What are flat nappies? This usually refers to terry cloth nappies( diapers) or flannelette nappies. They are folded to fit baby. I used terry cloth on my first child when she was  a newborn. It lasted 3 weeks. Why? I am amazed that I lasted that long. It was hard work. The folding and then soaking and hanging on the line. It was exhausting when I really wanted to sleep or spend time with my new baby.

I heard the debate that cloth was just as bad for the environment as disposable nappies so I stopped using the cloth. I was relieved in some ways but a little disappointed. Soon I didn't think much of it as it became 'normal' to use disposable nappies. My big boy never saw a cloth nappy on his bottom.

Then last year when my bub was 8 months old I discovered that cloth didn't have to be difficult. It didn't have to involve folding, soaking or hard work at all. To see if I could handle using cloth again I started with the 8 terry cloth flats we had( bought for rags to wipe up). They were in great condition and were colourful and with a wool soaker worked very well. I was impressed. Because I only had 8 I was using them part time til they ran out and used disposables. I then invested in fitted nappies as I wanted to see what the fuss was about and see if they were easier. They are, especially  in that you don't have to fold them. They are also made of nicer materials including bamboo, organic cotton and hemp. You can also get flats made from these materials. Also prefolds which are just like flats with more absorbency sewn in.

Now my bub is 18 months we are using flats almost as much  the fitteds. I am not great at folds but they work well and with booosting make a wonderful nappy. For anyone wanted to start using cloth on a budget especially, I highly recommend quality terry or flannelette (which are not as bulky for newborns) teamed with wool covers. You can knit soakers yourself and these make the best most cost effective cover available.

Hope this helps anyone wondering about cloth. :)