After three boys and years of using disposable nappies, I thought I knew what changing nappies involved. Cloth nappies had never really been something I considered.
Then, during Real Nappy Week in 2014, I had the opportunity to try them with my granddaughter.
What surprised me most was how different they were from the nappies I remembered my mum using. In my mind, washable nappies meant folding terry cloth and securing everything with a very large safety pin.
The nappies in our trial pack were quite different. There were poppers, adjustable fastenings, colourful prints and several ways of putting the absorbent parts together.
There was still something new to learn, but it felt much more approachable than I had expected.
A little help made the first step easier
Fill Your Pants/The Nappy Gurus sent us a selection of washable nappies for the original review.
Before we started, I had a phone call with someone from The Nappy Gurus. She talked me through what was in the pack, how the different nappies worked and how to care for them.
That conversation made a difference. Rather than looking at a collection of unfamiliar nappies and wondering where to begin, I had an explanation of what each part was for.
It is something I would still suggest to anyone feeling unsure: ask someone to show you how the particular nappies you are considering work.
A demonstration can be much easier to follow than a long list of unfamiliar terms.
Trying different styles helped
Our original pack included nappies from GroVia, Charlie Banana, Little Lamb, TotsBots, Bambino Mio and Smartipants.
Those were the products we tried in 2014. Designs and ranges can change, so this is a reflection on that experience rather than a current comparison of those brands.
The useful part was being able to see different approaches side by side. Some had absorbent parts attached, while others used separate inserts or a cover.
Before buying, check exactly what is included and whether you need any additional parts. A nappy, an insert and a cover are not necessarily interchangeable between different systems.
What surprised me about using them
Once I had things organised, I found them easier to use than I had imagined.
The fastenings felt familiar, and I liked being able to adjust the fit. I also enjoyed the colours and patterns. It is a small thing, but some of them were lovely.
At the time, I remember wondering why I had not tried washable nappies sooner.
That was my experience, though. It does not mean they will feel equally straightforward in every household. Washing, drying, storage and the time available all need to fit around the rest of family life.
Think about the washing before buying a full set
It is easy to focus on choosing nappies and forget about what happens after a change.
Before committing to a large collection, consider where you would keep used nappies, how often you could wash them and where they would dry.
Follow the care instructions for the nappies you choose. Different materials and components may need different treatment.
If the routine sounds difficult to manage, that is useful information. It may make sense to try a smaller number first or use a mixture of reusable and disposable nappies.
Be realistic about costs
Reusable nappies involve an upfront cost, as well as ongoing washing and drying costs.
Rather than assuming a particular saving, look at what you would need to buy and how often you expect to use it. Starting with a few can help you work out what suits you before spending more.
A large bundle is only useful if it fits your baby and your routine.
Comfort and regular changes still matter
I would be more careful now about the claims in my original post that cloth nappies reduce nappy rash.
Whichever type you choose, regular changes and caring for your baby’s skin remain important. The NHS recommends changing wet or dirty nappies promptly and changing dry liners often when using reusable cloth nappies. Its nappy rash guidance is a useful place to find current advice.
You can start small
You do not have to replace every disposable nappy to give reusables a try.
Trying a small selection gives you a chance to understand the fit, the fastenings and the practical routine. You can then decide whether you want to use them more often.
Looking back, I am glad I had the opportunity. It challenged an assumption I had carried for years and showed me something I might otherwise never have considered.
My advice would be to ask questions, try before buying a large collection where possible, and choose what works for your family.
Disclosure: The nappies featured in the original 2014 review were supplied free of charge by Fill Your Pants/The Nappy Gurus. This updated article reflects that historical experience. The original giveaway has ended.
