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| Page updated 2nd February 2011 | |||||
Each baby uses approximately 5,000 nappies in a two and half year period and disposables can cost parents between £700 and £1,300. An estimated 200 million disposables are thrown away in Wales each year. Once in a landfill site, disposable nappies can take hundreds of years to rot down. This process produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas which contributes to climate change. Re-usable nappies cost around only a few pounds a week to be laundered at home but even less, if you use energy efficient washing machines and line dry. Studies have also shown that re-usable nappies do not cause nappy rash. To help prevent nappy rash, all types of nappies need to be changed frequently. |
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Until recently if you wanted to use washable nappies then you would be using Terry towelling squares which needed to be folded and pinned into shape. However nowadays there is a much wider choice of nappies to choose from.
Fitted reusables come in a variety of designs, sometimes as an all in one but otherwise as a two piece system. These are all shaped so don't require folding and have Velcro or popper fastenings which makes them quicker and easier to change. There are many different designs for you to choose from so it is worth looking on web sites, getting catalogues and talking to an agent before you make your choice. You can even hire nappies locally to try them out and see if they suit your lifestyle.
Terry and muslin squares involve folding but are the cheapest option and no longer need pins as there's a new gadget called a 'nappi nippa' that holds the nappy in place making changing the baby safer. Terry nappies do require waterproof overpants but it is worth looking at the pants designed to go with the fitted nappies as these are softer and more durable than the traditional PVC types. |
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More and more parents are making the switch to real nappies as they realise not only can they cut their family's waste in half but they can also save themselves hundreds of pounds in the process. There is a perception that real nappies are 'hard work' but they needn't be because today's modern re-usable nappies are well designed with Velcro or poppers for easy fastening. Soiled cotton nappies can be washed safely in a machine on 60c, there is no need to soak, or boil wash. Wet nappies can be washed along with your baby's clothes on 40c.
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| For general information and advice about using real nappies please visit www.realnappies-wales.org.uk | |||||
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Monmouthshire County Council offer up to £30 discount on re-usable nappies when purchased through our local independent nappy agents. |
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If you want to find out more about re-usable nappies then there are a number of people and places that you can get information.
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