If you are a Central Bedfordshire resident, Central Bedfordshire Council will give you £25 cashback when you spend over £50 purchasing washable nappies, covers or training pants from any company, or subscribe to a nappy laundering service. You will need to complete the real nappies application form (PDF 103KB), and provide a copy of your receipt. Terms and conditions are included in the form

Our Waste Minimisation Officers provide home visits to enable you to compare different brands and styles in the comfort of your own home - to book a visit please email us. 

Real nappies can cost half the price of disposable nappies, saving up to £500 for your first baby. Reuse your cotton nappies for a second baby and save even more money! The cheapest option, even taking into account the cost of washing powder, energy and depreciation of the washing machine, is buying your own real nappies and washing them at home.

Green Mums have produced a video demonstrating how easy real nappies are to use. See real parents talking about real nappies on You Tube.

Health benefits - Disposable nappies are made of super-absorbent chemicals, paper pulp, plastics and adhesives, while real nappies let your child's skin breathe in natural cotton. If you want the best solution, organic cotton and hemp nappies are available at a reasonable cost. Real Nappies also widen your childs hips, therefore making them stronger as they are growing. Babies using washable nappies tend to potty train 6 months earlier than those in disposables.

Variety - From prefolds to quick fastening velcro, there are a wide range of Real Nappy types to choose from, so you can select the best style for your baby and your individual circumstances.

Central Bedfordshire Council provide home visits to enable you to compare different brands and styles in the comfort of your own home. To book a visit, please email the Waste Minimisation Team.

Environment - Disposable nappies create huge amounts of waste and can take up to 500 years to rot away in landfill. Real Nappies create less waste and by following these simple tips you can help reduce their environmental impact even more:

• only flush liners containing solids
• use low temperature detergents
• buy more nappies initially and wash full loads
• use a biodegradable washing detergent such as Ecover and don't use fabric softener
• look at the label and try washing at a lower temperature
• air dry outside rather than tumble dry where possible
• purchase electricity on a green tariff