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Information about reusable nappies

Using reusable nappies can be a good choice for several reasons.

Reusable nappies are: 

  • Better for the environment 
  • A cheaper alternative to disposable nappies 
  • Better for your baby’s skin 

From birth to completion of potty training, each child is likely to require at least 4,000 nappy changes. The disposal of all those nappies could be prevented through the use of one set of reusable nappies, as they can see a child through that entire period.  

Reusable nappy

What are reusable nappies?

Reusable nappies are nappies that can be washed and reused, which means that the need for disposable nappies is removed or reduced. Reusable nappies come in a range of different styles and there are different options to suit different needs.  

In the UK, 3 billion disposable nappies are thrown away each year. Reusable nappies can be cheaper in the long term than using disposables and can be better for the environment too by reducing waste. 

Guidance for switching to reusables

For further guidance on how to use reusable nappies, you can access more information here. This guide contains lots of information on reusable nappy types, brands and care (however the list is not exhaustive and there are frequent changes to what is available on the market). 

Take a look at the Less Waste website, where you can also watch reusable nappy video demonstrations that show how to prepare, fit and use different types of reusable nappies. 

Page last reviewed: 03-09-2024

Next review due: 03-09-2027