Washable nappies seem to be the ideal ecological alternative to regular nappies. However, there is more work involved than some parents expect. Not only do you need the nappy itself, but also liners, overpants, sheets, etc. But once you have all this and enough washable nappies in the house, it can be quite easy.
Why are regular nappies bad for the environment?
On average, a newborn baby’s nappy is changed 8 times. With older babies it is about 6 times a day. That means you have to throw away either 24 or 18 nappies a day. When using washable nappies, most parents choose to wash the pile every three days.
How many washable nappies?
We recommend you buy 24 nappies, so you have a day to spare. While the 18 previous nappies are being washed, you can use the remaining 6 on laundry day. The first few months, of course, you will need to wash more, but after that the volume decreases.
Usually you can change the size of a washable nappy by using velcro or push buttons. As your child grows, the washable nappy grows with him. You will never have to buy a new washable nappy again.
Panty liners
Cover nappies need less changing than the washable nappies themselves, 2 to 3 times is enough. Normally, 6 diaper covers are enough. It is important to know that it is best to buy different sizes of nappies unless you want an all-in-one nappy.
Inserts
Some nappy systems require extra liners. Often the inserts are changed more often than the nappy pants, so be sure to buy enough. Night liners are also recommended. These inserts provide extra absorbency when your child is sleeping. Don’t forget that these sheets need extra time to dry because they are so absorbent.
Fleece liners
Do you find it messy to remove your baby’s poo from the washable liners? Then perhaps a non-woven insert is just what you need! There are about 100 in a box. We recommend getting a few boxes because you use 1 box per month. When you use it you can just take the corners and throw the poo into the toilet.
Extra things
Besides the most essential things mentioned above, there are some extra things you can buy to make your life a lot easier. Like a nappy transport bag, which you can use to take the washable nappies with you wherever you go. A washing line is also recommended, so the washable nappies and liners can dry at a gentle pace. A laundry net can be useful if you hang it in a nappy pail, so you can easily throw the dirty nappies into the washing machine in one go.
Are you convinced about washable nappies?
Have you just been convinced to give washable nappies a chance? Then we have a handy shopping list with all the things you will need.
- 6 night nappies
- 24 washable nappies
- 6 night liners
- 30 regular inserts
- 6 bib aprons in different sizes
- 1 or 2 boxes of liners
- Nappy transport bag
- 3 to 4 laundry nets