Think of reusable nappies and the image of terry nappies flapping on a washing line spring to mind. Or a smelly bucket with steaming nappies waiting for the wash. Or a fat bottomed cute baby.

Use "real" nappies today and chances are only the last image will be true. There are so many cute nappies out there you're spoilt for choice.

And modern fabrics such as bamboo and clever designs like shaped nappies means that they are only marginally more (or sometimes the same) amount of work as disposables.

Here's our guide to reusable nappies.
There have been arguments that reusable nappies aren't more environmentally friendly than disposables but I would just prefer not to be adding to landfills. And what could be nicer than wrapping your baby's bottom in soft material?

Now there are so many to choose from, ones that dry quicker than others, special grips instead of pins and a vast array of colourful wraps that buying the right nappy can be overwhelming. Here are a few points to help you:

  • You can fill out a free questionnaire at the nappy lady based on your circumstances and receive a detailed email in return advising the best nappies to suit your baby, with no pressure to buy from them.
  • There are a few more accessories you need when using reusables such as pins or plastic grippers called Nappi Nippers, a nappy bucket and a bag to hold used nappies when out and about.
  • Do you want an all-in-one system with built in waterproof outer? Or two parts, with a nappy and separate wrap which come in a huge variety of designs and materials? You can have lots of fun with the latter and my preferred option.
  • There are shaped nappies, ones you stuff into covers or flat nappies. Sometimes a mix of different ones is best. They have different drying times so if you don't have access to a dryer, this is something to consider.
  • You can buy packages that will take you from birth to potty or buy sized nappies. The latter was the option I chose as it gave me more versatility, plus there are some lovely nappies out there I wanted to try.
  • You'll need liners to catch the poo and, again, there's a few to choose from. Biodegradable liners are cheap and can be flushed away or there are fleece, silk or polyester which protect baby's bottom. There are also boosters you place inside the nappy for extra night-time absorbency.
  • If you buy enough nappies, you'll only have to wash them every other day. Buy a nappy mesh to line a lidded bucket so all you have to do is pick the net up and pop it into a machine. I didn't add anything to my nappy bucket except a few drops of tea tree oil in the bottom and this kept smells at bay.
  • Once you're washing nappies it makes sense to use washable wipes too. Usually made out of fleece this option is convenient (provided you have enough), green and chemical free. Most nappy sellers stock these.
  • If you like the idea of reusable nappies but don't have the resources to launder them, there are companies that can do that for you. The National Association of Nappy Services have details of companies in the UK.
  • Many local authorities offer incentive schemes. To find out if there are any in your area or for information and advice about reusable nappies contact Go Real - the real nappy information service.