Why Cloth Nappies?

There are many reasons why parents decide to use cloth or "real" nappies and I am not going to go into an in depth discussion on the subject as there are many websites that already do a wonderful job.

Here are a few of the main reasons:

Ecological reasons

Nobody knows how long it will take disposable nappies to decompose but it could be hundreds of years. Ten percent of the cost of domestic refuse disposal is spent getting rid of disposable nappies. This is added to our council tax bill. The production of disposable nappies also includes the use of chemicals, plastics and bleaches.

Financial reasons

The initial outlay of a couple of hundred pounds and the cost of electricity to run a washing machine is a fraction of the cost of disposable nappies over three years. Even more savings can be made if the nappies are used for a second child (or resold). Some local councils will even refund a small part of your council tax.

Health reasons

Many of the chemicals used in disposable nappies have not been tested for side effects on health and parents do not like the idea of chemicals next to their baby's skin. Much is also said by disposable nappy companies about their nappies' ability to keep a baby dry. This in itself could cause problems if the baby is not changed frequently enough.

Aesthetic reasons

Most cloth nappy supporters would agree that cotton nappies look good, both on the baby and on the line. Recycled ones in vintage cotton look even better!

Many sites say that cloth nappies are no harder work than disposables. I don't believe this is true. Washing and drying nappies does take more time, but not much. It soon fits into your daily routine, and you will be getting used to lots of washing with a baby anyway. And at least it saves on the shopping.