Glossary

What does it all mean?

The vocabulary used when talking about reusable nappies can sometimes be a bit overwhelming for the newcomer, so we have made this guide to help you navigate the descriptions and advice you come across.

Any nappy designed to be reused many

times and not disposed

of once dirtied .

Reusable / Cloth Nappy

Nappies where the insert is

attached and cannot be removed.

Washed and dried as one item.

All-in-One Nappy/AIO

The insert attaches to a

waterproof cover but can be

detached for washing/drying.

All-in-Two Nappy

Waterproof cover has a pocket

in which inserts are placed for

absorbency. Inserts are removed

for washing/drying.

Pocket Nappy

Waterproof Cover

Absorbent material is pre-shaped into

a typical nappy shape and then a separate waterproof cover is put on top.

Shaped Nappy

Waterproof material shaped to

fit over inserts/shaped nappies.

Can often be used multiple times.

Terms used interchangeably to refer to

any absorbent material inserted into any of the above nappy types.

Different materials offer different benefits.

Inserts / Boosters

Squares of absorbent fabric

that are folded into a nappy shape and secured with pins or 'nippers'.

Covered with waterproof wrap.

Prefolds / Flat Nappies

A non-pin based system for securing prefolded nappies.

Nippers

Strips of material laid next to

baby's bottom to catch any poo.

Can be disposable or reusable.

Strips of material laid next to

baby's bottom to catch any poo.

Can be disposable or reusable.

Liners

Bamboo

Microfibre

Charcoal

Material used for inserts / shaped nappies. Very absorbent, reasonably

slow to dry. Most used material.

Material used for inserts / shaped nappies. Less absorbent but very quick

drying.

Material used for inserts / shaped nappies. Extremely absorbent, very

slow to dry.

Material used for inserts / shaped nappies. Extremely absorbent,

very slow to dry

Material used for inserts and liners. Easy to remove poo from fleece. Keeps baby's bum dry.

Smaller sized nappies designed

for new babies, usually from 4lb+.

Not offered by all brands.

Hemp

Fleece

Newborn

Birth to Potty / One Size

Like disposables, nappies go up in

size as babies grow. Fewer sizes

than disposables, usually have some

adjustments as well.

Sized Nappies

Nappy Bucket

Nappies designed to fit from birth to

potty training via adjustments on the nappies. Usually poppers.

Material used for inserts and liners. Easy to remove poo from fleece. Keeps baby's bum dry.

Waterproof bag to store dirty

nappies in - both and home and out and about.

Wet Bag

Reusable Wipes

Mesh Bag

Bag used inside the nappy bucket

that can be placed (open) directly into the washing machine with nappies inside.

Squares of material (usually cotton or microfibre) used to wipe baby's bottom (or face) that can be washed after use.