Real Nappies

Real nappies are so called because they are made from 'real' (natural) materials, usually cotton, and do not contain plastics, gels or chemicals.

Real nappies are machine washable and can be used again and again.

Real Nappies are much easier to use than you think. Most real nappies have either popper or Velcro fastenings. You can still buy the traditional Terry squares but there is also a huge range of shaped nappies that fit as easily as disposables without the need for folding or pinning. 
With the development of washing machines and detergents there is no need for soaking or boiling. Real nappies can be washed at 60 or even 40 degrees.

Nappy facts

• Disposable nappies use absorbent chemicals, gels and plastics.
• Real nappies use natural fibres.
• Real nappies can cost between £50-£250.
• Disposable nappies can cost between £800-£1,200 for two and a half years of normal nappy use.
• 3 billion nappies are thrown away in the UK each year with 90% going to landfill.
• Disposable nappies make up to 50% of waste of families with one baby.
• Disposable nappies can take hundreds of years to break down. If Henry VIII had worn disposable nappies then they would still be around in a landfill site today!
• Each year in Northampton we throw away over 2400 tonnes of disposable nappies which end up in landfill. This is the equivalent of an extra 240 refuse collection vehicles on our streets.
• If you spend £60 or more on real nappies you can claim £25 cash back from the county council.

 Date Last Reviewed: 05/05/2009