In the first two and a half years of their life, a baby will need at least 4000 nappy changes. Buying the cheapest disposable option at 5p per nappy will still set you back around £2000 in that time.
This Washable Nappy week, Derby City Council are encouraging families to try washable nappies.
At a time when costs are rising, there is an alternative to disposable nappies that could save families a significant amount of money. Washable nappies have seen a huge rise in popularity in the last few years for a number of reasons.
Compared to their disposable counterparts, switching to washable nappies will cost just under £900 over two and a half years and that includes washing and drying. A saving of £1100 compared to disposables. There is still a saving even if families aren’t using washable nappies all the time. There are even more savings to make if families purchase second hand nappies from online market places.
Additionally, washable nappies are kinder to your baby’s skin as they don’t contain moisture-absorbing gels and powders that can cause irritation and nappy rash. Washable nappies are typically made from fabrics like cotton and bamboo, making them much more sustainable than plastic, disposable options.
Washable nappies aren’t as hard to use as many people think. Modern designs feature popper or Velcro fasteners making them as easy to secure in place as a disposable nappy. Washable nappies also offer the same levels of leak protection.
Many washable nappies use a liner system which means any waste in the nappy can easily be disposed of and the rest of the nappy is washed normally in a washing machine.
While there is a higher initial cost with washable nappies, Derby City Council offer a cashback scheme to help with these costs. Some retailers also offer trial kits so families can try washable nappies before committing to the change.
For more information, families can visit the Derby City Council website.
For information and support about the Cost of Living crisis, visit the Community Action Derby website.