COTTON: Cotton nappies are the great all rounder. They’re robust and will last successive babies, have good absorption and are competitively priced.

BAMBOO: Generally more expensive but also more absorbent than cotton, less bulky and silky soft. Bamboo fabric is a natural textile made from the pulp of bamboo grass.

The Bamboo used to produce fabrics is easily replenished and requires no pesticides to grow. Bamboo is considered one of the most sustainable plants because it grows quickly and does not require chemicals or irrigation, and biodegrades more quickly than oil-based synthetics.

Bamboo is a luxuriously soft fabric that is naturally hypoallergenic, moisture- absorbent and quick drying. Bamboo is highly water absorbent, able to take up to three times its weight in water. The fiber is naturally smooth and round without chemical treatment, meaning that there are no sharp spurs to irritate the skin.

Bamboo also has many antibacterial qualities, which bamboo fabric is able to retain, even through multiple washings. Bamboo exhibits up to a 99.8% antibacterial rate. This helps to reduce bacteria that thrive in clothing and cause unpleasant odors. It can also kill odor causing bacteria that live on human skin, making the wearer and his or her clothing smell sweet.

MICROFIBRE:  A synthetic fabric often used for inserts and boosters. They are the quick-dry nappies of the washable world. They absorb quickly but are best paired with a natural fibre option that will hold the liquid in better in order to avoid leaks.

WOOL:  Wool can be used for nappy covers. Woollen covers need to be lanolised to make them waterproof. They are a great natural fibre option for those who want to avoid synthetic fabrics. They are also good for overnight as they can provide extra protection against leaks.

HEMP: Hemp creates one of the most eco friendly fabrics in the world. Hemp requires no pesticides, crowds out weeds without herbicides, controls erosion of the topsoil, and produces oxygen. It is a renewable resource that can be cultivated in as little as 100 days and is the world’s most versatile fiber.

Fabrics made from hemp are hypo-allergenic and non-irritating to the skin. Current tests indicate that hemp is able to kill staph and other bacteria that come in contact with its surface. Hemp has the look of classic linen and can have the feel (depending upon fabric blend) of your favourite flannel. Hemp materials will also soften with age and with each washing. Like linen and cotton, hemp is a cool choice for summer. It breathes well. It is recommended for warm, humid climates as the fabric resists mildew and absorbs moisture.

HEMP & BAMBOO VS MICROFIBRE

Hemp & Bamboo boosters / inserts are very thirsty and have great antibacterial qualities. They are naturally antibacterial and antifungal making them perfect for use in cloth nappies. Microfibre has an absorbency of 8 times its weight. It soaks up well but Hemp & Bamboo hold liquid better than microfibre. Therefore using one hemp or one bamboo insert and one microfibre insert in pocket nappies is a great combination. Please note: Always place the microfibre insert on top in the pocket as it is faster absorbing.