It really isn't as hard as people make it out to be. I've noticed that people claiming they tried but it was impossible usually didn't really bother trying - they bought a pack of flats, took one look and said no, or they forgot they also needed a wrap, or in the case of one person who assured me that it's impossible to ever dry the nappies in time, she just didn't have enough. 10 nappies for a newborn baby in winter and without a dryer just doesn't work in Britain.
My wash routine? Cold rinse, wash on 40 or occasionally 60 with a very small amount of washing powder (whatever is on offer as long as it isn’t a 2-in-1 or bio, although I have used bio on occasion) - about a teaspoon's worth, extra rinse or two (depending on how I'm feeling, what else needs doing and so on). Line dry inside or outside depending on the weather.
One thing I do is smell the nappies/inserts when they come out of the machine. If there is any smell of washing powder left, I rinse again. If I did smell pee or poo, I'd rewash, but I haven't had to yet. Oh, and I dry pail.
Water type, I honestly don't know. The kettle does get deposits after a while.
Washer- front loader, quite old and decrepit to be honest. I don't remember what brand it is, I think the name has actually faded away. I rent, so it's whatever comes with the house.
Types of nappies: a mixture of everything. Pockets, all in ones, fitteds, flats, hybrids. Basically whatever was on offer and whatever I liked the sound and look of. Material-wise, microfiber, cotton, bamboo and fleece liners.
Kezzy - if you want to use cloth, go for it. Have a look around to see what's available, don't panic, and remember that this community here will help you if you get stuck. Rachel C always responds to any nappy related questions, as do many other people. I started out with muslins and wraps and random samples. That gave me the time and opportunity to try things out, then I decided what I liked and bought more when the price was good. I love cloth nappies and I'm proud to be using them. I don't have to worry about running out, or the store running out of my preferred type/size, I don't have to lug nappies home with the rest of the shopping, or take the bin out all the time, and I feel better knowing that there are no chemical gels on or near my baby's bum. And as an extra bonus, baby and I can choose what type or pagttern we feel like putting on. Oh, and even my husband can manage most if not all cloth nappies. Washing and drying doesn't mean that much extra work. A minute to get the nappies in, 30 seconds or less to do the powder and programmr bit, 10 minutes or less to hang them up. The machine does the rest, and as for drying, just leave them for as long as needed.
