Cloth Nappy Info

So many nappies to choose from? Here's some information that might make it a bit easier to choose....

Modern cloth nappies are made up of three layers:

 A waterproof shell - PUL (polyurethene laminate) or Wool (lanolised is best)

 An absorbent core - microfibre/hemp/bamboo/cotton are the commonly used fabrics

 Stay dry layer next to baby's skin- Microfleece/suedecloth/bamboo velour

Pocket Nappies

A Pocket nappy is made up of a waterproof layer of PUL (polyurethene Laminate) and a stay dry layer normally microfleece or suede cloth but natural inners are available for sensative skin. These are sewn together and a gap is left between them to form a pocket where an insert is placed inside- this is the absorbant part of the nappy. They are done up on baby using either snaps or velcro.

Fitteds

A Fitted nappy consists of all the layers of the nappy being absorbant and quite often a top soaker pad is added for extra absorbancy. Fitted Nappies require a waterproof cover made from PUL or wool. Fitteds are great for newborns and night-time and are extremely absorbant.

All In Ones

All in one nappies have all the layers of the nappy sewn together- or have snap in inserts like the Itti Bitti D'lish system. These are the most conveniant of MCN's and are a no fuss type of nappy.

Covers

Covers are required when you are using fitted nappies or prefolds to make them waterproof. You can get a variety of covers made from different fabrics. The most popular and watertight are PUL covers like the Busy behinds ones we stock but you can also use lanolised wool covers or polarfleece covers.

Washing made easy

Some parents choose to use a dry bucket or bag to store their soiled washable nappies. If a nappy is stained, then just treat the individual nappy with water (and a stain remover if you choose) and put it in the dry bucket or bag.

Washing in cold water and hanging in the sun on the clothesline whenever possible is a good disinfectant and stain remover. If you choose to soak, choose the soak cycle on your washing machine with a nappy soaking solution before your normal wash.

Modern washing machines work so well that many traditional methods of cleaning have become unnecessary.

Powders etc

As a general rule, choose a non-enzyme powder to wash your nappies. Use one half or less of the recommended amount of powder and rinse your nappies well. If you wish to use a soak, use an oxygen bleach preferably or a non-chlorine bleach (i.e. Napisan®) and rinse well. Soap flakes can be used, but be careful they don't coat the nappies and make them less absorbent...again rinse well. Do not use fabric softener on your nappies.

Baking soda makes a good natural soaker and washing powder booster, and a splash of vinegar in the final rinse cycle helps remove powder residue.