Reusable Nappies

The waste that we generate represents one of the major environmental challenges facing Britain today. Disposable nappies are responsible for 4% of household waste in the UK, where around 8 million disposable nappies are thrown away every year. In households with one baby, disposable nappies often make up 50% of the waste.

Studies estimate that disposable nappies take at least 200 years to decompose. This means that every disposable nappy sent to landfill is still sitting there. The plastic parts of the nappy may sit there indefinitely.

One of the environmental concerns with landfill is the release of methane, a major green house gas, from the decomposition of biodegradable waste.

10 reasons to use Real Nappies

1. Over a third of a million disposable nappies are buried in Essex landfill sites everyday!
2. No one knows how long it takes for the plastic parts of a disposable nappy to decompose. Estimations of a few hundred years have been suggested, which means the first ever disposable nappy made is still lying around somewhere.
3. Parents can save £500 to £1250 by using a washable nappy system.
4. A babies disposable nappy waste in one year is enough to fill 40 plastic bags.
5. Disposable nappies contain chemicals and gels that are not subject to government scrutiny or testing.
6. Nappy Laundering services are cheap and convenient for parents.
7. Real Nappies are breathable due to the natural materials used to make them.
8. Real Nappies can be used over several children.
9. Bulk nappy waste from hospitals and clinics are often incinerated.
10. Both Natural Nappies (UK) Ltd and Little Eco provide new parents with a supply of different varieties of washable nappies, liners, wraps and information regarding its use and care.

New parents and their babies can do their bit to reduce waste by choosing real cotton nappies, also known as Washable or Real Nappies, in preference to disposable nappies. A disposable nappy requires 3.5 times more energy to produce than a washable nappy. They also require 2.5 times more water and at least 8 times more non-renewable materials. These figures do not include the impact caused by disposal.

In order to maximise the benefits of using reusable nappies, it is recommended to:

• Always wash full loads,
• Use a low energy rated washing machine wherever possible,
• Wash at a temperature of 60'c
• Allow nappies to dry naturally wherever possible.

For further information regarding reusable nappies - such as how to choose the right nappy, options for laundering services, and companies which stock reusable nappies - please see the Useful Websites on the right hand side of this page.