Using new and modern cloth nappies is now an easier and cheaper alternative for parents.

Council’s Waste Education Officer Ms Belinda Johnson runs community information sessions on the cost savings and environmental benefits of using cloth nappies.

“Reusable nappies have come a long way since the days of terry towelling squares and safety pins. These days reusable nappies come in a wide range of adorable styles using highly absorbent, ultra soft materials to suit all bottoms and budgets,” Ms Johnson said.

“We have been speaking with soon-to-be parents at the ante-natal classes at Figtree and Wollongong hospitals, baby health clinics, mothers’ groups and Mums and Bubs exercise programs.

“The modern cloth nappy is now far easier to use. The benefits are not just cost related but also environmental.  Disposable nappies place a strain on our landfill.”

Every disposable nappy used in Wollongong, is still here sitting in our landfill. It is estimated to take at least 400 years or more to break down. It is estimated that about 2.1 billion disposable nappies go to landfill each year in Australia. In Wollongong, approximately six per cent of the overall contents of the red top garbage bins is disposable nappies. 

The financial savings of using Modern Cloth Nappies is estimated at $3,500 to $4000 for the first child. The savings increase when the nappies are worn by younger siblings.

New and expectant parents are invited to come along to a Natural Baby Care workshop at Thirroul Library on Monday 27 June (10am to 11.15am), to see the new modern. One lucky attendee will win a cloth nappy pack valued at $200.

To book or find out more information contact the Green Team at GT@wollongong.nsw.gov.au or (02) 4227 7262.

For more information on modern cloth nappies you can visit http://nappynetwork.org.au/