Modern cloth nappies unwrapped

Forget the terry towelling squares of yesteryear, modern cloth nappies are smart, trim, funky and nice for your baby’s bum because they are made of natural, breathable, materials. They are wooing parents back to nappy basics by offering a viable alternative to disposables.

Modern cloth nappies are shaped and designed like a disposable nappy with similar padding, adjustable waist bands and gathered legs. It’s just that you pop them in the wash instead of chucking them in the bin.

Modern cloth nappies come in 3 types.

The All In One (AIO) is a fitted nappy which has all the absorbent padding sewn into the nappy. It is easier to use and less fiddly but is bulkier, takes longer to dry and is not as flexible in terms of its use.

The All In Two or Snap In One (SIO) is a fitted nappy that has some padding sewn into the nappy and the ability for other layers (most frequently called boosters or wetting pads) to be added when needed i.e. during the night. You can tailor it to suit your needs and in some cases your child’s gender. An SIO dries quicker than an AIO because you take it apart for washing but it's fiddlier to assemble when you are changing nappies.

The pocket nappy is a fitted nappy with no sewn in padding. Rather it has a pocket for you to slide in any number or type of booster/s you want to use. This is the quickest drying because you take it completely apart to wash. Also you can make it as bulky or slim as you need it. It is however the most fiddly to use.

To line or not to line

Adding a liner between your cloth nappy and your baby isn’t essential but it can be useful, especially in sticky (stinky) situations. Liners come in 2 styles; reusable and disposable (flushable). Using a disposable liner eliminates some odour between washes and makes for easier maintenance in general.

Water proofing

I found it odd that some modern cloth nappies weren’t waterproof but the reason why makes sense; you can’t always put a plastic coated nappy in the dryer. Some waterproof nappies can go in the dryer but you should check the instructions first.

Fastening

Generally modern cloth nappies come with studs or Velcro tabs. It doesn’t really matter which option you choose as long as they work! A smart toddler can work out how to undo either; studs require a little more dexterity but they will get there in the end if they really want to.

Sizing

Sizing for modern cloth nappies really depends on the style and brand. Some nappies can be a one size fits all which is a great budget buster, however, if you think of the size difference between a newborn and a toddler’s bum, it’s pretty big. Choosing a brand that comes in 2, 3 or even 4 sizes is likely to provide a more consistent, snugger fit but it will cost each time your baby moves into a bigger size.

Types of fabric

The vast majority of fabrics used to make modern cloth nappies are chosen for both their absorbency and breathability. Cotton, bamboo and hemp are popular with both bamboo and hemp being favoured for their natural anti-bacterial properties and strength.

Care
The majority of modern cloth nappies can go in your washing machine on a cold cycle and washed with your normal detergent. Many can also be dried in the dryer.

There are some specialised detergents and bleaches available but most cloth nappy advocates say they are not a necessity, particularly if you are using disposable liners.

So, you’re sold on modern cloth nappies, what do you need to start?

For a newborn the general consensus is to start with 6 nappies of the style that suits your lifestyle best. You may find you need more with the frequent changing but you can always purchase them as you find you need them.

You’ll also need a large bucket with a secure lid. Most parents tend to use a dry bucket rather than a ‘wet’ bucket (full of water), particularly if they are using disposable liners. Wet buckets are a drowning hazard unless kept very secure.

Finally you’ll need a waterproof wet pack for when you are out and about. This is to store your soiled nappies in.