Real nappies

Nappy Subsidy

Parents living in the London Borough of Barnet with children who are less than 18 months old are entitled to a subsidy towards the cost of using real nappies. These can be used for a home washing, or for a nappy laundering service.

Home washing

Buy your own nappies to use and wash yourself and we will give you a refund of up to £54.15 on the cost of the nappies. You will need to show us receipts, a copy of your child's birth certificate and proof of residency (a recent utility bill, Council Tax payment book or bank statement).

To get an application for the refund please contact the Waste and Sustainability Team using the contact details opposite.

Use a nappy laundering service

Number 1 for Nappies’ offers a weekly nappy laundering service. They provide the nappies, collect the soiled ones and replace them at your door with a fresh supply, laundered to the highest standards. All for a similar cost to using disposables. We will subsidise you for discounted nappy laundering from ‘Number 1 for Nappies’.

If you would like more information or to apply please contact Number 1 for Nappies using the details opposite.

Real Nappy, Real Happy 

Did you know that by the time a child is potty trained they will have had their nappy changed 4,000 to 6,000 times?

Five good reasons to try real nappies!

There are many reasons why more and more parents are now using real nappies, here's five to start you off!

1. Easy-to-use alternative to disposables
   Modern real nappies are shaped to fit your baby snugly.  They can be washed easily at home or with a nappy laundering service.
2. Good for babies’ skin
   Made of natural breathable fabrics, they are kinder to baby’s skin and don’t contain chemicals or absorbent gels.
3. Help the environment
   One baby will use 5,000 disposable nappies, so using real nappies prevents unnecessary waste going to landfill.
4. Save money
   Get started with real nappies from just £70.  Unlike disposables, they can be used for future children saving you at least £600 per child. Costs can be as low as £1 a week including the price of detergents and energy. There is no need to soak or pre-wash nappies, just wash at 60°C.
5. Trial for free
   Barnet offers a subsidy of £54.15 per child* towards the cost of real nappies or discounted nappy laundering.

Real nappies don’t have to be an all or nothing commitment. You may still prefer to use disposables when you are on holidays.