Reusable nappy types
All reusable nappies have things in common but differ in style, durability and cost.
What you need
- A nappy – the fabric choice depends on many factors.
- A waterproof layer – whether it is combined or separate is up to you.
- Liners – reusable or disposable, you need these so that your nappies will stand the test of time.
All-in-one nappies
This type of nappy has a waterproof cover, absorbent inner, breathable liner and an insert all built in. It usually comes in one size, designed to adjust to fit the baby from birth to potty with a series of poppers.
Advantages
It’s a simple, convenient design which comes in a range of colours and designs with a velcro fastening and poppers to grow with the baby. It’s slim fitting like a disposable.
Disadvantages
The waterproof layer will wear out faster than a separate waterproof wrap because the whole nappy is washed every time. There is only one layer of elastic around the leg so leakage is more likely for small newborns. They are more expensive than other nappy systems, starting around £15 each.
Two-part system
This usually consists of a sized, shaped absorbent nappy with a separate waterproof wrap on top. These nappies fasten with velcro, poppers or a nappy nippa (a modern, safer version of the safety pin) and are available in two sizes:
- Size 1 fits babies from birth up to 16 to 18lbs, depending on the nappy brand
- Size 2 fits babies from 16 to 18lb up until potty training at around 35lbs
Advantages
The wrap doesn’t need to be washed as often which means they can last for longer (often two to three children) and a separate waterproof layer means leakage is less likely. They can be sized to give a better fit for newly born babies.
Disadvantages
You will need two sets of nappies as your baby grows so this may be more costly than a simple birth-to-potty system. On some babies the two-part system can be quite a bulky fit, which may affect trouser sizing.
Pocket nappies
Like all-in-ones, these nappies have waterproof covers with a pouch which you can place an absorbent microfiber or bamboo insert.
Advantages
They are convenient and easy to use and because the pocket allows you to separate the absorbent insert, it dries that bit quicker. It’s sized for a better fit for newborns, and the wrap doesn’t need to be washed as often, so they can last for longer (often two to three children). A separate waterproof layer means leakage is less likely, while a separate insert for absorption dries more quickly and can adjust to babies needs.
Disadvantages
The waterproof layer will wear out faster than a separate waterproof wrap because the whole nappy is washed every time. There is only one layer of elastic around the leg so leakage is more likely for small newborns. They are more expensive than other nappy systems, starting around £15 each.
All-in-two nappies
These are a cross between all-in-ones and the two-part system. They have an absorbent inner pad which poppers onto the waterproof wrap to form a one-piece nappy. If the pad is wet, you simply put in a fresh one. If the wrap is wet, you can allow it to air dry and use it on the next nappy change. If it is soiled, then you wash it like an all-in-one.
Advantages
It’s a simple, convenient design which comes in a range of colours and designs with a velcro fastening and poppers to grow with the baby. It’s slim fitting like a disposable. They last longer as the waterproof wrap does not need to be washed every time. They can also be un-popped for ease of washing and drying.
Disadvantages
Sometimes you get leakage from the pads onto the wrap which means washing the whole nappy quite frequently.
Birth-to-potty nappies
A shaped nappy with a series of poppers which makes it adjustable to fit your growing baby. Some brands, for example, Motherease one size, require a separate waterproof nappy wrap over the top, while others, for example, Totsbots Easyfit, have the waterproof layer built in.
Advantages
Only one set needed, which should last from birth until your baby is potty trained.
Disadvantages
The fit may be compromised at the lowest and highest ends of the weight range, which may lead to leakage.
Flat nappies
The original cloth nappies, Terry squares and prefolds, can be folded in a variety of ways to fit any size of baby. Made from cotton or bamboo, they are fastened by a nappy nippa and require a waterproof nappy wrap over the top.
Advantages
Flat nappies can be bought in different sizes but many parents use the 60cm x 60cm size and adjust the fold to fit the baby. They are cost effective and quick drying.
Disadvantages
The folding can put some people off. Flat nappies do not have elastic around the legs and back, so for containment they may be less reliable.