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Nappies on test
What’s what with nappies?
There are two kinds of nappies: disposable and reusable. A
disposable nappy is basically a shaped pad filled with absorbent gel
and/or pulp, covered in a soft liner and enclosed in a waterproof
bottom-shaped casing – it is thrown away once soiled. A reusable nappy
is made of cloth which is either pre-shaped or folded, fitted with a
throwaway liner and encased in a reusable pair of waterproof baby pants.
The liner is thrown away but the cloth interior and pants can be machine
washed and reused over and over again.
The pros and cons: disposable nappies
Pros:
- Small, lightweight and very compact – easy to store and carry
out and about.
- No large initial, up-front expense – you spread your costs
over time.
- Convenient – no laundering required.
- High tech – nappy manufacturers are constantly developing
their designs and the materials they use in a bid to provide
maximum absorbency, to keep baby dry longer and prevent leakage.
Cons:
- You spread your cost but overall your expenses may be higher.
- High-tech solutions may involve the use of man-made products
which may not agree with your baby's skin. They may also generate
other broader health concerns.
- High tech solutions are often not bio-degradable and can have an
impact on the environment.
The pros and cons: cloth nappies
Pros:
- Nappies can be reused over and over again and can be passed down
to siblings.
- Some research suggests babies using cloth nappies may potty
train earlier because they are more aware of when they are wet.
- Cloth nappies are generally made of pure cotton – a natural
material, often unbleached.
- May work out cheaper over the long term.
- Many are now pre-shaped and fastened with poppers or velcro.
Cons:
- A large lump sum outlay is required to buy your first set of
nappies.
- Some added costs – using the washing machine, tumble dryer,
liners, nappy soaker etc.
- Labour intensive – you have to launder the nappies (or pay
someone to launder for you through a nappy service).
- May need to change more frequently.
- Bulkier on the baby, bulkier to store and carry about.
- Wet nappies have to be carried home – can’t just throw them
away wherever you are.
Test results in brief
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