Reusable cloth nappies

Benefits of cloth vs disposable nappies

  Cloth Disposable
Per child Approx. 20-30 5,000-6,000
Use Multiple children Single use
Cost per child $250 to $1000 $1,200 to $2,500
Resale Yes No
After use Wash, reuse Landfill 100+ years

Buying - cost and sources

Cloth nappies can cost anywhere between about $5 to $35 each.

Search online to see cloth nappy examples and brands. Price, quality and absorbency varies a lot. Most brands offer trial packs with a range of sizes. Large chain or department stores sell terry squares or pre-fold cloth nappies. 

You can also purchase second hand nappies. Be sure to strip and sanitise them before use.
 

Using - types and accessories

Some families choose to use cloth nappies part time, such as during the day.

'One Size Fits Most', all in-one (AIO) or all-in-two (AI2) nappies work like disposable nappies. They include absorbent and water-resistant covers and are fastened with buttons. Flats and prefolds need pins or plastic fasteners as well as waterproof covers.

Consider using cloth rather than disposable wipes. Get a wet bag to store used nappies when you are out and about. They are water and odour resistant. Wet bags are made with water-resistant PUL. 
 

Washing - how to

You will need a good quality detergent and an open aerated basket.

How to deal with a soiled cloth nappy:

  1. Rinse: Place solids in the toilet and rinse then store in an open aerated basket (dry pail) for up to 2 days
  2. Prewash: A short 30-minute warm/hot wash to remove most of the soiling. Store for 1-2 days in an open airy basket until you have enough for a full load
  3. Main wash: A long/heavy warm or hot wash. Fill load with small items (nothing bigger than an adult size t-shirt/pillowcase) for maximum agitation