Preloved nappies

What to look for when buying preloved nappies

If you want to stretch your budget as far as possible, one option is to buy some or all of your nappies second-hand. Here are some top tips to ensure you get the best you can:

Check that the elastic around the legs and back of the waistband is still stretchy. If it’s loose, or doesn’t spring back properly, you may get leaks.

Check the waterproof layer for small holes, tears, or bubbles. These can be especially obvious around the legs and can stop the nappies from sealing properly.

If the nappies fasten with Velcro, check that it is in good condition and still sticks well.

Inspect boosters for thin or worn-out patches which will reduce absorbency.

Look out for marks or stains, including mould if the nappies have been stored somewhere damp.

Ask how old the nappies are, and how many children the nappies were used for.

Ask about the previous owner’s laundry routine. Nappies should never be washed with fabric softener as it will reduce absorbency – so look out for strong scents.

You may wish to buy new waterproof covers, if you’re buying preloved inners for fitted nappies. The waterproof wraps are often the first part of the nappy to wear out.

Always wash second hand nappies before you use them.

You might want to consider using online payment such as Pay Pal to benefit from buyer protection.

Compare the preloved price with the price of the same brand as new, to ensure you’re getting a bargain!

What to do when your child has finished with reusable nappies

One of the best things about washable nappies is that each one can be used hundreds of times. When your child has finished using them, your nappies may still be in great condition and ready for another baby to use.

There are several options of what to do with them. Some suggestions are:

· You can pass them on to friends or family

· You can sell them via online second-hand or preloved websites or via social media

· You can sell them at a car-boot sale, jumble sale or tabletop / nearly new sale

· You can donate them to a charity shop. Some will accept them for resale, but not all*

· You can donate them to Kids Stuff in Cirencester or Stroud, where we will work with them to get the nappies to new homes if they are in good condition, or to recycle them as textiles if they can’t be resold.

*Whilst lots of the local charity and second-hand shops are happy to take good condition, clean, preloved nappies, it’s worth having a conversation with the staff before you drop them off to check whether they will resell the nappies or put them in recycling or general waste.

Contact us

Email enquiries glosnappies@resourcefutures.co.uk

Reusable Nappy Advisor Kirstie.Clarke@resourcefutures.co.uk 07928 672828

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