Washable Nappies

Do you have children in nappies? Are you struggling to contain your waste in one wheeled bin?  Why not use washable nappies as an alternative to disposables?

The facts

• Each day 8,000,000 disposable nappies are thrown away in Britain (Women's Environmental Network)
• Four per cent of the rubbish thrown away in Waverley is disposable nappies 
• Disposal of nappies by Surrey County Council costs residents more than £700,000 (Surrey Cloth Nappy Project).
• All dustbin waste, including disposable nappies, is currently sent to landfill
• Disposing of household waste in this way can cause environmental problems such as the production of methane gas and toxic leachates in the soil.

The solution

It is important we reduce the amount of waste we produce. One way to reduce our waste would be to use washable nappies. Today, washable nappies are not like the old fashioned Terry towelling nappies. They are well made using breathable fabrics with velcro or popper fastenings and can be bought in almost any style or design to suit you and your baby.

Health issues

There has been a lot of debate over nappy rash and other health issues associated with using disposable and washable nappies. Many of the reports have produced conflicting conclusions. It is therefore recommended that you consult your local health professional if you have any questions or concerns.

Washable nappies

Washable nappies use a liner that holds most of the waste and this is flushed down the loo. The remainder of the nappy can be washed at home on a 60°C wash in your washing machine, see the tips outlined below. Or you can use a nappy laundering service, which will deliver fresh, sterilised nappies to your door each week and collect the dirty ones.

Six ways to reduce the environmental impact of washable nappies:

1. Follow manufacturers' care instructions to wash nappies at 60°C, do not boil wash
2. Use A-rated appliances to reduce energy and water consumption.
3. Minimise tumble drying instead line dry or use an airer
4. Don't use fabric conditioner, it is unnecessary and it reduces absorbency
5. Use eco-friendly washing powders
6. Use organic (non-bleached) products.

More information

Please visit Go Real - The Real Nappy Information Service

Page owner: Kevin Brown. Last updated: 20/06/2012 10:22