Check out our range of inserts - here is some materials information to help you make the right choice.
Microfibre - a fantastic material and one that keeps your baby's bottom dry. Microfibre absorbs liquid fast, it helps draw moisture through the lining of the nappy into itself – away from your baby's skin. This is why if you are using a mix of insert material you should always have Microfibre on the top layer (closest to the baby's bottom but never touching skin). There is a downside to microfibre though. Firstly, of all the materials for inserts it has the least amount of absorbency. And just like a sponge, when it gets too full, fluid can be squeezed out. This may mean if your baby is sitting or lying down for a long time, the insert can get full and then fluid can be "squished" out and cause leaks.
It is a great idea to mix a microfibre insert with another absorbent material that can hold more liquid e.g. hemp or bamboo.
Microfibre inserts are a good option if you are experiencing leaking from "flooding". This is when the you are experiencing leaks but the inserts you are using aren't totally wet. At some stage your child will start holding their wees for longer and then having bigger wees. If the inserts don't absorb the wee fast enough, it can leak out of the nappy. Adding a microfibre insert can help as it is the fastest absorbing material.
Hemp - a natural fibre which has fantastic absorbency qualities. Did you know? Hemp holds liquid differently within its fibres to microfibre and it doesn’t squeeze out like microfibre. Try adding a hemp insert underneath a microfibre insert to draw the moisture/overflow into the hemp insert. One downside to hemp is that when it gets wet it tends to get quite firm – so a nappy with just hemp inserts in it can become a little hard and uncomfortable on your baby when it's full, another great reason to use a microfibre/hemp combination. Try a bamboo/hemp combo for overnight when a nappy is going to be on for longer.
While hemp is the slowest to absorb liquid of all inserts it has the highest absorbency quality (i.e. can hold the most amount of liquid).
Fabrics made from hemp are hypo-allergenic and non-irritating to the skin. Hemp materials will also soften with age and with each washing. Like linen and cotton, hemp is a cool choice for summer. It breathes well. It is recommended for warm, humid climates as the fabric resists mildew and absorbs moisture.
Bamboo - bamboo can be added to other inserts for additional absorbency and a longer-lasting nappy. Bamboo inserts have increased in popularity over time as they are super absorbent and quicker to dry than hemp. Bamboo is antibacterial and very soft so comfortable for your child, very absorbent, and is long-lasting and robust.
Did you know? Bamboo is considered one of the most sustainable plants because it grows quickly and does not require chemicals or irrigation and biodegrades more quickly than oil-based synthetics.
Bamboo is
• luxuriously soft
• naturally hypoallergenic
• moisture- absorbent
• quick drying.
Bamboo also has antibacterial qualities, which bamboo fabric is able to retain, even through multiple washing. Bamboo exhibits up to a 99.8% antibacterial rate. This helps to reduce bacteria that thrive in clothing and cause unpleasant odours.
Cotton - another natural fibre option that has great absorbency qualities. Most commonly you will find cotton prefolds. Which can be used like a modern-day version of old school flats but are also great for pad folding and using as an insert inside pocket nappies.