Natural Nursery Blog

Washing the Wonderoos reusable nappies is super easy.

1. Remove the Wonderoos and put it to one side. Clean your baby and put a fresh nappy on.

2. If the reusable nappy is soiled, hold it (waterproof side up) over the toilet and stretch the fleece. Most of the solids will drop into the toilet. If need be, hold the nappy by one corner tightly and flush the toilet to remove the rest of the solids.

3. Shake the insert out of the reusable nappy and into your nappy bucket. Then drop in the nappy too. (If you wish, you can give them a quick rinse beforehand.)

4. On wash day, rinse the nappies in your machine to remove soiling and urine. Wash and rinse using a 40C cycle. Using half the recommended amount of non-biological detergent is sufficient.

5. Hang your Wonderoos reusable nappies outside or inside in a warm place. They will be dry in a few hours. You can tumble dry Wonderoos on a low heat setting. To ensure your nappies last as long as possible, avoid tumble drying on a regular basis. Avoid drying your nappies directly on the radiator.

6. Ready! Store your clean Wonderoos nappies ready-stuffed with a fresh insert so that they are ready to use.

That’s all! Washing your Wonderoos nappies in 6 easy steps.

A few more tips:

• Only use non-biological washing powder. Make sure it doesn’t contain chlorine bleach.

• Washing your reusable nappies at 40C is sufficient. If your baby has diarrhoea or nappy rash, wash them at 60C to ensure all bacteria are killed off.

• You can wash your Wonderoos set at any height setting to save time, no need to undo all the poppers.

• Don’t use fabric softener, it leaves residue on the fabric which will affect your nappy’s absorbency.

• Wash your reusable nappies at least once before using. Hemp boosters should be washed at least 3 times before using. It will take up to 8 washes and possibly one tumble dry for them to reach their maximum absorbency.

Wonderoos are reliable reusable nappies for babies of different ages and shapes. Here are few things to consider if leaks do occur.

If the leak happens shortly after the nappy change, the issue is most likely due to the fit. Run your finder around the leg opening of the Wonderoos reusable nappies. It should be snug but not too tight. You may need to change the size setting to the next size up.

If the leaks occurs after a couple of hours it is likely to be due to not being absorbent enough. Check the inserts: if they are soaking wet you need to use an additional nappy insert or change the reusable nappies more often.

Check that baby’s clothing is not too tight and pressing against the nappy causing ‘wicking’ (drawing up liquid like a candle-wick).

Your reusable nappies absorbency might have been reduced by improper washing, use of nappy cream, fabric softener. There might be a build up of detergent in the fibres of the nappies. Try soaking the nappies with bicarbonate soda or white vinegar and washing them in the washing machine at 60C.

If you’re experiencing leaks with a newborn while using the small insert, you could try using the large one instead. You will need to fold the insert over at the front a little to get it to fit into the nappy on its smallest setting.

Some parents worry that the fleece sticks out at the legs and waist of the Wonderoos reusable nappies and that this might cause leaks. Actually this design ensures your baby’s comfort and avoids leaving red marks on the skin. The fleece is not absorbent and will not draw up liquid so will not cause the nappies to leak. If they do leak at the back or leg it is most likely due to the inserts getting too wet. Change baby’s nappy more frequently or use a booster.

Once you have adjusted the Wonderoos reusable nappy size to fit your child the best, it’s time to add the nappy insert.

The nappy insert is the absorbent part of the nappy. It is sandwiched between a fleece layer which draws the moisture away from your baby’s skin and a waterproof layer. The Wonderoos are sold with a special insert, the Wonder-full birth-to-potty inserts. They are especially designed to fit this pocket nappy, maximise absorbency while avoiding the bulky nappy effect.

When you have adjusted the nappy height to the appropriate size for your baby add the inserts. Slide the nappy insert into the pocket of the nappy. The narrowest end of the insert should be towards the front. Make sure that the insert is positioned so that it is up to the front of the nappy and check it lies flat inside the pocket.

For a newborn or a small baby, use the small insert. If your baby needs a more absorbent nappy, (babies vary in their wetting habits) try using the large insert instead. You might need to fold over the front of the insert.

When the Wonderoos nappy is on the medium or large setting you can use the larger insert on its own or with the smaller one to boost absorbency. Use the poppers to fasten the two inserts together. This makes for a very absorbent nappy.

Lie baby on the open nappy with the wings at the back. Pull the front of the nappy up over baby’s tummy and fit into the legs. Fasten both waist poppers on each wing of the nappy.

The fleece lining should stick out slightly at the back of the nappy to increase baby’s comfort but make sure that the absorbent insert is completely inside the nappy to prevent leaks.

Run your fingers around the inside of the legs of the Wonderoos nappies. It should feel snug but not tight. The leg cuffs are designed to give a close comfortable fit at the thigh.

For a newborn waist setting the wing can be overlapped Select a snug but comfortable waist setting for your baby – you should be able to easily run your finger inside the waist of the nappy.

The Wonderoos nappies are made to suit most babies from birth to toddler (approx. 8-35lb / 3.6-15.9kg). They come with two rows of poppers so that the nappy can be adjusted in width and height to suit your baby growth. Once you have bought your nappies and washed them once, the next thing to do is adjust the size of the nappy to suit your baby. Adjusting your Wonderoos nappies to fit your baby is very simple by following these simple steps

You will see on the front of the nappy is a horizontal row of poppers to adjust the waist (1) and two vertical sets of poppers to adjust the height of the nappy according to your baby’s size(2).

To adjust the cloth nappy to the smallest size: Fold the front of the nappy down and fasten popper “1″ to popper “S” on both sides of the nappy. The nappy should look like image 1 and 2 on the left.

To adjust the cloth nappy to the Medium size: For the Medium size setting, fasten popper “1″ to popper “M”.  This is shown in photo 3 on the left.

To adjust the cloth nappy to the Large size: To use Wonderoos on their largest size simply leave the height adjustment poppers unfastened as shown in this third image.

Once your reusable nappies are adjusted to the right size, there is no need to undo the poppers to wash them. They can be washed as is until your baby has grown and more be more comfortable with the next setting up.

As all one-size nappies, the Wonderoos reusable nappies are designed to suit most children up to potty training. In the event that your toddler has outgrown his nappies, keep them handy. Wonderoos is said to be working on an extender to suit older children.

Q: How many Wonderoos reusable nappies do I need?

We recommend buying a set of reusable nappies between 15-20, depending on how often you wash them. The less cloth nappies you buy the more often you will need to wash them. To use the Wonderoos nappies full time, we recommend around 18 Wonderoos nappies. At Natural Nursery, they are sold with boosters so you don’t need to worry about that.

Q: What else do I need?

A: The fleece chosen for the Wonderoos nappies will let you slide the poo in the toilet. Flushable nappy liners aren’t really needed but can make nappy changes easier, especially for breastfeeding babies. You will need a container to keep the soiled nappies until the next wash. Washable wipes can be washed along with the nappies and represent big savings, compared to disposables.

Q: How often should I change baby’s Wonderoos?

A: As with all nappies, Wonderoos should be changed when soiled or every 3-4 hours during the day time. Wonderoos should be washed after every use.

Q: Are Wonderoos suitable for night time use?

A: Yes, most babies can wear Wonderoos real nappies at night time. If your baby sleeps through the night their night nappy will need to last around 12 hours without leaks rather than 3-4 hours in the day time. To add additional absorbency to the nappy without making it too bulky, an extra nappy booster can be pleased underneath the usual inserts. We recommend buying 3 or 4 boosters.

Q: What nappy creams should I use?

A: Babies wearing reusable nappies don’t need nappy cream regularly. However if your baby has a nappy rash you can use a non-greasy cream such as Green Baby Nappy Balm will soothe the skin. Greasy nappy creams will stick to the nappy lining causing leaks and permanent damage.

Q: How long will Wonderoos last?
A: Hip Hip Baby! manufacture Wonderoos using highly durable fabrics. They should last through one baby’s time in nappies and may well last for another baby if properly cared for. They are made with popper fastening rather than velcro to keep the nappy from suffering excess wear and tear during washing.

You will love these new Wonderoos pocket reusable nappies!

Pocket nappies are easy to use, easy to wash, easy to change, and these ones come with an added benefit: they are one-size. For most children, you will be able to use the same set of reusable nappies from birth to toddler 8lb – 35lb (3.5Kg – 16Kg). If you have two children in nappies at the same time, you can also use the same set of nappies, making everyone’s life even easier!

So why use Wonderoos reusable nappies?

1. Birth to potty nappies – the same nappy can be adjusted to fit babies from birth to toddler.
2. Adjustable for a perfect fit – The Wonderoos have an innovative three-setting system to adjust to the baby’s shape and size perfectly. The stretchy fabric both inside and outside the nappy ensures even more comfort.
3. Comfortable – The stretchy fabric adjust to the baby’s shape for more comfort. The unique seam binding leaves no red mark on baby’s legs. The inner fleece is extremely soft, keeping baby dry and comfy.
4. Easy to use pocket nappies – Pocket reusable nappies are extremely easy to use. They can be ’stuffed’ in advance and used exactly like disposable nappies.
5. Easy to wash and dry – The insert can be removed for washing which shortens the drying time. Ideal for hard water areas. If need be the inserts can be tumbled dried.
6. Durable reusable nappy – It wears very well, wash after wash.
7. Fashionable colours – The Wonderoos reusable nappies are available in a wide range of colours from soft pink and blue to bright red.
8. Suitable for night time use – With the addition of nappy inserts and booster, the Wonderoos can be used at night.
9. Very good value – One set of reusable nappies from birth to potty, for one or two children, for day time or night time use. Very good value indeed!
10. Ideal nappy to use at the childminder or nursery. The Wonderoos pocket nappies are so easy to use, they are ideal for childminders or nurseries. The poo can be flushed the toilet and the nappy closed with the poppers. Store in a nappy bag until it’s time to go home.

In our quick guide to the real nappy world, we briefly mentioned pocket nappies. Here is in more detail what they’re all about.

A pocket nappy is just what it says: a pocket. The pocket is shaped like a disposable nappy and composed of a fleece layer and a waterproof layer.

The fleece layer is usually ultra soft fleece fabric. It is designed to draw the moisture away from your baby’s skin, keeping it dry. This reduces the risk of irritation, especially for babies with sensitive skin. Poo doesn’t attach to the fleece so it can easily be disposed of in the toilet.

The waterproof layer of the real nappy is composed of PUL (polyurethane laminated fabric). It provides the waterproof barrier needed and can survive numerous washings. It is stretchy and thin enough to be comfortable for babies.

The pocket nappies can be fastened by velcro or poppers. The poppers have the additional benefit of not ‘catching’ the fabric, especially in the wash allowing nappies to be more durable.

Inside the pocket, you can choose what nappy insert to stuff in. For a small baby, a small insert is enough. For a larger baby, a large insert on its own will do. For toddlers you will need to combine a large insert with a small one. For night time use, you can even ‘boost’ the absorbency by adding an additional nappy booster. Nappy boosters, especially those made of hemp or bamboo, will allow your pocket nappy to be use through the night.

Pocket nappies can be used just like disposable nappies and that’s what makes them such a sensible option. When they’ve been washed and dried, add the appropriate inserts and fold the nappies. Use as you would use a disposable nappy. When the nappy needs changing, just pop the poo in the toilet, rinse, and store in a bucket until your next wash. You can add a few drops of tea tree oil, a natural disinfectant.

Pocket nappies are ideal for nurseries and childminders or anyone looking after your baby who might not be familiar with a two-part nappy system. They are ideal in hard water areas as the nappy or if you have very limited space to dry the nappies. The nappy is best air dried but the booster and inserts can be given a quick turn in the tumble drier when they’re almost dry. The Wonderoos pocket nappies in particular are shaped to look fairly slim.

Many parents are concerned that reusable nappies require a big upfront investment. You know you will save money in the long run (at least £600 for a first child, more for a second child according to the research) but starting off isn’t always easy.

To help you get started, we thought we would highlight some cloth nappy bargains and great starting up options:

• Terry nappies are simple to use, suit children of various morphologies, easy to wash and dry. A good option for newborn and young babies, perfect if you don’t have a lot of space to dry your reusable nappies. Terry nappies are easy to fold to use as boosters for pocket nappies or night nappies.
• As mentioned earlier, the tie-on disana nappies are organic, sturdy, and fairly easy to use. At £2.02 they are the cheapest reusable nappy on the market.
• We’re clearing out the last few Stuffables pocket nappies in size small. Available in hook and loop or poppers, they are easy to use, dry quickly. A very good option for childminders, grandparents… Just fold muslin squares, terry nappies or boosters and slide it inside the nappies.
• When it comes to shaped nappies (nappies that are shaped like a disposable nappy, making it easier to put on), the IMSE Vimse is very good value at £5.75
• If you own cloth nappies that aren’t absorbent enough, purchasing good quality nappy boosters will save you having to buy new nappies. The Motherease nappy boosters start at only £1.75
• Comparatively, nappy wraps may seem more expensive. We choose to only sell well designed, high quality wraps. There is nothing worse that a nappy wrap that leaks, it would mean more laundry and would discourage you to continue with reusable nappies.

Here are some options to get started with reusable nappies without costing the earth!

Did you ever think it was possible to find a reusable ORGANIC nappy for £2.25? They’re even cheaper if you buy them by pack of 5, pretty much the price of a standard reusable nappy.

More ways Disana tie on organic nappy will save you money:

• The soft fabric adjusts easily for babies of different sizes and shapes, slim or chubby legs alike, ideal if you’re planning to use the nappies for younger siblings.

• It is one size from birth to potty so you can use the same nappies for years. For a newborn, fold the nappy over at the back and front to adjust it to suit your baby. If you do buy other reusable nappies as your baby grows (see note below about wrigglers!) they still make convenient back up nappies or extra stock for those days when every single reusable nappies are in the wash.

The Disana tie-on reusable nappy is an under-rated nappy. The knitted organic cotton is extremely soft. It feels like a snuggly sweater, something you do feel comfortable wrapping around your baby’s bottom.

They are made in Europe with no poppers or aplix it is a sturdy and simple reusable nappy.

The Disana tie on nappies aren’t among the most absorbent but as they are slim, it is easy to add a nappy booster.

These nappies can be fiddly to put on at first, especially with a wriggly baby. With the instructions and a bit of practice, you will soon get used to it. You can also cut the ties (be careful not to cut the nappy itself, just the ties) and use a nippa to secure it. Make sure the booster is placed under the nippa.

The Disana nappies are washed just as regular reusable nappies. Tie the ties loosely before washing to make sure they don’t end up twisted around your laundry.

With these nappies, you will need boosters and waterproof nappy wraps. Any of the nappy wraps will be suitable, including the Disana knitted wrap made of organic merino wool.

reusable nappy

You’ve decided that wearing a reusable nappy will be better for your baby. Congratulations on your choice. Now comes the next question, how many cloth nappies do I need to buy?

There is no hard and fast rule, the answer will depend on a few factors:

• How old is your baby? Newborns need to be changed 8 to10 times a day so choosing quick washing nappies like terry or muslin nappies will save you time and money. Breastfed babies can be prone to liquid poo so you might want to plan a couple of extra waterproof wraps.

• Will you be using a reusable nappy for every change or part of the time?

• How often are you planning to wash your nappies? Every 1 to 3 days is the average. Will you wash the nappies separately or add them to your regular laundry?

• How will you dry the nappies? Tumble drying is quick but more expensive.

• What type of nappies will you be using? Flat nappies are quick to wash and dry but all-in-one take longer.

How many reusable nappies do I need to buy? The answer depends on the type of reusable nappy, on your child, and how you will be washing them. To allow for washing and drying time plus a few cloth nappies in stock, you can use these numbers as a guide:

• 20-25 nappies for a newborn
• 15-20 for a baby 6 months+
• plus around 5 waterproof covers as they do not need to be changed every time.

Choosing a combination of slow drying and quick drying nappies can help you save money. It seems a lot but remember, switching to reusable nappy can save you £500 on average for a first child.