8 of the best reusable nappies for newborn babies 2024
WHAT ARE REUSABLE NAPPIES?
Reusable nappies, also called cloth nappies, are designed to be washed and dried after use so that they can be worn again. Up until the availability of disposable nappies in the 1950s, they were the only option for parents. But now many prefer to use them for environmental reasons.
The pros and cons of reusable nappies
Pros
Cheaper in the long term.
Reduce the amount going into landfill (nappies can take an estimated 500 years to degrade).
They are more likely to be made of natural fibres, so may irritate a baby’s skin less.
Cons
If using them full time you'll need around 15-20 nappies, which is a big upfront investment (around £300). Although you can also buy them second-hand, which will be cheaper. And they can also be rented from some baby clothes rental companies.
The inconvenience of having to wash and dry the nappies as well as the water and energy used.
They are less absorbent than disposable nappies so you may need to change them more often.
They are bulkier than disposable nappies so some clothes may not fit very well over them.
5 ways to ensure it’s the most eco-friendly choice possible
The energy used to launder cloth nappies can somewhat negate the environmental benefits of using them. Here are five ways to help:
Buy them second-hand and/or use them with further children.
Only use the washing machine when it’s full.
Avoid synthetic fibres as they will shed microplastics when washed.
Line dry instead of tumble drying.
If they’re made from cotton, make sure it’s organic cotton.
What types of reusable nappies are there?
There are four main types.
All-in-ones. These are most similar to a disposable nappy. They combine an absorbent fabric with an attached outer waterproof wrap.
Pocket nappies. Very similar to all-in-ones but the absorbent fabric is removable.
Fitted/shaped nappies. These are cloth but shaped like a disposable. They are used with an outer waterproof wrap. They usually fasten with poppers, Velcro or a Nappi Nippa.
Flat and pre-fold nappies. Cotton, terry-towelling or muslin fabric that either comes flat or pre-folded. The pre-fold ones are held in place with a wrap, while the flat ones are pinned.
How many reusable nappies do you need for a newborn?
It depends on the type of nappy you chose, whether you use them full or part-time and how often you want to put a wash on. But generally, 15 to 20 reusables would be enough for a newborn and if you’re using a two-part nappy, you’ll need one waterproof outer for every 4-5 nappies.
Do you need anything else when using cloth nappies?
It’s common to also use nappy liners for easily removing poo from a nappy. Disposable ones are binned when dirty and reusable ones are scraped off and added to the wash.
Boosters can also be used to increase the absorbency of the nappy. This might be especially useful overnight.
A nappy bucket would be useful for storing dirty nappies between washes and you can also get mesh laundry bags to fit inside.
A wet bag (see below) is very useful for taking dirty nappies home when you’ve been out.
THE BEST REUSABLE NAPPIES TO BUY
This list has been narrowed down to the very best with thorough research and the following considered:
Consumer reviews
Best-seller lists
Recommendations from industry experts
Award-winning products
Personal experience and the products loved by other parents.
The list is updated annually. It was last updated on 6 January 2024.
If you buy through a link, we may earn a small affiliate commission. 5% of profits are donated to UK Baby Banks to help parents in need of essentials.
1. Bambino mio Miosolo All-in-One Reusable Nappy
The Miosolo is a soft all-in-one nappy that comes in one adjustable size so can be used from 8lbs until potty training.
It is adjusted with poppers and hook and loop (Velcro).
There is a stay-dry inner layer to clean wetness away from the baby’s skin.
It is fast drying and easy to use.
This also comes in a set with six nappies, 50 liners and some antibacterial nappy cleanser.
Bambino Mio also now have a ‘Revolutionary Reusable Nappy’ which is more expensive but has a more innovative design.
2. KIT + KIN REUSABLE NAPPY
All-in-one nappy by the ethical company founded by Emma Bunton.
Adjustable poppers and an elasticated waist for a perfect fit. It can be used from 8lbs upwards.
Each nappy is made from two recycled plastic bottles.
Only plant-based materials touch the baby’s skin.
Double gusset to prevent leaks.
3. Little lamb bamboo nappy
An OEKO-TEX-certified bamboo nappy that comes in three sizes.
It is very soft and absorbent and comes with a washable fleecy liner.
You will also need to buy a waterproof wrap.
4. Motherease airflow wrap
A best-selling nappy wrap for over 20 years.
It is leakproof, very adjustable for a good fit and can be used over most cloth nappies.
It comes in five sizes.
Motherease nappies are made in Canada using 100% green energy.
5. motherease Wizard uno stay dry
This all-in-one is easy to use and in terms of convenience is described as the closest a cloth nappy can get to being a disposable.
The absorbent pad is dry to the touch when wet.
Poppers mean the waist is adjustable.
Quick-drying.
It comes in two sizes - XS which fits 6lbs to 12lbs and Onesize which fits 8lbs to 35lbs.
6. LITTLES AND BLOOMZ reusable nappy
A great value reusable pocket nappy set.
One size nappy which can be used from around 3-15kg (from birth until potty training) and can be adjusted with poppers.
The outer is waterproof and the inner is fleecy.
They recommend using with a pad/booster.
Available in a variety of prints.
7. Close pop-in new gen V2
These one-size nappies can be used from birth until potty training (7lbs to 35lbs).
Easily adjusts with poppers and hook and loop fastenings.
The waterproof outer is made from 100% recycled plastic.
It comes with two inserts made from bamboo, which is highly absorbent.
8. bright bots
Terry towelling nappies that are excellent value.
60 x 60cm and can be used from birth until potty training.
Highly absorbent and very quick drying.
Can be used beyond nappy wearing as an all-purpose cloth.
Bambino Mio wet bag
A wet bag is very useful for taking home dirty nappies when you’ve been out.
This one by the popular reusable nappy brand Bambino Mio is completely waterproof.
It has a loop so it can be attached to your changing bag or buggy.
Holds around 4 nappies.
Machine washable.
MORE OF THE BEST:
Changing tables • changing bags • baby wipes • nappy rash cream • nappy bins • muslin cloths
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