As we start enjoying a slow journey back to 'normal' life and welcome back the feeling of hope, we wanted to take the time to write this blog for all the new parents and the parents to be.
We read recently that Mumsnet has analysed forums and language on its website and has predicted a baby boom in 2021. For us, it’s been amazing seeing the growth of our community over the last year as we welcome a host of new parents to the world of reusables.
We know the language around sustainability and reusables can be confusing, but it doesn’t need to be. Here are our top tips for parents who are looking to start their sustainability journey...
Buy less, buy better
For years marketers have been telling us to buy more and buy new, but we’re here to tell you that you really don’t have to. Babies needs are few, which means you don’t need to overspend on baby gadgets or the latest ‘must-haves’. As long as they have food in their belly, clothes to keep them warm, somewhere safe to sleep and your love and cuddles, they will be satisfied and happy. However, if you do want to invest in some fancy gadgets then have a look what’s out there on the second-hand market - it always amazes us what people get rid of!
It’s isn’t all or nothing
Being eco-conscious is a journey, not a destination. When it comes to nappies, many first-time parents choose to mix and match reusables with single-use nappies to start off with, this helps you get into a groove. If you are looking to start with reusables then we’d recommend that if you’re going to use cloth full time then you’ll be needing 20 nappies, this means that you would be washing every 2-3 days.
Sustainability doesn’t need to be complicated
We’re always seeing people overcomplicate reusables. Let us be frank, it’s just a nappy. Don’t let this become another stress, we’re sure you have enough to think about at the moment. We always get asked about washing our nappies - this really is simple. If you’re new to cloth and looking for some washing tips then head to our best practice blog here. This goes for other sustainable swaps to, just keep it simple and don’t overcomplicate things - these products are designed to fit around you and not the other way around.
Reach out to your community
There are so many ‘hacks’ and tips on zero-waste or ethical lifestyle swaps and there’s so much amazing advice out there to make these transitions as easy as possible. Reach out to your community to see if anyone has any advice or recommendations. If you’re new to cloth, our community is an amazing place to start - head to our Hangout page to meet other super supportive cloth bum parents. It’s also worth reaching out to your local council to see if they have any incentives or schemes - we know that some local councils offer a voucher scheme to encourage the use of reusable nappies.
Remember we’re always here
We know making the switch to reusables, or any eco-product can seem daunting - so remember that we’re always on hand to answer questions or point you in the direction of others who can help. After 11 years there aren’t many questions that haven’t already been asked and that we don’t have the answers to (or at least know where to go to get them!).
And finally...
Give yourself a break
Life has been stressful enough, so give yourself a break. We know mum guilt well enough, so remember that you’re doing amazing - we all make mistakes which we learn from, this is what helps us to grow. Your baby needs you to be gentle to yourself.
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