Reusable nappies

All-in-one reusable nappies have layers which are permanently attached (the waterproof layer and the absorbent layer).

These can be the simplest to use because the entire nappy can be washed. So there's no different layers to remove, like with other types of reusable nappies.

These are the most similar to disposable nappies (except you don't throw them away!).

All-in-two reusable nappies have a waterproof cover, but the absorbent layer inside can detach. This means the cover can sometimes be reused before washing.

Pocket nappies have a waterproof cover and a pocket section to add additional absorbent inserts. This means the insert needs to be removed (but still washed, as a separate item with the rest of the nappy).

The main benefit is that they don’t take as long to dry.

Fitted nappies are made entirely of an absorbent material, so you just need to add extra absorbent layers (if you need to) and a waterproof layer over the top.

Flat nappies feature flat pieces of absorbent material that are folded and fastened with a nappy fastener or safety pins.

There are different ways you can fold flat nappies, but they are very affordable and quick drying.

Flat nappies need a waterproof cover over the top.

Although there will be an initial estimated outlay of £150 to £400 for reusable nappies, they will save you thousands in the long run. Even considering the additional costs for washing.

With up to 5,000 nappy changes up until potty training, that's a lot of money spent on disposables.

A lot of childcare businesses are switching to reusable nappies and wipes, because the potential money-saving is even greater for them, and in multiple-child families.

The actual amount you could save depends on many factors including the:

• brands you use
• way you purchase nappies

Non-biodegradable disposable nappies would take approximately 500 years to degrade in a landfill site. They never disappear, but break down into micro plastics.

The production and transport of them also has a large carbon footprint.

Even with the impact of using your washing machine more, reusable nappies can be 40% better for the environment, as explained in an Environment Agency report from 2008.

Many areas in Bucks now have a restriction on how much general rubbish you can place out for collection, and reducing the number of disposable nappies you use will help reduce your waste.

It may not be considered an environmental benefit, but taking the piles of dirty nappies out of your fortnightly collected bin (which heats up in summer) is also much kinder on your nose!

Disposable nappies are made from plastics, paper pulp, absorbent chemicals and glues which are often considered the cause of nappy rashes.

Some very rudimentary research has indicated that the sale of nappy cream has increased at the same rate as the sales for disposable nappies.

Many families choosing cloth claim to only need these creams during teething or periods of illness. 

Reusable nappies can be made from a number of natural and manmade fabrics including cotton, bamboo, hemp and microfiber.

Reusable nappies are fitted to the child and therefore explosive and leaky nappies become a thing of the past.

Reusable nappies, especially the older chunkier styles, are also a good support for your growing child’s hips as they support a deeper ball and socket position - treatment for hip dysplasia can be supported with the use of cloth nappies for this reason. Some also find comfort in the additional support and padding when babies start to walk, falling on their bottom multiple times must feel better with some padding!

Cloth-bottomed babies often potty train earlier due to being able to feel when they are wet and making the connection between feeling wet and their bladder.

It varies a lot depending on the child, but on average children in reusable nappies train 6 months earlier than children in disposables.

Many reusable nappies have colourful designs and feature popular characters like Bluey. They can become a part of a child’s wardrobe as well as being a practical item.

Some prints have become so popular that they are collectors’ items!