Have you Cottoned on yet?

Do you like the idea of using a nappy for your baby that’s environmentally friendly, costs less and even comes with a money off voucher to get you started? 

The story so far…

Around 8 million disposable nappies are thrown away in Britain every day. Every single child uses on average 5850 disposable nappies in their lifetime. That’s the same weight as two fully grown Cumbrian cows! During the time that your babies are in nappies you could save a massive £500 if you choose to reuse. What more incentive do you need?

Real nappies are different to disposables. They are made out of cloth and can be used over and over again. They are kind to the environment and great for your pocket too. Best of all, they are all natural. 

Don’t just take our word for it though!

Mum of two Marie Casson, from Thursby near Carlisle, has been using reusable nappies since both her babies were newborn. 

YourCumbria caught up with Marie to find out more: 

“I decided to go for reusable nappies rather than disposables for both environmental and financial reasons. I wanted to do something positive to reduce the amount of rubbish going straight to landfill. Also, I don’t have to add great big expensive packs of nappies to my weekly shopping bill either. Better still, I’ve managed to use the same set on both of my children giving me double the saving.

I have to admit that they do look complicated to use but take it from me that they are really easy (once you get the hang of them) and even my Dad can use them now! Local retailer, Cotton Baby can even come to your house to demonstrate how to use them and show you different ones available. The only down side to using them is that I have to wash them myself but as long as they aren’t really soiled I just throw them in with my normal white wash at the end of the day. The ones I use are really soft, made of natural bamboo fibre and don’t contain any nasty chemicals or bleaches unlike disposables. I would certainly recommend any parent giving them a try.”

What to do now…

Resource Cumbria are offering a real nappy voucher scheme to help Cumbrians give real nappies a try. You can get vouchers to the value of £45 per child or £70 for two eligible children at the same household and the vouchers can be redeemed at most local retailers. 

For more information contact 0845 055 1118 or visit cumbriarealnappycampaign.org (external link) 

Applicants must be either expecting or have children under 18 months at the time of application. Applicants must be residents of Cumbria. Vouchers are limited and are available on a first come first served basis.