6. Use Reusable Accessories
If you’re sticking with disposables, pairing them with reusable items like cloth wipes, changing pads and liners is a simple way to offset their environmental impact. Every minute, over 300,000 disposable nappies end up in landfills or are incinerated – that’s a mind-blowing amount of waste.
Swapping single-use wipes for washable cloth ones or investing in a changing pad reduces what you throw away. Adding reusable liners to your routine can also keep nappies cleaner for longer, meaning fewer changes and less waste.
Every minute, over 300,000 disposable nappies end up in landfills or are incinerated – that’s a mind-blowing amount of waste.
7. Minimise Waste With Smart Storage and Usage
Storing and sizing your nappies properly can save money, time and a lot of unnecessary waste. Keep them in a cool, dry spot to avoid damage from moisture or heat, which can weaken their absorbency. Staying organised by size is also practical – no one wants to dig through the stash only to find supplies that don’t fit anymore.
In addition, nappies that are too small can lead to messy blowouts. Meanwhile, ones that are too big often leak, which leaves you with wasted products and extra laundry. Always check the weight recommendations on the package and size up when your baby is in between sizes.
8. Support Recycling Innovations
Recycling technologies for disposable nappies give hope for tackling their environmental impact in exciting new ways. Scientists have recently discovered that UV radiation can break down chemical chains in the polymers in nappy liners, making these materials easiest to degrade and recycle.
This breakthrough could transform how families manage disposable nappies, which turns waste into something reusable. While experts are still perfecting these innovations, many areas are now testing nappy recycling initiatives.
9. Balance With Other Sustainable Choices
Using disposable nappies doesn’t mean you can’t make other eco-friendly choices to balance things out. Breastfeeding – if it’s an option for you – is a great way to reduce the need for formula packaging and production. Shopping for secondhand baby clothes is another easy and budget-friendly way to cut back on waste.
Using disposable nappies doesn’t mean you can’t make other eco-friendly choices to balance things out.
You can also ditch plastics by switching to reusable bottles, snack containers or silicone bibs. The key is to make small, manageable changes that fit your lifestyle and will improve your little one’s future.
Making Sustainable Choices That Fit Your Life
Sustainability isn’t about being perfect – it’s about making small, thoughtful changes that work for you and your family. Focus on progress and give yourself credit for the effort.
Jane Marsh is the founder and editor-in-chief of Environment.co where she shares practical tips on how to live a greener life.
