What Can Cloth Nappies Be Made Out Of?

Most cloth nappies are still mainly cotton. It's a relatively cheap, easily available, generally non-allergenic textile. It's not very fast drying, though, nor is it as absorbent as other materials. Cotton as a crop requires high water and pesticide inputs, too, which detracts from its green credentials. Organic cotton is available, but is pricey.

Hemp offers more absorbency for its weight (gets better after a few washes) and is more durable than cotton. It is a low input crop (needs little water and virtually no pesticides). Pricey, though, due to low production levels.

Polyester fleece is not absorbent, so it works well as a nappy liner, keeping baby skin a bit drier. Cheap and fast-drying, it's very popular for pocket nappies. May irritate sensitive skin.

Wool most commonly used for wraps as is fast drying and considered 'greener' than cotton or polyester. Not usually suitable next to skin.

Bamboo fibres Soft and light like silk but still absorbent.

Micro-fibre This is more a manufacturing technique than a type of textile. Typically cotton or polyester with polyamide. Very absorbent for bulk.

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