There are three types of nappy to choose from – flat, fitted and all-in-one – which is right for you and your baby depends on what your main priorities are: cost, environmental impact, drying facilities, convenience and so on. Here is a quick summary of the different types of nappy and some of the main advantages & disadvantages of each type.

• Flat nappies: Flat nappies are just that, flat, so they need a quick fold. The main types of flat nappy are the traditional muslin, terry or soft flannel squares, the popular American-style prefold, and a shaped nappy which is really half-way between a flat and a fitted nappy. These are the most versatile of all the nappy types as they can be re-used as change mats, wash cloths, and will probably still be around when your ‘babies’ use them to wash their first car!! All flat nappies will need a waterproof wrap over the top to protect clothes. More about flat nappies>>

• Fitted nappies: Fitted nappies are ready shaped to fit, so no folding is required. Some fitted nappies have Velcro or Aplix (hook & loop) fasteners, some close with poppers and some are help in place with a nappy grip. All fitted nappies need a waterproof wrap over the top. They are popular with the folding intolerant amongst us, child carers and grandparents!

Fitted nappies come in a huge range of styles: some fit all the way from birth to potty, others come in different sizes. You can get hemp, organic cotton, microfibre, bamboo, and fleece or terry versions in an enormous range of different designs for the more style conscious babies, or should that be parents! For more information to help you choose between the different brands, call the WWT Nappy Advisor on 01380 725670 ext 236 More about fitted nappies>>

• All in one nappies: “All-in-One” describes nappies which include a waterproof layer, so no wrap is needed over the top. All-in-One nappies are the closest to disposable nappies, but without all the chemical gels and plastics. We've also included Pocket Nappies in this section, which is basically a waterproof wrap that thinks it's a nappy, so have a lot of the advantages of both the one piece and two piece systems. More about All in one nappies>>

Waterproof Wraps
Unless you're using an All-in-One nappy system (i.e. flat or fitted nappies) then you will need waterproof wraps to protect clothes. They come in a range of different fabric – laminated polyester is the most popular, but you can also get fleece, & natural wool. Fleece is not very, and wool is the most ecological option, as well as being naturally antibacterial, gentle on delicate skin, breathable and miraculously waterproof!

Avoid PVC wraps, or those which are laminated cotton which are more likely to leak. Look out for wraps with a leg cuff, particularly if you're using prefold nappies, to prevent leaks.

Wraps come with hook & look fasteners which are adjustable & easy for you (and you toddler) to fasten & unfasten; popper fasteners which are more durable, toddler-proof and can be pulled up & down like pants; or traditional pant-styles.