Reusable nappies. A terrifying prospect!

[everythinghippie29]

I was considering using reusable nappies in an attempt to save money and be a little more environmentally conscious. I've just been gifted a huge bag of reusable nappies, there are lots of waterproof covers and about 20+ actual nappies (some in size 1 and some in size 2) as well as nappy liners and 4-5 Snappi closers.

I've decided immediately after the birth we will probably use disposables for the first few months until things settle and we get to know each other better!

I'm still feeling a little overwhelmed of how to get started however and was wondering if anyone had any advice on if I need anything more than I already have or if anyone has any links to good resources that might help.

Thank you in advance.

Just a quick message before I go to bed. Will write more tomorrow.
Check out the nappy lady website (UK). If you live in the south I recommend a demo at her place in Farnham too. V v v. Good. Tells you how it all works. We ahve been v pleased with her advice.

We've used washables for all three - the same set - and have saved an absolute fortune.

I would agree that it's sensible to start on disposables when they're newborn - nappy changes can be a real trial at that point and you want to make them as quick as possible! Also, unless, you have a giant baby the washables can swamp them in the first month or so.

But I would think you could start trying out the washables after a month - have a few goes with a doll first and get the hang of them. The liners are essential to catch poo - they're the bit that you throw away - but basically you lay out a wrap, lay out the nappy on top, put a liner on that and then put the baby on top and do it up! If you look on YouTube you will almost certainly find demonstration videos for the brand(s) of washables that you have. It's really not a big deal, though I agree when you've never tried them it's daunting. You may find that your local council has resources too - councils are VERY keen on washables because nappies take up such a colossal space in landfill and it's the council (and hence us...) who pays for it.

We used them once we got back from hospital and DD has been in them full time since (9 months). Once you get your head around the options it's not that hard. I don't use them to be smug about the environment (which about of people think I do!) I actually prefer them. Unlike disposibles they hold in explosive poo. So I have never had an incident out and about. And they save me a fortune. And they look so much prettier!

Also have a look on your local council website many give you cash back as an incentive

they are honestly not as terrifying as you think. it seems daunting, but imo that is mostly because it is 'different' and you haven't seen as many out and about. if the supermarket shelves were full of racks of reusable nappies, it would seem more normal, and just one of those htings to get on with, iyswim?

I have used reusables with all 3 of mine. the first couple of weeks I don't bother. it's easier to use disposables in hospital, and also the first few days with meconium poo etc are not pleasant, so binning it is the best way!

but do take the plunge and give it a go. it's not an irreversible decision. give it a try for a couple of weeks, and see how it goes. once you get a system going (and sounds as though you have a nice lot of nappies to give it a go with) it's easy as anything.

and cloth nappies are a LOT more forgiving than disposable, ime. I've hardly ever had a leaky cloth nappy, and even fewer poo explosions. but disposables are far less reliable!

Thank you everyone! Didn't even think about YouTube tutorials. Great idea.

I'll def give it a go, hopefully we will get into the swing of things. Thanks again.

I second what the others say - use disposables for the first few weeks when you are finding your feet as a new mum and baby is like a poo machine but give reuseables nappies a try when you can.
Check out the nappy lady here;
www.thenappylady.co.uk/

She even does trial kits (doesn't sound like you need that tho). She has demo videos, reviews and the liners etc. she will also give you advice by email or phone.

We have found reuseables perfect for us. Only 2 more loads of washing a week generally. I also hate the smell of most disposables - the chemicals really get up my nose, whereas I don't get that with our reuseables. Just remember you don't need any where near the amount of washing powder you normally use (the nappy lady advised us on that).

Good luck

Oh, and line-dry where you can - sunlight gets rid of any stains!

We used disposables for first couple months then onto reusables. We are only using by day though as wee one still eating a lot in night so weeing a lot still.

We've had no bother with bum rashes or anything. The washing has been fine to be honest. I always do a cold rinse first and then a cotton wash. You only need a tiny bit of powder and no softener. You may want to strip wash them before using - google for instructions - basically multiple washes to remove any build of up washing powder, bum cream etc.

You can order flushable liners on amazon and they come pretty quickly. I only used liners once poo was solid, when it was sludge the liner didn't seem to make much difference.

Second advice about sun - amazing for bleaching stains. When I can't get washing out (on 2nd floor) I put nappies on clothes horse by window and the sun bleaching still works.

Good luck!