all about nappies - coles baby club

You’ll be amazed at the range of choice when it comes to nappies. Take into account your comfort, cost and convenience when you decide what’s best for your baby.

Disposable nappies

Good quality disposables tend to keep baby drier, reducing the likelihood of nappy rash. Disposables come in a range of shapes and sizes and are designed to fit snugly so there’s less chance of leakage. You may need to try several brands before finding one that suits your baby best.

Cloth nappies

Cloth nappies are cheaper than disposables. With modern nappy soaks, just soak, rinse and dry. Some cloth nappies are shaped to provide a better fit. You will need around 24 to 30 nappies to start, plus liners, fasteners and pilchers.

Pilchers

These are the waterproof over-pants used with cloth nappies that prevent baby’s clothes becoming completely soaked. Avoid plastic pilchers if baby has nappy rash.

Nappy washing service

Cloth nappies are supplied, picked up twice a week and a new supply of fresh nappies delivered. Excellent if you can afford it, particularly in the first few weeks. Also a great idea for a present – drop some hints!

Soiled nappies

Don’t flush disposable nappies down the toilet. If they are very soiled, scrape the contents into the toilet, roll the nappy up and seal with the tabs. Keep them in a special lidded bucket with a plastic liner, and when the bag is full, seal it and place it in the garbage. The lidded bucket helps contain the smell. ‘Nappy sacks’ are ideal for holding soiled nappies (cloth and disposable).

Getting started

In the first weeks, you’ll probably need to change baby around eight to 10 times a day, so get everything set up:

• change table or change mat at the right height to avoid backache
• disposable nappies OR 24-30 cloth nappies, fasteners, nappy liners and pilchers
• baby wipes
• nappy powder or nappy rash or barrier cream
• nappy bucket with lid, for soaking cloth nappies (or for soiled disposable nappies)
• nappy soak or a good but mild soap powder

Disposable

Pros	Cons
Convenient – no ‘accessories’ required	Makes more ‘waste’ – contributes to landfill
Light to carry	Cost (said to be at least $1200 per baby)
Easy to dispose of when out
Good quality nappies tend to keep baby drier

Cloth

Pros	Cons
After initial purchase, cloth works out cheaper, even with cost of detergent and energy use	Need ‘accessories’ – pins, liners, nappy soak, pilchers
Can be used for a second child	Bulky and heavy to carry in nappy bag
Can be ‘recycled’ as cloths, dusters, absorbent towels etc. when baby is toilet trained	Not as convenient as disposables when out
	Extra washing

Fitted Cloth

Pros	Cons
No need to fold	Still require some ‘accessories’ – pins, pads
Look tidier than cloth nappies	Not as convenient as disposables when out
Don’t have as long a life as cloth nappies	Most expensive outlay of all choices

Nappies – the choice is yours

Choosing between using disposable or cloth nappies will come down to personal preference, cost, environmental considerations or convenience. Some parents opt for a combination of both to deal with nights or excursions.