Well after the success and love of our Bum Genius V3's Fizz got sent a V4 to compare.

What automatically stood out to me is that the press stud style poppers are a very welcome addition. Now Fizz recently figured out that pulling back the velcro on her V3's made a lovely sound and this has now led to many an occasion of a half attached nappy!

Unable to undo the poppers means Fizz keeps her modesty and we also don't have any accidents!

The improvements to the gusset aren't really noticable until washing. Washing the V4 after a dirty nappy I was surprised to see no staining around the gusset area, the nappy seems to stretch further and it seems it also allows this to wash up better. I suspect that the extra stretch is so the nappy last well into toddling and can also be used during the start of potty training too.

I also liked having a paler colour nappy. It meant not having to think too much about the clothes Fizz had over the nappy.

All in all the V4 has bettered it's predecessor. Not by much but the adaptations were a much welcome change for mum and Fizz.

Welcome to the Cloth Nappy FAQ, Sit comfortably & enjoy the read....
If you have a question that we don't have the answer for, please post it in the comments & we will endeavour to find the answer for you!

The Questions are broken down into the following sections:

New to Cloth Nappies or Considering going Cloth

How many Nappies do I need?

Depends on how frequently you want to wash. If you currently use disposables then a fair equation would be current no. nappies + 2 extra then multiply by number of days you want between washes. Remember to take into account nappies to use whilst others are in the wash.

What type of Nappies should I buy?

In terms of nappy types everyone has a personal preference. Ideally you should aim to try at least one nappy of various ones that 'take your fancy' before making a serious investment. If the nappy you choose doesn't work out for you then try another, don't be discouraged as each baby is a different size, shape etc so are the nappies. Buying preloved is a great way of trying out nappies as well as trial packs of individual nappies.

Do I need wraps for all my Nappies?

Not all nappies require wraps, some nappies have a waterproof layer built into the nappy. Do make sure that you read the instructions on the nappies before using to make sure you have all the required parts as wraps are typically sold separately. For further info: Cloth Nappies - Getting Started

What ratio of Nappies to wraps do I need?

Wraps don't require changing everytime you change the nappy unless it's dirty. They can normally we wiped out or aired between uses. I would normally change the wrap after three uses. So around three nappies to one wrap would be a fair ratio.

Are Cloth Nappies Daddy/Family friendly?

Modern Cloth Nappies are designed to be easy to use and can be used by anyone with little instruction. Most of them are shape similar to disposable nappies.

Are Cloth Nappies easy to use?

Yes, Modern Cloth nappies are easy to use, few nappies types require any additional folding or preping before putting on. Each individual will have a preference to which type they find the easiest but it is more down to trial and error to what suits you.

Do Cloth Nappies smell?

No, Infact people often comment that they smell less than disposables as there are no chemicals in the nappy. If your nappies do acquire a smell they may require a little more attention when washing. For further info: Cloth Nappies - Nappy Care

Do bulky Cloth Nappies hinder baby's development?

Babies are generally adaptable to their environment. If you are a regular user of both cloth and disposable nappies you might find that s/he sits up easier in disposables. However other users may find it the opposite and their baby sits easier in cloth. The nicely padded bottom helps provide a cushion when they're up and about and there has been no proof to suggest that cloth nappies delay walking either. Considering most of our parents were probably raised in cloth and they have developed fine. Remember all babies develop at their own pace, I very much doubt that whatever nappy they're wearing has any impact on their development.

Can I resell Nappies if I buy a brand that doesn't suit me?

Yes, You can there are select places you can re-sell nappies. Unfortunately Ebay has a strict policy on reselling used nappies but nappy forums will normally have areas for sale or trade. The better the condition of the nappy the higher the resale value. It's a handy place to buy nappies to try out too.

Can I buy Pre-loved Nappies?

Yes, You can buy preloved nappies, there is an extensive online community of cloth nappy users who sell or trade their nappies online, it's a great way of trying out different types of nappy without committing to buying new. The other useful thing is the nappy will have been pre-washed as well, saving you some prep time on the nappy.

Will my childcare provider use my Nappies?

It is always worth checking with your childcare provider whether they are happy to accept cloth nappies. Some private nurseries still insist on using disposables but there are an increasing number of nurseries accepting them.

Where do I get Nappies from?

You can buy nappies online at many baby retailers such as Babipur, select stores will stock them in high street stores but I have found in-store selections to be very limited. Shopping around will get you the best deals.

Do normal Clothes fit over the Nappies?

Yes, normal clothes do fit over cloth nappies, however if your baby is particularly long you can buy vest extenders which will increase the amount of cloth at the gusset area - prolonging the usable life of the clothes. You can also buy clothes that are designed for cloth like the Frugi 'cut for cloth' range.

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Part-time in Cloth Nappies

Can't afford enough Nappies straight away, Do I have to buy loads before I can start using them?

For every cloth nappy you use, is one less in landfill and one less purchased. You can increase your 'stash' inline with your budget. You don't have to go 'all out' and buy in bulk.

Can I just use Cloth Nappies some or the time or will my baby get confused if I swap and change?

You can use cloth on a part time basis, your baby won't get confused at all, though you may find they have 'preferences' to the nappies they're wearing as cloth is a very different feel for them so the earlier you convert the easier it will be.

I can't afford to buy loads of Nappies at once how can I do this

You can buy nappies in line with your budget, even adding one or two nappies a month will gradually all you to get cloth full time - even if you only start with enough nappies to last a day and wash daily. However to get the best value both cost and environmentally you should aim to get a couple of days worth of nappies.

How do the council Incentives work?

Most councils encourage the use of cloth nappies as it reduces the number sent to landfill. Schemes can include cash back incentives or trials packs. For further info: Cloth Nappies - Council Incentives

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Changing Nappies

How often should I change the Nappies?

You should aim to change nappies as you normally would with disposable nappies, though many nappies have an incredible amount of absorbency and may go longer, others may require changing more frequently especially if your baby is a heavy wetter.

Can I change just the nappy inners or do I need to change the whole thing?

How much of the nappy you change depends on the type of nappy you are using. Traditional & hybrid nappies just require the inners changing allowing the wrap to be used a number of times. Pocket or all-in-one nappies will require the whole nappy to be changed. For further info: Cloth Nappies - Getting Started

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New Nappies

My new nappies are leaking, what am I doing wrong?

New nappies are recommended to be pre-washed before using. This removes manufacturing chemicals and also begins the process if building up the nappies absorbency. For further info: Cloth Nappies - Nappy Care

My Nappies are soaking my babies clothes straight away, what am I doing wrong?

If the whole nappy is wet, inside and out. Then the type of nappy you are using probably requires a wrap. If your unsure of the type of nappy you are using see: Cloth Nappies - Getting Started

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Night Nappies

How many night Nappies do I need?

If you decide to invest in 'Night' nappies; you will need fewer of them but enough to see you through for nights between washes also allowing for dying time as they do tend to be bulkier and may take longer to dry.

What Nappies should I use?

Specific made for purpose 'Night' nappies aren't always necessary. In most cases you can 'boost' a normal day nappy to enable it to be used a bit longer (see below for info on 'Boosting'). If your baby is a heavy wetter and more so at night then do try extra boosting before investing in specific types. They do tend to be bulkier than nappies intended for day use.

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Boosting

What is 'Boosting'?

Boosting is adding extra absorbency to a normal/standard nappy by using additional padding in the form of inserts. However many 'inserts' may also be given other names like boosters, doublers and soakers.

What is the difference between an insert and a booster?

None really, A pocket nappy for instance is sold with an insert as the initial absorbency, it can't really be called a booster as there's nothing for it to boost. So the booster is anything extra to that. It may be identical to it's insert but the two together boost the absorbency of the nappy.

What is a doubler?

It's the same as an insert or booster, though they are sometimes smaller and made of different material to the inserts. Essentially 'doubling' the nappies absorbency. It does tend to be an american term but as we do sell a lot of american nappies over here it just adds to the jargon really.

What is a soaker?

as above but soakers tend to refer to part of the standard nappy rather than the boosting part of it.

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Storing Dirty Nappies

What do I do with dirty Nappies?

Dirty nappies do need to be stored out of the reach of your baby/toddler so a secure nappy bucket or any bin which has an airtight lid to contain odours is recommended.

What should I do with the poop?

How you deal with poos depends on the age of your baby. For liquidy poos it's fine to just put it through the wash. Though I tend to do a rinse cycle before doing a proper wash to get any poo off. Older babies, especially those being weaned where poo has more consistency or firmer; the poo should be removed/rinsed into the toilet before washing.

How can I make the nappy pail/bucket smell nicer?

Essential oils are fab for making the nappy bucket smell nicer lavender or tea tree oil are my favourite. You can put them in the bucket on a rag/muslin/cloth or stick a pantyliner to the lid of the bucket and apply the oil there instead.

For further info: Cloth Nappies - Nappy Care

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Washing Cloth Nappies

What temperature should I wash my Nappies at?

Always read the instructions on the label so you know the max. wash temperature for each nappy. Most nappies are fine at 40oC, some brands may recommend higher but there's no harm in washing at a lower temp, however avoid washing at temperatures which exceed the recommended maximum as this may damage any waterproof lining in the nappy.

What should I wash the Nappies with?

You can use any detergent to wash the nappies in, most parents do tend to go for non-bio or eco alternatives which are kinder to your babies skin. You should use 1/4 of your normal amount in the wash as too much will encourage a build up of chemicals in the nappy. Softeners should also be avoided as this will affect the absorbency of the nappy.

How do I get Stains out?

Sunshine is the best natural stain remover there is. Seriously, I'm not crazy. Drying your nappies outside on a sunny day should do the trick. Conventional stain removers can also be used but do make sure the nappies are well rinsed.
NOTE: Some brands do not recommend the use of stain removers and it can void your guarantee, if your unsure then most manufacturers are happy to be contacted with queries.

For further info: Cloth Nappies - Nappy Care

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Nappy Rash

Are clothed bums more likely to get nappy rash?

Every baby is different, typically there is a reduced chance of rashes but you should also consider the teething can cause a rash and some babies cannot tolerate man-made fibres like fleece against their skin. An excessive build-up of detergent can also cause irritation. So if your baby does suffer a rash please consider the possible cause first.

Can I use creams with Cloth Nappies?

Yes, you can. But cream can affect the nappies absorbency; so it is recommended that you should use a liner between the baby's skin and the nappy. Silver nappy liners can be used as a more natural way of treating a rash.

Cloth Out & About

How do I store dirty Nappies when I'm out for the day?

Dirty nappies can be stored in a waterproof tote or 'wet' bag. These can be zipped or pull cord to be sealed. The wetbags can be washed with your nappies or clothes (check for recommended temperature). Alternatively, you can use the normal little plastic nappy sacks - just remember not to throw them in the bin.

Do I need to use disposables when I'm out for the day or on holiday?

Your own preference really. If you have access to wash facilities when your on holiday then reusables are fine. Obviously if your only out for the day then you have to be prepared to carry the dirty ones around with you.

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Nappy Jargon

What is a wrap?

A wrap is a separate waterproof cover for traditional or hybrid nappies.

What does obv mean?

In short obv means 'Organic Bamboo Velour' a really soft, absorbent fabric.

What is aplix?

Aplix is another name for a hook & loop fastening also known as velcro. For further info: Cloth Nappies - Getting Started

What are snaps?

Snaps are another name for poppers or press studs, which are the types of fastening for the nappy. For further info: Cloth Nappies - Getting Started

What are fleece liners for?

Fleece liners are a washable alternative to flushable liners. The added benefit to using fleece is that it acts like a stay dry barrier between the baby and nappy as fleece doesn't absorb, but allows moisture to pass through. They also keep your nappies in good condition.

What are flushable liners for?

Are put inside the nappy to assist the collection of poop. Not all liners are flushable as some are designed to be biodegradable and are thrown in the bin instead so do check beforehand.

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If your looking into trying cloth nappies then it's worth looking into whether your local council offer any incentives.

Incentives can come in many formats:

Cashback on nappies purchased
These involve sending off receipts to the council as proof of purchase and you may receive a portion or % of money back on amount spent or on a set spend amount. eg. £25 cashback on min £50 spend.

Subsidised kits
You council may offer a set of nappies at a greatly subsidised price. These may be brand specific or a variety of brands.

Limited trials
There may be an incentive to use a council run/sponsored laundry service at a cut price or free. Nappy services will provide the nappies.

or

A trial set of nappies might be loaned for a limited period to help you make a decision.

Voucher schemes
You may be offered a voucher to spend at an online shop - do check that the store accepts the vouchers first.

Please do remember to check out your council website before buying, as anything towards the initial set up costs of cloth nappies is helpful.

Moneysaving expert has a handy list of all the councils and the type of scheme they offer: Council Incentive list

Think to yourself the type of person who uses cloth nappies. If it's you great! If it's not then think again, and ask yourself why not?

By writing this article I'm hoping to widen peoples views on cloth nappies and broaden the horizons of readers who may feel that cloth nappies are the trend for a select minority rather than for the greater good.

In an Eco-consious society I often wonder why the uptake of cloth nappies isn't higher! I aim to enlighten you the various types of nappy users I have come across and see where you fit, including an estimated spend of each group on nappies from birth to potty training - on the assumption that potty training is successful by the age of 2 1/2 years old; I've worked out a conservative estimated total spent on standard 'sposies (disposables) to be between £800-£1,200.

I've grouped the 'types' allowing a split between a 'sposie and cloth user, this way you can comment freely without prejudice. This is purely for 'fun' there is no research to back me up - only my personal experiences!

One-off or One-brand Wonders
'Sposie User
Probably brought a brand of cloth nappies when pregnant without really researching what would work for you, maybe had a leak then gave up or you braved the use of nappies until you realised that the poo has to go somewhere other than the bin. So on top of the cost of 'sposies you probably have the additional cost of a birth to potty kit of un-used cloth nappies.
Cost: £1,200-£1,500
Savings: None

Cloth User
On the opposite extreme, you researched you invested and very pleased with your selection. You probably only have 1 or 2 types of nappy in your stash (maybe day/night ones).
Costs: £300-£400
Savings: £400-£800

Hooked and Addicted
Cloth User
Unfortunately 'sposie users can't really be quantified in this category.
These lush fluff lovers buys nappys now instead of shoes/handbags etc. Outfit matching or custom fluff is a must.
You probably keen on swapping or buying/selling pre-loved nappies to regularly refresh your stash.
Cost: £400-infinity
Savings: Depending on how 'addicted' you are.

Practical nappy lovers
'Sposie User
Your a highly seasoned nappy user - you've tried them all and made your choices. You probably have a preferred 'sposie brand for day/night use, heading out etc. Possibly have excess stocks of those nappies that didn't work for you.
Cost: £1,200+
Savings: None

Cloth User
Has a nappy for all occasions, on the go, overnight, lazy day at home. You probably brought pre-loved before investing in new so you can be sure you like to shape, fit and absorbency of the nappy. Majority of your stash is probably birth-to-potty with a few fitted nappies.
Cost: £400-£500
Savings: Can be substantial

Eco-Lovers
'Sposie User
Likely to be using 'eco' nappies which claim to bio-degrade faster than standard 'sposies
Cost: £1200+
Savings: None

Cloth User
Has a vast majority of their nappy stash made from eco or sustainable materials - hemp & bamboo galore! or enjoys buying/selling pre-loved nappies and saving on pre-washes.
Cost: £200-£300 (on the basis of 50% stash 'pre-loved')
Savings: Can be substantial

Part-time Practitioner
Theres no 'sposie - cloth split for this type of user as they juggle both nappy types. You might use cloth during the day and a 'sposie at night or use 'sposies out & about/childcare.

In 'some' ways your getting the best of both worlds but the savings aren't as great as special offers can lead to purchasing too many 'sposies of one size.
Cost: £800-£1200 (if 50% of time in 'sposies' and cost of cloth accounted for)
Savings: Negligible

Remember: This is for fun, I'm not intentionally aiming to offend anyone, nor has this article been based on any research other than my own experiences - Enjoy!

Pop in Nappy reviewed

The Pop in nappy by Close Parent

Close Parent is a company run by mums and the Pop in nappy has been designed by mums so this is a great start!  They are an ethical company who operate a fair trade policy with their suppliers.

The Pop-in nappycomes in five attractive unisex colours.  It looks good and feels lovely and soft.  The nappy is put on just like a disposable and fastenes with stretchy aplix tabs (similar to velcro) which helps give a lovely snug fit.    There is  no need for a seperate wrap with this nappy. 

The nappy seperates into  three parts for washing to ensure quicker drying time.  First you have the outer shell which which is made from a soft brushed polyester which is coated with a waterproof yet breathable material called TPU (there is no spandex or PVC)  Then inside there's a slim bamboo soaker and slim bamboo booster - these are shaped  so that only enough material is used to provide the absorbion required without the unnecessary bulk. The soaker is attached to the outer shell with poppers and the booster is attached to the soaker with poppers too.

The outer shell of the pop in has poppers to adjust the size of the so that it fits from newborn to potty trained. This makes this nappy excellent value for money as there  is only one size to buy. The soaker and booster can be tumble dried however the outer shell cannot. 

The 'Dri Night' Booster - This is a square piece of bamboo fabric which is folded in three.  It folds to a rectangle shape and pops into place inside the nappy.  The 'Dri Night' booster is to be used at night or on very long journeys.  This booster would rarely be used on younger babies as the other parts of the nappy should be absorbent enough even for night time use.  The 'Dri Night' booster however proved a godsend for us as our 'baby' is nearly 2!  It can be used as a pre-fold for newborns (we have not tested it in this way)

We found the bamboo fabric in this nappy is very absorbent.   We've had no leaks whatsoever and because it comes apart it dries quicker than most bamboo nappies. The outer shell  did pile a little after a few washes (I'm probably nitpicking here because it doesn't make any difference and they still look nice)  The nightime booster when used with all the other parts seems very bulky but this makes for a leak free night and no great rush to get the nappy changed first thing in the morning.

In conclusion this nappy looks good, works extremely well and is good value. Buy a Pop-in Test Kit.