Nappy Guide
Nappy Guide: Finding What Works for Your Family
Choosing nappies for your baby can feel surprisingly overwhelming. Disposable, reusable, different styles, and plenty of opinions - it is a lot to take in, especially when you are already juggling so many decisions.
The good news is there is no one right way to do nappies. What works best will depend on your lifestyle, your budget, and what feels manageable for you day to day.
Most people are familiar with disposable nappies. They are designed for single use, so once they are wet or soiled, they are simply thrown away. They are often chosen for their convenience, especially in the early newborn days, overnight, or when out and about.
Reusable nappies, often called modern cloth nappies, have come a long way from the old terry cloth squares. They are designed to be much more user-friendly, with absorbent inserts and waterproof layers, and are washed and reused. For some families, they are a great option for reducing waste or saving on ongoing costs.
It is also very common to use a mix of both. You might use cloth nappies at home during the day, and switch to disposables for nights, childcare, or travel. This flexible approach often makes it easier to find what works for your routine.
In this guide, we will walk you through each option in more detail, along with what you might need to get started, how many nappies you are likely to use, and the practical side of caring for them.
Disposable nappies
Disposable nappies are a simple, ready to go option, which is a big part of their appeal, especially in those early newborn weeks when everything feels new and a little unpredictable.
They do not require any prep or washing, and can be used straight out of the pack. Once used, they are simply thrown away, making them a convenient choice for overnight, outings, travel, or full time use.
One of the biggest considerations with disposable nappies is finding the right fit for your baby. A well fitting nappy will help prevent leaks and keep your baby comfortable, so it can take a little trial and error in the beginning.
For babies with more sensitive skin, breathability and the materials used can make a noticeable difference. Some nappies are designed to be lighter and more breathable, which can help reduce irritation, especially in those early newborn weeks.
A popular option for newborns and sensitive skin is the Noopii range. These nappies are designed to be soft, lightweight, and breathable, helping keep delicate skin comfortable. They also offer up to 12 hour leak protection, making them a reliable option for overnight use, and include natural Manuka to help support skin health.
In terms of how many you will need, newborn babies go through more nappies than most people expect.
As a general guide:
Newborns: around 8 to 12 nappies per day
3 to 6 months: around 6 to 8 nappies per day
6 to 12 months: around 5 to 7 nappies per day
These numbers can vary from baby to baby, but they are a helpful starting point when planning what to have on hand.
While disposables are incredibly convenient, the cost can add up over time, especially in the first year. This is something to weigh up when deciding whether to use disposables full time or alongside reusable options.
Modern cloth nappies
Modern cloth nappies are a reusable option designed to be much more user friendly than the traditional cloth nappies many people picture. They have an absorbent inner layer and a waterproof outer, and once used, they are washed and reused.
Many families choose cloth nappies for their long term value and the ability to reuse them again and again. They are also a good option for babies with sensitive skin, as you can choose the fabrics and washing routine that works best.
Cloth nappies do take a bit more hands-on time, but most people find a rhythm quickly. Others prefer to use cloth part time alongside disposables.
If you are just getting started, trying a few nappies at home during the day is a great way to build confidence without feeling like you need to commit fully from the start.
In terms of how many you might need, this will depend on how often you plan to wash and whether you are using cloth nappies full time or part time. As a general guide, full time use usually requires around 20 to 30 nappies, while part time use usually requires around 10 to 15.
Understanding the Different Types of Reusable Nappies
There are a few different styles of reusable nappies, and seeing how they work can make everything feel much clearer. Each type is designed slightly differently, so it is about finding what feels easiest and most practical for your day to day routine.
Pre-fold nappies
Pre-fold nappies are a rectangular piece of fabric that you fold to fit your baby before placing it inside a waterproof cover. They are one of the more affordable options and can feel simple once you get the hang of the fold.
Snap (All-in-Two) nappies
Snap nappies, often called all-in-two systems, have a waterproof outer shell with absorbent inserts that snap in and out. You can often reuse the outer shell if it is still clean and just change the insert.
Pocket nappies
Pocket nappies have a waterproof outer layer with a pocket where you place the absorbent insert. They are quick to use and a popular choice for everyday use.
Fitted nappies
Fitted nappies are shaped to fit your baby and fasten with snaps or velcro. They are highly absorbent and often used overnight, but need a waterproof cover over the top.
All-in-one nappies
All-in-one nappies have everything built into one piece. They are the closest in use to a disposable nappy, with no inserts or extra parts to manage.
Getting the right fit
A well-fitting nappy makes a big difference to both comfort and leak protection.
If you are noticing leaks, it is often due to:
- Gaps around the legs or waist
- Not enough absorbency
- Inserts not positioned correctly
- Or simply needing to move up a size
Sizing up is more common than many expect and can often solve ongoing leaks, especially as your baby grows or starts sleeping for longer stretches.
Small adjustments can make a big difference, and it is completely normal to tweak things as you go.
Swim nappies
As your baby grows, you might also come across swim nappies.
These are designed a little differently to everyday nappies. Swim nappies are not absorbent and are used to contain solids while your baby is in the water.
Both reusable and disposable options are available, and many families choose reusable swim nappies for regular swimming. They are lightweight, comfortable, and easy to rinse and reuse.
While they serve a different purpose to everyday nappies, swim nappies can be a simple way to become familiar with reusable materials and how they fit, especially if you are just starting to explore cloth options.
They are not something you will need straight away, but once swimming lessons or beach days come into the picture, it is helpful to know what to look for.
Night time nappies
Night time can be a little different, as babies often go longer between changes.
This usually means you will need more absorbency.
Many families choose to:
- Use disposables overnight for convenience
- Or use cloth nappies with added boosters or fitted nappies
It can take a bit of trial and error to find what works best, and that is completely normal.
Cloth nappy essentials and washing
Getting started with cloth nappies does not need to be complicated. While there are a few extra pieces compared to disposables, most families find a simple setup works really well.
Alongside your nappies, there are a few helpful extras that can make day to day use easier.
Inserts and boosters are used to adjust absorbency, especially as your baby grows or for overnight use. Options like the Nestling Rectangle Insert Set Bamboo/Hemp or Fluffy Ducks Hemp Nappy Inserts 2pk are popular for adding extra absorbency when you need it.
Liners can help catch solids and make changes quicker, with both reusable and disposable options available. Products like Binnie Baby Bamboo Biodegradable Nappy Liners 100pk can make this part of the process a little easier.
For storage, a wet bag or nappy bucket is usually all you need to keep used nappies contained until wash day. A larger wet bag at home and a smaller one for outings, such as the Bumkins Wet Bag, makes it easy to manage nappies while you are out and about.
When it comes to washing, keeping things simple is key. A regular routine using a good quality detergent is usually all that is needed. Many parents choose a detergent designed with babies in mind, such as Pigeon Baby Laundry Detergent, and wash every two to three days depending on how many nappies they have in rotation.
Before washing, any solid waste can be removed into the toilet. Use a brush or sprayer to make this easier, while others prefer liners instead.
Most families find it feels like a big deal at first, but quickly becomes just another load of washing in the week.
It can take a little time to find a rhythm that works for you, but it does not need to be perfect from the start.
Quick comparison
Disposable nappies:
- Convenient and ready to use
- No washing required
- Easy for travel and overnight
- Ongoing cost over time
Reusable nappies:
- More hands-on day-to-day
- Require regular washing
- Higher upfront cost, lower long-term cost
- Flexible absorbency options
Cost and environmental impact
Cost is one of the main factors many people consider when choosing nappies. Disposable nappies are convenient, but the expense can add up over time, particularly in the first year when usage is highest. Cloth nappies usually involve a higher upfront cost, but can be more economical in the long run, especially if used for more than one child.
Environmental impact is another consideration. Disposable nappies do create ongoing waste, while cloth nappies can be washed and reused many times. Even using cloth part time, or choosing more considered disposable options, can make a difference without adding pressure to your day.
In the end, the best choice is the one that fits your lifestyle, budget, and capacity.
Choosing what works for you
Every family is different, and there is no single right way to do nappies.
When deciding what might suit you best, it can help to think about your lifestyle, your budget, and how much time you realistically have for washing and day to day changes.
Newborns tend to need more frequent changes and gentler materials, while older babies may need more absorbency, especially overnight.
Many families find that using a mix of cloth and disposable nappies gives them the flexibility to adapt to different parts of the day or week.
Starting small, such as using cloth at home during the day, can make things feel much more manageable.
We're here to help
At Baby On The Move, we are here to support you as you navigate your options.
In store and online, you will find a range of disposable and reusable nappies, along with helpful extras like liners, wet bags, and laundry products to make things easier.
If you are not sure where to start, our team can guide you through your options and help you build a setup that works for your everyday routine. You can also explore our nappy range online to get a feel for what is available.
We are here to make things a little easier.
