Reusable nappies
Disposable nappies are responsible for up to 4 per cent of total household waste, approximately 10,400 tonnes per annum. This waste is expensive to dispose of and increases landfill, which contributes significantly to global warming. Modern cotton reusable nappies may be healthier for your baby, are easy to use and can save you a substantial amount of money.
Reusable nappies have many benefits:
- no need to use pins
- waterproof, comfortable and breathable nappy covers ensure no leaks
- biodegradable nappy liners can be easily flushed down the toilet (enabling waste to go into sewerage system instead of landfill)
- nappies can be washed in your machine at 60 o C
- made of natural fabrics
Reusable nappies can also be significantly cheaper to use:
|
Type of nappy |
Average cost (per baby for a two and a half year period) |
|
Disposable |
£1200 |
|
Reusable |
£400* |
|
Saving |
£800 |
*This includes the washing costs at approximately £40 per annum for powder, electric, water, wear and tear on the washing machine. Source: Friends of the Earth & Perfectly Happy People.
Reusable nappy suppliers
West London Real Nappy Campaign
Contact: Sarah Spoor
Tel: (020) 8568 4913
Women's Environment Network
PO Box 30626
London
Tel: (020) 7481 9004
Email:
nappies@wen.org.uk
Website:
www.wen.org.uk
Reusable cotton nappies are also available from John Lewis,
Waitrose and Mothercare.
Nappy
laundering
service
Reusable nappy users can also choose to use a nappy
laundering service. Nappy laundry services can
deliver freshly laundered nappies to your door every week and
take away the soiled ones to be washed (to NHS standards).
If you are interested in nappy laundering services contact Number 1 For Nappies: www.numberonefornappies.co.uk . Alternatively contact the UK Nappy Line: www.uknappyline.org.uk for details of local cloth nappy contacts.