November 2004: The latest reusable nappy reviews are here

Below we list the nappies that scored highest amongst mumsnet members when they were rated on four different criteria. The final score isn't everything, however. It's always worth looking at the nutshell comments to see what our members had to say. To see the scores for each category, click on the nappy names listed below. And remember: if you don't agree with our verdict or can't find your favourite brand rated, you can help to make this guide more thorough and accurate by sending a review

Beginner's guide to buying nappies

Effectiveness
The absorbency of a nappy certainly varies from brand to brand so it's worth a) shopping around and b) taking a look at the nutshell comments in our survey if your child is a champion wee-er. The big test for nappies is obviously overnight - when your child will be wearing the same nappy for up to 12 hours. You may even decide to go with a different (perhaps more economical) brand in daytime and a super-absorbant one at night.

Comfort
Some nappies appear incredibly bulky and heavy even before they have been soiled, if it worries you there are certainly some that are more slim-line than others, so again, shop around. Another thing to look out for is that your baby may be more prone to nappy-rash by wearing a certain brand of nappy. A good barrier cream can help with this. Beware narrow sticky tabs that can stick/ cut into your baby's skin.

Fit
Again, brands of disposable nappies vary tremendously in shape. Some are narrower - if your baby's stocky and plump you'll find it will be tight round the waist and hanging down to the knees when full. Judging from our survey some also suited boys better than girls, so try out a few before you buy the super-size economy box. And remember what's called a junior by one brand could well equate to a maxi in another, so if you're switching brands don't bulk buy until you're sure you've found the right size. And even then don't go too mad as little bottoms grow fast - particularly in the first few weeks - you may be left with scores of nappies that only fit your child's teddy.

What the mumsnet members said - a sprinkling of the more pertinent comments about choosing a nappy from some of our members:

"If it looks and feels really plasticy, chances are it is and if your baby's bottom can't breathe properly they're much more likely to get nappy rash."

"For my two I just found Huggies a much better fit than Pampers. They are short, fatties rather than long skinnies - Pampers always seemed too tight round the waist and too long in the leg."

"Don't skimp on nappies - if they don't do the job you'll end up changing them more regularly, spending more on barrier cream and your baby might well end up very sore."

"Beware different sizes amongst the different brands. I bought a different brand on holiday because it was all they had in the shops and they were much too small."

"We tried to be green and buy an environmentally-friendly disposable but we ended changing them so frequently I'm sure this negated the environmental benefits"

October, 2004