Choosing your nappies, help is on hand to explain some of the choices.

Donate to The Nappy Network
Click the button below to donate via PayPal.
Donations will be used to help The Nappy Network Inc. promote modern cloth nappies in New Zealand.
We are serious about the benefits of modern cloth nappies! If you are too, please consider donating $1 (or more!)

Things to consider:

• The upfront cost of your washable nappies varies between $100 and $1000. Some stockists allow you to layby or hire purchase your nappies.
• Flat nappies can require folding to get absorption where it's most needed.
• A well fitting overnap keeps the moisture in the nappy and not on baby's clothes.
• Many modern cloth nappies work excellently at night.
• If many different people are changing your baby, then ease of use is important. Many fathers and child care centres like the pinless types of nappies, especially all-in-ones or pockets.
• As you will be washing your nappies, check out their cleaning and drying instructions before choosing a brand.
• The lifespan of the nappy is very important. If you are spending a lot up-front you will want to reuse them on subsequent children.
• And lastly, you will want to consider the range of sizes offered and how many you will need.

Flat, Prefold and contour nappies
Pros: Economical One size fits all Quick drying Cons: Less absorbant Some need folding
Fitted nappies
Pros: No folding or pins Snug fit with elastic Available with stay-dry liner Cons: Slower drying Multiple sizes needed
Pants overnaps
Pros: One size fits all Economical No closures required Cons: Need fitted or pinned nappy Less adjustable
Wrap overnaps
Pros: Fit baby well No pins or origami needed Can be used again if un-soiled Cons: Multiple sizes needed Some cant go in drier
All-In-One nappies
Pros: Easy to put on Caregivers like them No pins or folding Cons: Slower drying Multiple sizes needed
Pocket style nappies
Pros: Stay dry lining Adjustable absorbency Quick drying Cons: Multiple sizes needed More expensive

Common Misconceptions: Cloth nappies are mistakenly perceived as wet, unhygienic and leaky overnight. The great news is that fabric technology has evolved and all modern cloth nappies can now have a stay dry fleece liner that keeps baby's bum dry. Regarding nappy rash, if baby is dry and in a chemical free fabric then rashes will be greatly diminished. You will still need to ensure baby is changed often enough and nappies are thoroughly washed (see washing instructions) When using washable nappies overnight, all you need is more absorbency. As the absorbency of modern nappies can be adjusted it is easy to add more by using a booster, doubler or extra insert.

Too many options?

Overwhelmed? Mix it up! Some mothers like to use flats in the day and the more comprehensive nappies at night and when out. Many stores sell an individual nappy to help you choose. Most important is to do your homework, ask around, go to some informative websites and view before purchasing a whole set. Better to have one you don't want than a dozen.