Reusable Newborn Nappies: A Guide for Using Reusable Nappies From Birth
Baby’s almost here and it’s time to start thinking newborn nappies! Here’s everything you need to know about using reusables from day one
We know a lot of parents are daunted by the idea of juggling reusable newborn nappies and a brand new bub. But they’re simple, we promise!
Can I use reusables on a newborn?
Yes! Reusable nappies have been growing in popularity over the last 20 years and midwives and hospitals are no strangers to the wonderful world of cloth. If you want one less thing to think about during labour, mention on your birth plan that you’ve brought your own reusable newborn nappies.
What newborn nappy should I choose?
Most first-time parents use our EasyFit all-in-one nappy because it’s most like a disposable. The adjustable poppers mean one size fits most from birth to potty training (8 - 35 lbs).
For lower-weight babies, we have the TeenyFit. It’s the exact same design as the regular EasyFit but fits babies from 5 - 12 lbs. Aww!
Do I need night-time nappies?
To help baby (and you!) sleep through the night, we recommend our two-part nappy system. The Bamboozle bamboo nappy is the absorbent bit and the Bamboozle waterproof wrap keeps wetness in for up to 12 hours.
How many nappies do I need?
You’ll need 20 EasyFit nappies if you plan to wash your reusables daily and 25 if washing every second day.
If you go for the two-part system full-time, you’ll need 20-25 Bamboozles and four waterproof wraps. One wrap will last you about five changes, just wipe the wrap down and replace the absorbent Bamboozle at change time.
Oh, and you’ll need some liners too...
I keep hearing about liners, what are they?
Reusable and disposable nappy liners catch any poo and keep wetness away from baby’s skin. We recommend reusable fleece liners because they really do keep baby driest — and dry bums are the secret to preventing nappy rash!
Speaking of poo… what do I do with it?!
As with any baby, there’s no avoiding the poo. Sorry! But you’ll soon get used to it. Luckily, our liners make getting rid of the poo a doddle. At change time, simply lift the liner out of the nappy and tip the poo down the loo. Then just add your reusable liner to the laundry bucket or throw the disposable one away. Easy!
How often should I change my baby’s nappy?
Your baby needs change before or after every feed and whenever they’ve pooed. Reusable nappies don't stink the place out like flimsy disposables, so check for poo (carefully!) by peeking inside the back waist.
Why should I choose TotsBots newborn nappies?
Our mission is to make the best nappies in the world. We really care about what we do. TotsBots cloth nappies are the only reusable nappy brand to be completely Oeko-Tex 100-certified – meaning absolutely no harmful chemicals next to your wee one’s delicate skin.
Our nappies are made right here in the UK and we’ve won the Mother & Baby Best Reusable Nappy award 10 times — that's more than any other reusable nappy brand put together.
OK, I think I’m ready! What now?
The unknown is usually what drives anxiety. If you have any trepidation about converting to cloth, buy a small stash of reusable newborn nappies before your little one is due so you can get familiar with the design.
You’ll soon see they’re not much different from disposables. Apart from the whole no landfill and no harmful chemicals thing ;) Remember to check out our FAQ page for anything else you’d like to know about reusable newborn nappie, happy nappying!