Couchorama review - guest blog by Jenni from the London Community Resource Network

While the name might elicit pictures of lazy people lounging on couches, this French documentary (52 mins, English speaking version) is an attempt to weigh in on the real nappy movement (pun intended).

Written and directed by two mothers, the film is a thorough, over-due investigation into the cloth vs disposable debate. Farmer visits the giants of Procter & Gamble (Pampers) and Kimberly Clark (Huggies) as well as French waste company Veolia, and a Swedish disposable eco-friendly nappy company called Nature Baby. A nappy info session in the London Borough of Lewisham is also in the spotlight, providing an alternative amidst the ubiquitous marketing that the disposable nappy companies expel. Also covered are alternative potty training techniques, such as baby whispering (aka Natural Infant Hygiene / Elimination Communication) and Kaidangku (split pants), an integral part of Chinese culture.

Even the theoretical and psychological side is considered. A French feminist and philosopher provides her opinion about the role of the environment and feminism, and a group of paediatricians in Boston, USA discuss the pitfalls of potty training and how diapers play a role.

Overall, I found the film to be fairly thorough in its discussion about the external effects of the nappy on babies and the environment. I would have liked to see more about the effect of plastic polymers on baby skin, but then again, I am already part of the converted and would just like to see my views justified. I found the film to be patient, visually pleasing and full of interesting facts. Highly recommended for those that are on the fence as to whether or not they will use real nappies.

Click here for the trailer with English subtitles.