Using pocket nappies involves stuffing an absorbent insert into a waterproof outer cover, putting it on the baby, and then cleaning it properly after use. This popular type of reusable nappy offers excellent customisation and ease of use.
What Are Pocket Nappies?
Pocket nappies are a type of reusable cloth nappy that features a waterproof outer shell and a soft inner lining, creating a "pocket" or sleeve. This pocket is designed to hold absorbent inserts, which are typically made from materials like microfibre, bamboo, hemp, or cotton. Their design allows for adjustable absorbency and quick drying, as the inserts are removed for washing.
Getting Started: Stuffing Your Pocket Nappy
The first step to using a pocket nappy is to prepare it by inserting the absorbent material.
- Prepare the Nappy Shell: Lay the nappy shell down on a flat surface. Unfold any tabs or closures so the nappy is completely open. Position it so the 'pocket' opening, usually at the back or front of the nappy's inner lining, is facing you and easily accessible.
- Insert the Absorbent Pad: Take your chosen absorbent insert(s) and gently guide them into the pocket opening. As you push the insert in, make sure it lies flat and smooth inside the pocket. This ensures maximum absorbency across the n nappy's surface and prevents uncomfortable bunching for your baby. You can use one or multiple inserts depending on your baby's absorbency needs (e.g., adding an extra insert for nighttime or heavy wetters).
- Smooth and Flatten: Once the insert is fully inside the pocket, smooth out any wrinkles or folds from the outside. A flat, evenly distributed insert will perform best and be most comfortable for your baby.
Putting the Pocket Nappy on Your Baby
Once your pocket nappy is stuffed and ready, putting it on your baby is similar to using a disposable nappy, but with a focus on achieving a snug, leak-proof fit.
- Position the Nappy: Lay your baby down on their back. Slide the stuffed pocket nappy underneath them, ensuring the back of the nappy sits comfortably around their waist or just above the hips.
- Pull Up and Adjust Rise: Bring the front of the nappy up between your baby's legs, covering their genital area. Most pocket nappies have a series of snaps on the front called 'rise snaps'. These allow you to adjust the nappy's length to fit babies of different sizes. Fasten these snaps to achieve a snug fit around your baby's thighs and waist, ensuring there are no gaps.
- Fasten the Waist Tabs: Wrap the waist tabs (usually with snaps or hook-and-loop fasteners) around your baby's waist. Fasten them securely. You should be able to comfortably slide two fingers under the waistline, indicating a snug but not too tight fit.
- Check for Leaks and Comfort: Gently run your fingers around your baby's legs and waist to ensure the elastic is tucked neatly into the creases of their thighs and tummy. There should be no gaps where moisture could escape. Adjust the leg gussets (the elastic around the thighs) to ensure they are flared out, not tucked in, to prevent leaks.
Achieving the Perfect Fit
A well-fitting nappy is crucial for preventing leaks and ensuring comfort.
- Rise Snaps: Adjust the vertical snaps on the front of the nappy to make it longer or shorter. For smaller babies, you'll snap them down more, making the nappy shorter. As your baby grows, you'll release more snaps.
- Waist Tabs: These adjust the tightness around the waist. Ensure it's snug enough to stay put but not so tight that it leaves red marks.
- Leg Elastics: The primary area for leaks, ensure the leg elastic is tucked into the baby's leg crease with no gaps.
Caring for Your Pocket Nappies
Proper care extends the life of your pocket nappies and ensures they remain hygienic and absorbent.
- After Soiling:
- Solids: Plop any solid waste into the toilet. If needed, use a disposable liner or a nappy sprayer to remove stubborn residue.
- Storage: Store soiled nappies in a dry pail or a wet bag until wash day (no more than 2-3 days). Do not soak them in water.
- Washing Routine:
- Pre-Wash: Run a short, cold rinse cycle with a small amount of detergent to remove initial soiling.
- Main Wash: Follow with a long, hot wash cycle (around 40-60°C or 104-140°F) using the recommended amount of a reputable cloth nappy detergent. Ensure your washing machine is not overloaded to allow for proper agitation and rinsing.
- Rinse: An extra rinse cycle can be added if you have very hard water or suspect detergent residue.
- Tip: Always remove inserts from the pocket before washing. This ensures thorough cleaning and faster drying.
- Drying:
- Line drying in the sun is ideal, as it helps remove stains and is gentle on the fabric.
- Tumble drying on a low setting is an option, but prolonged high heat can damage the waterproof outer layer and elastic. Inserts can usually be tumble dried on a higher heat.
Benefits of Using Pocket Nappies
Pocket nappies are a popular choice for many families due to several advantages:
- Customizable Absorbency: You can easily adjust the number and type of inserts to suit your baby's needs, from light daytime wetting to heavy nighttime use.
- Quick Drying: Since the inserts are separated from the shell, both components dry faster than all-in-one nappies.
- Easy for Caregivers: Once stuffed, pocket nappies are as straightforward to put on as disposable nappies, making them a great option for daycare or grandparents.
- Cost-Effective: Reusable over many years and potentially for multiple children.
- Environmentally Friendly: Reduces landfill waste compared to disposable nappies.
Common Nappy Care Do's and Don'ts
Here's a quick guide to help you maintain your pocket nappies effectively:
Do's | Don'ts |
---|---|
Pre-wash new nappies before use | Use fabric softener |
Remove inserts before washing | Overstuff the nappy pocket |
Stuff inserts flat and smooth | Use harsh stain removers or bleach |
Adjust rise snaps for proper fit | Soak nappies in water |
Check for snug fit around legs and waist | Overload your washing machine |