Nappies - The Stark Truth!
The average child uses about 5,000 disposable nappies, resulting in more than 10,000 tonnes of nappy waste being buried in the ground in Suffolk every year. Each nappy will take more than 400 years to decompose.
Apart from the cost in environmental terms, collecting and disposing of these nappies costs councils in Suffolk an estimated £500,000 a year. This is money that could be spent on other important services such as schools.
Buying reusable nappies and washing them at home, or using a nappy laundering service, not only saves councils money but can save parents up to £600 for their first born and even more for subsequent children.
Q. What are modern cloth nappies like?
A. We are not talking terry towelling sheets and big safety pins! Today's easy-to-use shaped nappies come in all sorts of shapes, sizes and colours. Many look like disposables and fasten with Velcro; some have pretty prints on the soft cotton material. The only thing they all have in common is no plastic and no chemicals.
Q. Where do I start?
A. Most real nappy companies offer demonstrations and starter packs. They are a good place to start as they offer a larger selection of styles and advice than high street retailers do.
Q. How can I wash them?
A. Real nappies can be laundered in the washing machine and tumble dried. Alternatively, why not try an inexpensive nappy laundry service that collects and delivers straight to your door. By using a biodegradable liner, any soiling can be flushed down the toilet.
Who to contact about real nappies