Around 8 million disposable nappies are used in Britain every day - that's almost 3 billion a year. Most of these nappies end up in landfill sites, big holes in the ground, where rubbish is buried. Dumping nappies in landfill sites costs Leicestershire taxpayers over £250,000 each year, a cost that will continue to rise.It doesn’t have to be this way we do have a choice!

There are numerous styles and designs of Real Nappies but there are three main types.

All-In-One-Nappy: This has the design closest to that of a disposable nappy. As its all-in-one it has an integral waterproof outer as well as Velcro fastenings making it very easy to use. All in one nappies are usually stuffable nappies. This means that they have a pocket to insert an absorbent pad. This makes them easier to wash and dry. These nappies come in many different styles and designs.










Shaped Nappies: These nappies are a two piece system, which fits snugly around a baby’s bottom and a breathable waterproof wrap to go on top. These nappies are very easy to use. The breathable wraps are washed separately which suits many peoples needs. These quick drying wraps are easy to wash and dry. The nappies and wraps come in numerous different colours and designs. Not as many wraps are needed as a wrap will usually last a number of changes. On average a wrap will last three changes. This reduces the number of washes required.












Flat Nappies: These are a two piece system but use a flat cotton square. This is the most economical option and has the additional benefit of fast drying. This system is very easy to manage. Each section is washed separately, which means they dry quickly. The picture shown here consists of a wrap, cotton square and an optional liner. The liner is used to catch solid waste making disposal easier. Most liners are biodegradable and flushable this makes coping with solid waste much easier.

Follow our nappy advisor Kerry Mullins' personal blog for practical advice and guidance on real nappies and the challenges that real nappy users may face.