All About Nappies

As any caregiver knows, a newborn baby will have six to eight wet nappies every day. By 2025 Hobsons Bay will be using over 64 million nappies every year. 

It’s estimated that a disposable nappy takes 150 years to break down in landfill. Reusables tend to be more environmentally friendly and will cost about half as much as disposable nappies.

Reusable nappies do need to be changed more frequently than disposables. Reusable nappies rely on physical absorption whereas single-use nappies use chemical gel absorption.

Reusable nappies still have an impact on the environment. You can significantly reduce the energy and water use associated with reusable cloth nappies by line drying and only washing in full loads.

Find what works for you

Reusable nappies can be used exclusively or used in combination with disposable nappies.

Just two reusable nappies per day will prevent over 1500 disposable nappies from entering landfill each year. 

Many families opt for disposable nappies at night, when out and about or when the baby is being cared for by someone who isn't familiar with reusable nappies.

Reusables Rebate

Council is offering a limited time Reusables Rebate of up to $65 to cover the up-front cost of reusable nappy products, including swim nappies and wet bags. Click here for more information.

How to dispose of single use nappies

  1. Empty all solid waste contents into the toilet, using toilet paper or a spray of water for semi-solid waste.
  2. Fold sides inwards, roll up from base and stick tabs closed.
  3. Please place the nappy in the rubbish bin. This includes nappies that are advertised as compostable or biodegradable.  

Disposable nappy instructions.png

Tips to avoid nappy rash

Nappy rash is common for babies in both reusable nappies and disposable nappies. The main cause of nappy rash is wearing a wet or dirty nappy for too long. To avoid nappy rash: 

  • change regularly
  • avoid wipes that use alcohol or scents as these can irritate skin
  • apply a simple, inexpensive barrier cream at every nappy change. Zinc cream or petroleum jelly works well 
  • embrace nappy free-time to let the skin breathe
  • run a quick rinse cycle for reusable nappies after washing to remove any residue from detergents.
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