nappies as no special folds needed
Wrap can be wiped down and re-used if not soiled, plus take no time at all to dry
Drying time varies depending on material and size of the nappy
Pocket nappy facts
These are said to be one of the easiest kinds to put on a wriggly baby at changing time
Can be pre-stuffed ready for days out, nurseries etc.
Easy to boost
Quite slim-line
The most popular style of reusable overall
All In One nappy facts
The easiest type of nappy to use – if you can put on a disposable and take it off, you can manage these!
More expensive as there is no chance of reusing this nappy once soiled, it must be washed, therefore you need more of them or to do more frequent washes.
Can be slow drying, however new versions known as ‘All In Two’s or Snap In One’s’ break apart to speed drying (but are colour coded to be foolproof!)
Choosing your nappies is very much dependent upon your lifestyle, your budget, the age of your baby and how simple you’d like your system to be. I’ll attempt to provide information for each of these topics in order to assist you towards making a choice, however I would not recommend investing in just one system but trying several. Think of nappies as you do your own underwear – do you opt for comfort, for economy, for fit, for fabric? Apply these same rules when you’re reading about the different kinds of nappies and it should help to guide you as to where your money might best be spent.
For all nappies, the basic idea to remember is that you need three things: absorbency, waterproofing and lining.
Absorbency – whatever the nappy is made of/stuffed with. Absorbency can be added to any nappy by way of a ‘booster’, which is laid inside the nappy between the nappy itself and the liner. Materials for absorbency commonly include cotton/terry, microfibre, hemp and bamboo. Cotton/terry is economical and easy to launder as it is fast-drying. Microfibre is an economical manmade substance which remains very soft and is very fast-drying. Hemp and bamboo are considered to be the most eco-friendly and absorbent, however take longer to dry.
Waterproofing – usually this will refer to PUL (Polyurethane Laminate) in either the wrap or a layer which can be hidden within the nappy itself. However, there are also wool and fleece wraps available, commonly used for night to be more ‘breathable’ which use lanolin from sheep’s wool for waterproofing.
Lining – the liner is designed to wick away moisture from direct skin contact and to protect the inserts/boosters from pooh staining. The two most common types are flushable ‘paper’ liners and washable fleece-topped liners.
This is intended as a very basic guide as to what you should need in venturing into the world of cloth, however this is by no means comprehensive and I'd definitely advise you to read up on the different types of nappy available etc. before purchasing. Happy nappy shopping! Essentials
16-20 flat OR AIO nappies
The number of nappies you will actually need depends on how fast you want your washing turn around to be. If you plan to wash every day, for example, you will need less nappies than if you plan to only wash every three days. Also remember to take in account the drying times for your chosen nappy type, especially if you don’t have a tumble dryer. Around 6 nappy wraps per size
You will only need these with a two-part nappy system (for the flat nappies). I’d estimate that you should have around 6 wraps in case of accidents, however again you could get away with less if you wash more frequently. PUL wraps are practically dry out of the machine and can also be wiped clean between uses, so you do not need to change the wrap every time you change the nappy unless it is soiled. OR Around 10 Pocket nappies
Pocket nappies dry faster and 10 will be enough if you wash every night. Nappy liners
You have the choice here between disposable liners that can either be flushed or binned (dependent upon make) or reusable ones. The reusables tend to be made of fleece, and for these you should aim to have around twenty. Paper liners can be cut in half for smaller nappies and can also be washed a couple of times if only wet before they begin to disintegrate. Many users report that paper liners reduce the staining of breastfed pooh, whereas fleece is better for weaned babies.
Nappy bucket & mesh
Used for the storing of soiled nappies. The mesh fits inside the lidded bucket and makes transferring to the washing machine a lot more pleasant. Not many people soak nappies these days, and indeed there are some modern cloth nappies that you should not soak, so the nappies go straight into the bucket with no additives. Some folk keep their bucket fresh by popping a muslin with a few drops of essential oil on top of the nappies.
Boosters
You will probably need these for increasing the absorbency at night once baby is about 6 months old. 4 boosters should be enough, however many people prefer to have more to vary them up at different stages etc. The better materials for absorbency overnight are considered to be bamboo and hemp as well as microfibre. Nappy nippas
These are a must if you are using fasten free nappies and are excellent for tightening up a fit even on an applix or poppered nappy, too. A packet usually contains three and this should be plenty.
Accessories to consider
Storage Something essential to consider is exactly where you want to store your nappies. Ideas have included wicker storage baskets, traditional nappy stackers, changing units, suspended cloth storage hangers usually meant for shoes and chest of drawers.
Wet Bag To put dirty cotton nappies in when you are out and about. They can just be popped in the wash with the other nappies.
Washable wipes These are small pieces of material that can be used to clean a baby's bottom at nappy changes instead of disposable wipes. Plain water or a mild solution including essential oils can be used. Wipes come in a variety of materials and are also simple to make at home.
Essential oils Lavender and Tea Tree are both antibacterial and can be used on a muslin cloth in your nappy bucket to keep things smelling fresh, a few drops in the wash or in a solution mixture for your washable wipes.
The world of cloth nappy-ing is so wonderfully varied that there are many terms thrown around, especially abbreviations, that can be confusing to a beginner. Here is a basic guide to the terms you might come across on forums, in shops etc:
AIO’s
Abbreviated term for All In One nappies, which are nappies that require no separate insert or wrap and so function most like a disposable.
Aplix
A type of Velcro fastening for nappies.
BTP (aka. Birth to potty, One sized)
Nappies designed to fit baby right the way through from birth to potty training by using sizing adjustments built into the nappy to alter fit as baby grows.
Booster
This is the extra padding for adding into nappies to increase absorbency. Boosters are available in a range of fabrics dependent upon need and nappy type, and usually nappy companies make their own specifically to fit their own brand (however, these are very easily interchangeable for most types).
BOV
Abbreviated term for bamboo organic velour material, a wonderfully soft and absorbent material often found in more ‘designer’ nappies.
Clothie
A person who loves using cloth nappies on their child and extolling the benefits to others.
Cover (wrap)
The waterproof outer shell part of a nappy.
Dry Pailing
Refers to the storing of used/dirty nappies in a lidded bucket without soaking, which is the way most modern cloth nappy users store their nappies until wash day thanks to the advances in modern washing machines.
EC
Depends on what context this is used in – for goods it is the abbreviated term for ‘Excellent Condition’. In general nappy-ing chat it will most likely refer to Elimination Communication, which is a term coined for parents watching for their children’s signals to go to the toilet and this eliminating the need for nappies.
EUC
Abbreviated term for ‘Excellent Used Condition’ in sales.
Flannel
This is a cotton material that is densely woven and then brushed which makes it very soft.
Flat nappies
Nappies that open out flat – usually muslins, terry squares or prefolds. These require folding, securing and a waterproof wrap.
Fleece
A fabric (normally acrylic or polyester) used to make liners and wraps. Some nappies are fleece lined to give a stay-dry layer.
Flongies
Shorts/trousers made of fleece, lanolised for waterproofing and used as an alternative to a PUL wrap. These are especially good overnight.
Insert
The absorbent part added to a pocket nappy. These can be made from a variety of materials and are usually made specific to brands of nappies, however as with boosters they are very much interchangeable.
Lanolin
A product made from sheep’s wool used to treat wool/fleece wraps and covers to keep them waterproof.
Liners
The layer next to the baby’s skin, helping to keep them dry. Sometimes these are flushable paper liners; sometimes they are washable and made from fleece or even silk.
Longies
Woolly trousers used in place of a PUL wrap, lanolised for waterproofing. These are especially good over night but can only be used over natural fibred nappies.
Merino
This is a popular and very soft wool used for making longies and other wool covers.
Microfibre
This is a man-made fabric used in real nappies or inserts. It holds the liquid between the fibres rather than absorbing it.
Nappy nippa (nappi nippa, snappi)
A plastic T shaped gripper to hold nappies without other fastenings together, used instead of the traditional nappy pin.
Nappy mesh
This is a mesh bag which is used to line the bucket containing dirty nappies so they are more easily transferable from bucket to machine.
OS
Abbreviated term for One sized or Birth to Potty nappies.
OV
Abbreviated term for organic velour, a material used in nappies which is beautifully soft.
Pocket nappies (aka. stuffables)
These are basically a waterproof wrap with a lining often made from fleece. Absorbency is added by stuffing the nappy with inserts.
Prefolds
Absorbent square nappies with a padded centre section. Usually just held in place by a close fitting gusseted wrap but also can be nappy nippa-ed for extra security. These are very popular in America.
PUL (Polyurethane Laminate)
The waterproof material used in many wraps, pockets and all-in-ones. PUL has become the modern, softer and more hard-wearing replacement for traditional plastic/rubber pants.
Pull-on pants (aka. Trainer pants)
These are wraps without side openings used for potty training that pull on like ordinary pants.
Shaped / fitted nappies
These nappies are shaped to fit the baby without folding and usually have elasticated waist and legs. They require a waterproof wrap.
Shorties
Woolly shorts used to cover a nappy in place of a PUL wrap, lanolised for waterproofing. These are especially good overnight but can only be used over natural fibred nappies.
Sized nappy
A nappy that comes in various sizes that need to be purchased as the child grows.
Skirtie
A wool cover that looks like a skirt, lanolised for waterproofing and used in place of a PUL wrap.
Soaker
Another name for a fleece or wool wrap, which is lanolised for waterproofing and good for overnight use.
Soaking
Putting dirty nappies into a bucket of water before washing to prevent staining. Most modern cloth nappies do not require soaking due to advances in washing machines and products, however some people do prefer this method.
SS
Abbreviated term for side snap fastening, where a nappy or cover has poppers at the side, rather than at the front. Particularly handy for toddlers as they find them harder to open, but also this fastening allows many wraps to be used like training pants for potty training.
Terry squares
The traditional nappy! Terry squares are simply squares of towelling material which are folded specifically to fit the baby, usually fastened with a nappy nippa (or pins) and then covered by a wrap. Modern terries also can be found in bamboo which is more absorbent and softer.
Two part nappy system
This is where the cotton, absorbent part and the wrap are separate.
WAHM
This stands for "work at home mum", usually referencing mums who make things such as nappies etc. at home to support their families.
Washable Wipes
These are small pieces of material that can be used to clean a baby's bottom at nappy changes instead of disposable wipes. Plain water or a mild solution including essential oils can be used. Wipes come in a variety of materials and are also simple to make at home.
Wet Bag
Usually this refers to an ‘out and about’ bag to go inside the changing bag in which to store soiled nappies whilst away from home, however some do use a wet bag in place of a bucket in between washing at home. Wet bags have a waterproof layer and can be drawstring or zippered.
Wick/Wicking
The term used to describe wetness or moisture as it seeps though fabric. Sometimes this is due to wetness being squeezed through a nappy wrap(compression wicking) due to a vest top being done up too tightly or a child sat putting pressure on an area of the nappy for a prolonged time period. Wicking is more common with fleece or wool wraps.
Wrap (cover)
The waterproof outer part of a nappy. Sometimes they are attached (all-in-ones and pocket nappies) sometimes they are separate (two part nappy). Separate wraps can be made from PUL waterproof material, wool or fleece.
So, after disappointment with the Bounty packs I decided to order, for delivery charge only, The Mama Pack.
I received it this afternoon and it truly brightened up my day - it was like getting a special eco-mum present! I wanted to review it for anyone reading in case you're deliberating whether to get one - I'd personally say go for it - the contents is WELL worth the delivery cost.
Sorry for the rubbishy photo quality - it's an old camera phone and very bright lights combined with a shiny floor!
In my box I got:
A 100ml sample (full size is 250ml but this LOOKS full size) of Maclaren's Beginning Protecting Nappy Change Balm.
4 The Ginger People's GinGins Double Strength Ginger Hard Candy sweets
1 Lillipops Iced Soothies in Lemon & Mint
A 70g sample of Rude Health's The Ultimate Organic Muesli
A sample of 8 half-shell soapnuts and a small mesh bag with instructions from In A Soapnut Shell
A sample bamboo cloth wipe from the Nappy Makers
2 sample eco-friendly disposable breast pads, 1 maternity pad and 1 pantyliner from Natracare
A sachet sample of Weleda Baby Calendula Nappy Change Cream
A sachet sample of Pregnacare Cream
WAHM News Autumn/Winter magazine
A handful of promotional leaflets and some promotional business cards
The pack is a nice size and comes all sealed up in its own carboard box, which is the size of an 'average giftbox' I'd say. It has pretty tissue paper in the top and the leaflets etc. are in the bottom, with the samples scattered in between. I'd estimate that the samples are worth in total around £7.00. There isn't too much promotional material, which is good as I always hate throwing lots away, however I would change the fact that some of it is contained in plastic sheeting/polybags.
If I could add anything to the Mama pack it would be a sample of some sort of snack that you could pop into your labour bag and some raspberry leaf tea or similar sample.
My favourite sample is a tie between three - the nappy change balm, the soap nuts and the bamboo cloth wipe (which fits nicely into my other cloth wipes box!). I think of all of the items sampled I am most likely to buy more soap nuts if they work well for me.
I hope that this may have helped someone! I'm just very excited and feel almost as though it's my birthday - I got given my friend's lovely purple TENS machine to borrow today and have just ordered some replacement pads for it, and I've placed a custom order for amber teething and nursing necklaces which I shall write more about another time!
I thought it might be useful to share my preparations for having a cloth bummed baby in the house and how I've gone about obtaining my 'stash'.
According to various sources, I estimate that for a decent birth to potty package of nappies you're looking at spending around £350 minimum new - this is really more for someone who wants to try several types, but trust me, once you fall into the wonderful world of cloth you will NOT be able to resist.
This is where I've found pre-loved nappies to be an absolute bargain. You need to hunt around, but if you do your research and cast your nets wide you can haul in something pretty special. I wanted to obtain a varied selection myself in order to work out what works best for Daniel and for us. Hopefully I will be updating with my progress and a break down of each nappy type as we use it soon!
If you want to know more about the MONEY SAVING joys of cloth nappies as opposed to disposables, please have a read of this. I'm not personally going down the cloth nappy route for environmental reasons, but the idea of pooh going down the toilet where it belongs instead of festering in a landfill and messing up the water table is definitely a plus point!
I will make my next post more of a consolidation of what, through lots of research, I have found out to be the nappies whose praises are most highly sung. For now, I'll give you a list of places to ferret out your first cloth bargains!
First up, I highly recommend you join this lively forum ANYWAY for advice, support etc. This is in the natural parenting section, where the ladies are absolutely fantastic and, if you're reading this, are sure to be very like-minded to you! The nappy sales on here are from ladies who truly LOVE their nappies and don't sell for profit. Swaps also available.
For job lots and some incredibly cheap deals, try The Nappy Site. No joining required.
An Ebay-like site devoted entirely to cloth nappies, The Used Nappy Company is reliable but popular, so deals aren't as easy to come by. You have to join, but you only pay to sell.
Another excellent resource including forums is The Cloth Nappy Tree. Nappies are sold in sections by type (I will explain more about the different types in my next entry, but there is lots of information on there too). Again, full of ladies who love nappies, and there is also an excellent WAHM community for any special personalisation/making requests.
Another great forum is Natural Mamas - they also have an excellent section on babywearing and second-hand slings, too!
The usual suspects for anything second-hand, Ebay and Preloved. Ebay have in the past banned used nappy sales, however currently are allowing them. Preloved has rare listings, but it's worth keeping an eye out.
Other places that I haven't personally used are UK Parents Lounge and Mumsnet. Mumsnet is free to sign up for but the catch is that it costs to advertise and to contact other members/allow them to contact you.
For full priced nappies there are LOTS of websites to choose from out there, and really I think it's a matter of personal preference. My votes presently go to Fill Your Pants and Babipur. Both have wonderful customer service, a great range, regular offers and deliver promptly.
