Wash and maintain cloth diapers

Many parents hesitate about switching to cloth diapers because of the washing involved. No problem! Your washing machine stays clean, and you can then do other laundry without any problems. In this blog you will find everything you need to know about effectively washing and maintaining washable diapers.

Preparation for washing

Stool: Shake any solid stools with the insert from the diaper directly into the trash can or toilet. 

No soaking required: Modern washable diapers generally do not require soaking. In fact, soaking for long periods of time can damage the fabric and reduce absorption. It is sufficient to store them in an airtight diaper pail immediately after use.

Washing routine for cloth diapers

Prewash: Start with a short cold prewash without detergent to remove the worst dirt.

Main wash: Add detergent and wash the diapers at 60 degrees Celsius with a full wash cycle. Choose washing powder specifically for colored laundry, and avoid liquid detergent that can reduce absorption. Eco programs often use too little water for effective cleaning.

Extra rinse: If necessary, perform an extra rinse to remove all soap residue. It is important that no detergent is left behind as this can cause skin irritation to the baby.

Drying methods

Air drying: It is best to air dry diapers. This is energy efficient and good for elasticity. Sunlight also helps to reduce stains and make the diapers fresh.

Machine drying: If you still want to use a dryer, choose a low temperature in a heat pump dryer. Please note: this may reduce the lifespan of the diapers. Products with a waterproof outer layer such as pocket diapers , diaper pants and All-In-One diapers should not be put in the dryer, as this can damage the waterproof protective layer. Boosters can be tumble dried without any problems.

Descaling: Hard water can affect the absorption of the diapers. Add a descaling agent to your washing routine every now and then.

Conclusion

Although washing and maintaining cloth diapers requires some attention, it is doable with the right routine. By following this guide you will ensure that your diapers last a long time and your baby stays comfortable. Cloth diapers are a sustainable and cost-effective choice that is good for both your wallet and the planet.