Washable Nappies Are Best for the Environment

Real nappies are up to 40% better for the environment than disposables; a new report from the government has stated.

The key finding of the report shows that the environmental benefits are achieved by following simple washing guidelines like: avoiding tumble drying nappies, using A-rated appliances and washing in full loads at no more than 60 degrees These are all measures recommended by nappy manufacturers and commonly used by parents .

The report highlights that unlike disposables, washable nappies put parents in control of the impact they have on the environment. Parents using real nappies will also be financially better off. It has long been known that real nappies save parents hundreds of pounds and now this advice on washing methods, which are supported and promoted by the Real Nappy Campaign, will help reduce fuel bills too. The savings in costs and for the environment are even better when real nappies are used on a second child as many families do.

Laura Smith, mum to 8 month old Conner said; 'We already wash all the family laundry at lower temperatures and don't use a tumble drier. With increasing energy bills I think more people are opting for energy efficient washing options and we're delighted that this report backs up our decision to use washable nappies.'

An additional concern caused by disposable nappy use, is the pressure on UK landfill sites from the disposal of 690,000 tonnes of nappy waste each year; most of which are landfilled. This issue is not covered by the newly published report yet is still a major concern for consumers and only confirms the environmental benefits of using washable nappies. Jon Rolls of the Real Nappy Campaign stated; 'The findings of this report will confirm what many real nappy users already felt to be true; they will also alleviate the confusion caused by the earlier Environment Agency report.

The clear message to parents is that by using washable nappies sensibly they are opting for the most environmentally friendly nappy option, and saving themselves money. Washable nappies in all shapes, sizes and designs are readily available through independent, online and high street retailers.

The Real Nappy Campaign clearly has an important ongoing role in continuing the promotion of washable nappies, as well as providing information on how to ensure their environmental impact is minimised. We recognise that real nappy users occasionally find it convenient to use disposable nappies too and we are pleased to see that disposable manufacturers recognise the need to improve the environmental impact of their products. Given the outcome of this report we look forward to constructive dialogue with the disposable industry about how we can help to further reduce the impact of disposables.

The lack of information available prevents many from making an informed choice, Hull and East Riding Real Nappy Network is run by a number of volunteers to ensure that the information is available to parents who would like their many questions answered.

From Tuesday 9th December, Well One Clinic (Off Swinemoor Lane), from 7.30 to 8.30 pm Beverley will now host a monthly nappy drop in, where mums and dads to be will find support and their questions answered as well as current cloth users are encouraged to come and share experiences in a warm, safe environment with ample free car parking. Many are aware that some councils offer subsidies but are unsure which, others are more concerned about how to clean their nappies or how many are really needed. Many retailers are giving misinformation, only serving to confuse parents further.

All nappies use energy, whether it's to make disposables or to wash real ones. But, taking everything into account, washing nappies at home leads to less climate change impact than using disposables. Eight million disposable nappies are thrown away every day in the UK, so using real nappies could also save tons of waste and money. A recent survey found 85% of women are very concerned about the effects of climate change on future generations. Using real nappies in the recommended way offers parents of young children one way they can act on CO2 and make a difference.

For more information please call, 01482 564479, or visit www.nappynature.com

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