How to Cloth Nappy
Where do I start?
If you are new to cloth nappies or MCN (Modern Cloth Nappies) as they’re commonly called and are not sure where to start - the good news is that cloth nappies have been around for a long time. So this is nothing new! Which means there are a TONNE of great resources and Facebook discussion groups out there! They cover off all sorts of topics from what laundry powder to use, to the different types of cloth nappies available, how to look after them, what materials have the best absorbency etc. Here are some things to think about to get you started...
What type of cloth nappies do you sell?
We sell OSFM (One Size Fits Most) pocket nappies. This means there is an outer shell with a pocket where you stuff an insert in. The inserts we sell to go with the shells, are made of microfiber (3 layers) or bamboo (4 layers). There are domes (or snaps) on the front so you can adjust the sizing - this is the One Size Fits Most part. They fit babies from around 4kgs up to toddlers (Depending how chunky their little legs get!).
I'm not sure if I want to go full time or part time - how many will I need? The important thing is to take it step by step so you don't get overwhelmed and put cloth nappies in the too hard basket! And don't feel pressured! Remember, if you are using just one cloth nappy a day, you are saving 365 disposables from going into the land fill every year! If you are planning on only using cloth nappies part time, you'll need around 8-10 nappies. If you are going full time and don't want to be washing every day, we recommend 22-26 nappies depending on how often you will be washing! This way you will always have clean nappies on hand and can avoid using a dryer. But this can vary depending on how many kids you are using them on, how often your baby/toddler needs changing and how often you will wash them. At the end of the day, it's up to you!
How do I know my baby will fit these? Our nappies are OSFM (One Size Fits Most) which means they are likely to fit from newborn to toddler! We say around 4kgs right up to around 15kgs. With adjustable domes, they grow with your baby! Yeap, that is until they are potty trained! AWESOMMMEEE!
What about when I am out? Check out our wet bags! All waterproof PUL with a dry pocket to make it convenient to use cloth nappies when out and about exploring our beautiful planet!
When you first get your nappies, give them a wash! This will remove any residue from the manufacturer and help those inserts with absorbency!
1. Once the nappy has been soiled, and your not planning a wash, scrape any solids off into the toilet, remove inserts and do a pre-wash. Store in a breathable basket (dry pail) - something with air flow! I promise you it won't smell! I use a silicone spatula, silicone scrubber and wire basket to complete this step! I do my pre-wash in the afternoon/evenings because his number two time usually happens in the morning!
2. After 2-3 days (I wouldn't tend to go any longer) put everything in a warm/hot wash (40-60°C) in washing machine. Do not use any fabric softeners!
3. Line dry in fabulous sunshine and fresh air!
Its as simple as that! Wear, wash, dry - repeat!
Extra tips!
- Natural fiber such as bamboo inserts tend to work better than microfiber. The upside is that they hold the liquid really well! I use a combination of both on my boy, but do prefer bamboo! (I'm currently trialing hemp and bamboo cotton too!). In saying that, microfiber definitely has it's place.
- The shell/pocket usually dries before the inserts (The downside is that natural fiber inserts hold liquid so well, where as the microfiber dry fast)
- Always have more inserts than shell's so you are never caught out!
- Sunshine seriously does wonders for those pesky yellow new born poo stains! Only on the outer layers however, so you really want to make sure those inserts are fully clean as they are multi layered. However if you have a good washing routine, they shouldn’t stain.
- Try to avoid using the dryer - you can use it, but keep it to a minimum especially with the shells/pockets being made of PUL.
- Check out the Facebook group ‘Clean Cloth Nappies’ for information and advice on washing routines!
