Reusables
You can use a combination of reusable nappies with disposables as back-up, or opt for just one particular type of nappy. The choice depends on you, your attitude towards recycling, and the opinions of parents. However, if you have always used disposables, it could be worthwhile taking advantage of one of the special trial offers from manufacturers of reusable nappies.
Kooshies manufacture four kinds of reusable nappies. The Kooshies Classic consists of eight layers of cotton flannelette with an integral waterproof layer and built-in flap for quick drying. Booster liners can be placed inside for increased absorbency. The nappy has elasticated legs for a snug fit and adjustable hook-and-loop, self-gripping fasteners at the waist. Kooshies come in nursery patterns or plain white and in two sizes: four to 10 and 10 to 20 kg and are priced 60.95 for a pack of 10 sized four to 10 kg.
The Kooshies Ultra is made from five layers of cotton flannelette and two hidden layers of polyester/rayon, plus a built-on waterproof layer which does away with the need for extra waterproof pants. The same leg and waist details apply and the waterproof layer is designed to withstand multiple washing while retaining its soft texture. The manufacturers state that the Ultra is not as long-lasting as the Classic when subjected to tumble drying - they estimate the 'lifespan' for this nappy to be around 120 washes; priced 37.50 for a five-pack of Infant Ultra (four to 10 kgs).
Diaper Basics is the budget buy in the Kooshies range - these are not as absorbent as the other two designs and have no inner flap but they can be used in conjunction with a booster liner. They also require a waterproof wrap. Diaper Basics are made from 100 per cent cotton with two inner soaker pads and an inner cotton layer; priced 22.50 for a pack of five to fit four to 10 kgs.
Pre-folds are the American version of 'terries'. Made from 100 per cent flannelette, they are square-shaped with an extra, vertical, padded section in the middle. These can be folded into a pad shape and inserted into the gusset of Kooshies waterproof wraps. Available in print or white, measuring 19.5 x 12", priced 19.95 for a pack of 12. Kooshies waterproof wraps are designed to remain soft after washing and have a soft, cotton trim on legs and waistband. Priced 5, both sizes.
Sample Kooshies are available at a reduced price from PHP Ltd.
Telephone 08706 070545
Bambino Mio is a two-piece nappy system consisting of a cotton nappy inner and a Velcro-fastening waterproof cover. If preferred, a disposable nappy liner can also be used. Bambino Mio nappy liners are single bio-degradable sheets which can be flushed away. The nappies come pre-folded or shaped. The pre-folded nappies have three panels - the centre panel being comprised of six or eight layers of cotton and the outer panels having four. These are available in small (up to 15 lbs); regular (15 to 35 lbs) and large (27 lbs plus). A pack of six pre-folds is priced 12. The shaped nappies have four layers of cotton with a concealed terry pad in the centre; these are less absorbent than the pre-folded nappies but good for newborns and those who do not wet excessively, priced 14.50 for six, small-sized. The Diaperap covers are made from poly-cotton jersey fabric with a wipe clean, waterproof coating in a selection of nursery prints or white. The covers have elasticated leg and back waist and soft bindings on leg gussets and waistbands, fastening with Velcro or available in a pull-up version. Six sizes available, from newborn to toddler, priced 6.95. Trial packs available.
Telephone 01604 883777
Disposables
Disposables have come a long way since their inception, including everything from tailor-made boy and girl nappies to integral odour-reducing features. The latest development from Pampers is a complete new range to replace the existing one. New Baby with Total Care; Active Fit and Easy Up Pants have been designed to coincide with a baby's developmental stages - defined by Pampers as Bonding, Discovering/ Exploring and Learning. The New Baby nappies are formulated to cope with the softer consistency faeces that very young babies produce and are priced 3.78 for 36. Active Fit nappies are, according to the manufacturer's claims, 'four times stretchier than any other taped nappy' to accommodate the constant movement of babies between six to 10 months. These nappies have extra give in the back and sides to limit stress around the baby's waist when she moves from sitting to standing and contain a layer of moisturising lotion on the topsheet as well as a 'superdry' core and breathable backsheet. Available in two sizes: midi and maxi/maxi+, priced 5.65 for 24 to 32, according to size. Easy Up Pants are for babies between 10 and 24 months who are less keen to lie down for changing; they are pull-ons with disposable features, priced 5.65 for 20 or 22, according to size.
Also new from Pampers is a range of disposables for babies with sensitive skin. These nappies are hypoallergenic and unscented, with built-in, anti-irritant cream on the soft topsheet and leg cuffs, priced 5.65 for 24 or 36 nappies, according to size.
Telephone 0800 3283281
