Rotavirus and Cloth Diapers: What To Do

I’ll be the first to shrug off a stomach bug or fever but when it comes to diarrhea I’m hittin’ the high road…well atleast I’m wishing I could. Not only do you just ache for your poor child and the misery they’re in but secretly you’re wishing you didn’t have to deal with the mess.

Granted, liquid poop is much easier to “clean” off when you simply dump it in the washer but are your diapers really clean?

Our family has been very fortunate to experience very very little illness in the last 8 years. We’ve had a couple of 24 hour stomach bugs but thankfully have not experienced the nasty Rotovirus. For those not familiar with this virus here is a common definition:

Rotovirus (or Rotavirus) is a common viral infection among young children. It is the most common cause of diarrhea in U.S. children and is a leading cause of death among children in developing countries. The virus works by attacking the lining of the small intestine, causing often copious loss of fluids and electrolytes. The virus is spread through oral contact to fecal material, and is common in child care environments.

In order to prevent cross-contamination washing your hands after changing a diaper is of great importance. However, the virus remains alive in cloth diapers if proper care is not taken.

After the virus has run it’s course fill your washer basin and add 1/4 cup of bleach. Then add ALL the diapers you have been using into the machine. This is one time when bleach is the first recommended plan of action.

Not only is killing the virus important for your little one but also for those who may buy your diapers in the future. Last year a mom on diaperswappers purchased some used diapers. When she began using them her child fell severely ill. Through research of past posts it was obvious that the mama who sold the diapers had posted about her child’s bout with rotovirus. The diapers in question were tested by the hospital and came up positive for rotovirus.

Obviously this is a case of extreme. No one knows about the health of the family that bought the diapers. Compromised immune systems, poor nutrition and other factors determine if your child will become ill from a lingering virus in a used diaper. Truth is you never know what happened in the used diapers you purchased. Take the precautions you feel are necessary to protect your little one.

Autumn Beck

Autumn is a wife, mother, homeschool teacher, friend and most important a follower of Christ.