WRAPS
Modern nappy wraps have come a long way from the Plastic Pants of
old!
PUL Wraps
Modern wraps are made from breathable Polyurethane laminate (PUL),
and are soft, easy to care for and most importantly - Leak proof.
A new wrap doesn't need to be used at every nappy change (unless it's
soiled) you can simply wipe the inside with a flannel or rotate between
two wraps through the day - one to wear while the other is airing. It's
personal choice really - you'll soon get to know which method works best
for you.
Most babies will only require 3 sizes of wraps (Small, Medium and
Large). Extra small and extra large sizes are available too. PUL Wraps
come in Hook and Loop or Popper fastenings.
PUL wraps can be washed with your nappies or with regular laundry
usually at up to 60 degrees. They are best line dried.
Fleece Wraps
Polyester Fleece wraps are an alternative to PUL ones, and are best
suited to night time use. They are not 'waterproof' as such, rather
they're 'water resistant'. Fleece wraps are more breathable, the fleece
itself is non absorbent so some of the wetness of the nappy evaporates
making the nappy cooler.
As the wrap is not waterproof, sometimes 'pressure wicking' can occur
if baby is sat/laid in one position for a long time. So, these are best
suited to night time use on older babies (i.e. not newborns who lay
still at night).
Fleece wraps can be washed at 40deg, and are best washed with regular
laundry (not nappies) to prevent the fleece from bobbling.
Wool Wraps
Knitted wool wraps work by very slowly absorbing and evaporating the
wetness of the nappy during wear. Wool is naturally water resistant and
contains Lanolin - which is the magic thing that means Sheep are not
soggy!!
Wool is extremely good for overnight use, being very breathable and
keeping the nappy cool. After overnight use the outside of the wrap
shouldn't feel wet, but may feel a little clammy - this is normal and
doesn't mean the wraps has leaked, it's just the evaporation taking
place. Pressure Wicking (described above) can also occur with wool
wraps.
Wool wraps, once fully lanolised, do not need washing after every use
- they can simply be aired and washed weekly or less often.
They'll need to be washed with wool shampoo or vegetable/olive soap
by hand, or in the machine on a wool wash at a maximum of 30deg. They
should be dried flat and away from direct heat and sunlight to prevent
shrinking.
Wool wraps need treating with Lanolin to keep them waterproof. This
needs to be done on a fairly regular basis when the wrap is new (every
1-2 weeks), however this will decrease in regularity after a month or
so's use.
How Many Will I Need?
If using PUL wraps full time, minimum of 4 wraps in each size is
usually sufficient, although 1 or 2 more in the small size may be handy
to have while baby is small.
If you're using fleece or wool overnight, then you can decrease the
number of PUL wraps accordingly. Fleece wraps dry very quickly, however
wool wraps take much longer.
Brands available through Green Tots
Motherease, Tots Bots, Nature Babies, Wacky Wraps, Baby Beehinds |
