Reusable Nappies vs Disposable — What’s Better in 2025?

By Jordan Malik, Family Gear Reviewer | Product Picks Column | Childcare Standards Council

If there’s one parenting decision you’ll face multiple times a day, it’s nappies. Whether you’re up at 3am with a wriggly newborn or packing a nappy bag for nursery, nappies are always part of the routine.

In 2025, the choice between reusable and disposable nappies is more relevant than ever. With growing concern about waste, better product design, and the cost of living on everyone’s mind, you might be wondering: what’s truly the best choice?

As a gear reviewer and parent who’s tested both, here’s my honest, no fuss breakdown of how reusable and disposable nappies compare so you can make the right call for your family.

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What Are Reusable Nappies in 2025?

Modern reusable nappies (also known as cloth nappies) are a far cry from the terry cloth and pins of the past. Today’s versions are shaped like disposables, often with:

• Waterproof outer covers

• Absorbent inner layers (bamboo, cotton, or microfibre)

• Adjustable poppers or Velcro

• Optional boosters and liners

  
  

Popular UK brands include TotsBots, Bambino Mio, LittleLamb, and Close Pop in. Some styles are “all in ones” (no assembly needed), while others use pockets or two part systems.

They’re washable, reusable, and often last through multiple children especially if cared for well.

What About Disposable Nappies in 2025?

Disposable nappies are still the go to for many families. They’ve improved in recent years, with more eco friendly materials, biodegradable cores, and chemical free options.

Some top UK brands in 2025 include:

• Pura

• Kit & Kin

• Mum & You

• Pampers Harmonie

  
  

While not as green as cloth nappies, many of today’s disposables are better for both baby and the environment than their predecessors.

How They Compare   Side by Side

Here’s a breakdown of how each option stacks up when it comes to the stuff that really matters:

Cost

• Reusable nappies cost around £200 to £400 upfront for a full set. Once bought, they last for years and through multiple children.

• Disposable nappies cost around £800 to £1,200 per child over 2.5 years.

  
  

Winner: Reusables save money in the long run especially if reused or sold on.

Convenience

• Disposables are grab and go. No washing. Just bin them and move on.

• Reusables need to be washed every 2 to 3 days. That’s an extra 2 3 loads of laundry per week.

  
  

Winner: Disposables. They win hands down for simplicity, especially for travel and nursery.

Absorbency & Leaks

• Disposables are ultra absorbent and ideal for night time or long outings.

• Reusables vary. Some need extra boosters for overnight. Fit is key to preventing leaks.

  
  

Winner: Disposables for heavy wetters and night time. Reusables can compete with good fit and quality inserts.

Skin Sensitivity

• Disposables can cause irritation due to chemicals or fragrances in some brands.

• Reusables are breathable, often chemical free, and made with natural fibres.

  
  

Winner: Reusables. Great for babies with sensitive skin or eczema.

Environmental Impact

• Disposables create a huge amount of waste around 3 billion nappies hit UK landfills every year.

• Reusables use water and energy to clean, but reduce waste dramatically especially if air dried and used efficiently.

  
  

Winner: Reusables have the edge environmentally, if you wash smart and avoid tumble drying when possible.

What Are Parents Doing in 2025?

More parents in the UK are turning to hybrid routines using both reusables and disposables to suit different needs.

• Reusables at home during the day

• Disposables for nights, holidays, and childcare

  
  

It’s flexible, practical, and helps reduce waste without overhauling your entire system.

Many local councils also now offer reusable nappy vouchers, trial kits, or cashback schemes. Check your local authority’s website it could save you money while you try cloth for the first time.

Best Reusable Nappies in 2025

Here are some top rated reusable options to look at:

1. TotsBots EasyFit Star UK made, easy to use, and brilliant quality

2. Bambino Mio Miosolo Supreme Good for nurseries and busy parents

3. Close Pop in V2 Bamboo inner and great absorbency

4. LittleLamb One Size Pocket Nappy   Affordable and widely loved by beginners

Best Disposable Eco Nappies in 2025

And if you’re sticking with disposables (or mixing both), these are the top greener picks:

1. Pura Eco Nappies Widely available, biodegradable, made in the UK

2. Kit & Kin Stylish, sustainable, and hypoallergenic

3. Mum & You Sustainable packaging and biodegradable core

4. Pampers Harmonie More natural materials and fragrance free

Final Thoughts: Reusable or Disposable in 2025?

Choosing between reusable and disposable nappies isn’t about picking the “perfect” one it’s about choosing what works best for your family.

If you’re looking to save money long term, reduce waste, or avoid chemicals on your baby’s skin, reusable nappies are well worth considering. Today’s designs are far easier to use, and you don’t have to be eco perfect to make an impact.

But if you need something easy, nursery friendly, or you just don’t want the extra laundry right now, disposables are still a perfectly valid choice. With biodegradable and low toxin options, they’re better than ever.

In 2025, many parents use both and that’s perfectly okay. There’s no right or wrong here. A few reusable changes a day still make a difference. So choose what feels manageable for you, not just what looks good on paper.