NCT Herts North launches new 'Nappy Library' scheme to help parents reduce costs and waste.

A scheme to hire out real nappy kits to local parents has been launched by the local NCT branch Herts North.

The new Nappy Library hire scheme will offer parents the opportunity to rent a set of cloth nappies, and a Nappy Supporter will meet them to talk them through the whole process.

Nappy Library's Anni Sander said: "It can be daunting starting out, as there's a lot of information out there, and each family's needs and reasons for cloth can vary.

"Having the support of the 'Nappy Library' gives users the opportunity to kit themselves out at a reasonable cost, try different styles and brands, while also knowing they have someone who is experienced and knowledgeable to talk them through it all."

With the ongoing climate crisis, rise of living costs and a general move towards a more sustainable way of living, many families are finding themselves looking towards cloth nappies as an alternative to the wasteful and potentially costly disposable nappy.

Disposable nappies have been around since the 1950s, and prior to this, terry nappies were pretty much the only option.

Modern cloth nappies are hugely diverse, and with a myriad of options out there for a family starting on their 'cloth journey', some can feel overwhelmed with choice and information.

The idea for the Nappy Library grew out of Plastic Free Hitchin's monthly Real Nappy Social, an opportunity to troubleshoot, swap tips and experiences, and to generally meet other like-minded parents who are passionate about cloth 'nappying'.

The social takes place every last Friday of the month at 10am at local family-hotspot 'PearTree Cafe'.

For further information about hiring a nappy kit, contact NCT Herts North by emailing [email protected] or visit www.nct.org.uk/NCTHertsNorth, or the Facebook page www.facebook.com/NCTHertsNorth

NCT is the UK's largest parent charity. Each year the charity supports millions of parents through their First 1,000 Days, offering expert information and trusted practical and emotional support through its website, helpline, the nationwide network of over 300 local branches, antenatal and postnatal classes, breastfeeding counselling and peer support schemes.

For more information call NCT on 0300 330 0770 or visit www.nct.org.uk.

About Plastic Free Hitchin

Plastic Free Hitchin is a community-based initiative working to get Hitchin town certified as a Plastic Free Community under the according Surfers Against Sewage framework.

The volunteers work with local businesses, community groups, North Herts Council and other stakeholders to reduce the amount of waste created and thrown out in Hitchin.

The group has run Real Nappy Socials since 2019 and the next one will take place Friday, January 28 at the Pear Tree Play Cafe on Queen Street, Hitchin.