Reusable Eco Nappies, better choice for Baby and the Planet
When it comes to nappies, most people often reach for the disposable option because of their convenience, range of size options and ease of disposal.
However, these necessary items pose a huge problem for the environment. Destined for landfill, disposable nappies contain toxic chemicals that eventually leach into the environment, while the plastics used to construct each nappy are estimated to take up to 500 years to break down.
Even biodegradable disposable nappies end up in the same place as regular nappies, with their ‘biodegradable’ status often nothing more than a marketing strategy. Regrettably, there is no internationally agreed upon definition for ‘biodegradable’ and when tested these nappies can take years to degrade, often leaving behind a residue that has negative consequences for the environment.
So how are eco nappies different? There are many misconceptions around their usefulness in the world of baby nappies. Let’s find out more about their differences.
The process of changing an eco nappy differs little from that of changing a disposable nappy.
While it might seem that eco nappies take more work, the truth is that they are used very similarly to disposable nappies, with the exception that they are not disposed of once soiled.
The extra step of washing and drying the nappies is where the main difference comes in.
Now this myth has no truth to it whatsoever! Modern cloth nappies have been expertly designed to prevent leaks, so it is unlikely that you will have to worry about an entire baby outfit change because of a leaky nappy. They are designed to grow with your baby by way of adjustable stud closures and the soft elastic around the leg openings means that it is easy to achieve a secure fit.
Another great feature is that inserts can be added to modern cloth nappies to increase their absorbency. This is not possible with disposable nappies. So if you need a nappy to go the distance, such as a long overnight stretch, eco nappies will help your baby stay dry and sleep without disturbance.
Here’s another myth that needs busting! Eco nappies are made from organic, moisture-wicking fibres that draw moisture away from the skin, often helping to prevent rashes and irritations. If you are looking for a cause of nappy rash, disposable nappies might be a good place to start. Due to their plastic content, disposable nappies often trap liquids, causing an optimal environment for bacterial growth.
Bamboo Grove modern cloth nappies are made from natural, hypoallergenic fabrics that reduce the risk of nappy rash occurring. Add to this the fact that these natural fibres are not full of toxic chemicals, so sensitive skin is not exposed and further irritated by harmful toxins so often found in disposable nappies.
It’s true that the initial startup costs for a full-time set of eco nappies is usually more expensive than a few months’ supply of disposable nappies. However, it’s important to remember that the ongoing cost of disposable nappies far outweighs this initial investment.
One of the perks of Bamboo Grove’s eco nappies is that they adjust as your baby grows. The double row of snap clips ensures the nappy is fastened correctly to prevent any leaks. Our eco nappies can be worn from birth right through until the baby is ready to toilet train, saving you money over the long-term.
Another point to consider is that some councils are offering reusable rebates to residents who are keen to use reusable products. These incentives offer residents the opportunity to claim back some of the cost of their eco nappy investment.
Now that we’ve dispelled the above myths, it should come as no surprise that eco nappies present no added difficulty when doing nappy changes in public. We only recommend that you keep a wet bag or two with you, so that you can safely store the soiled nappies until you get home.
Rules are made to be bent, aren’t they? Some families find that a combination of disposable nappies and eco-friendly nappies works well for when you are out and about in public, like holidays, for example. Road trips can be tricky to negotiate, so it’s often a better option to have the flexibility of a few disposable nappies at hand. Mum life is hard enough, so we also think there is amazing merit in doing what is easiest for you.
When it comes to eco-friendly baby products, modern cloth nappies often come to mind. But there are a range of other eco-friendly options that you can choose from when caring for your baby.
Reusable Cloth Nappies
Eco Friendly Swim Nappies
One of the joys of raising your baby lies in teaching them how to swim. However, swim nappies are often an added expense that parents choose to forego, especially when they are single-use only and present frustrations when they are not easy to obtain. With such a small window of opportunity between naps, you certainly don’t want to waste precious swim time with a trip to the supermarket to first stock up on swim nappies.
Enter eco-friendly swim nappies. Like the regular cloth nappies, they are also adjustable so that your baby can use them as they grow. They will suit newborns through to toddlerhood. The adjustable snap clips also allow for easy nappy changing when bubs has pooped while in the pool. Simply unclip the nappy for easy removal.
This is where a second wet bag comes in handy. While you will store soiled swim nappies in one, you can use the second one to store all the wet swimwear for the trip home.
Eco Friendly Training Pants
Training pants are another eco-friendly option which are great for parents who are helping their child graduate from nappies to underwear. For some parents, it’s easy enough to opt to go straight to undies, with little fuss. But others may prefer to have a risk-free toilet training journey and so training pants are a great alternative.
Our training pants are a great peace-of-mind to parents, especially as the risk of accidents occurring is quite high during the toilet-training phase. And let’s be honest, no one really wants to have to risk the furniture, car seats or bedding from being stained or soiled from a child’s mis-timed need for the toilet. Saving your sanity is also one of the benefits!
In practice, these training pants behave just like regular undies. Toddlers are able to easily pull them up and down, and this helps with developing their independence. Unlike cloth nappies, training pants do give an uncomfortable wet sensation if your child does happen to forget they are not wearing a nappy. This is a design feature that encourages toddlers to react a little bit sooner and run a little bit faster next time they feel the need to go.
They’re available in a wide range of fun colours and prints, so why not let your toddler choose their favourite ‘first’ pair of undies for this milestone stage.
What works best for you
At Bamboo Grove Co, we believe that raising your baby shouldn't have to cost the earth. There are a range of eco-friendly products with wallet-friendly prices, so you can do your best to keep your family and the planet just that little bit healthier.
But, remember, it’s also important to be kind to yourself. Sometimes disposable nappies will be the most convenient option—so we urge you to go ahead and use them without any guilt.
Remember that mum life is both rewarding and hard sometimes, but showing up and doing your best is what counts at the end of the day.