Sustainable nappies: what to look for

Cloth nappies avoid single-use waste per change. They require a washing routine, storage, and often a higher upfront cost. The environmental balance depends heavily on how you wash (temperature, full loads, tumble drying) and how long you use a set.

Disposables with unbleached pulp or certified cotton content can ease day-to-day pressure — especially when cloth is hard to sustain (childcare, little space, multiples). Then the question is: what does the pack actually say, and which seals apply to the product itself?

There is no universally “better” choice. Our brand entries in the nappies category describe what we know about individual suppliers — without test scores or ranked lists.

For cloth nappies and accessories you often see GOTS (organic fibre and social criteria along the supply chain) and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 (substance testing of the finished product). These answer different questions: GOTS focuses on how the fibre is produced; OEKO-TEX checks whether the item you use contains concerning substances.

On disposables you may see pulp seals, FSC claims, or compostability promises. “Organic” on packaging is not automatically a certified seal. “Compostable” often means industrial composting — not your home green bin.

On klugundgrün, verified and unverified certification claims are shown separately for brands.

Fit and skin tolerance. A nappy that fits well and causes less friction reduces sore skin and stress — regardless of marketing.

Disposal. Most families put disposables in general waste; plan realistically rather than relying on theoretical compostability.

Changing formulas. Manufacturers adjust materials. We do not show prices and we date our assessments — they are guidance, not a permanent verdict.

Cost and effort. Cloth can pay off over time but costs time in the laundry. Disposables cost ongoing money but simplify some situations. Both are valid.

1. Nappies category — researched entries with summary, certifications, and sources.
2. GOTS and OEKO-TEX — what each label covers and where it stops.
3. Local changing facilities — listed in many cities under Local.

We update entries when something material changes at a brand. If you spot a gap, you can submit a tip — everything is reviewed before publication.