Intro to Washing Cloth Diapers
How to wash is the #1 concern someone has when they are are thinking about trying cloth diapers out on their baby. But it shouldn’t be!
Keeping that little bundle alive, healthy, and happy takes up enough time. Washing cloth diapers is like washing any other really dirty laundry.
I know you need a little guidance here. And I’m going to give it. But I can’t say this loud enough.
SIMPLE IS BETTER.
Start that way and keep it that way if you can. Only add extra steps if you really, really need to. Not just because you read about it somewhere.
If it’s working now, don’t change it to something else because someone claims it’s better their way.
Four Basic Steps to Clean Cloth Diapers
1: You need a way to get the poop off before washing.
Kids are gross whether you use disposable diapers or reusable cloth diapers. You won’t avoid all the gross no matter what. Trust me when I say cloth diapers really aren’t any MORE gross than disposable ones.
2: Prewash
Use a prerinse/wash that agitates, spins and drains. If it isn’t doing those things, it’s kind of a waste. The agitation helps to knock the big stuff off and gives your main wash a head start on cleaning.
3: Main Wash
You are going to probably want to use the longest, hot wash available. That usually means the heavy duty cycle and if you have a soil button, select heavy soil. This is just a suggestion and a starting place.
4: Dry the Cloth Diapers
You can machine dry or line dry. But if your dryer is hotter than the sun, you might want to use the medium heat setting instead.
This is just the basics to get you started. If you still need more guidance head over to my Tips on Washing Cloth Diapers Guide next.
List of Cloth Diaper Safe Detergents
When and How to Strip your Cloth Diapers
Umm…Yes! You Should Clean Your Washing Machine (especially if your cd’s are starting to smell!)
Are you Making This Big Cloth Diaper Washing Mistake Part 1 (Use the RIGHT prewash!)
Simple ways to Disinfect Cloth Diapers
How to get rid of Yeast on Cloth Diapers