You need to know this!
The following lists indicate what may and may not be placed in diaper bags:
- Diapers
- Diaper pants
- Pyjama pants
(DryNites, Ninjamas, Underjams, Private label) - Swim diapers
- Baby wipes
- Diaper bags
- Gloves
- Washcloths
- Sanitary pads, tampons
- Toilet Paper (Rolls)
- Packaging, jars of tubes
- Ostomy equiments
- Other waste
Bags
We collect the diapers in the diaper bags from Luier Recycling Nederland (Diaper Recycling Netherlands) .
But you can also use transparent pedal bin liners, (semi-)transparent scented bags, or refill cassettes (also known as "diaper sausages").
It is important that the bags are made of the same type of plastics (PP and PE) as the diapers and that the bags are (semi-)transparent!
It must be visible from the outside that the bags contain diapers!
Do NOT use bags where the diapers are not visible!
Disposable diapers
Disposable diapers are primarily constructed from cellulose fluff pulp, superabsorbent polymers (SAP), polypropylene, and polyethylene. The absorbent core, which locks away moisture, consists of a blend of wood pulp and SAP (typically sodium polyacrylate), while the chassis is formed by nonwoven fabrics and plastic sheets.
Key Raw Materials and Their Functions:
-
Superabsorbent Polymer (SAP):
Usually sodium polyacrylate, this material absorbs and retains 10–400 times its weight in liquid, forming the core's gel-like structure. -
Cellulose Fluff Pulp:
Derived from wood, this fibrous material provides the bulk for the absorbent core and helps distribute liquid to the SAP. -
Polypropylene (PP):
Used for the top sheet (the layer touching the baby’s skin) and fastening tapes; it is hydrophobic to keep the surface dry. -
Polyethylene (PE):
Used for the back sheet to provide a waterproof barrier that prevents leaks. -
Elastics:
Typically made from rubber or spandex, these are used in leg cuffs and waistbands to ensure a snug fit. -
Adhesives:
Hot melt adhesives are used throughout the manufacturing process to bond the various layers together. -
Emerging Sustainable Alternatives:
To reduce environmental impact, some manufacturers are exploring biodegradable materials such as plant-based polymers, organic cotton, and bamboo pulp, as well as recycled components from industrial hygiene waste.
Area
The current area where the diapers are collected:
- Leiden
- Leiderdorp
- Voorschoten
- Zoeterwoude-Rijndijk
We are looking into expanding to:
- Oegstgeest
- Warmond
- Zoeterwoude-Dorp
The diapers are collected by cargo bike; therefore, we unfortunately have to limit ourselves to the above-mentioned region at the moment (an exception can be made for events).
However, we are seeing more and more similar initiatives emerging.
If you live in another region where a similar initiative is known to exist, we can try to put you in touch with each other!