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Disposable nappies – the facts

Disposable nappies – the facts

Nappies are a big part of any new mum’s world. So what's the low down on disposables?

Roisin Johnson

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Disposables are single-use nappies that you simply throw in the bin when you change your baby, then you reach for a fresh one and start again.

Disposables have come on leaps and bounds in the last few years and now many brands boast super slim designs, with impressive absorbency and leak-free qualities. What ever your baby's age, or stage, there is a nappy for you from those that fot newborn, day-old babies to pull-on toddlers nappies that help with potty training.

New baby

Designed specially for the first few weeks of your little one’s life, these nappies are slim fitting and easy to secure, even on a squirming newborn.

Most newborn nappies will have a high back, double leg cuffs and a special absorbent core to contain the soft, runny poo that’s associated with your tiny baby’s developing digestive system.

Young baby

Suitable from when your baby is small through to early toddlerhood, these nappies also have impressive absorbency and leak-free qualities. Emphasis is on dryness, with most brands offering through-the-night dryness and skin protection for your little one’s bottom. Sizes are numbered and relate to your baby's weight.

Older baby

Designed for older babies who are up on their feet and on the move, these nappies are still absorbent but allow for more flexibility. They also have super strong grips to keep them in place when your tot’s exploring. Manufacturer's often use 'active fit' to describe these nappies.

Eco disposable nappies

With similar features to a normal disposable, these nappies are kinder to the environment as they are partly made from renewable materials.

The pros of disposable nappies

Quick and easy to put on, and ideal to stash in your bag when you're out and about
You don't need to spend time and money washing them, and you can throw them straight in the bin so dirty ones don't take up space.
Absorbent and excellent at drawing moisture away from your little one's bottom, keeping his skin dry.

The cons of disposable nappies

Because they contain chemicals they may aggravate skin.
Every standard disposable ends up in a landfill, where it can take up to 500 years to decompose.
Long term they're more expensive that reusables, although bulk buying can save some money.

Authors

Roisin Johnson