The Real Nappy Service

We are currently developing this area of the website to provide you with information about our real nappy service in Calderdale.  In the mean time, here's some information about reusable nappies.

For contact details about the real nappy service in Calderdale visit www.changeproject.org.uk

Reusable Nappies
Disposable nappies may be perceived as being convenient and good for your baby but there are many disadvantages. The following information provides alternatives to disposables and enables you to make an informed choice.

7 million trees are chopped down each year just to produce nappies for the UK market. Disposable nappies generate about 4% of household waste in Calderdale, that's approximately 3,600 tonnes per annum.

The Benefits of Reusable Nappies
Modern reusable nappies are very similar to disposables and as convenient to use:

• There is no need to use pins, as they have 'velcro' or poppers to keep them in place.
• They keep babies leak free with the help of waterproof nappy covers which are breathable and comfortable biodegradable liners are used inside the nappy, and are simply flushed down the loo (waste goes into the sewerage system where it can be properly disposed of rather than landfilled).
• The nappies are then washed in your machine at a 60ºC (alternatively you can use a nappy laundry service where the dirty nappies are collected and clean ones delivered to your door).
• Different sizes, styles and patterns are available.
• Booster pads are available for extra absorbency at night.
• They are soft and gentle on babies' skin.
• Significant savings can be made. On average, disposables cost 3 times as much as reusable nappies.

Type of nappy average cost (per baby for a two and a half year period):
Disposable £1200
Reusable £400*
Saving £800
* This includes the washing costs at approximately £40 per annum for powder, electricity, water, and wear and tear on the washing machine.

Health Concerns
Chemicals used in disposable nappies to create the stay dry layer are unregulated and their long-term effects are not yet known.

A longer-term problem are the effects of throwing solids into the bin with the nappies. Viruses found in faeces may survive for over two weeks in disposables. This can find its way into leachate (a toxic liquid, produced in landfill sites), which can lead to contamination of ground water.