how many re usable nappies do i need?

[evanshayleyleanne]

i'm a first timer, due in july, trying to put together a starter pack. all the nappy companies contradict one another in how many i'll really need, with suggestions ranging from just 8 to 30 nappies to start?
realistically how many are needed?

Well 8 sounds very light, and 30 sounds way too much Newborns generally go through about 8-10 changes a day, so about 20-24 nappies should do it, assuming you're able to keep on top of the washing in the early days. Somewhere around 3-6 months babies start going a bit less often and get down to around 6 changes a day, at which point you need less. This also means if you get a sized system (where you need a bigger set of nappies later on) you probably won't need as many nappies in the second size as you had in the first size. There is some useful information on www.wen.org.uk about how many you'll need etc, go into their nappy section. WEN is the Women's Environmental Network, a charity, so they have no vested interest in what you decide to get

A few tips, contact your local council's waste dept and see if they offer any incentives or cashback for choosing washable nappies. Avoid birth to potty packs, they only save you money if you actually get along with the nappies. Otherwise they turn into an expensive mistake. Look for a nappy trial scheme which allows you to BORROW some nappies. Many companies will sell you a nappy trial kit - but this is in reality a starter set as you cannot usually return it after use! But there are a few companies who will let you try before you buy, some have set kits and others let you choose what you want. You can locate these easily on Google. Find out if there is a Real Nappy Network in your area, they may operate a loan scheme, and they may also be doing something for Real Nappy Week later this month where you could go and see some of the nappies you've heard about.

I would generally suggest going with about 20 nappies (you can always get a few extra if you need them) and about 5 wraps to start with, you'll need more wraps as your baby grows (nobody has yet invented a birth to potty wrap). You'll also need liners, and a bucket of some kind to store them in until you wash.