#our eco friendly product reusable nappies

[anbuselvi1]

List of Environmentally Friendly Disposable Nappies

Big claim huh!. But it’s true. Let’s look at why Eco Nappies are better!

Father with a toddler child at home, getting ready for a bath. Paternity leave. Everyone wants to live a cleaner, more environmentally friendly life.  Disposable nappies have copped a bad name when it comes to being eco-friendly – and rightfully so.  But the good thing is that sustainable and environmentally friendly products are becoming more accessible to the general public all the time, and…

[fudgeypants]

Bamboo Nappy Inserts: A Comfortable, Eco-Friendly Choice for Your Baby

As more families shift towards sustainable lifestyles, one area gaining increasing attention is baby care. Traditional disposable diapers, while convenient, have a significant environmental footprint. Enter bamboo nappy inserts – a natural, eco-friendly alternative that not only benefits the planet but also provides superior comfort for your baby. In this blog, we’ll explore why bamboo nappy inserts are becoming a popular choice for parents and how they contribute to both sustainability and your baby’s well-being.

Why Bamboo?

Bamboo is a versatile, fast-growing plant with numerous environmental benefits. Its cultivation requires no pesticides or fertilizers, and it uses far less water compared to cotton or other crops. Additionally, bamboo absorbs carbon dioxide and releases 35% more oxygen than trees of a similar size. This makes bamboo one of the most sustainable raw materials for a wide range of products, including nappy inserts.

In baby products, bamboo stands out for its softness, breathability, and natural hypoallergenic properties. These qualities make bamboo an ideal material for nappy inserts, providing a gentle and comfortable solution for your baby’s sensitive skin.

Eco-Friendly Benefits of Bamboo Nappy Inserts

Disposable diapers are a well-known environmental hazard. They contribute to billions of tons of landfill waste annually, taking up to 500 years to decompose. With their high plastic content and chemical additives, disposable nappies also pose pollution risks to our water and air.

In contrast, bamboo nappy inserts are reusable, significantly reducing waste. By choosing reusable bamboo inserts, you’re cutting down on the massive volume of single-use diapers sent to landfills each year. Over time, using bamboo inserts can dramatically reduce your family’s carbon footprint, making a tangible difference for the environment.

Moreover, bamboo is biodegradable. When it’s time to replace your inserts after years of use, they will break down naturally and safely, unlike synthetic materials that persist in the environment.

Superior Absorbency and Comfort for Your Baby

One of the key advantages of bamboo nappy inserts is their exceptional absorbency. Bamboo fibers can hold up to three times their weight in water, ensuring that your baby stays dry and comfortable for longer periods. This makes bamboo inserts particularly effective for overnight use, providing peace of mind for parents and preventing leaks that disrupt your baby’s sleep.

Bamboo’s moisture-wicking properties also help prevent diaper rash and irritation. By drawing moisture away from your baby’s skin, bamboo nappy inserts create a dry, comfortable environment, which is essential for delicate skin prone to rashes and redness.

Gentle on Baby’s Skin

Bamboo is naturally hypoallergenic and antibacterial, making it perfect for babies with sensitive skin or those prone to eczema. Many parents who switch to bamboo nappy inserts notice a reduction in diaper rashes and other skin irritations. The natural fibers of bamboo are smooth and non-abrasive, providing a soft layer of protection against chafing and discomfort.

Additionally, bamboo nappy inserts are free from harmful chemicals and synthetic fragrances commonly found in disposable diapers. This ensures that your baby’s skin is not exposed to unnecessary irritants, contributing to overall skin health and comfort.

Cost-Effective and Long-Lasting

While the initial investment in reusable bamboo nappy inserts may seem higher than purchasing disposable nappies, the long-term savings are substantial. Bamboo inserts are designed to withstand hundreds of washes, making them a durable and economical choice. Over time, reusable nappy inserts pay for themselves, especially considering the thousands of disposable diapers a typical baby would otherwise go through in their first few years.

Many families find that bamboo inserts not only help them save money but also reduce the frequency of diaper changes due to their superior absorbency.

Conclusion

Bamboo nappy inserts are a sustainable, cost-effective, and baby-friendly solution for modern parents who want to reduce their environmental impact without compromising on quality or comfort. By making the switch to bamboo, you’re choosing a product that is gentle on your baby’s skin, highly absorbent, and kind to the planet. With their long-lasting durability and eco-friendly advantages, bamboo nappy inserts are a smart investment for both your baby and the environment.

[eatingtherich-amenu]

Reuse, Repurpose, Recycle

Buying nothing is the best way to avoid sharing your hard earned cash with the mega rich but avoiding single use or new items and reusing what you already have are a great second.

The amount of waste generated by humanity represents a growing threat to our ecosystems and economies. The output of solid waste has grown from 25 gigatons (yes, that’s 25 billion tons) in 1990 to 86 gigatons in 2020 – and a projected 140 gigatons by 2050.

This expansion exceeds population growth, and is the result of a disposable-goods system that combines short-term use and long-term environmental harm. Half of all plastic production is for single-use items. To get a sense of how ephemeral a “single use” can be, consider that the average working life of a disposable plastic shopping bag is just 15 minutes and Australian’s throw away an estimated 10 million plastic straws a day.

Source: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2021/07/reusing-plastic-waste-pollution-economy-value/

Honestly, the idea that we call something that lasts for hundreds or thousands of years ‘single use’ and have been conditioned to use it once and throw it away is actually bonkers when you consider it. 

These plastic plates and flimsy plastic toys will outlast me, my kids and their kids and yet we use and throw them ‘away’ (there is no ‘away’) with never a thought. What a crazy marketing trick we’ve fallen for as a species!

So how to prevent buying these damaging and wasteful items over and over? Buy reusable and repurpose your current items:

Beeswax

Instead of buying endless rolls of plastic wrap, opt for beeswax wraps instead.

Silicone food covers and lids

When it comes to sustainability, silicone is a bit of a grey area. But when it's a choice between reusable silicone food covers and single-use plastic wrap, it's a step in the right direction.

Paper or metal straws

Aussies throw away an estimated 10 million plastic straws a day. A DAY.

Paper bags

While it has become commonplace to wrap loaves of bread in plastic bags, paper packaging is becoming an increasingly popular and easy-to-find option.

Toothpaste tablets

Forget folding up your toothpaste tube to try and squeeze out every last bit of toothpaste; toothpaste tablets are the latest eco alternative.

Bamboo toothbrushes 

While you’re at it, you may as well ditch the plastic toothbrush and opt for a bamboo brush instead.

Eco-friendly toilet paper

Be kind to the planet and never run out of toilet paper again.

Glass soap and detergent bottles

Many supermarkets, including IGA, now offer refill-and-go glass bottles for dishwashing detergent, handwash and even hand sanitiser.

Boxed washing powder

Skip the liquid cleaning agents in plastic bottles and load up on boxed washing powders instead.

Cotton tote bags

According to Sustainability Victoria, Australians use around 10 million plastic bags every day.

Glass or metal containers

Give single-use plastic bags and containers the flick and opt for recyclable materials instead.

Reusable coffee cups

It’s estimated that Aussies throw away 2.7 million disposable coffee cups every single day.

Washable bamboo nappies

According to Sustainability Victoria, a whopping 3.75 million disposable nappies are used each day in Australia and New Zealand.

Fabric face masks

We see them strewn on the streets and flowing from rubbish bins, but face masks are part of life in a new COVID-normal world.

Reusable drink bottles

A million plastic bottles are bought around the world every minute, according to a study by The Guardian.

Microfibre cloths

As well as harbouring bacteria and germs, plastic kitchen sponges are another environmental enemy.

Soap bars

Hair-care products have taken some inspiration for their soapy cousins, with some mane players going back to basics and offering their formulas in bar form.

Recycled paper or bamboo plates and Bamboo cutlery

Why stop with serveware when you can ditch the plastic cutlery, too.

Paper cups

Whether it's for the office water cooler or your kid's 21st birthday party, there' are plenty of sustainable alternatives to single-use plastic cups.

Buy your meat or cheese from the deli and ask to use your own container.

Pre-packaged meat and cheese is usually sold in plastic or styrofoam trays, but if you buy direct from the deli butcher, you can bring your own container to transport your goodies.

Source: https://www.racv.com.au/royalauto/sustainability/sustainable-living/reduce-plastic-waste.html

Source: https://www.australianethical.com.au/blog/22-tips-for-going-plastic-free/ 

Finally, these issues aren’t able to be fixed at a personal level, they originate from large corporations mass producing plastic. Search out petitions and protests, lean on your local council and government members and support initiatives to ban plastics.

Your future depends on it.

[littlefernnappies]

Business Name: Little Fern Nappies Ltd

Street Address: 88 Boney Hay Rd

City: Burntwood

County: Staffordshire

Zip Code: WS7 9AL

Country: United Kingdom

Business Phone: 0792 965 7832

Business Email: info@littlefernnappies.com

Website: https://www.littlefernnappies.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Little-Fern-103356458446979

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/littlefernnappie

Business Description: Little Fern nappies are designed in the UK by the team behind online retailer Cuddlebums.  We have used our experience and expertise to develop what we believe is the best possible nappy system.​

We are a small family team (with lots of children between us!) with many years of experience using cloth nappies.  Eco consciousness has been an important part of our extended family and nappies are a major part of this.

We have worked together to develop a nappy system we believe is the best available.  All our nappies are super slim and as effective as many of the bulkier nappies available.

Google My Business CID URL: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=9661837547271326496

Business Hours: Sunday 7:00am-7:00pm Monday 7:00am-7:00pm Tuesday 7:00am-7:00pm Wednesday 7:00am-7:00pm Thursday 7:00am-7:00pm Friday 7:00am-7:00pm Saturday 7:00am-7:00pm

Products: Nappies, Paua Pads, Boosters

Keywords: environmentally friendly nappies, eco-friendly nappies, best eco-friendly nappies, best eco nappy, eco-friendly reusable nappies, cloth nappies, reusable nappies, nappy liners, modern cloth nappies, reusable nappy liners, newborn cloth nappies, reusable cloth nappies, terry cloth nappies, best cloth nappies

Location:

https://goo.gl/maps/UmNWDAnC8tykLot39

Service Areas:

https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/9/viewer?mid=1lQF5fbaItpKrr_afbJtZCH0e2d3llCqg

[1ecomarketplace]

Going Green: Eco Products for a More Sustainable Life

As we are becoming aware of the importance of living a sustainable life, we look for environmentally-friendly products that are good for us and for the earth.

Taking care of our planet is no longer a trendy choice, it is a necessity. Sustainable lifestyle is essential to survival of humanity. Protecting our planet is a big job and it can sound daunting, but it is our responsibility – and it starts with you. You can do your bit without installing solar panels or adopting a vegan diet. By doing little by little, like reducing your waste to saving energy and being more conscious about what you buy, you can do a lot.

Eco Products for Your Home and Family

Here are some green products that will help you live a more sustainable life.

Eco Laundry

Like many people who care about our planet, you probably avoid laundry detergents that contain harmful ingredients. Those nasty chemicals linger in your clothes, cause very unpleasant itchy rash called contact dermatitis, and get washed down our drains polluting our lakes and rivers.

If you are looking for a product that is truly natural, we have something very special for you.

100% Organic Natural Soap Nuts, also called Indian Soap Berries, are the fruits of Sapindus Mukorossi tree that grows mostly in the Himalayas.

The Indian washing nuts contain a high level of saponin, which has natural cleansing properties. This eco-friendly alternative to chemically made laundry products have been used in Nepal, India, and China for a long time for skin and hair care.

Great for sensitive or delicate skin, or anyone with skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, they are ideal to wash baby clothes.

The nuts are quite versatile, you can use them for shampoo, pet wash, dishwashing liquid, handwash or shaving cream.

You can reuse the nuts, and when the shell becomes soft and changes colour, you simply throw them into your garden as they are biodegradable. The nuts were quite expensive when they were marketed for the first time in our shops, but now they are more affordable: a 250g bag contains is enough for 200 washes costing around 10c/wash which is half of the cost of an average commercial detergent.  

Eco Personal Care

Are you looking for a personal care product that is good for you, natural, made by a sustainable beauty brand you can trust, and also wallet-friendly?

We live in culture obsessed with looking young. Some people spend any amount of money on yet another anti-aging cream or serum that will stop or reverse aging. This trend is a beauty industry gold mine, and many companies make tidy profit.

You can keep your skin looking great - healthy, young, and glowing without taking out a loan. We research and check every personal care product to make sure it ticks all the boxes on our sustainability list.

Here is one of our favourite skin care products: Anti-Ageing Complex Face Oil to nourish, repair, regenerate and protect your skin.

According to the article published on PubMed in 2017, Sea-buckthorn oil - the main ingredient in our Anti-Ageing Complex Face Oil - has a regenerative, healing, and anti-ageing effect on skin. It is a strong antioxidant, fights free radicals, rebuilds cells, delays cell ageing, supports wound healing (including burns, chilblains, and bedsores), reduces scars and discolourations, treats dermatoses, eczemas, ulceration, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, acne, firms and tones sagging skin smoothing out wrinkles, provides appropriate hydration of epidermis, limits excessive water loss, and protects against harmful radiation (solar or x-rays].

The authors of the article say, “sea-buckthorn and its oil may be considered to be one of the most valuable natural products in the world.”

Get our Anti-Ageing Complex Face Oil for a faction of the price that the big beaty brands put on their products, and give your skin a healthy glow.

Eco kids

Here are two eco products that will make every eco-conscious parent smile.

Reusable Cloth Nappies

If you have a baby, you know that one of the biggest eco-headaches is deciding what to use instead of disposable nappies that take quite a tall on the environment.

According to Sustainability Victoria, conventional disposable nappies estimated to take up to 150 years to break down. The Secret Life of Landfills, a BBC documentary, shows a disposable nappy from the 1980s that is still in perfect shape.

Biodegradable nappies sound like a better option, even though here is currently no biodegradable disposable nappies that are 100% compostable, most of them are made of 60 – 80% made from biodegradable materials, such as bamboo or maize starch and cellulose fiber.

Our Reusable Cloth Nappies are a great alternative to the disposable ones. They are comfortable, easy to use, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective. A waterproof cover and a five-layer Bamboo Insert make them as efficient in drawing moisture away from the skin as the commercial ones.

Mum & Kids Duo Pack

Good sleep is essential to our health and wellbeing. It helps build a strong immune system, repair cells, boost energy, improves our memory and ability to think clearly and make sound decisions.  It is especially important for babies, children and teenagers for growth as well as physical, emotional and mental health. Without enough sleep, children become moody, irritable, which may lead to and learning difficulties and behavioural problems.

If your children grow in a healthy environment, have good sleep habits as well as enough physical activity and play during the day, sleep time is rarely an ordeal that both the kids and parents dread. If your child had too much television before bedtime or too much napping during the day, reding a story, tucking them in, and kissing them goodnight may not work. If they are unwell, they need a good night’s rest, but the usual sleep routines may go out if the window.

Dealing with bedtime tantrums can be exhausting, especially after a busy day when you to relax and have a couple of hours for yourself.

If you have problems getting their children to bed and you lose sleep, too, try Mum & Kids Duo Pack.

The pack contains Sleep Mist and Kids Calming Mist, two powerful blends of chamomile and lavender. Geranium and sweet orange add a pleasant scent to the mist, have an uplifting, balancing effect and help reduce stress and anxiety.

Chamomile is a natural mild sedative, often used to treat anxiety, hysteria, insomnia, nightmares, motion sickness, back pain, facial swelling associated with underlying infection or abscess, and other ailments.

Studies carried out at University of Southampton and Wesleyan University show that lavender improves quality of sleep, help sleep more soundly and feel more energetic in the morning.

Spraying the mist in your children’s bedroom - or your own - will help create a soothing, relaxing environment and induce sleep.

Eco products are very trendy, but it does not mean that everything promoted as organic or green is good for us and for the planet. Some of those products are not eco-friendly at all and can even be harmful.

At Eco Marketplace, we do all the research for you. We make sure that the products we offer are truly eco-friendly, better for us and for the environment. Our products are not just help protect Mother Earth.  Depending on the type of product, they may offer health benefits, be reusable or biodegradable, and are often made of recycled materials.

Saving the planet happens step by step. You can make a big difference just by taking a reusable bag to the store, stop buying bottled water, and planting a tree. Plus, every time you purchase something, make sure that the product you are buying was created by an eco-conscious company and made with a minimal environmental impact. 

These smart choices add up and will help us make our planet a healthy, safe place for us and the future generations.

[smartypantsnappiesau]

Reusable Modern Cloth Nappies

Smarty Pants Nappies offers a wide range of luxurious cloth nappies that will last the duration of the family. Design your own Designer Cloth Nappies with our easy-to-use and stylish online store. Our Reusable Modern Cloth Nappies, eco-parenting products, and eco-friendly diapers have been improving little humans' lives for over a decade. Our cloth nappies are fun and soft. Their bamboo construction keeps your baby dry and comfortable while saving both you and the planet money.  All sizes can be adjusted using snaps, so they fit snugly as your baby grows. During the day and at night, the soft elasticised legs keep baby comfortable. All of our disposable nappies come with 5 layers of bamboo microfibre inserts and a roll of liners. It is simple to wash them according to the three-step process.  Our modern cloth nappies (MCNs) will win you over on every level. A Smarty Pants cloth diaper will keep bub drier and more comfortable during their first few years. With natural fibres, you can reduce the risk of nappy rash because moisture is wick away from baby's delicate skin, resulting in a healthier baby. Switching to cloth nappies can result in huge savings. The environmental benefit is also significant. If you want to build a stash, you can spread the initial investment over several packs. Alternatively, you can use our AfterPay facility and switch to cloth with a bigger pack. In the future, you will be known as an Eco Warrior, and you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are helping to build a sustainable future with a reduction in landfill waste.

[rioleecommsstudio]

for research i found a company that makes eco friendly nappies and also target native spices and environmental of nz by. promoting the message and awareness

they use reusable materials to create their nappies as a way of call to action from their message

[zerowasteinitiative]

12 Top Tips for Zero Waste Week 1. Swap to refillable cleaning products Deep cleaning has certainly been on the rise lately. But you'll want to steer clear of products filled with harsh chemicals that leave quite the carbon footprint. Swap to refillable plant-based cleaning products to help practice zero waste 2. Think about whether you really need to buy something - even if it's a gift It might sound counterintuitive of a homewares store to suggest you buy less but that is what we all need to be doing. Overconsumption has a lot of impact on the plastic and other waste we get through globally. Being more choosy about the brands you support financially, and taking into account their packaging and values really can make a difference and help reduce your waste at home & buying better means things last longer. Moving to a more zero waste lifestyle means choosing better, more sustainable options that have less impact on our planet. 3. Swap to beeswax - or vegan wraps When practicing zero waste, consider your food waste and storage, that's where a lot of waste comes from. And it's a lot of waste. The UK uses 1.2 billion metres of the stuff every year...none of which can be recycled, so getting rid of that is a great place to start on your zero waste journey. 4. Ditch your plastic razor Did you know that in the US alone 2 billion razors are thrown away and they can’t be recycled. 5. Use plastic free shampoo and shower bars This is such an easy swap in the bathroom and when you travel. We don’t need all that plastic in our bathroom and we don’t recycle it so stop buying it. Hard shampoo, shower and conditioner bars are widespread now and come either without any packaging or no plastic packaging. 6. Get refillable home essentials to your door, helping you reduce waste There has been a huge trend this year on refillable supplies that can be delivered to your home to reduce the amount you need to buy at the supermarket. 7. Stop using single use plastic tableware Did you know, a disposable plastic plate needs more than 500 years to degrade? That’s mad when most people only use them for minutes at parties and barbeques? If you’re entertaining at home this autumn, it’s time to step away from the plastic disposables. So you’ve got tableware that’s eco-friendly, plant-based and will break down. Perfect for kids parties, or anything else where you don’t want to use the best china, and it’s still zero waste. 8. Enjoy regular shampoo but in a can 9. Give reusable period wear a go Did you know pads and panty liners make up 200,000 tonnes of plastic waste a year? They are made up of about 90% plastic and just one pack of pads is equal to four plastic bags! What's more they can take up to 800 years to biodegrade. It's time to step away from using plastic to soak up our flow. New options for your flow range from menstrual cups, reusable pads, period wear and more. There is ample opportunity to switch up what you use. 10. Support zero waste and ethical brands Want to make zero waste choices and shop from home? It’s just become easier to buy and sell ethical, eco-friendly, artisan and preloved products. Find a range of ethical brands, it's a great short cut to making greener lifestyle choices, from plastic free to upcycled and preloved, and shopping your values. 11. Even candles can be zero waste Even candles for instance, have a footprint depending on what they're made from and where they're made, which you can reduce. 12. Try out reusable nappies Simple, reusable nappies, which are kind to little bottoms and the planet. Every year millions of nappies find their way into landfill or strewn on our beaches, choking our sea life and harming our ecosystems. With three million single-use nappies being thrown away each year in the UK, even using one reusable nappy a day saves 900 from going to landfill. ------ Visit our website: https://zerowasteinitiative.com/all-products/ Source: Internet 🌳 Zero Waste Initiative - Less Trash More Life ! 🌏 Let's Save The World While There's Still Time !

[vsplusonline]

Bembika Washable Reusable Cloth Diaper Adjustable with 5 Layer Bamboo Charcoal Insert (Pink Doodle)

New Post has been published on https://apzweb.com/bembika-washable-reusable-cloth-diaper-adjustable-with-5-layer-bamboo-charcoal-insert-pink-doodle/

Bembika Washable Reusable Cloth Diaper Adjustable with 5 Layer Bamboo Charcoal Insert (Pink Doodle)

Price: (as of Jan 01,1970 00:00:00 UTC – Details)

Product Description

Our mission is to provide the highest quality cloth diapers available. We strive to treat each customer like family and are proud to be reducing landfill waste every day as we work to make our planet a healthier, happier place

considering the kids style and Fashion in mind our team is working towards different unique prints which is most favorite among parents now a days.So If you are planning for Most Economic Best Quality and Most amazing Fashion Diaper try our Pocket Diaper Range.

3*3 Snaps, Adjustable Cloth Diaper

Suitable for babies and toddlers 3kgs-15kgs (6.6 – 33 pounds) (a rough guide for reference only) Length of Diaper: 15” in length X 13” in width One size fits all – you can adjust the diaper to your desired size (S, M or L) by snapping onto different rows of buttons on the nappy Hip snaps and crossover snaps to prevent “wing droop” Washable, waterproof and breathable Comfortable elastic legging area to prevent leaking Diaper with pocket to hold the insert

India’s Best Fashion cloth Diaper Brand

Bembika Pocket Diaper is a premium solution for parents looking for organic material in cloth diaper.

Each Pocket diaper comes with insert with super dry feel layer on top.The waist and the front piece are provided with multi-stage adjustable snaps, which can easily regulate different sizes to perfect fit your baby.Three rows of snaps help to adjust the size as your baby grows from birth to potty training, and greatly improve the service life.

Fine and strong corner stitching

5 layers design, 2 layers are bamboo and 3 layers are microfiber

Healthy, breathable, comfortable & antibacterial

Super absorption, 5 times than normal material terry towel

Contour shaped insert for comfortable fit between legs

Economical & saves money

How to wash your diapers ?

Wash before first use. Please wash colors separately. The diaper inserts continue to get softer and more absorbent with every wash.

1. Remove and rinse off the residuals (knock solids into toilet),then store in dry pail;

2.Wash temperature: under 30 Centigrade. (Less than 86 Fahrenheit); (ATTENTION: Please wash diaper cover and the insert separately, You can add a little salt in the water when you wash the diapers.)

3. Hang them up to dry in the sun (sunlight helps bleach the nappies to remove any remaining stains), or”Low”tumble dry;

4. Do not store nappies for too many days, should be washed in 1-2 days;

Precautions

Wash these cloth diapers before first use.

The inserts usually will take several washes to reach its full absorbency(ensure 6 washes or more).

The liquid will be absorbed through the inner layer of the nappy to the insert.

No bleach,no softener and do not boil the diapers.

More than one insert may be needed when sleeping or when necessary

Adjustable, reusable and waterproof outer layer: polyester with waterproof and breathable TPU it’s convenient for mammy to carry baby while taking a walk or doing chores. Insert: each diaper would come with one 5-layer microfiber inserts. Insert dimension approx 13.7 x 5.5 Eco-friendly our reusable cloth diapers are made for families who require products. Suitable for babies and toddlers 3kg-15kg (a rough guide for reference only) length of diaper: 15 in length x 13 in width. One size fits all you can adjust the diaper to your desired size (S, Medium or L) by snapping onto different rows of buttons on the nappy Enjoy hip snaps and crossover snaps to prevent wing droop. Washable, waterproof and breathable comfort elastic legging area to prevent leaking. Package included: 1 diapers + 1 insert perfect adjustable fit baby at any age from 0 to 2 years

[floraexplorer]

Fishing for Litter: A Plastic Clean-up Mission in London’s Canals

Today I’m going fishing – for litter and plastic.

It’s a sunny Saturday morning in East London, and I’m sitting on a stationary canal-boat-turned-cafe, sipping coffee (in a reusable cup!), and listening to a woman called Cal Major speak about plastic pollution.

Cal Major is a champion stand up paddle-boarder from Devon, England, who’s founded an initiative called ‘Paddle Against Plastic’ which aims to get people caring about their environment through adventure. She’s been working with a variety of organisations – including KEEN, the outdoor shoe brand – to amplify the message that we need to be doing more to clean up our water systems and reduce plastic pollution.

Which is why KEEN invited a group of people (myself included) to spend the morning helping to rid London’s canals of their plastic litter.

It’s no surprise that people like Cal, who are passionate about the outdoors, are becoming eco-warriors in a very real sense. I follow plenty of these folks online – surfers, kayakers, rock climbers, long-distance runners, and generally record-breakers of all kinds.

They see the devastating effects of pollution directly in front of them as they travel, and witnessing such blatant disregard for the environment pushes them to campaign.

But I’m not exactly a record-breaking adventurer – so where do I come into all this?

Read more: the biggest ethical travel mistakes I’ve made abroad

The hard-to-swallow facts about plastic pollution

I’m not exactly an outdoor person. By which I mean: I love being outside, and plenty of my travels have involved long-distance hiking, polar swimming, underground caving and walking around fire for eight hours. When I’m back home though, adventurous activities in my daily life are not really the norm.

But when it comes to plastic pollution? As a long-time traveller, there’s no escaping the increasingly obvious fact: pollution is visibly affecting every destination I travel to. Like last year in Bali, a country famed for its ‘beautiful’ natural landscapes, where the most common sight was a beach absolutely thick with tidemarks of plastic litter.

More than 8 million metric tons of plastic finds its way into the ocean each year, and that’s on top of the estimated 150 million metric tons which are already circulating through the world’s waters.

It’s a surreal, disgusting, horrific amount – and a staggering 50% of this marine litter is comprised of single-use plastic items. Yet companies keep churning it out: drinks bottles, takeaway boxes, cutlery, cotton buds, and the ubiquitous plastic bag.

Why? Because we keep buying single-use plastic.

I know the topic of plastic pollution gets a lot of attention (and it’s for good reason!). But now I’m sticking my oar in too. Because when you’re actively looking for this level of plastic pollution, you see it absolutely everywhere.

Those clean plastic bags at the supermarket check-out? Those polystyrene boxes filled with steaming food at festivals? Those plastic bottles in a cafe fridge? Put them in a different, more natural setting (like a picturesque canal in England) and suddenly you’re emptying out grey-green river sludge through an upside down McDonalds cup, squishing a muddy plastic bag peppered with holes, or fishing brightly coloured bottle caps from the surface of a river while baby ducks swim past.

Read more: Ten eco-friendly travel products I use (and re-use!)

In the UK we use over 7 billion plastic bottles every year and only half actually get recycled. In London alone, the average adult buys three plastic bottles every week, which adds up to 175 bottles per person a year.

And where do all those bottles go?

Well, a recent study found that there are traces of micro plastic in every single waterway in England, so clearly a lot of it gets dumped into rivers, canals, lakes and the sea. We don’t yet fully understand what effect this level of plastic pollution in our water has on human health either, but it’s pretty clear that animals are not doing all that well: those same micro plastics have also been found inside every single marine mammal stranded on UK shores.

It’s time to do my part and start actively helping to reduce plastic pollution.

Pin me for later!

Plastic Whale: a new way to positively recycle

“Did you know that plastic is one of the most durable man-made materials ever?”

After Cal Major had finished speaking, a man appeared wielding a net. He works with a Dutch social enterprise called Plastic Whale, who fish out around 60,000 PET plastic bottles a year from the canals of Amsterdam. They then separate the PET from the collected plastic, turn it into flakes and fibres, and use these components to make boats.

The more plastic they collect, the more boats they make – and the freshly-made boats then sail along the canals collecting yet more plastic. It’s a perfect plastic-collecting cycle.

Plastic Whale initially began in 2011 to prove a point: by successfully constructing a single boat made entirely from canal plastic, they planned to demonstrate how polluted the waters of Amsterdam were. But it quickly became apparent that fishing for plastic could allow thousands of eager participants to regularly clean up the canals, and spread awareness while they did it.

Now they have a fleet of a dozen boats picking up plastic in the canals of Amsterdam and Rotterdam, and this summer they’ve sent the bright yellow boat (seen above) on a mission around Europe. Plastic Whale are proving that single-use plastic doesn’t have to be disposable waste: instead, it can be a useful raw material.

But we still needed to experience Plastic Whale’s initiative for ourselves, and start picking up some plastic. It was time to get out onto the water.

Collecting trash in canoes on the Hackney canals

After we were kitted out with life jackets, paddles and the all-important bin bags and litter picking devices, we manoeuvred our way into a series of canoes at the edge of the canal.

Being out on the water was lovely. I used to live in East London and occasionally I’d spend a day walking along the canal – but I’d never got closer than that. Now we were parallel with the houseboats and barges, pulling our paddles through the calm water and gliding beneath the bridges.

I’d boarded a canoe with Caroline, a fellow blogger who I’d just met, and it didn’t take us long to start spotting plastic. Our canoeing skills weren’t the best, but once you’ve seen a piece of plastic its hard to ignore – so we awkwardly paddled ourselves back and forth, shimmying the canoe into the gaps until we could reach across with the litter pickers and grasp whatever it was possible to reach.

It was hilarious! – or at least, it was to start with.

Once I’d settled into ‘noticing’ the rubbish, I could see it literally everywhere. Stained bottles caught in the undergrowth. Circular flashes of colour floating on the water’s surface. Tiny chunks of foam and polystyrene, leaving a trail of tiny bubble-like white dots as they broke apart. Beer cans nestled in the hollows of canal barricades, slowly dripping stale liquid into the canal below.

And most disturbing? The glimpses of tattered white plastic swaying eerily in the water beneath us. With the movement of every boat above, more strips and fragments continually tore off, and the bags were so firmly embedded in the silt below that there was no hope of grabbing them.

Our bin bags soon contained bottle tops, sweet wrappers and scrunched up balls of tinfoil, merging with the brambles and weeds. Most of the thin plastic had broken apart so badly that it was difficult to identify what it might have once been.

Unfortunately, some rubbish is all too easy to identify – especially when it still has its lid, striped straw and internationally recognised logo.

(Just FYI: these McDonalds cups may look like cardboard, but they have a thin layer of polyethylene plastic inside to prevent leaking which means they’re fundamentally non-recyclable)

Amongst all the trash there were still reminders of nature growing in the wild, and I tried hard to see the beauty in this environment.

I spotted clusters of blackberries in the bushes and half-considered picking a few to snack on – but almost immediately I wondered what they’d taste like, seeing as their water supply was coming from the filthy canal?

And my vain attempt at positivity all came tumbling down when I saw a pile of shredded plastic which, as we drew closer, turned out to be a bird’s nest. Somewhere close by, a poor creature had used ragged strands of filthy plastic to make its home instead of twigs.

Newsflash: there’s a LOT of plastic trash in London’s canals

After an hour of litter collection we headed back to dry land and heaved our trash bags up to the water’s edge. It was a sobering sight. In just one hour, a group of two dozen people had collected 63kgs of plastic – and there was a lot more rubbish besides.

One group had found a condom, a sanitary pad, and a nappy floating in the water. Others had picked up a Chinese patterned vase, a zippered suede boot, a fluffy slipper, a pair of shorts and a little plastic toy teacup.

When it was all piled onto Plastic Whale’s bright yellow boat, it was a pretty depressing sight.

But as I looked out at the canals, it was somewhat bolstering to see a dozen more people on paddle boards, criss-crossing the water with paddles raised and buckets filled with rubbish.

Another group of plastic trash collectors were also operating on the same stretch of canal, and they were still working on the clean-up job even after we’d stopped.

How to raise awareness about plastic pollution (hint: it involves you!)

There’s no denying that I saw on the canals really shocked me. I won’t get that plastic-filled bird’s nest out of my mind for a long time.

But perhaps that’s a good thing? Perhaps it’s necessary to receive a jolt of cold reality occasionally – as now I feel doubly invested in cutting down on my single-use plastic usage, and getting more involved in clean-up operations wherever I can.

The war on plastic might feel never-ending, but there are plenty of people passionate about collecting and recycling the world’s plastic, and raising awareness too.

Here are some ways to reduce your plastic use

Use a reusable bottle for your water and stop buying plastic bottles!

Use a reusable coffee cup — even the disposable ones you get in a shop often have a plastic lining

Carry a reusable bag and stop taking plastic bags when you’re in the supermarket

Avoid using plastic straws (unless a disability requires using them)

Try to avoid buying fruit and veg packed in plastic for a week

Try to walk at least half an hour a day — hopefully through somewhere green to connect with nature

Try to pick up ten pieces of rubbish a day (keep an old plastic bag in your usual bag for this – and maybe a rubber glove too if you’re unsure about the dirt factor!)

Pick up plastic and cans on the street (or in the water!) and put them in a recycling bin

Pin this article if you enjoyed it!

NB: I was kindly invited to this plastic clean-up event by KEEN, for which I’m seriously grateful. Getting my hands dirty in the name of plastic pollution has really given me a necessary kick into action – so stay tuned for more conservation activity. I hope you’re equally inspired to start reducing your plastic usage, too! 

The post Fishing for Litter: A Plastic Clean-up Mission in London’s Canals appeared first on Flora The Explorer.

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[j21-bcu]

22.10.18 Designing for Anthropocene

What is Anthropocene?

“The Anthropocene is the idea that the Earth is entering a new epoch in its geological history, in which human beings have for the first time become the primary agents of change on a planetary scale. Anthropocene is derived from the Greek for ‘human’ and stands alongside other geological epochs” [x]

This is the simplest definition of the word I came across - my understanding of Anthropocene is that humans are now in control of the planets life forms and climate, more so than nature or ‘mother nature’ herself. It’s a scary, but unsurprising thought, given the never-ending destruction we see of our planet on the news daily.  By ‘in control’, I mean to say we are having an impact so intense that it outbalances the natural ways of the planet. Evidence suggests ironically that we are so out of control we’ve been given a 12 year life sentence. We are however, completely in control of the planet and the way we choose to live. That’s why our role as designers is so important.

Design can truly change the world and save the planet. Design covers eco-friendly packaging, from the food industry to cosmetics and toiletries. It includes eye-opening advertisements that reveal what we’re doing to our planet, architects who choose to source reusable and insulating materials, interior designers who come up with innovative ways to use old bits of plastic - as demonstrated in the video 'Sea Chair’ by Studio Swine.

In this video, bits of plastic that got caught in the fishing nets or on the seashore were assorted into colour groups and cut and melted to make this chair. This is the perfect example of how we can effectively use the waste that we’re producing to create something useful. 

Another similar company is Ecobirdy, a company that produces sustainable children furniture. 

https://www.ecobirdy.com/

Does one chair save the ocean? No. But it shows what can be done. The ultimate goal however would be to stop the plastic getting into the ocean in the first place - that’s where our roles as Graphic Designers come into play. I find that raising young children tends to result in a huge amount of waste products, whether that’s outgrown clothes, toys, or nappies. So designing campaigns that push parents to donate old clothes and toys, instead of throwing them straight into the bin is one aspect that I think needs a lot more attention. 

As someone who spends a lot of money on skincare and makeup, I actively try to seek out products that are recyclable. I find this to be much easier with skincare, however cute and aesthetically pleasing makeup packaging poses as a bigger problem. Again, people in the packaging industry should be focusing on changing that. 

One company good for that is Lush.

Their tins mean that you can buy loose bars of soap, shampoo, conditioner and other washes and keep them in these containers rather than wrapping them in plastic containers. From just a couple of quid, these designs are the future. 

https://uk.lush.com/products/shampoo-bars/round-tin

[fudgeypants]

Shop for Newborn Reusable Nappies in NZ

Different sorts of Nappies are available in the market and you can choose as per your needs. However, many nappies cost a fortune, stink up the entire house as well as fill your trash up every week. Also, they are not reusable. This is where you should opt for newborn reusable nappies in NZ.

Buying newborn reusable nappies in NZ-

When we talk about modern cloth nappies, they are not only reusable once but you can use them over and over again. They are available in pull-up style and trainer style too.

Reusable cloth nappies mean it is eco-friendly. Usually, we throw out disposable nappy after using them once that has a bad impact on the environment. They are also hard to degrade. On the flip side, reusable nappies are easy to use. Simply wash them and stick them back on.

Most people worry about the laundry costs and hassles when it comes to reusable nappies. Do not bother about it. Now you can easily buy disposable (degradable) nappy liners which catch-all solid matter and you just need to whip it out and flush it.

Most essentially, the nappy inserts are prepared from bamboo, hemp, and microfibre for improved absorbency and quicker drying. They don’t contain any harsh chemicals or fragrances in our products. So they are suitable for newborn babies and those with allergies or sensitive skin.

In addition, reusable nappies are for eco-loving mummies, come in a broad range of styles and pattern you can buy. Also, you can shop for these items in bulk. Rest assured that the price is quite inexpensive to meet your budget range.

What you are waiting for? Find a reliable and professional online shop for buying your newborn reusable nappies in NZ. Make sure about the customer service. Choose a source carefully that will meet your needs and budget.

[jeremystrele]

Trade Your Single-Use Products For These Thoughtful Essentials

Trade Your Single-Use Products For These Thoughtful Essentials

Being Green

by Elle Murrell

From left to right: nail polish ($20) from Kester Black, EcoMax Double-Sided Nail Brush ($13.50) from Biome. Meraki Classic Comb ($19.95) from The Lab Organics, Cassius Styling Clay ($38) and Normal Persons Shampoo ($34) from Evo, Kuu Konjac Naked Sponges ($10.95) from Biome, The Fab Four bamboo toothbrushes ($23.80) from Bamkiki, Natural bamboo pads ($6.80) from Tsuno, Santé by ENJO reusable makeup remover (set of 3 $44), Vanilla soap bar ($2.40) from Ecostore, and Rose Geranium Pink Clay Soap Bar ($15) from Soap Club. (Props: Cork Yoga Roller ($55) and Cork Yoga Block ($32.50) from Sure Project). Photo – Caitlin Mills. Styling – Annie Portelli and Ashley Simonetto.

Since sharing our edit of eco-friendly work-day products, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Report dropped. This global network of leading scientists and policy experts warned the world that we now have ‘12 years to limit climate change catastrophe‘.

You don’t have to look far to see that our impact on the environment is taking its toll– the national and international news, any beach you’ve visited over the past few warm weekends, those videos showing that even the ‘impenetrable Doomsday Vault’ built to ensure humanity’s food security is melting…

As we strive for waste reduction and climate action targets, innovation and behavioural change have never been more important. Fortunately, there are already some bright spark designers and manufacturers who are heeding the call for sustainably produced, non-toxic and reusable alternatives.

Even the smallest switches can make a positive impact, which leads us to eco-conscious self-care products. Here are just a few ideas to get you started…

Menstrual cups ($55) from JuJu, natural bamboo pads ($6.80) from Tsuno, regular tampons ($7) and thin pads ($7) from Tom Organics,  Toilet paper (x48 for $48) from Who Gives A Crap. (Prop: Cork Yoga Roller ($55) from Sure Project). Photo – Caitlin Mills. Styling – Annie Portelli and Ashley Simonetto.

Menstrual cups ($55) from JuJu. Panty liners ($6.40) from Tsuno. Regular tampons ($7) and Thin pads ($7) from Tom Organics. Toilet paper (x48 for $48) from Who Gives A Crap. (Prop: Cork Yoga Roller ($55) from Sure Project). Photo – Caitlin Mills. Styling – Annie Portelli and Ashley Simonetto.

Sanitary Products

It really isn’t pretty – 24.6 million people using packaged toilet paper each day amounts to immense manufacturing demand. That’s bad news for trees, water reserves and, well, the air we all breathe. While it’s become a cultural necessity (until someone comes up with an alternative, or Aussies adopt the bidet in a much bigger way) there are still BETTER options.

And that goes for feminine hygiene too. Unlike toilet tissue, the majority of these products won’t break down in sewerage and septic systems, but will endure in landfill for some 800 years! On average, each Australian woman will use a staggering 10,000-12,000 disposable menstrual products in her lifetime. By simply trying a more sustainable alternative (or even moving to a combination of available options) there is huge potential to reduce waste.

Definitely Worth IT

Toilet paper from Who Gives A Crap. While it’s well-known for its charitable side (donating 50% of profits to build toilets), the Melbourne-based company makes its products without cutting down trees.

‘Period-friendly’ underwear, swimwear, and activewear from Modibodi – with their high-tech innovative fabrics and appealing designs, this homegrown brand has you covered, from menstruation to breastfeeding. No disposables needed!

Menstrual cups from JuJu – another trailblazing innovation, these Australian-made reusable, medical-grade silicon cups can’t be faulted; they are convenient, economical, hygienic and eco-friendly. Available in four different shape/volume models they come with a simple user guide, and any concerns you might have can be quashed here.

Tampons and pantyliners from Tsuno – for rare situations when you do need a disposable, these products are a good go-to. Made from certified organic cotton and natural bamboo fibres, Melbourne-based Tsuno don’t think ‘pesticides or synthetics are cool in our bodies or the environment’. They also donate an impressive 50% of profits to education and hygiene support for those less fortunate.

Tampons, pads, and nappies from Tom Organics – this Australian B Corp certified company took out ‘Australian Organic Business Of The Year’ in 2017. Their products are made from certified organic cotton, are 100% biodegradable, and packaging is recyclable as well as FSC certified.

Nail polish ($20) from Kester Black. Cassius Styling Clay ($38) and Normal Persons Shampoo ($34) from Evo. Meraki Classic Comb ($19.95) and from The Lab Organics. Beauty & the Bees Shampoo Bar ($15.95) from Biome. Photo – Caitlin Mills. Styling – Annie Portelli and Ashley Simonetto.

Beauty + Haircare

‘Are the companies selling products that promise to protect our skin and hair from pollution doing enough to address their role in creating it?’ asked Refinery 29’s Sarah Shearman, when she spoke to Greenpeace as part of an investigation into the beauty industry.

When you think about the products you use day-to-day (and the packaging these come in) the irony Sarah raises is pretty hard to overlook. Plus, don’t forget, these companies are only supplying OUR demand.

SOME Good Options

Buy only what you need and in bulk. Transfer product to smaller easy-to-use reusable vessels like glass jars.

Beauty & the Bees Shampoo Bar from Biome – forgo the bottle with this handmade Tasmanian product. Packaged in simple cardboard, the chemical and palm oil-free shampoos come in several varieties to suit all hair types; there’s even an anti-dandruff local brewery beer-based bar. The positive reviews are unanimous too.

If you’re going to buy nail polish, get it from Kester Black – this Melbourne-based B Corp-certified brand’s products are cruelty-free, palm oil-free and vegan. They also walk the talk when it comes to sustainable production practices and recycling. I can personally attest that this is polish that lasts!

Cassius Styling Clay and Normal Persons Shampoo from Evo – with a no BS mission and the catchphrase ‘saving ordinary humans from themselves’ we couldn’t miss Australia’s largest independent distributor of haircare products. All packaging is 100% recyclable, the majority of it already recycled itself, plus Evo carbon offsets and prides itself on using natural and non-toxic ingredients. 

Sturdy wooden brushes and hairstyling tools (over flimsy plastic ones), like the Meraki Classic Comb from The Lab Organics.

Coconut, Manuka Honey & Kelp and Vanilla Soap ($2.40) from Ecostore, Absolute Avocado 100g and Lemon Myrtle 100g soap ($6.95) from The Australian Soap Company, and Rose Geranium Pink Clay Soap Bar ($15) and Activated Charcoal Soap ($15) from Soap Club. (Props: Cork Yoga Roller ($55) from Sure Project). Photo – Caitlin Mills. Styling – Annie Portelli and Ashley Simonetto.

The Fab Four bamboo toothbrushes ($23.80) from Bamkiki, EcoMax Double-Sided Nail Brush ($13.50) from Biome, Santé by ENJO reusable makeup remover (set of 3 $44), Kuu Konjac Naked Sponges ($10.95) and Bamboo cotton buds ($8.95), both from Biome. Photo – Caitlin Mills. Styling – Annie Portelli and Ashley Simonetto.

Dental Hygiene + Skincare

‘Plastic toothbrushes aren’t so bad’ you might assume… over 30 million are used and disposed of by Australians each year, amounting to approximately 1,000 tonnes of landfill. Massively bad. The same goes for other brushes, typically manufactured from nylon and polypropylene plastic (made from non-renewable fossil fuels).

Then there’s a slew of single-use ‘essentials’: dental floss with a handle (!!), cotton earbuds with their plastic stems, one-use make-up removing pads (usually paired with bottled, chemical solutions) and other non-biodegradable wipes.

These products are getting a lot of attention at the moment, with the astounding amount of waste in our oceans more visible than ever. The ongoing manufacture of plastics and demand for replacement disposable products is completely unsustainable, plus we’re actually inadvertently eating this toxic stuff!

In terms of liquids, like soaps and cleansers, we again return to that packaging conundrum. The verdict: solid bars reduce waste. Furthermore, natural, locally-made options are always best as they significantly reduce the carbon footprint that comes with international sourcing, manufacture, and transportation.

alternatives to try

Any organic, natural-fibre cloth – disposable face wipes might be convenient for you now, not so much for you and your kids’ kids’ kids. It turns out applying water (and soap; see below) to your skin with clean hands, patting dry with said cloth, hang it up to dry and washing it every few days for the next 10 years, is the way to go.

The Fab Four bamboo toothbrushes from Bamkiki – offering biodegradable brushes made from sustainably sourced bamboo, this Aussie company also helps preserve the Great Barrier Reef, aka our impending climate change tragedy.

Santé by ENJO reusable makeup remover – no chemicals required, just water! This product is magical, even when you’re tackling stubborn mascara and eyeliners. I gift it to everyone.

EcoMax Double-Sided Nail Brush from Biome – This plant-fibre tool is biodegradable and environmentally-friendly, it’s amazing what you can achieve with only this and a little elbow ‘grease’. Even Biome (the eco-product online marketplace where you can buy it) is B Corp certified.

Kuu Konjac Naked Sponges from Biome – made from 100% Konjac vegetable plant root, these natural cleansing sponges remove dirt and oil, naturally restoring the pH level of the skin, as well as encourage new skin cells.

Go Bamboo cotton buds from Biome – Another offering in biodegradable, sustainably sourced bamboo. If we follow the UK, plastic versions may soon be banned anyway!

Absolute Avocado and Lemon Myrtle soap from The Australian Soap Company. – made from 100% pure virgin avocado oil, these affordable, moisturising soaps are palm oil-free, cruelty-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, detergent-free, biodegradable and vegan.

Rose Geranium Pink Clay Soap Bar and Activated Charcoal Soap from Soap Club – This Melbourne-base studio offers natural cold-process bar soaps, liquid Castile soap, organic hand and body cream, natural deodorant, and natural perfume. Their entire range is vegan, palm oil-free and cruelty-free.

Coconut, Manuka Honey & Kelp and Vanilla Soap from Ecostore – one for our Kiwi readers: these plant-and-mineral-based soaps are made in New Zealand, to the strictest environmental standards in an Enviromark Diamond and CarboNZero certified factory.

[littlefernnappies]

Eco consciousness has been an important part of our extended family and nappies are a major part of this.

[thecaregiverspace]

When we finally left the hospital Sam + I were finally able to parent, one of the first things I did was switch to reusable nappies. We used @bumgenius freetimes + they are AMAZING. As convenient as disposables + easier to manage (mainly because I never had to leave the house for nappies, all I had to do was a load of laundry). Overall I felt pretty smug that we were doing great things for the environment + that our nappies weren’t ending up in a landfill. Except that now we have the gtube, we’ve changed his feed a bit (high five for the blended diet) + increased his fluids as appropriate and woah buddy. The intake outtake has been ridiculous. I can’t keep up, not with liners, not with anything. The nappies were leaking. Leaking doesn’t even seem like the appropriate word - it was like every half hour Kai was DRENCHED, requiring a bath and full outfit change, and washing whatever he was lying on. I can’t tell you how many times a day I was stripping the crib and washing the sheets. So we switched back to disposables. I hate myself for saying that, but we did. Disposables, I don’t love them. But even now the disposables don’t always hold up overnight. Knowing that nappies are likely to be in our forever with Mikaere, it’s infuriating that my kid isn’t even 2 years old + with tube feeding we’re dealing with leaks all over the place. We're currently using @ecobynaty. They're apparently an eco disposable (though I'm aware this is because they are PRODUCTION friendly only. That has NOTHING to do with their landfill implications. Their website says parts of their nappies are biodegradable in appropriate conditions (if that's not snake-y marketing speak then I don't know what is). Truth is they still take forever (100+ years) to break down in a landfill. It’s very blah. So - special needs tubie parents I want to hear your tips. What nappies are best? How are you managing with absorbency? How do I not add several nappies a day forever to the landfill while still not having to change and wash everything? #specialneedslife #nappies #tubiebaby #facesofcare ( #📷 @teammikaere ) https://ift.tt/2zs0cjc

[whatchamagadget]

Cloth vs. Disposable Diapers: Which Kind Should I Use?

Cotton or cellulose fluff, cost savings or convenience, laundry or landfill: For some new parents, choosing between using cloth or disposable diapers can feel like a big decision. How do you know which kind of diaper will work best for your family?

Advocates for both cloth and disposable diapers make strident and often conflicting claims about the benefits and drawbacks of each. Depending on who you listen to, you may hear that either disposable or cloth diapers are the cheaper, healthier, more ecological, more convenient, and/or more enlightened way to care for your baby.

In our full reviews of cloth and disposable diapers we go into detail about the materials, construction, and performance of both types, but here we’ll address some reasons why parents choose cloth or disposable diapers, and what evidence exists to support them.

Diaper rash and skin health

Proponents of cloth and disposable diapers both claim that babies wearing their chosen type suffer less diaper rash. After talking to two pediatric dermatologists and reviewing the scientific literature on the topic, it’s clear to us that disposable diapers do have the edge in preventing the most common type of diaper rash, irritant diaper dermatitis, which is caused by moisture from urine and feces remaining trapped against the skin. Modern disposables are highly absorbent, and, as we found in testing for our guide, the top performers can keep a baby’s skin dry even after multiple wettings. Dr. Bruce Brod, a pediatric dermatologist who specializes in dermatitis, told us: “The skin is largely better off with disposable diapers because of the technology that evolved”—namely, the use of superabsorbent polymers, which take in and retain many times their weight in liquid. But some babies can develop allergic rashes from certain ingredients used in disposable diapers, including rubber, adhesives, fragrances, and dyes.

The conclusion? Either type of diaper can lead to rashes, but disposable diapers typically keep babies drier and better prevent the common problem of diaper rash caused by moisture.

Potty training

Some cloth diaper companies and educational sites claim that babies who wear cloth diapers potty train earlier than babies diapered with disposables. Besides anecdotal evidence, these sources often cite the fact that the age of toilet training in the US has risen from around 18 months in the 1950s and 1960s to 3 years old today, a climb that tracks the increase in popularity of disposable diapers, from their introduction in the mid 20th century to today, with over 95 percent of babies in the US using disposables.

Dr. Bruce Taubman, a pediatrician at the University of Pennsylvania Medical School and coauthor of several studies on toilet training, told us he’s unaware of any scientific evidence that the use of cloth diapers leads to earlier potty training. “To my knowledge there’s no data,” he said, and suggested the change in the age of potty training likely has more to do with changes in family structures and parenting styles over the past several decades.

Pull Quote

Assuming your kid spends three years in diapers, you may save about $120 to $270 total if you exclusively use cloth diapers instead of disposables.

A 1987 study in Japan compared a small group of infants—including twins—half of whom were diapered with cloth and half with disposables. That study found the two groups potty trained at the same age. An article (cowritten by a dermatologist and a researcher for Procter & Gamble) comparing diaper and toilet training practices around the world noted the age of toilet training seems to be influenced by culture, pointing out that babies in India and China (which have higher rates of cloth diaper use) and Russia (where babies predominantly wear disposables) all potty train earlier than their counterparts in the US and Western Europe.

The conclusion? There’s probably no reason to choose a diapering method based on potty training goals.

Environmental impact

The environmental impact that this new person will have on the world weighs heavily on some soon-to-be parents. One of the more commonly reported reasons parents consider cloth diapers is that they’re more environmentally friendly than disposables, or are believed to be. There’s no question that disposable diapers create more landfill waste: a baby is likely to go through between 5,000 and 6,000 disposable diapers before becoming potty trained. A 2014 Environmental Protection Agency report found that disposable diapers account for 7 percent of nondurable household waste in landfills. Except in very limited cases, disposable diapers (regardless of what they claim) won’t compost or biodegrade in a landfill.

But disposable diaper advocates have countered that the energy and water costs of laundering cloth diapers, as well as the environmental impact of cotton production, make them less environmentally friendly than they appear, particularly in terms of the carbon emissions traceable to their care. The best life-cycle analysis we’ve found is a 2008 report (PDF) from the Environment Agency in the UK that compared the manufacturing, disposal, and energy costs of both diaper types. “The environmental impacts of using shaped reusable nappies [cloth diapers] can be higher or lower than using disposables, depending on how they are laundered,” the report concludes. The agency’s analysis found that based on average laundry habits and appliance efficiency, when washing with 60 °C (140 °F) water and mostly line-drying, the overall carbon emissions created by cloth diapering were roughly the same as those of using disposables. But using cloth diapers for a second child or getting them secondhand, exclusively line-drying them, and washing them in fuller loads could reduce that amount by up to 40 percent. (Whether there are any advantages to using so-called “eco-friendly” disposable diapers is even more complicated, and we’re planning a separate post on that topic.)

The conclusion? Cloth diapers are not necessarily more environmentally friendly, but if you’re particularly careful about how you acquire and wash them they are likely to be.

Cost

Diapering represents a significant, ongoing expense for parents of new babies, and many people want to figure out how to do it more cheaply. Whether disposable or cloth diapers end up being a cheaper option depends on a number of factors.

Disposable diapers can be a huge expense, but exactly how much they cost varies greatly depending on the brand, whether you buy them online or in a store, and the package size. If you buy large boxes of our main picks, Walmart’s Parent’s Choice or Target’s Up & Up diapers—discount brands that our lab testing and user reviews indicate perform as well as much more expensive brands—you’ll spend about $250 per year. More expensive brands, like our upgrade picks, Pampers Swaddlers or Cruisers, can cost $500 per year. The most expensive disposables tend to be “eco-friendly” brands: A year’s worth of Honest Company diapers can cost $850.

For cloth diapers, a set of 18 BumGenius 5.0 pocket diapers, our main pick, and 36 inserts cost about $300. (Fifteen to 20 diapers tends to be adequate for a single baby, if you’re doing laundry two to three times per week.) Because our main cloth diaper picks may be too big for tiny newborns, some families also purchase a set of prefold diapers and smaller covers to use for the early days, which can add another $100.

We asked Wirecutter appliances editor Liam McCabe to estimate the energy costs of washing a load of cloth diapers two to three times per week, which the cloth-diapering parents we spoke to reported as average. For these calculations, McCabe used national average prices for water, electricity, and gas—your own utilities costs may be higher or lower.

If you wash a full load of diapers in a front-loading washer like our main pick on the sanitize cycle (which uses water around 165 °F), and dry them in the dryer, it’ll cost around 47¢ per load, or about $60 per year if you’re doing two to three loads per week. If you use an old-style top-loader like a Speed Queen, the cost per load may be closer to 84¢, or $110 per year.

So, assuming your kid spends three years in diapers, you may save about $120 to $270 total if you exclusively use our cloth diaper picks instead of our disposable diaper picks. The savings increase if you use the cloth diapers for additional children (or buy them used) and/or line-dry them; they decrease if you use more rinse or hot-water cycles or tumble dry, or if utilities are significantly more expensive in your area than the national averages we used for these calculations.

These price comparisons don’t take into account the time required to clean cloth diapers, or the additional cost of using a diaper laundering service.

The conclusion? Cloth diapering can save you some money, but the difference may be less than you’d expect.