Making Waves with Reusable Swim Nappies: A Parent’s Guide

Swimming with a baby/toddler can be a delightful experience, but it comes with its own set of challenges—chief among them, ensuring your little one stays clean and comfortable in the water. As a mother of a 2 year old I am always seeking eco-friendly and cost-effective solutions for our family’s needs, and I can unarguably say that reusable swim nappies have become an increasingly popular choice. 

Did you know? that around  3.75 million disposable nappies are used daily across Australia and New Zealand, with over 92% ending up in landfills? These nappies take between 200 and 500 years to decompose, creating a massive environmental burden. As more parents become aware of this issue, many are turning to cloth nappies as an eco-friendly, cost-saving alternative, this is a substantial reduction in plastic waste. Furthermore, reusable swim nappies can be used for several years, often lasting through multiple children, making them a sustainable investment.

Reusable Swim Nappies: What You Need to Know

• What Are Reusable Swim Nappies?

Sarah Jane reusable swim nappies are designed to keep baby’s poo contained during swim time while allowing liquids to pass into the water. Unlike regular nappies, they do not absorb liquid but focus on preventing solid waste from escaping into the pool. These nappies are usually made from fabrics such as polyester with a waterproof layer and soft fleece on the inside making them a practical and eco-friendly choice for parents who frequently take their babies swimming.

• How Do They Work?

Reusable swim nappies function through a combination of an outer waterproof layer and an inner absorbent fabric. The outer layer, often made from polyester with a hidden waterproof membrane, prevents leaks before and during swimming. The inner fleece fabric is soft against the baby’s skin and helps contain any accidents. Most swim nappies come with adjustable sizing through rise snaps, allowing them to grow with your baby and ensure a secure fit.

• Types of Nappies

1. Swim Nappy Wraps: These are adjustable, with a waterproof outer layer and a soft, absorbent inner layer. They are easy to use and can be washed and reused multiple times.
2. Pocket Nappies: These feature a pocket that can be used to insert additional liners or boosters if needed, though for swimming, the pocket should be used without extra inserts.
3. All-in-One Swim Nappies: These combine the outer waterproof layer and absorbent inner fabric into a single piece, making them easy to use and maintain.

Reusable Swim Diapers: How to Use

• What Size Do I Need?

Choosing the right size for your baby or toddler is crucial for effectiveness. Most reusable swim nappies come with adjustable snaps fastenings to accommodate different sizes. Check the size chart provided by the manufacturer and adjust the snaps according to your baby's measurements. One-size nappies are popular because they can be adjusted to fit as your child grows, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Check Sarah Jane Collection swim nappies  size chart here.

• How to Fit on Baby/Toddler

1. Adjust the Size: Use the rise snaps to ensure the nappy covers your baby’s tummy to bottom evenly, with the back elastics sitting above the bum crack by at least 2cm.
2. Secure the Nappy: Lay your baby down and pull the front of the nappy up between their legs. Fasten the  waist snaps securely, crossing over if needed for a snug fit.
3. Check for Fit: Ensure there are no sagging or loose areas. The nappy should fit snugly but not too tight around the legs and waist, with no gaps where accidents could escape.

• How to Clean It

1. Pre-Rinse: After swimming, ensure you rinse the nappy with cold water  as soon as possible as the chlorine might damage the waterproof layer, if bub has done a poo, flush what you can and rinse.
2. Wash: Place the nappy in the washing machine with your regular laundry at a maximum temperature of 40°C. Avoid chlorine-based bleaches and fabric softeners, as these can damage the waterproof layer.
3. Dry: Air dry the nappy away from direct sunlight, or use a cool tumble dryer. Avoid placing it directly on a radiator to prevent damage.

• Do They Hold Pee and Poo?

Reusable swim nappies are designed to contain solid waste effectively but do not absorb urine. They rely on their snug fit and design to prevent leaks of solids, while urine is allowed to pass into the water. For best results, ensure the nappy fits well and is properly adjusted to your baby’s size.

Reusable vs Disposable Swim Nappies

• Benefits

1. Cost-Effectiveness: Reusable swim nappies can save money over time. While the initial purchase may be higher, they can be reused multiple times, unlike disposables which are used once and discarded. At Sarah Jane we are proud to offer affordability, check some of our versatile swimming nappies range here.
2. Environmental Impact: Reusable swim nappies are better for the environment. They reduce waste by avoiding the single-use plastic found in disposable nappies.
3. Skin Sensitivity: Reusable nappies are typically made from natural materials and are free from chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin.

• Materials

• Reusable Swim Nappies: Sarah Jane nappies have a 100% PUL Polyester cloth fabric Outer shell that is breathable & waterproof, the inner layer is made from a strong and super soft Nylon mesh giving your baby the best comfort that they deserve. They are designed to be washed and reused.
• Disposable Swim Nappies: They are usually made from plastic and other synthetic materials that are intended for single use and contribute to landfill waste.

Best Reusable Swim Nappy

Dear parents, when choosing a reusable swim nappy for your bub, consider one that offers durability, a snug fit adjustable sizing and is gentle on baby’s skin. Look for brands with positive reviews and proven performance. A good nappy should effectively contain solids, be comfortable for your baby, and be easy to clean and maintain. Options that offer adjustable sizing and a good balance of comfort and functionality are ideal.

In summary, reusable swim nappies are a practical and eco-friendly choice for parents who frequent the pool or any other bodies of water. They offer cost savings, environmental benefits, and are gentle on baby’s skin. By choosing the right size, ensuring a good fit, and properly maintaining the nappy, you can ensure your little one stays comfortable and leak-free during swim time.

By choosing reusable swim nappies, you're not only making a smart financial decision but also contributing to a cleaner planet for future generations. Their durability, ease of use, and environmental benefits make them an ideal choice for conscientious parents who want the best for their children and the Earth.

Ready to take the plunge? Explore Sarah Jane range of high-quality reusable swim nappies today and experience the difference for yourself.  Visit our website to find the perfect swim nappy for your little one and join the movement towards a more sustainable and enjoyable swimming experience. Dive in and make a splash with reusable swim nappies!