Sales of reusable nappies have increased by an astounding 40% in the UK.
In 2005, the total sales for reusable nappies were £5 million, and this figure had risen to £7 million by 2006. Bambino Mio, the UK’s leading reusable nappy company, has reported a substantial increase in sales in line with this growth.
Overall, the report has shown that UK consumers are much more ethically influenced, as the household spend on ethical goods and services has almost doubled in the past 5 years. More consumers are recycling, buying fair-trade goods, and campaigning on environmental issues. People are generally making more ‘ethical’ purchases. The growth in environmental awareness has affected the nappy market significantly.
The new reusable nappies on the market make it easier for busy parents to fit them around the time constraints and stresses of modern life, while causing less damage to the environment. Reusable nappies as a product have evolved and are convenient and easy to use. Parents are realising the multiple benefits of reusable nappies, as not only are they better for the environment but also better for their baby. Another major advantage is that they are more cost-effective than disposables; parents could save up to £600 during their child’s nappy wearing life.
‘Real Nappy Week’ is a major annual event to raise awareness about real nappies covering the whole of the UK. This year it will be held from 21st to 27th April, and is a great opportunity to find out more about real nappies. Local councils will be holding nappy roadshows and stalls. Hospitals will be organising displays of real nappies and may be giving some away to new mothers. ‘Nappucinnos’ will be held, which are informal and fun sessions where mothers can try out real nappies on their babies and obtain more information on how to use them.
April 2008
Information from the Ethical Consumerism Report 2007
For more information on Real Nappy Week. www.wen.org.uk/nappies
To read the Ethical Consumerism Report in full. | 
Market Research, Parents and Babies
