Which kind of nappy?
There are three types of nappy to choose from – flat, fitted and all-in-one – which is right for you and your baby depends on what your main priorities are: cost, environmental impact, drying facilities, convenience and so on. Here is a quick summary of the different types of nappy and some of the main advantages & disadvantages of each type.
1. Flat nappies
Flat nappies are just that, flat, so they need a quick fold. The main types of flat nappy are the traditional muslin, terry or soft flannel squares, the popular American-style prefold, and a shaped nappy which is really half-way between a flat and a fitted nappy. These are the most versatile of all the nappy types as they can be re-used as change mats, wash cloths, and will probably still be around when your ‘babies’ use them to wash their first car!! All flat nappies will need a waterproof wrap over the top to protect clothes.
Square nappies
Square nappies need to be folded to shape and are held in place by a nappy grip,(also called a nappy nippa), rather than pins. Organic square nappies are available to further reduce their environmental impact.
- Most economical: they can start from as little as 75p each
- Quickest to dry, because they fold out flat
- Just one size of terry needed from birth to potty
X Folding takes a little practice, and so they can be a bit fiddly when out and about
X They can be a little bulky on small babies
Prefold nappies
Prefolds are layers of tightly woven, highly absorbent cotton sewn together. You simply fold them into a pad, which is held in place by a waterproof wrap. These are the main nappies used by many laundry services.
- Economical - from just £1 a nappy
- Quick to dry because they fold out
- Quick to put on as the nappy and wrap go on together
X Because they are just a pad you may need a few more wraps than with other nappies.
Shaped Nappies
Shaped nappies are flat, in that they aren’t elasticated around the waist and leg, but arw shaped to fit, and normally have a central panel for extra absorbency. Less folding is needed and they can be held in place by a waterproof wrap or fastened with a nappy grip. The front and back can fold down to fit smaller babies, so one size can fit right through.
- Economical alternative to fitted nappies
- Less folding of all flat nappies needed
- Only one size needed
X Extra layers to boost absorbency normally needed for older babies
X Most expensive of the flat nappies
2. Fitted nappies
Fitted nappies are ready shaped to fit, so no folding is required. Some fitted nappies have Velcro or Aplix (hook & loop) fasteners, some close with poppers and some are help in place with a nappy grip. All fitted nappies need a waterproof wrap over the top. They’re popular with the folding intolerant amongst us, child carers and grandparents!
Fitted nappies come in a huge range of styles: some fit all the way from birth to potty, others come in different sizes. You can get hemp, organic cotton, microfibre, bamboo,fleece or terry versions in an enormous range of different designs for the more style conscious babies, or should that be parents! For more information to help you choose between the different brands, call the WWT Nappy Advisor on 01380 725670 ext 236
One Size Nappies
One size nappies fit from birth to potty training, or at least from 9lbs to 35lbs, which more or less covers it. Some need extra boosting to increase absorbency for older babies, nights and naps. Some nappies come with snap in boosters, some have a ‘pocket’ in them so you can stuff almost anything absorbent in to boost the nappy.
- The most economical fitted nappy as you only need one size.
- Easy to use because of the fitted style.
- Useful if you have more than one in nappies, because you can use the same nappies.
X Some can be a bit bulky on smaller babies.
X If they don't need extra layers to boost absorbency later on, they can be slow to dry.
Two + Size Nappies
These are nappies that come in two or more sizes to fit from birth to potty training. As with One Size nappies, there is a wide range to choose from, in many different styles & designs. Sized nappies will fit non-standard sized babies better, but work out more expensive than flat or one size nappies. Beware of packs selling different sizes of nappy together for a small discount, they can work out to be a false economy if the style that suits your baby as a newborn doesn't suit them as a toddler.
- Snug & slim fitting with a huge range of styles
X Can be expensive
3. All in one nappies
“All-in-One” describes nappies which include a waterproof layer, so no wrap is needed over the top. All-in-One nappies are the closest to disposable nappies, but without all the chemical gels and plastics. We've also included Pocket Nappies in this section, which is basically a waterproof wrap that thinks it's a nappy, so has a lot of the advantages of both the one piece and two piece systems.
One Piece Nappies
One piece nappies have everything all in one piece, surprise! You'll normally still need a liner to make poo-flushing easier. Choose a style that includes a cuff at the leg, or they may be prone to leaking, and avoid those with a PVC waterproof layer, which is not breathable and has its own environmental problems.
- Quickest to put on of all nappies.
- Can be handy for child-care and baby sitters.
X Most expensive nappy option.
X Slowest to dry of all nappies.
X No leg cuff styles give least leak-protection
Pocket Nappies
Pocket nappies are basically a waterproof wrap with a stay-dry fleece pocket, into which you stuff a flat or shaped nappy for absorbency. These 'wraps' need to be changed with every appy, so are more expensive than most fitted nappies. They go on as easily as a one piece nappy, and don't need an extra liner as most poo easily falls off the fleece pocket. Choose a style that has a cuff at the leg, and make sure you get a snug fit around the thigh to prevent leaks. These are a very popular style of nappy.
- Quick to put on when stuffed with a nappy.
- Very useful for child-care and babysitters.
- Quick to dry as flat nappies fold out.
- Soft, stay-dry fleece comfortable & breathable.
X Can be expensive to get a full set
Waterproof Wraps
Unless you're using an All-in-One nappy system (i.e. flat or fitted nappies) then you will need waterproof wraps to protect clothes. They come in a range of different fabric – laminated polyester is the most popular, but you can also get fleece, & natural wool. Fleece is not very, and wool is the most ecological option, as well as being naturally antibacterial, gentle on delicate skin, breathable and miraculously waterproof!
Avoid PVC wraps, or those which are laminated cotton which are more likely to leak. Look out for wraps with a leg cuff, particularly if you're using prefold nappies, to prevent leaks.
Wraps come with hook & look fasteners which are adjustable & easy for you (and you toddler) to fasten & unfasten; popper fasteners which are more durable, toddler-proof and can be pulled up & down like pants; or traditional pant-styles.
Different wraps may suit different nappies better, so get some advice on suitability call the WWT Nappy Line on 01380 725670 and speak to the Real Nappy Advisor, Gary Lamont.
