Reusable nappies
Concerned about the amount of waste created when using disposable nappies? Reusable Nappies are a sustainable alternative!
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Also known as washable nappies, cloth nappies or real nappies, reusables have developed significantly in the past decade. They are a popular choice for many parents.
Hampshire County Council recognises that the initial cost of reusable nappies can be a barrier for some families. This is why we have partnered with a number of suppliers to secure Hampshire residents a 15% discount on reusable nappy products.
In partnership with Southampton and Portsmouth City Councils, we are pleased to offer this discount to all Hampshire residents, including those living in Southampton and Portsmouth.
Supplier partnerships
The impact
It is estimated that each child will go through as many as 4,000 nappies by the age of two and a half. That’s 920 kilograms per child – as heavy as two grand pianos!
As a result, disposable nappies make up around 6% of the average family rubbish bin in Hampshire homes.
By age two and a half, the carbon footprint of disposable nappies is estimated to be 457kg CO2 equivalent - roughly comparable with driving 6.4 return journeys from London to Nottingham!
In comparison, the carbon footprint of reusable nappies is estimated to be 345kg CO2 equivalent - 4.8 return journeys from London to Nottingham.
By switching to reusable nappies, you can make a big impact and reduce how much waste you throw away as well as your carbon footprint.
For more information please visit Life Cycle Analysis of Nappies/Absorbent Hygiene Products 2021/23.
Try them out first
Nappy libraries are a great way to ‘try before you buy’ by renting a reusable nappy kit to suit your needs. The libraries often run advice sessions or groups so you can talk to other parents trying reusable nappies.
There are a number of active nappy libraries in Hampshire:
- Andover nappy library (Facebook group page)
- Basingstoke and Overton nappy library
- Farnborough nappy library
- New Forest nappy library
- Petersfield nappy library (Facebook group page)
- Southampton Real Nappy Network (Facebook group page)
- Winchester NCT nappy library (Facebook group page)
The cost
The upfront cost of a reusable nappy kit may seem high. Reusable nappies however can work out cheaper than disposables over the average nappy wearing period:
- A budget disposable nappy in size 6 (toddler) costs approximately 10p per nappy, whilst a budget reusable nappy costs 7.7p per use.*
- The cost of a birth-potty reusable nappy kit can vary depending on your preference. A budget kit can be as little as £100, with mid-range at approximately £250, and top-end £415.
- Whereas looking at the average cost of mid-range disposable nappies, considering the variation in price based on size and assuming your child uses 4,000 nappies, the cost of disposable nappies can be closer to £900 over two and a half years.
- You can gain extra value from reusable nappies by reselling or reusing them for future siblings.
Don't forget you can save even more by applying the 15% discount for residents of Hampshire, Southampton and Portsmouth!
*The cost per use of reusables includes the purchase of the nappy, storage bucket and wet bag, alongside electricity, water and detergent costs. The cost per disposable nappy includes the purchase of the nappy, single-use wipes and nappy bags.
For more information please visit ‘Do reusable nappies really save you money?’ or listen to the Sliced Bread Podcast.
Keeping them clean
Modern reusable nappies do not require soaking and can be safely washed in the washing machine at home for hygienic, daily use.
Some designs have a removable lining so you won’t need to wash the whole nappy every time.
You can decrease the amount of energy you use by hanging the nappies out on a washing line or airer.
Please refer to washing guidance on individual products.
Get to know your care labels
Download this free poster to help you get to know what the different symbols mean.
Looking for a discount on reusable period or incontinence products?