getting started with cloth

“At Bumboo we think cloth nappies are fantastic because we love natural fibers. We think that using 30 cloth nappies rather than 5000 plastic ones is pretty good too.”

– TIFFANY SIRISISAVATH, BUMBOO Founder

choosing cloth

Popular reasons why people choose to use cloth nappies are:

J significant financial savings compared to using disposables

J environmental reasons

J desire to use natural products or products free of chemicals

J convenience

There many kinds of cloth nappies to choose from, all made from various kinds of materials. At Bumboo, all our nappy products are made from bamboo. To learn more about this super soft eco fabric and why we love it please read our Bamboo Facts.

We suggest for a range of facts about using cloth nappies versus disposable nappies that you visit the following sites:

u Choice – an unbiased view of disposable vs cloth nappies

 

u Modern Cloth Nappies – some facts

 

u Nappycino – Australian cloth nappy forum and information

 

u Australian Nappy Network – explanation of reusable nappies

setting up a nappy system

If you are thinking about using cloth nappies with your bub, here are five things to think about:

type of nappy                       Do you want to use one nappy type or a combination of different types.

cleaning baby’s bum         What kind of wipes will you use to clean your bubs bum?

changing area                     Where will your nappy changing take place?

nappy washing                    How often do you want wash your nappies?

                                                 What is your climate like and will you be drying indoors or outdoors?

using cloth when out and about          What type of nappy and wipes will you use when out of the house?

essential stuff

• 15 – 30 Nappies (part time/full time)
• 3 – 6 covers (part time/full time)
• Bucket for dry pailing
• Wipes
• Nappy fastener (if using flats or prefolds)
• Wet bags if using cloth nappies and wipes when out and about

extra stuff

• Liners (Reusable Microfleece/Suede cloth or Biodegradable/Flushable)
• Little Squirt
• Thermos for warm water

nappy types        

flat nappy            

The traditional nappy that is still loved by many parents. A flat square that is folded and secured with a nappy fastener and covered with a nappy cover for water proofing. A longtime favourite with newborn babies, but just as easily used for bubs and infants of all sizes. Flat nappies are the quickest dry option available. Flat nappies are the answer to an affordable and versatile nappy system.

Bumboo’s Luxury Flat Nappy is a modern take on this traditional nappy. A little stretch in the nappy helps to give a great fit. Silky soft, this nappy is a popular choice for newborns, when fitted types of nappies can be bulky and awkward.

prefold nappy     

The modern variation on a flat nappy. A square nappy consisting of two main layers, with extra layers sewn through the centre panel. Despite the name ‘prefold’ the nappy still requires some folding. It can be fastened with a nappy fastener or laid directly into a well fitting cover.

Bumboo’s Luxury Prefold Nappy is a beautiful prefold choice. When folded it offers seven layers of thirsty bamboo. A little stretch in the nappy helps to give a great fit.

fitted nappy        

Fitted nappies are a Modern Cloth Nappy (MCN). This nappy is shaped and available in a wide range of fabrics. They usually feature elastic in the legs and waist to ensure a comfortable fit. Usually these nappies are fastened with hook and loop (Velcro) or snaps. Available in different sizes to give a great trim fit or in one size that adjusts as baby grows. Fitted nappies often have a snap in or fold out layer. Fitted nappies usually offer great absorbency, but will need a separate nappy cover to ensure waterproof comfort.

Bumboo’s Fitted Nappy is currently being developed and should be available by the end of 2009. Please subscribe to our newsletter to be first to know when it’s available.

pocket nappy

Pocket Nappies are a Modern Cloth Nappy (MCN). They are very popular as they offer the convenience of an All-In-One nappy without the long dry time. They are shaped like a fitted nappy and have a waterproof outer layer with an absorbent or stay dry inner layer. An opening allows you to stuff an absorbent insert between the two layers.

Bumboo’s Pocket Nappy is currently being developed and should be available by June 2009. Please subscribe to our newsletter to be first to know when it’s available.

all-in-one nappy          

All-In-One are a Modern Cloth Nappy (MCN). Shaped like a fitted nappy the All-In-One has the waterproof outer and all absorbency layers constructed. This nappy type is simple and quick to take on and off bub. As all the layers are sewn into the nappy an All-In-One can require a longer dry time.  Some all in ones have their absorbent layers in a snap in or fold out style which helps to make the dry time quicker.

Bumboo’s All-In-One Nappy is currently being developed. Please subscribe to our newsletter to be first to know when it’s available.

other cloth nappy products

nappy covers                   

The nappy cover is an essential part of making the nappy work. Regardless of which nappy type you use, the waterproof layer needs to be well fitting and effective to prevent leaks. The plastic piltchers of the 80s have been overtaken by breathable modern and natural fibres including PUL, Fleece and Wool.

The Bumboo Nappy Cover featuring a unique print exclusive to Bumboo will be available by June 2009. Please subscribe to our newsletter to be first to know when it’s available.

cloth wipes                      

Cloth wipes are a logical choice for parents using cloth nappies. Cloth wipes will save you hundreds of dollars but also give you the peace of mind that your wipes don’t contain any mysterious or potentially harsh chemicals. Cloth wipes work fantastically with plain water and can simply be placed in the bucket to wash with the nappies.

Bumboo’s Deluxe Wipes are a silky soft wipe. Perfect for little bums and little faces.

nappy boosters               

Cloth wipes are a logical choice for parents using cloth nappies. Cloth wipes will save you hundreds of dollars but also give you the peace of mind that your wipes don’t contain any mysterious or potentially harsh chemicals. Cloth wipes work fantastically with plain water and can simply be placed in the bucket to wash with the nappies.

Bumboo’s Deluxe Wipes are a silky soft wipe. Perfect for little bums and little faces.