What is a reusable nappy and how does it work? 

A reusable nappy is a washable nappy that is reused multiple times, as opposed to a disposable nappy that is used for a single use and then put into the bin.

It can be washed in a regular washing machine as part of a weekly laundry routine and hung to dry outdoors or on a clothes horse. 

After a nappy change you store the used nappies in a wet bag or bucket and wash them every 2-3 days. 

Reusable nappies are like a set of clothes for your babies bum. 

What is made from? 

A reusable nappy consists of an absorbent internal part, to soak up the pee and catch poop, and a waterproof outer layer to keep the moisture contained so clothes stay dry. 

The absorbable internal part is generally made from cotton, bamboo, hemp or microfibre - all good for holding liquid. The external waterproof part is made from PUL. You can get these parts separately or you can buy single piece complete nappies. 

Why are there so many buttons? 

Reusable nappies have lots of buttons on the front called "rise snaps", and "hip snaps".

The Hip snaps are used to close the nappy around your babies waist - this does not need to be tight, you should be able to place two fingers width between their belly and the nappy.

The Rise Snaps can be closed to adjust the size of the nappy, you use the smallest fitting for small babies from 12 lbs and then adjust it to the nest setting as your baby grows right up to potty training. 

Cloth nappies seem to have their own language of terms...

Reusable nappies come in many different styles, and the modern cloth nappies available today are very different to those which were used in our grandmothers day.

Cloth nappy manufactures also like to come up with new versions and their names can sound very confusing but generally they will fit into one of the categories below: 

A pocket nappy (also called a "shell") - consists of a fleece lined nappy shell with a pocket where you place an absorbent inserts. The absorbent insert and the nappy shell are separate. 

All in One Nappy - this simple means the absorbent insert is attached to the nappy shell. 

All in Two Nappy - this is a nappy cover with a snapped in insert, its a bit like a pocket nappy without the pocket!  You can get more than one use out of the cover between washes by simply changing the absorbent insert. 

Fitted Nappy - exactly like its described, an absorbent nappy that fits all around the babies bum. It need a waterproof cover. 

Wrap / Cover  - the names are interchangeable, they mean the same thing - a waterproof outer layer. Used as "one part" of the All in Two system, or used over Fitted Nappies. 

Insert - absorbent material added into any nappy system to soak up more pee. Made from bamboo, microfibre, cotton or hemp. 

They are very easy to use, easy to wash, economical and a practical option for most families.

Shop our Nappy Starter Bundle for the best value and selection to get started.