…By Judah Olanisebee for TDPel Media.
The Environmental Concerns of New Parenthood: Exploring Eco-Friendly Nappy Options
A long with the joy (and exhaustion) that comes with a baby, new parenthood is a time that can evoke renewed concern in the environmental legacy we might be leaving for the next generation.
Climate anxiety takes on a whole new meaning when we’re worried about preserving the planet for our own offspring.
On top of that, babies seem to create a lot of waste. Sustainability is high on the list of priorities for many parents due to the amount of waste generated by babies, such as disposable nappies and plastic toys.
Eco-Friendly Disposable Nappies:
Eco-friendly disposable nappies have the same look, feel, and absorbency as regular disposable nappies but are made from more planet-friendly materials, including recycled plastics and FSC-Certified wood pulp.
They decompose more quickly than traditional disposables, but they may come at a higher price compared to other disposable brands.
Reusable Nappies:
Reusable nappies are an alternative option where nappies can be used repeatedly and washed in-between uses.
They have evolved significantly from the traditional terry-towelling squares and oversized nappy pins.
There are various types of reusable nappies available, including pocket nappies, all-in-one nappies, all-in-two nappies, and two-part nappies.
Types of Reusable Nappies:
We tested various brands of four different types of reusable nappies: pocket, all-in-one, all-in-two, and two-part.
Each type has its own design and features that cater to different needs and preferences.
Pocket nappies: These consist of a waterproof outer shell and a soft inner lining with a pocket in the front or back.
Absorbent inserts are placed inside the pocket.
All-in-One nappies: Similar to pocket nappies, but the absorbent insert is attached to the rest of the nappy.
All-in-Two nappies: These also have a waterproof outer shell and a soft inner lining, but the absorbent inserts are placed or stuck to the inside of the nappy, against the baby’s skin.
Two-part nappies: These include a fully cloth-shaped nappy and a separate waterproof wrap.
Absorbent inserts can be added to the cloth nappy.
Best Eco-Friendly Disposable Nappies:
In our research, we found several eco-friendly disposable nappy options.
Kit & Kin Hypoallergenic Eco Nappies stood out for their sustainable materials, manufacturing processes, and charitable initiatives.
They are made from FSC-certified plant-derived materials, have a carbon-neutral factory, and support rainforest conservation projects.
Cheeky Panda Bamboo Nappies were another notable option, made from sustainable surplus virgin pulp bamboo.
They are biodegradable, soft, and infused with aloe for sensitive skin.
Mum & You Biodegradable Nappychat Eco-Nappies offer a biodegradable core made from chlorine-free wood pulp and recyclable packaging.
They promote early communication skills through designs on the nappies.
PURA Eco Baby Nappies provide an affordable eco nappy option, made without chlorine, perfumes, and allergens.
They use organic cotton and FSC-certified plant fiber.
Best Reusable Nappies – Pocket Nappies:
Among the reusable nappies, PimPam Cloth Nappy stood out as a pocket nappy option.
They have a waterproof outer fabric with a wide range of colorful prints and adjustable fastenings.
The inserts are made from bamboo, polyester, and polyamide, providing flexibility and comfort.
Other notable brands include Baba & Boo One-Size Reusable Nappy, Nappy Shak Cloth Nappy, and Seedling Baby Multi-Fit Pocket Nappy.
Each brand offers unique features and design options.
Best Reusable Nappies – All-in-One Nappies:
Tots Bots EasyFit Star All-in-One Nappy offers an all-in-one design with a waterproof outer fabric made from recycled plastic and an inner toweling layer made from bamboo.
They provide simplicity and flexibility with adjustable poppers.
Kit & Kin Reusable Cloth Nappy is another noteworthy option, featuring a waterproof outer layer made from 100% recycled polyester and a soft inner layer made from TENCEL and hemp.
They offer adjustable sizing and support rainforest conservation projects.
Bambino Mio All-in-One Reusable Miosolo One-size Nappy provides an all-in-one nappy with a range of bright prints.
The inner layers are made from polyester nylon, and the outer layer is made from laminated polyester.
They offer flexibility in sizing and easy application.
Best Reusable Nappies – All-in-Two Nappies:
Close Pop-In Bamboo One-size Hook & Loop Reusable Nappy is an all-in-two design with a waterproof outer shell and separate absorbent core layers.
The outer shell is made from 100% recycled plastic, and the inner layers are made from bamboo.
They provide adjustable sizing and protection against leaks.
Cheeky DooDoo Cloth Nappy & Wrap offers a two-part nappy system with separate nappies and wraps.
The nappies are made from bamboo and cotton terry, while the wraps are waterproof and adjustable.
They provide flexibility and customization options.
Conclusion:
When it comes to eco-friendly nappy options, both eco-friendly disposable nappies and reusable nappies offer sustainable alternatives to traditional disposable nappies.
The choice depends on personal preferences, budget, and environmental concerns.
Eco-friendly disposable nappies such as Kit & Kin, Cheeky Panda, Mum & You, and PURA provide convenience and reduced environmental impact.
Reusable nappies from brands like PimPam, Baba & Boo, Nappy Shak, and Seedling Baby offer durability, customization, and long-term cost savings.
By considering these eco-friendly nappy options, parents can make a positive impact on the environment and create a greener future for their children.