Why use real nappies
Nearly three billion nappies are thrown away in the UK every
year. Most (90%) end up in landfill - that’s nearly eight
million nappies a day! One baby will use a tonne of nappies each
year and will be in nappies for an average of two-and-a-half years
so in households with a baby, nappies make up about 50% of your
rubbish.
We don't know exactly how long it takes for the plastics in
disposable nappies to decompose, but it could easily take hundreds
of years and with nappy disposal costs to each local authority
running into hundreds of thousands of pounds per year it is not
surprising that nappy schemes now play a key role in local
authorities' waste strategies. Landfill space is running out and
the European Landfill Directive and national government policies
are driving local authorities to reduce the amount of municipal
waste sent to landfill. Waste prevention at source is the most
effective way of reducing our rubbish and using washable nappies is
a great example of this. Every cloth nappy that you use is one less
disposable going to landfill.
Cost
Home laundered nappies could save parents at least £500 on
the cost of keeping a baby in nappies. (Source: Women’s
Environmental Network) Depending on which system you choose
you could save even more and if you re-use them on your next child
or sell them on you will save even more!
Environmental Impact
All nappies have an environmental impact. Using real nappies
reduces the amount of waste sent to landfill but it is important to
adopt a sensible washing routine to minimise their impact further
still. By doing this, real nappies can save as much as 40% on
carbon emissions compared to disposable nappies. (Source:
Women’s Environmental Network)
Ten top tips to help the environment:
- Use an energy efficient washing machine
- Wash soiled nappies at no more than 60oC
- Wash wet nappies and waterproof wraps at lower temperatures
along with the rest of your laundry
- Avoid tumble drying – hang nappies out to dry or use an
airer
- Avoid soaking – store nappies dry in a lidded bucket
- Avoid using unnecessary chemicals such as conditioners and
sanitizers
- Use eco-detergent
- Never iron nappies or wraps
Easy to use
These days nappies are really easy to use and come in a wide
variety of styles, fabrics and fastenings. Gone are the days
of soaking and boil washing and soft, breathable outers have
replaced the nasty old fashioned plastic pants. You
don’t even have to learn to fold them as modern real nappies
are shaped to fit. Use liners to make disposing of the poo
easier – choose flushable paper ones or reusable liners made
from fleece.
