How to use reusable nappies?

We need to reimagine the way we think about organic, sustainable baby essentials. And one of the keys is eliminating the use of disposable nappies in the long run. 

On average, a baby will go through around 2500 disposable nappies in their first year of life! These disposable nappies can sit in landfill for up to 150 years before they break down. Reusable nappies can be a great option both for the environment and your lifestyle, as they can be reused over and over instead of being disposed of. 

For those who are new to using reusable nappies, looking to switch from disposable to reusable, or simply adding them into your current nappy rotation, Purebaby has made it easy to determine how many you will need, and how to care for your reusable cloth nappies. 

How to use reusable cloth nappies

It can be difficult to first work out how a reusable nappy outer and pads work, especially if transitioning from disposable nappies. 

To put a reusable cloth nappy on your little one, simply follow these steps:

1. Insert one of the day-time or night-time nappy pads inside the nappy.

2. Secure the nappy on your little one using the snap fastenings.

3. Ensure that the nappy is snug enough to prevent leakages, but not too tight. 

Our Purebaby reusable nappy pants have adjustable sizing and multiple snap fastenings, meaning they fit multiple sizes. Our nappies also feature double elasticated legs and a waterproof PU coated terry towelling inner layer to prevent leakages, with the softest, certified organic cotton outer, making them much softer and gentle on your baby's skin.

How to clean your reusable nappies

Washing instructions are there to help ensure your reusable nappies maintain their cleanliness and longevity of use. 

When changing your baby, the nappy pads or liner should catch most of the waste. You can remove any solids by simply stretching the pad over a toilet bowl and removing any excess build up on the pad. Replace the pad and nappy pant to change the baby.

Note: If the nappy pant isn’t soiled when changing, place a clean nappy pad inside the same outer and change the baby as normal. 

If you do not intend to wash the solid nappy pads/pant on the same day, rinse the nappies ensuring you thoroughly wring out excess water and store in a dedicated dry-pail that allows airflow, whilst awaiting washing. It is recommended that washing is done within 1-2 days. 

Washing your reusable nappies: 

First wash - we recommend washing your nappies twice. The first wash (or pre-wash) should be in water that is 40-60 degrees celsius and using washing detergent. Running a pre-wash assists in flushing away urine and any remaining solids prior to the main wash. This can be a shorter cycle than the main wash, around 30 minutes. 

Second wash - using your machines longest wash cycle (approx. 2+ hours), wash your nappies and pads in water that is 40-60 degrees celsius, using washing detergent. 

Drying - there are two options when drying your nappies; line drying or tumble drying. Line drying is recommended over tumble drying as this will help to ensure longevity and assist with stain removal. Tumble drying is a quicker way to dry your nappies, so if you do decide to tumble dry, you can do so on a low-heat setting. 

NOTE: Cotton reaches best absorbency after a few washes. Due to this, we recommend you pre-wash your nappy pads a few times before use.

Tips when washing your reusable nappies:

• Do not use fabric softener

• We do not recommend soaking the nappies prior to washing, ensure you thoroughly wring out nappies of excess water, awaiting wash day

• Wash your pads and nappies in a mesh bag to prevent possible machine damage and pads getting lost in machine filters

• We do not recommend washing nappies or pads with other items of clothing

 *These washing instructions are a guide, and may differ depending on your washing machine or detergent.

Source: Content, Videos & Information from Purebaby.