Cloth nappies - some frequently asked question

This page has frequently asked questions about cloth nappies.

How many cloth nappies will you need?

It depends on the system you use and how often you want to launder. Generally between 1-2 dozen nappies are enough. Newborn babies need to be changed more often so you will need fewer as your baby grows.

What is the difference between a prefold and a pocket nappy?

Pocket Nappy: a waterproof cover with liner sewn together to form a pocket in which a folded flat or prefold nappy can be inserted.
Prefold: the modern version of the flannel nappy but with extra layers of absorbency. They are folded into a pad and inserted into pocket nappies or placed inside a waterproof wrap.

What system should you use?

There isn???t any one best system but there are a lot of people and resources to give you advice about what will work for you. Try a few different types of cloth nappy before committing to one system and don???t be scared to contact the suppliers for their expert advice.

How much will it cost to get started?

It all depends on how much you want to spend. There are a range of cloth nappy systems and price structures, from around $300 to $1,000. Most suppliers provide birth to potty packs at discounted prices. With time payment options often available, cloth nappies are still significantly cheaper than disposables. Some suppliers also have cloth nappy hire kits and if you are on a tight budget, check out the market for second hand nappies.

Do cloth nappies leak?

No. Modern cloth nappies have fitted waists, elasticised legs, absorbent inners and waterproof outer layers. They are designed to keep your baby clean and dry and to keep the solid and liquid contents inside the nappy. It is a good idea to wash your inserts several times before using them, as this will increase the absorbency.