Which nappy is the most eco friendly, disposables or cloth?

• use washable liners, boosters and inserts in pocket nappies
• washing on fuller loads
• reusing nappies on other children.
• line drying outside whenever possible
• tumble drying as little as possible
• when replacing appliances, choosing more energy efficient ones
• not washing above 60 degrees (only soiled nappies need to be washed in hot water)
• use an environmentally friendly washing detergent such as soapnuts (which also leave no residue on the nappies)
• avoid unnecessary fabric conditioners

• dispose of excrement in the loo before placing the nappy in the general waste (human faeces should not be composted)
• choose an environmentally friendly disposable nappy with high credentials (preferably which has been independently assessed).

Consider the following:

• does the nappy have a biodegradable backsheet? The ideal backsheet should be made from a breathable material.
• biodegradable gel? Granules in the core of the nappy should be environmentally safe materials, as an example, those based on maize starch.
• TBT (tributyl tin) is an environmental pollutant with a hormone-like effect. The smallest concentrations of TBT can harm children’s immune systems and impair their hormonal system.
• is it chlorine free? Using unbleached wood pulp in the manufacturing reduces the bleaching agents used to make the nappy and reduces the toxicity of products against your child’s skin.
• degradable packaging?
• are they compostable? The inner contents of some eco nappies have been proven to break down within 8-12 weeks.