5 Reasons to Switch to Modern Cloth Nappies

Nappies have evolved so much from our mother's and grandmother's days of using white squares of terry towelling and those big old safety pins!

The modern cloth nappy is so easy to use and comes with so many benefits. Here are our 5 reasons to switch to modern cloth nappies!

But first...    

What are Modern Cloth Nappies (MCNs)?

Modern cloth nappies are the same shape as disposable nappies but they are made from cloth and are reusable. They use press studs or velcro to secure the nappy and have an absorbent inner liner with a waterproof outer shell.

MCNs are designed to be just as easy to use as disposable nappies and they are just as absorbent. 

So why would you use reusable nappies instead of disposable nappies? There are so many good reasons!

5 Reasons to Switch to Modern Cloth Nappies

• Better for the environment

Disposable nappies are estimated to take up to 400 years to decompose and due to their chemical composition, are a biohazard in landfill. More than 800 million disposable nappies are used in Australia each year. (Planet Ark).

Cloth nappy inserts can be used as rags once you have finished with them and then composted. We all have a part to play in leaving our planet in good shape for our children and their children. 

• Budget Friendly

Once you have purchased your initial set of MCNs, they work out much more cost effective in the long run. Babies use on average 7000 nappies until they are toilet trained. That's a lot of nappies! The cost of using disposable, single use nappies is estimated to be up to $5000 for each child until they are toilet trained, depending on the brand you use.

Good quality cloth nappies will cost you much less than that and they can be reused for multiple babies. If you want to use MCNs full time, you will need about 24-28 to set you up, at a cost of around $500.

One benefit that busy parents appreciate is that you never run out of cloth nappies! There are no late night emergency dashes to the supermarket.

Many local councils also offer a rebate of up to $100 for purchasing MCNs. Hold onto your receipts and enquire at your local council.

• Toxin Free

Not many people realise that disposable nappies can contain toxins like sodium polyacrylate, dioxins, phthalates, glyphosate, chlorine bleach, synthetic fragrances, odour blockers, heavy metals and formaldehyde!

The disposable nappy companies do not have to disclose their ingredients, so it's difficult to make an informed choice for your baby.

Babies have very sensitive skin and anything that comes into contact is easily absorbed and much more concentrated in their little bodies. Disposables often cause severe rashes and irritation. Choosing good quality MCNs and washing them in natural products will ensure your nappies are toxin free and safe!

Reusable nappies are also softer, cooler and much more breathable than disposables which helps avoid nappy rash and discomfort. 

• Cute and practical!

Modern cloth nappies come in a huge range of styles, designs and colours so your baby looks cute and stylish. Many mums don't even bother with extra pants as the MCNs look great on their own with a t-shirt. 

• Versatile

Reusable nappies are so versatile because you can adjust the absorbency and the fit. Most have several snap lock positions so that the nappy can be adjusted and grow with your baby's height, width and leg size. 

Different inserts can be used for different levels of absorbency as needed. 

These are just 5 reasons to switch to modern cloth nappies! If it feels a bit daunting, just start with one a day or use them just at home. 

We stock and love My Little Gumnut reusables, which is small family business owned by a Townsville mum.  The range includes several different reusable nappies including newborn and night time as well as swim nappies and training pants.

Use the Bio Nappy Liners, Bamboo Wipes and Wet Bags for a completely eco-conscious nappy system. 

Shop all REUSABLE NAPPIES here. 

Do you love reusable nappies? Let us know your experience by leaving a comment or chatting to us on social media. We would love to know! 

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