Why use real nappies?

With a wide range of easy-to-use designs on the market, real nappies have come a long way from the leaky and time-consuming things of the past. They come in all sorts of shapes and styles to suit every baby and every budget.

Using real nappies could save you money in the long run, particularly if you use the same sets for second or third babies. You’ll also contribute less to landfill, although it’s worth considering how much energy you'll use in washing and drying cycles.

What are the different types?

Shaped nappies

Very easy to use, these are shaped just like disposables and fasten with Velcro or poppers. They are easy to wash and some are available in quick-drying fabrics. Many have a ‘pocket system’, with a space between the outer and inner layers, where inserts or booster pads can be added to increase absorbency, and removed for easier washing and drying.

They are used with a waterproof wrap to prevent leaks and many come in bright colours or fun patterns. Some can be adjusted for use right through from birth to potty, or you can choose different sizes to fit your growing baby. They’ll set you back around £250-£315 for enough to use full time.

All-in-ones

Exactly the same as shaped nappies, but without the need for a waterproof wrap, convenient all-in-ones come with a waterproof outer layer and a soft inner layer. These can take longer to dry but many also come with a pocket system, or with a thick, absorbent inner section that can be unfolded to speed up drying.

Pocket all-in-ones can be quite expensive if you go for multiple sizes, but the cost of birth-to-potty sets are comparable to other real nappy systems. Cost £250-£700.

Flat nappies

These are pieces of absorbent fabric, secured with a ‘Nappy Nippa’ (for a safer alternative to pins). They are worn under waterproof wraps or pants and are very quick to wash and dry. The cheapest option at around £100-£350.

• Shaped flat nappies: shaped like a disposable with extra fabric, which folds into the centre to increase absorbency
• Pre-folds: pre-folded into a rectangle
• Terry squares: squares of fabric, which are then folded and fastened. These can require a bit of practice to perfect the folding technique.

What are they made from?

Organic cotton is soft, absorbent and environmentally friendly.

Bamboo fabric is anti-bacterial, very soft, even kinder to the environment and about 40% more absorbent, but it can take a while to dry.

Microfibre is a man-made fibre used for boosters and inserts. It is extremely absorbent and quick-drying.

Fleece is a synthetic fabric that is super soft, keeps wetness away from baby’s skin and is virtually stain-proof.

PUL (Polyurethane) is completely waterproof and used for waterproof wraps or as a layer inside a pocket nappy.