Author: The Baby Gift Company | Date: 23/10/2025
When preparing for a new baby, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to use eco-friendly nappies or traditional disposable nappies. With thousands of nappies needed in the first year alone, the choice has a big impact not only on your budget but also on the environment, your baby’s comfort, and your family’s lifestyle.
In this new baby arrival guide, we’ll explore the pros and cons of eco-friendly and disposable nappies in Australia, cost comparisons, and the benefits of each option to help you make the best decision for your family.
Eco-Friendly Nappies: Pros and Cons
Eco-friendly nappies (sometimes called biodegradable or plant-based nappies) are designed to be gentler on the environment and baby’s skin. Popular brands in Australia include Comfy Koalas, Ecoriginals, Bambo Nature, and Tooshies.
Pros
- Sustainability – Made from renewable, plant-based, or biodegradable materials.
- Gentle on skin – Often free from chlorine, latex, fragrance, or harsh chemicals. Great for sensitive skin.
- Eco packaging – Many brands use compostable or recyclable packaging.
- Reputation for quality – Eco-brands are frequently endorsed by allergy councils and midwives for skin safety.
Cons
- Higher price point – Eco nappies are generally more expensive than supermarket brands.
- Availability – May not be found in every local store; often subscription-based or online.
- Composting challenges – Biodegradable features require proper disposal, and most still need to go into general waste unless composting is available.
Disposable Nappies: Pros and Cons
Disposable nappies remain the most widely used option in Australia, with popular brands like Huggies, BabyLove, Aldi MAMIA, and Rascal + Friends.
Disposable Nappy Pros
- Convenience – Readily available in supermarkets, chemists, and online.
- Affordable – Big box supermarket deals can reduce costs significantly.
- High performance – Excellent absorbency, up to 12-hour leak protection, and wide size ranges.
- Variety – Lots of options to trial until you find the best fit for bub.
Disposable Nappy Cons
- Environmental impact – Take hundreds of years to break down in landfill.
- Chemical use – Some include plastics, gels, or fragrances that may irritate sensitive skin.
- Not biodegradable – Single-use, contributing to significant household waste.
Cost Comparison: Eco vs Disposable
Parents often wonder which option is more cost-effective over time.
- Disposable nappies: Around $0.20–$0.40 per nappy. With 2,500–3,000 nappies used in the first year, that’s $750–$1,200 annually.
- Eco-friendly nappies: Around $0.40–$0.70 per nappy, totalling $1,000–$2,100 annually.
Money-saving tip: Many eco-brands offer subscription discounts, bundle packs, or free trial boxes, which can bring the cost closer to premium disposable nappies.
Other Benefits to Consider
For the Environment
Eco-friendly nappies reduce reliance on petroleum-based plastics and use renewable resources like bamboo. Some claim up to 90% plant-based composition, helping reduce landfill impact.
For Your Baby’s Comfort
Eco-brands tend to be softer and hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for sensitive newborn skin. Disposables, however, have advanced leak protection and fit technology, which can help reduce mess.
For Your Lifestyle
- Busy parents may prefer disposables for convenience, especially on holidays or during overnight changes.
- Eco-conscious families may prefer eco-friendly brands for everyday use, even mixing with disposables when needed.
- Combination approach: Many Aussie parents use eco-friendly nappies during the day and disposables overnight to balance cost, comfort, and environmental impact
What Essentials to Pack in a Nappy Bag
Whether you choose eco-friendly or disposable nappies, having a well-packed nappy bag with essentials makes outings with your little one far less stressful. Think of it as your survival kit for every trip outside the house.
Baby Nappy Bag Essentials Checklist:
- Nappies – Pack at least 4–6 (more for longer outings). Guide on how many nappies new parents need for their baby.
- Baby Wipes – A must-have for nappy changes, sticky hands, and messy faces.
- Nappy Balm – Protects baby’s skin and prevents nappy rash. (Explore our nappy balm options).
- Changing Mat – A portable, wipeable mat makes changes on-the-go hygienic.
- Spare Baby Clothes – Always carry a full outfit change (accidents happen!).
- Burp Cloths & Bibs – Handy for feeding or spit-ups.
- Baby Blanket or Muslin Wrap – Works as a cover, play mat, or lightweight blanket.
- Bottles & Formula / Breastfeeding Supplies – Depending on your feeding choice.
- Snacks & Water for Mum/Dad – Parenting is thirsty work, too!
- Plastic or Wet Bags – For soiled clothes or used nappies (eco-friendly reusable wet bags are a great choice).
- Small Toys or Baby Teethers – To keep bub entertained when out and about.
Bonus Tips:
- Pack according to the age of your baby (newborns need more nappies and clothes, while toddlers may need more snacks and toys).
- Keep a mini first-aid kit with essentials like baby Panadol, nail clippers, and bandaids.
- Use separate pouches or organisers inside your nappy bag so you’re not rummaging in a panic.
Popular Nappy Bag Essentials
Which Nappy Is Right for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best choice depends on your family’s budget, lifestyle, and values.
- Choose disposables if affordability and convenience are top priorities.
- Choose eco-friendly nappies if sustainability and skin sensitivity are most important.
- Try a mix of both until you find the best fit for your bub.
At The Baby Gift Company, we understand how overwhelming these decisions can feel for new parents. That’s why our curated newborn gifts and organic baby gifts include practical and eco-conscious products, helping families care for their little ones with confidence.
