Modern Nappies 101

Modern Nappies 101

Article from the New Zealand Nappy Alliance

If cloth nappies conjure up images in your head of sharp pins, origami folds, and wet bottoms then you are in luck. We can dispel this nightmare immediately. Modern reusable nappies are NOT your nana's nappies! A lot has changed in the last 20 years. Nowdays no one would buy a PVC jacket to run a marathon or use scratchy wool underwear for thermal protection. We have been blessed with huge strides in fabric innovation and can now choose to use a breathable yet waterproof tracksuit or a fine washable merino singlet. Gone are hot plastics and scatchy wools. Reusable nappies are no different. Gone are the plastic pants, tricky folds and dangerous fasteners. In are the shaped, prefolded, velcroed nappies with stay dry liners, simple care instructions and ultra absorbent interiors. Many modern cloth nappies look more like a disposable nappy rather than a traditional cloth nappy. To help you get your head around what's on offer we've created:

Modern Reusable Nappies 101

Style One:  Prefold Nappy with Cover	Style Three:  Pocket Nappy with Insert
Very simple and economic style that uses an  inner pad for absorption and a waterproof outer wrap to keep baby dry.  Liners optional.	Waterproof outer layer sewn together with a stay dry liner and an opening for an absorbent inner pad.  Simple and quick drying.
Style Two: Fitted Nappy with Cover	Style Four:  All in One Nappy
This fitted style keeps messes contained and allows for economy with separate breathable yet leak-proof outer wraps.  Liners optional.	Waterproofing and absorption all sewn together in this design.  Easy to use.  Liners optional.

Making a Decision

So now the question is which to choose. Each style has it's winning points so it's advisable to consider a few things about your lifestyle before you decide what to buy. Here are some of the ways people have bought modern reusable nappies:

• Economy driven parents frequently look to save money through using the more basic designs while at home and only buying a few of the more whiz bang styles. (Also note that buying a cheaper version of any of these styles does not means you get value. Your nappies need to last 400-500 washes to give you value. Cheaper nappies just fall apart and then you have to purchase more nappies. If you are really on a tight budget and can't afford the more expensive brands then it is better to buy the high quality basic styles than to buy a knock off design.)

• Parents who are very busy will look to buy a style that is practical for quick changes and more absorbent nappies.

• If the local climate is rather rainy parents will choose the quickest drying style.

• Creche kids frequently will get the simple designs so that child minders can do quick changes.

• When nappying several babies at once parents will buy a mixture of styles and look for bulk buying discounts.

• Parents expecting their first baby can look at buying a more complete set with their longer period for purchasing.

Get a Nappy that makes you Happy!

Don't be afraid to try a few styles out. Don't feel pressured to buy the first thing you see. Your baby will be in nappies for 2-3+ years. A few weeks or months in disposables won't hurt. Make sure you like your nappy before you buy a complete set. Also if you have been unhappy with one style think about changing styles when you upsize. What works on an infant who is changed every two hours may not suit your toddler. Look to purchase your nappies from a reputable retailer so that you get top quality customer service. Reputable retailers will offer a free phone helpline, comprehensive website, full care guides, warranties and guarantees and will still be in business if you need assistance next year or the year after. Remember that every nappy you reuse is one less nappy to throwaway and one more savings to your wallet.

More Information

For more information about cloth nappies, including how much you can save, the many fabrics cloth nappies are available in, the environmental advantages of using cloth nappies, as well as answers to frequently asked questions please visit the New Zealand Nappy Alliance website