Frequently asked questions

Do washable nappies leak?
No nappy can be guaranteed as leak proof. Babies are different shapes and sizes and so leaks can happen with whatever nappy you choose to use.

Here are a few common occurrences and tips to reduce leaking:

Remember to check around the legs and waist when putting on a nappy wrap to ensure that no fabric is sticking out otherwise it might “wick” onto the baby’s clothes. If you get leaks, this is very often the cause.
Some washing powders coat the wrap and make it less efficient. Try changing the washing powder.
It could mean that your baby is going through a period of heavy wetting (e.g. teething) and many require changing slightly more frequently. You could also try one of the booster pads currently on the market. The addition of one of these can make all the difference, especially at night.
With a small “runny” baby, try using a fleece liner instead of paper liners. The poo may adhere better than to paper.
If you are using barrier creams or any other creams on your baby’s bottom only use a very thin layer as this can coat the nappy (washable or otherwise) and make the nappy less efficient.
Don’t give up. Remember that many people have a few teething problems with disposables too. Most of them don’t stop using disposables when it has leaked or even when the contents of the nappy has exploded! They just change what they do or the type of nappy they use.

I’m planning to wash at home. How many nappies will I need to buy and what other equipment will I need?
As an indication, nappy companies usually recommend between 18 to 24 nappies and 3 to 5 covers (of the relevant size) but some babies “go” more than others so you’ll soon discover if you need to buy a few more.

You will need a large bucket with a lid to store your nappies until you’re ready to wash them and a reusable waterproof nappy bag to bring home any used nappies when you’re out and about.

Some nappy companies offer birth to potty packs, which include the basics of all the nappies and equipment you will need.

Washable nappies are bulkier than disposable nappies – will they restrict my baby’s movement or progress with walking?
There is no evidence to suggest that using cloth nappies restricts a baby’s movement or impedes a child’s development.

Is there an alternative to expensive throwaway wipes?
Invest in some flannels or cut up an old sheet or towel. When changing a dirty nappy you can wash your baby’s bottom with a wet flannel. These cloth wipes can be washed along with the nappies.

Will I have to change my baby more often if I choose washable nappies?
A washable nappy generally will be good for 3-4 hours. A washable nappy if well fitted is waterproof and shouldn’t leak. Indeed, it may be worth mentioning that anecdotally, it has been said that with disposables there may be the temptation to change the nappy less often because of the illusion of the baby being dry. However, sodium polyacrylate – the chemical used in disposable nappies to absorb the wee can do just that – it can absorb the wee but it can’t remove bacteria. The illusion of dryness could encourage the nappy (and it’s contents) to be left in place longer than advisable in conditions which are bacterially ideal for the growth of infection. A dry bottom is not the same as a clean bottom.

I can’t afford to buy a nappy system all in one go. How can I avoid paying so much?
Some companies offer easy payment terms or there may be second hand or loan schemes in your area.

See nappies as part of the essential baby equipment you will need along with pushchair, cot, etc. Buy a few each week whilst you are still pregnant to spread the cost. Or, suggest a few nappies as presents that friends or relatives would like to buy for you.

Remind yourself of the hundreds of pounds that you will be saving overall, while your baby is in nappies, compared to if you were paying for disposables every week.

What do I do when I go back to work? Will I be able to use my washable nappies at my child minders or nursery?
Most childcare providers are familiar with, and more than happy to use, washable nappies. Indeed, many nurseries in East Sussex and Brighton & Hove have already changed over to using washable nappies themselves! If your child carer is less familiar then give them a demonstration and leave them with a waterproof bag in which to store the dirty nappies for you ready to take home for washing.

Where can I buy washable nappies from?
Click here to go to suppliers page.

Is it a lot of hard work?
No, not at all. Nappies wash with all your other whites on a 60°C wash. You will need a bucket with a lid to store them in. They don’t need soaking, boiling, fancy folds or pins. They dry easily on the line, in an airing cupboard, over radiator racks or can be tumble dried.

Can I use washable nappies at night?
Absolutely. Use a booster pad and your baby will last through the night. Bear in mind that your baby is likely to be in the nappy for anything up to 12 hours; washable nappies offer natural fabrics against your baby’s skin.

How do I decide on the right nappy for my baby?
Buy a few different styles of nappy before deciding which one you like best. When you’re happy with your choice, order a full set.

You can mix and match nappies and covers until you find a combination that suits you and your baby.

The Real Nappy Network provides discounted starter packs so that you can try two different styles.

Can you buy washable nappies and incontinence wear for older children and adults?
There is also available a good range of washable nappies and incontinence wear available in sizes suitable for older children or for adults. Click here to visit the washable wear section of our site.

The nappy inner is wet!
This does bother some people and the thing that is most often quoted as the hardest thing to get used to if switching from paper to cloth nappies. Cloth nappies absorb wee without chemical gels therefore the material does get wet. This is normal and doesn’t do the baby any harm or cause nappy rash, as long as the nappy is changed on a regular basis. Wee is sterile when it comes out; it is when it comes into contact with poo that the bacteria are activated. Hence, change your baby immediately you are aware of a poo, whatever type of nappy your baby is wearing. Nearly always, familiarity with using cloth nappies sorts out this problem.

Can I put the liner down the loo?
Although some nappy liners are advertised as flushable, if they are insoluble they may cause blockages in the sewerage system. To avoid such blockages scrape any solids into the toilet and put the liner in the bin. Some liners are strong enough to be washed and used again especially if they only contain urine.