Tips and tricks to help people reuse more to save the environment and their wallet are on offer at Midsomer Norton library - including how easy it is to use washable nappies.

The council is inviting residents to a series of events to coincide with Global Recycling Day on 18 March where people can find out all they need to know about switching to reusable nappies, as well as ways to avoid other disposable items and reuse wherever they can.

The average child in the UK uses between 4,000-6,000 disposable nappies until they are potty trained, accounting for 2-3% of household waste. It's estimated that the cost of buying and using reusable nappies is between £182 and £359, but the cost of using disposable nappies is around £922.

At the events run in March and April the Bath Cloth Nappy Library will be on hand to help parents and carers with making the switch from disposables.

Councillor David Wood, cabinet member for Climate Emergency and Neighbourhood Services, said: "Recycling our waste is vital but it's even better if we can reduce the amount we produce in the first place and reuse items wherever possible. There are simple changes residents can make, such as reducing single use plastic by taking their own water bottle when they're out and about and refilling them at businesses that have signed up to the Refill scheme. Using washable nappies is another choice that parents can make to reduce their waste and save money in their pockets. I'd encourage residents to attend one of these events and find out how they can reuse more in their everyday lives."

The dates for your diary are:

Thursday 19 March: Midsomer Norton Library 11.00 – 1.00 and Thursday 23 April: Midsomer Norton Library 10.30 – 12.00.

People living in Bath & North East Somerset are entitled to a discount on Bambino Mio reusable nappy packs, which can be bought from one of our One Stop Shops. Nappy kits can also be borrowed from the Bath Cloth Nappy Library, a voluntary service that supports families with using washable nappies.

Ruth Walcot from Bath Cloth Nappy Library said: "The choices and information out there can be overwhelming, so we aim to talk you through the basics of nappy types and materials, washing and fitting and help you decide what will work best for you. We can loan you a range of kits of up to date nappies to try before you buy, and we have great links to retailers so loads of discounts for library users when you are ready to make your purchase."

Details about the Bath Cloth Nappy Library can be found under the Red Button.