What are the Benefits of reusable nappies?

When using reusable nappies, you reduce your baby’s exposure to chemicals, save money, reduce waste and benefit the environment.

• Real nappies are made from soft fabrics and contain less chemicals than disposable nappies, making them kinder to babies' skin and less likely to cause irritation.
• Using real nappies for your baby can reduce household waste by nearly half.
• Real nappies can save you up to £500 per child.
• Using 1 reusable nappy instead of a disposable every day could save 1000 nappies from landfill during the early stages of a child’s life.

How do the nappies work?

Real nappies are really easy to use. They are two-piece nappies with the 1st piece being a waterproof wrap which can be reused over multiple changes. The 2nd piece is a washable absorbent cotton cloth which you replace when soiled. You fold the cloth like you would a piece of paper, lay it inside the wrap and put it on your baby. Soiled cloths can be washed at 40 degrees. For more information about real nappies, please visit the Real Nappies for London website.

What do we offer?

We will provide you with a free trial pack subject to availability. If you apply for a trial pack, you will be required to participate in feedback surveys and virtual or in-person support groups. We will therefore ask for your email and/or phone number to stay in touch and learn about your experience. You should not sell the trial pack or pass it on to anyone else.

How to apply

If you're a parent or about to become one and you live in Barking and Dagenham, you can apply for a free trial pack by emailing wasteminimisation@lbbd.gov.uk