Reusable Nappies
These are nappies that you can wash and reuse. Different types of reusable nappies are in the market. The main ones include:
- All-in-ones – They are cleaned, dried, and put in one piece. They are easy to use but take a longer time to dry.
- Pocket nappies – They basically have a waterproof outer and a fleece or suede cloth liner to keep your baby dry.
- Pre-folds – They are often available in two or more sizes. They are basically flat with 3 sections. The middle section has more cotton layers to enhance absorption.
Pros
- They are relatively cheap to use
- They are less likely to leak
- They last longer
- They are environmental friendly
Cons
- They require water, energy, and detergents for continual use
- Difficult for holiday or visits
- They may take a long time to dry
- They are relatively more difficult to use
- They need proper cleaning to avoid nappy rash
Disposable Nappies
From their name, disposable nappies are made to be used and then thrown away. They generally entail:
- A plastic outer layer
- A layer of super-absorbent chemicals
- An inner liner
Pros
- They are convenient to use.
- They are suitable for quick changes
- They come in various packages with a range of ages
- They can come as hypoallergenic, which enhances your baby’s safety
Cons
- They are more costly in the long run
- They can cause skin rashes
- They can make it difficult to toilet train your child
- Their disposal adds to tonnes of landfill
- You can learn more about how to use the different types of nappies on How to Change a Nappy
Choosing the Best Nappy for Your Baby
The type of nappy you use can be determined by your personal preferences. You may even want to use a combination of different kinds of nappies. For instance, you may wish to use reusable nappies while at home and disposable ones when you’re on a visit. Factors that may affect your preference include:
- Price
- Environmental factors
- Convenience
Disclaimers:
Please note that development differs from one child to another.
Content intended for educational purposes only, and not a substitute for medical advice from your doctor.
Be careful when using any products mentioned on this website. We hold no regulations for such products or their providers.
Last reviewed March 2019
Sources: chopsybaby, funkymonkeypants, raisingchildren