It seems to be a  huge debate on what is best when it comes to nappies... Cost,effect on enviroment, convienince etc...

I have always used cloth nappies, that cost wise far outway disposable.  Four children & 4 dozen nappies outlay, of just under $150 & with these I

use fluffies covers,which are great @ around $4.oo each & they keep babies & toddlers dry when changed regularly, they become a little damp if left on too long. So this option is very ecconomical.  I most of the time use cloth even when going on daily outings & just take a plastic bag. A washer is a very effective baby wipe that can be used over & over. I think babies prefer them, I know my 2 yo does he won't let me use baby wipes....

As far a the effect on the enviroment the waste factor had me the most concerned our rubbish increased about 4 or 5 times when I came home after my forth child, which being my forth c/section I was unable to do washing & housework for about four weeks so with two in nappies the bin was full every week we put it out.  Prior to this we used 3 to 4 shopping bags a week for rubbish.  So the amount of disposable nappies in land fill must be immense even the eco nappies don't totally break down.  Also I found disposable nappies leaked more than cloth (across the board of price/brand).

The next thing which always weighs into the nappy debate in the water.  I use a dry bucket to put the nappies in until I have 6 or more, then I give them a quick rinse before putting them to soak (by doing them this way the water used would be far less than the average shower maybe 3 minutes when I have alot). Then they can be soaked in a enviromentally friendly washing powder, bicarb soda & vinegar, or a nappy wash that the chemicals usually break down after a couple of days or just water, it just depends on when you want your nappies to glow or just be clean. Then put them through the machine.

It really doesn't take that long to do & I would go cloth every time.

emmax4