nappies & toilet training
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You just can't do without nappies - there are plenty of different styles and makes to choose from, plus a
dizzying array of associated products. We've listed below the main types of products available together with some
links providing more information on nappy styles and how to change them!
types of nappy
There are three main types of nappy available on the market today (with variations also available within each type). These
three are:
- disposable
- cloth
- fitted cloth
disposable nappies
There are a number of different brands of disposable nappy available and you may wish to try a few different ones out before you make
your final choice - usually dependant upon performance and price. Disposable nappies are widely available from local pharmacies,
supermarkets and even some nursery stores. There are also local companies providing the convenience of home delivery for
bulk purchase. For details of these services in your region, click here.
| Disposable Nappies - what eco options are available? |
cloth nappies & fitted cloth nappiesCloth nappies have come along way since you were a baby and you'll be pleasantly surprised at the different options available - ranging from the traditional 'squares', in different materials and colours, to fitted cloth nappies which go on baby much like a disposable (often with velcro tabs - no folding, no pins) which are available in a range of outer colours and styles. You can also source liners for cloth nappies to increase the absorbancy where it matters.
For those of you with convenience concerns, there are cloth nappy laundry services. These services usually provide nappies for you to use. Once used, the nappies are stored in a hygenic container until the service collects them (usually once a week) and drops off freshly laundered ones. Some laundry services have fitted cloth nappies too. For details of services in your region, click here.
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| Modern cloth nappies |
If you'd like more information about cloth nappies, outside the scope of our brief summary here, have a look at
the links on the websites of the companies listed on the nappy products page
and the websites shown on the general information online section below.
You will find some interesting info on subjects such as how many nappies you need, how to wash them, useful accessories, etc.
making your choice
At the end of the day, which type of nappy you use is an entirely personal preference. You may even wish to use a combination of
different types of nappies (eg cloth nappies at home and disposables when you are out). Common factors affecting parents' choice
of nappy include:
- price
- convenience
- environmental issues
Many of the companies listed
nappy products page also have further information on their websites and
links pages.
accessories
There are a range of nappy accessories available and you'll make your own mind up on what suits you and your baby. Here are just
some of the types of products available:
- disposable nappy waste solutions - from fragranced bags to complete sanitising systems
- hygenic solutions for dirty cloth nappies
- nappy stackers (for stylish storage of nappies)
- wipes - from pre-medicated nappy wipes to cotton wool and lotions
- anti-nappy rash products - from powders to barrier creams
- change tables or change pads that fit onto pre-existing furniture
- laundry powders for cloth nappies and shaped nappies (including organic and sensitive ranges)
- nappy bags for outings
- liners for cloth & fitted cloth nappies (disposable or washable options)
- plastic fasteners to eliminate the need for pins
- swimming nappies - disposable and reusable options
nappy changing tips
- gather everything that you need and place it all in easy reach before you start each change so that you don't have to leave your baby mid-change
- never leave your child unattended on a change table, for whatever reason, and always keep one hand on your baby. As your child gets older and more 'wriggly', consider changing baby on a lower surface, or even on a change pad on the floor.
- if using powder or talcum powder, put the powder onto your hands and then apply it to your baby rather than shaking the powder. This should reduce the amount of powder that your baby may breathe in.
- always wipe a baby girl's bottom from front to back to prevent any cross infection
- make sure you clean well around baby boy's genetalia to remove all 'unwanted substances'
- little boys tend to spray everywhere, so if you don't want you, or baby, to get wet during a change, place a muslin or cloth over baby whilst changing
- a toy or mobile above the change mat should amuse baby during a change and reduce squirming
- keep all lotions, potions, pins and plastic bags well out of baby's reach
For more details on change table safety, see our
nursery furniture safety page.
general information online
- folding techniques for cloth nappies
- a number of techniques from a US site here
- a number of options from a UK based site, The Nappy Lady, here
- nappy rash - signs, causes & treatment
toilet training
The age at which to start toilet training varies from child to child and between boys and girls, although it is usually somewhere between
18 months and 3 years. Read the online guides below for more information on readiness signs and toilet training techniques.
- Toilet Training from Child & Youth Health website, CYH, South Australia
- Toilet Training from Parenting Me (US site)
Products for toilet training include different types of potties, from very simple ones to ones with lids, steps, sides, etc,
training pants, training nappies, insert seats, steps and other accessories to enable your child to use an adult toilet,
books (for both children & adults) and more! Visit the general nursery store pages or
pregnancy & baby boutiques page for product details.
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