When Little Droppings began, we discovered that Grandparents and Aunties are enthusiastic supporters of reusable nappies. We had dozens of calls, and gathered invaluable insights that have guided us along the way. In fact, my own cloth nappy journey started with a gift of 10 reusable Pea Pod nappies from my Auntie which set me on a totally new life trajectory.
We deeply appreciate that so many women and men in the generations before us committed to reducing nappy waste, and continue to support ways to reduce waste in their new roles as Grandparents and Great Aunts and Uncles.
I was excited to chat with Frances, a Grandmother and waste warrior (among other roles). She shared some gems of wisdom with us. I hope this serves as inspiration to you.
What was your experience of nappies with your children?
With our first child we quite enjoyed the whole process of cloth nappies. My husband took on the primary role of washing them and we found folding them a bit like restful origami.
Our attitude changed when our second child arrived 21 months later! My mother ‘rescued us’ and signed us up with Stork Nappy Service. Needless to say, there was no return to washing our own nappies when our third baby came along.
What inspired you to purchase a reusable nappy service as a gift for your son?
We remembered how grateful we were as young parents when dirty nappies were magically picked up and replaced with clean ones. When our son and daughter-in-law told us about Little Droppings we were very happy to finance the nappy service for their baby. It is something measurable we’ve been able to do to help at the environmental and time-management level.
How do you feel being a grandmother in this time of climate crisis?
My husband and I try not to dwell too much on this enormous question or to discuss it too much with our children. The reality is that babies involve expenditure on all sorts of resources. It is good to see that many families reduce consumption by borrowing and lending baby paraphernalia, and use online sites for sharing and giving-away too.
Do you have any advice for grandparents wishing you to buy environmentally conscious gifts for their children?
Well, join up with Little Droppings, of course, followed closely by join a Toy Library.
Buy less, as many toys have a very short life. Subscriptions to places like the zoo, or Belair National Park are also a good alternative to giving more ‘stuff’.