Congratulations gingercat on your purchase! I hope using the modern cloth nappies is going to be a pleasant experience as it is for me and so many other mums.
I'm using washable flannels both for face and the bottom. I bought a few cotton towels and cut them in smaller squares. Of course I have them in different colors so everybody knows which one is for what. I don't find them rough especially after a dip in a water to clean my DS. Anyway dealing with a baby you'll be really gentle when cleaning.
For wet nappies when out I use a drawstring bag as well, waterproof on one side. At home I pile them in a big plastic bowl in a corner of an unused balcony but I'm sure you can use a normal bin with a top if you store them inside. As long as the top closes well. Some ladies recommended putting on the bottom of the bin a few drops of green tea oil to help with the smell when opening the bin. But I haven't tried it. Fleece liners should be good as well. You'll figure out a system that works for you once you start using them.
Since you opened the subject of the washable nappies the great news is that the expatwoman will support us in meeting up soon. Just waiting for their post. (sorry mods I couldn't help it) The event will be great for all of us to exchange impressions and compare experiences.