We’ve just had a baby! Should I choose reusable or disposable nappies? 

Sorry, but we have to add this to the ‘agonising decisions you’ve got to make on behalf of the new, tiny human that’s just come into your life’ pile…  

When your newborn arrives, it can feel like the stork dropped the baby completely unannounced - no matter how much prep you’ve done. It might even feel like your world has turned upside down and everything’s back to front (that’s sleep deprivation for you).   

If you’ve never done it before, taking care of a newborn baby doesn’t compare to any other task or life event. De-cluttering the spare room that’s been collecting shoes, DVDs and exercise equipment for the last three years doesn’t even come CLOSE. You’re in for a wild (but super rewarding) ride!   

Being responsible for a brand new human that can only communicate in screams can be as challenging as it is rewarding. But as a parent, we know you want to give them the best start in life. So we’re going tell you why reusable newborn nappies are the best choice for your baby (ok, we’re biased, but it’s all based on solid evidence!).  

Whether you’re breast feeding or bottle feeding; it all comes out the same way (most of it, anyway). And for that; you’ll need newborn nappies.

You might be thinking, “I’ll just buy disposable nappies at the supermarket”. But what are you buying? What impact will it have on your baby’s skin, your wallet and the planet? 

We’re here to cut through the clutter and give you the rundown on why reusable newborn nappies are the kindest option for your baby, wallet and the planet.  

Skin-friendly Materials  

TotsBots reusable nappies are made from supersoft materials like bamboo, which are super gentle on your baby's delicate skin. Disposable nappies, on the other hand, are made from synthetic materials and can contain chemical gels. Reusable nappies don't contain any nasty chemicals that could cause irritation.  

Oeko-Tex Certification 

Being Oeko-Tex certified means the materials used to make your nappies have been tested for harmful substances and are safe for your baby's skin. TotsBots has a whole range of nappies and accessories made with Standard 100 Oeko-Tex class 1 approved fabrics, which means they meet the highest safety standards for newborns, giving you the peace of mind and guarantee that your nappies will contain what they are meant to, poo and wee, and no hidden nasties! 

Environmentally Friendly   

Disposable nappies don’t do the planet any favours; let’s face it. If disposable nappies were a car, they’d probably be a Hummer; leaving a trail of pollution behind them as they make their way to landfill! When compared to disposables, it’s been proven that the environmental impact of production is a whopping 90% lower for a reusable nappy.  

It's estimated that over 3 billion nappies end up in landfill sites in the UK each year. Reusable nappies, on the other hand, can be used again and again, and passed on to other tots once yours has outgrown them – massively reducing the amount of waste generated. Some of our TotsBots nappies are can fit babies from “birth to potty” which means that the same nappy can be used on babies weighing from 8lbs to 35lbs.   

Another standout stat is that when compared to disposables, the environmental impact of production is over 90% lower for a reusable nappy!* 

Cost-Effective  

While the initial cost of reusable newborn nappies may be higher than disposables, they can save you a lot of money in the long run. If you use reusable nappies from birth, you’ll save hundreds of pounds over the course of your baby's nappy-wearing years, and even more if you use them for a second or third baby. 

Choosing reusable newborn nappies for your baby is a kinder solution for your baby's sensitive skin and the planet. With natural materials, no chemical gels, and Oeko-Tex certifications, you’re choosing the option baby would thank you for. Plus, reusable newborn nappies are cost-effective in the long term and can be passed on from baby to baby. So, if you're looking for a kinder, more sustainable solution for your newborn nappies, choose to reuse!  

Check out our newborn starter kits here. Great value, with everything you need to get started on your reusables journey! 

* Life Cycle Analysis of Nappies/Absorbent Hygiene Products 2021/23 - EV0493 

Science Search (defra.gov.uk)