Frequently Asked Questions - Ecobots

Find cloth nappies confusing? Have you got questions about Ecobots? Our frequently asked questions page is a good place to start.

How much is postage?

New Zealand orders are charged a flat delivery of $5.50. Postage is free for New Zealand customers for orders over $150. Dunedin customers get free postage. International delivery is $10.50. Delivery and returns info can be found here.

What do I need?

Ecobots cloth nappies are made up of a cover, an absorbent inner, and an optional nappy liner. A snappi can also be used to hold everything together. All of these items can be bought separately. Our trial and starter packs are a good place to start. They contain everything you need to start using cloth nappies on your baby.

How many nappies will I need?

A newborn baby, using cloth full time, will probably need between four and six covers and around twenty to twenty-four inners. An older child will need fewer nappies. Most people find that around four covers and twelve nappies are enough when your baby is older. A few extra inners are always handy as you can use these for many other things and having a few extra on hand is useful in an emergency.

How do I wash cloth nappies?

The inner part, also known as the pre-fold nappy, should be rinsed before washing. You can rinse as soon as it’s removed or just before washing. Soaking isn’t essential, but it will not hurt the pre-fold if you soak it. The cover should not be soaked. Coldwater in a bucket is adequate to do this. Nappies should be washed in warm water with a full scoop of powder. Make sure that all detergent is rinsed away after washing. More information on washing can be found here.

How often should I be changing them?

Newborn babies will need changing every couple of hours. Older babies will usually go a bit longer than this. Nappies should be changed as soon as your baby poos to prevent nappy rash. Once your baby is sleeping overnight, nappy boosters or extra inserts will help the nappy last all night long.

Do cloth nappies leak?

If you are using the right size cover and insert, then the nappy should not leak. Cloth nappies are usually more reliable than disposable nappies.

Will they cause nappy rash?

Cloth nappies are less likely than disposables because they contain fewer chemicals. By being careful what washing powders you use, you can control the chemicals that your little one is in contact with. Babies in cloth usually tend to have less nappy rash. If you do have nappy rash issues, please get in touch, as we should be able to help.

How much money will I save?

Cloth nappies are usually much cheaper than disposable nappies. With cloth nappies, the initial outlay is higher, but then that’s all you really spend. By comparison, you have to continue to buy disposable nappies. You also have to pay to throw them away. Most people save around $3000-$4000 on their first child alone. You can find more cost comparisons here.

If you have any other suggestions for frequently asked questions not covered here, then please get in touch here.