DB Tips

There's a name for why a habit can grow for decades without anyone questioning it: shifting baseline syndrome. Here's what it has to do with the 2 billion disposable nappies going into Australian landfill every year, and why that number feels ordinary instead of alarming.

A plastic invented in 1869 to save elephants from the ivory trade eventually helped shape one of the most disposable habits in modern parenting. Here's how a good idea quietly became a throwaway one, and what it has to do with the nappy in your bin today.

Last year, a midwife from Canada asked if our cloth nappies could survive a hospital laundry. Here's what happened - and what it means for the future of cloth in the NICU.

Reusable cloth nappies can feel expensive at first - until you see the full picture. What most parents don't realise is that many Australian councils will help fund the cost, with rebates on nappies, wipes and more. If you've been on the fence, this might change everything.

Confused by cloth nappies? This practical guide breaks down the different types, what actually matters when choosing one, and how to build a starter stash without overbuying - helping you make a confident decision from day one.

Designer Bums began with a chance meeting that led Carla, a new mother passionate about design and sustainability, to take over a small cloth nappy business and transform it into an iconic eco-parenting brand. Through perseverance, innovation and a strong community focus, she pioneered hand-illustrated, fashion-forward cloth nappies, saving millions of disposables from landfill and building a loyal global following over 12 years. In 2025, Carla passed the brand on to long-time customer and community member Elysia, whose own journey into motherhood and eco-parenting aligns deeply with the brand’s values. As Designer Bums enters a new chapter, Elysia is committed to honouring its legacy while continuing to support and empower modern parents with beautiful, functional and sustainable products.

Our new collection - Heirloom - incorporates beautiful design with meaningful handmade art. It recalls some of our most iconic past pieces as well as new imaginings from lead artist Melissa Charpentier. Incorporating the watercolor artwork that Melissa is known for in a range of hues, this season is one to cherish and pass on to generations to come. 

We took the opportunity recently with the Heirloom release to sit down with Melissa and ask her a few questions about her thoughts on the range and her creative process. Read on to find out more about Melissa and what inspires her.

Introducing the talented and gorgeous Artist Grace Vuetaki We are very excited to have her as an ongoing contributor to the Designer Bums team!

From the tropical aesthetics that come from the islands, to the men and women of Fiji with flowers and ferns behind their ears, it’s clear to see why Grace says she’s naturally drawn to colours and patterns - it’s in her blood.