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Modern cloth nappies

There’s something nostalgic about the sight of a rotary clothesline with white cotton squares flapping in the breeze. Growing up as the oldest of four children, before the birth of disposable nappies and clothes dryers, I can remember white cotton squares strung up all about the house on wet winter days, as my mother tried frantically to get them dry. These days, you’re more likely to see a line strung with multi-coloured nappies in a variety of styles and fabrics. These newer styles of nappies, collectively known as Modern Cloth Nappies (MCNs), are more versatile, more reliable and easier to use than their traditional counterparts, not to mention a whole lot better-looking!

MCNs are divided into four categories: Prefolds, fitted nappies, pocket nappies, and all-in-one nappies. I tried out one nappy from each of the four categories on my very wriggly, 7.5kg, seven-month old baby girl.

Ecobots Prefold Nappy and PUL Cover
Nappy RRP: $22.75 for six
Cover RRP: $22.50
www.ecobots.co.nz

Ecobots prefolds feature six layers of cotton in the middle channel for maximum absorbency. The PUL cover has gussets to prevent leaks and aplix tabs to secure it in place. It fitted well and wasn’t too bulky between the legs. On first use, the nappy leaked up the front, as the prefold shifted inside the cover. Suspecting user error, I re-fitted it, and sure enough, success! After three hours there were no leaks, despite the prefold being soaked. Washing was really simple and the cover dried quickly in the sun. The prefold took longer, but overall, the drying time was minimal.
The good bits: Ecobots covers are great — the quality PUL and gussets make them virtually leakproof.
The not-so-good bits: Perhaps using a snappi or pins to secure the nappy, instead of the recommended pad fold, might make it more reliable on older, mobile babies.
Bottom line: A cost-effective, reliable choice
Rating: 3/5

Honey Child Pocket Nappies
RRP: $36.95
www.honeychild.co.nz

Honey Child pocket nappies have a waterproof PUL outer layer, and a microfleece stay-dry liner. They have an adjustable snap closure for a good fit. I was initially sceptical that the single microfibre insert recommended for daytime use would be enough, but I needn’t have worried. After three hours, my baby’s bottom was still beautifully dry, as was the layer of microfleece against her skin, even though the insert was sodden. For nighttime use, Honey Child recommend using an extra insert to increase absorbency. I dry-pailed the nappy according to the washing instructions, then washed it with my usual load of laundry. Drying time was minimal.
The good bits: I love the super-trim ft of this nappy. Plus, they come in a gorgeous range of colours, and are made right here in New Zealand.
The not-so-good bits: At the top end of the market, Honey Child nappies are a little pricey. But compared to what you would spend on disposables, they are well worth it — especially if you plan to use them for your next child as well.
Bottom line: The Rolls Royce of pocket nappies — worth every cent
Rating: 4/5

Tots Bots Easy Fit Fluffle All-in-one nappy
RRP: $47.50
www.nappydays.co.nz

Tots Bots Easy Fit Fluffle AIO’s have a laminated polyester outer layer with a microfibre absorbent layer, which folds out for faster drying time. They also have a pocket opening to add more absorbency, and come with an additional booster for this purpose. They fasten with aplix, and also have snaps to adjust the rise, making them a one-size-fits-all option.
It fitted well, although I did have to refasten it a few times to ensure it was snug around her thighs. It was still holding up well after three hours, thanks to the additional booster. I washed the nappy with my usual load of laundry, but it was a bit tricky to unfold the absorbent layer while the nappy was wet. Even with the absorbent layer unfolded, it still took several hours hanging in the sun to dry completely.
The good bits: Super-easy to use, even for dads!
The not-so-good bits: Absorbency could be an issue without the extra booster.
Bottom line: A great nappy to keep in your nappy bag for easy changes when you’re out and about.
Rating: 3/5

Tots Bots FlexiTots Fitted Nappy and FlexiWrap Cover
Nappy RRP: $33.50
Cover RRP: $29.00
www.nappydays.co.nz

Tots Bots FlexiTots fitted nappies have an absorbent microfibre core with a bamboo velour stay-dry layer, and an external layer of water-resistant polyester. An extra layer of absorbency is provided by a sewn-in booster. The FlexiWrap cover is also made of polyester, but has a polyurethane laminate for waterproofing.
The bamboo velour is silky-soft against baby’s skin and there were no leaks or wicking over a three-hour period. Soiling came away easily from the velour and the nappy was simple to wash. The cover dried within an hour in the sun, but the nappy took considerably longer, even with the booster folded out.
The good bits: The velour is easy to clean. You don’t need to change the cover every time, so the initial outlay is less than for pocket nappies.
The not-so-good bits: Quite a long drying time, and a little bulky.
Bottom line: A functional nappy that feels great on baby’s bum!
Rating: 4/5