1. What do I wash the nappies with, do I use normal laundry powder or do I need something special?

I use the eco-aware brand of powder. Stay away from anything with fabric conditioner ... and also stay away from soap flakes. Some people use "soap nuts" or bicarb soda only.

2. Are most MCN's tumble-dry-able? DD2 is due in winter and I do love my tumble dryer. I realise the plastic bits are a no-no but is there anything else that can't go in?

I mostly have tumble-dried my nappies - the baby beehinds are OK, the fleece covers are OK, the thicker PUL is ok (but use a low heat). The high heat isn't good for PUL, particularly thin PUL.

If you get pocket nappies, the pockets (with the PUL) will dry overnight in front of a heater, and you can get more inserts which can go in the dryer. Thing is though, that bamboo will lose some of its fluff in the dryer which after a lot of drying will reduce the absorbancy.

3. Are all-in-ones the best things for newborns? Is there an intro pack that I can get for about $40-50 to try out particular types? Size wise what should I be getting - keeping in mind DD was 9lb4 and grew very quickly.

From what I've heard, fitteds with covers are better.

4. How many do they go through in a day - on average. I know with disposables that you would use 8-12, depending on circumstances, is that the same with MCN's?

Yeps.

5. So... How many do I need??? We'll be washing every second day or so. Does that mean I need 3 or more days worth just to be safe?

Yeps. BUT! get some flanno flats, you can use them with some funky covers, they take way less time to dry, they can go in the dryer and can be used until TT is over.

Good luck with your cloth journey, it's great your DH is onboard!