Families urged to make the switch to reusable nappies
24 April 2026
Derry City and Strabane District Council is encouraging local families to check out the many benefits of changing from disposable nappies during Reusable Nappy Week, taking place April 27th to May 4th.
Reusable Nappy Week includes a diverse programme of awareness-raising activities and advocacy focused on helping families learn more about sustainable nappy choices. Throughout the week, parents and carers can discover the many advantages of reusable nappies, including how to get started, where to purchase them, and how to take part in local and international events.
Reusable nappies provide a practical, eco-friendly alternative to disposable nappies. Designed to be washed and reused, they typically feature an absorbent inner layer made from materials such as bamboo, hemp, cotton, or microfibre, alongside a waterproof outer layer or wrap. Many modern cloth nappies are easy to use, simple to maintain, and suitable for most families.
Choosing reusable nappies can have significant benefits - they are gentler on babies’ skin, help reduce environmental waste, and can offer considerable cost savings over time.
Promoting the switch is just one of the measures highlighted in Council’s Zero Waste Circular Economy Strategy, one of the first of its kind in Europe, designed to encourage more sustainable living across the district.
Waste and Recycling Officer at Derry City and Strabane District Council, Julie Hannaway, encouraged families to consider making the change.
"Reusable nappies are a simple but impactful way for families to reduce waste and make more sustainable choices, especially given the volume of single-use nappies that end up in landfill every year. Research shows that parents can save anywhere between £150 to £1,000 from birth to potty training by choosing reusable over disposable nappies.
“I would really encourage parents and carers to take the opportunity during Reusable Nappy Week to learn more about their benefits and see how easy it can be to make the switch."
For more information on making the benefits of making the switch, please visit www.derrystrabane.com/recycling