How to wash cloth diapers?
We all have different conditions for how we can wash and store cloth diapers. Here we go through a few different scenarios, but first the basics of washing cloth diapers.
- Remove solid feces from diapers before washing.
- Take inserts out of pocket diapers before washing, otherwise the elastic wears out unnecessarily.
- Breastfeeding poo/replacement poo can be washed away in the machine.
- Store used diapers in an airy manner.
Do you wash the entire cloth diaper at each diaper change?
When changing diapers, it is ensured that the child gets a dry diaper against the skin. Diaper covers do not sit directly against the child's skin and can therefore be used several times before washing.
- Pocket diapers are completely changed at each diaper change
- Inserts/inner nappy (absorbent part) are completely changed at each nappy change
- Diaper shell (waterproof part) can be used several times before changing
What detergent do you use for cloth nappies?
Use the gentle detergent you use for the child's other laundry.
Washing routine 1-4 day intervals
If you use a lot of diapers, it is advantageous to have a larger laundry storage/bucket that is well ventilated. Waterproof laundry bags/pail liners or mesh bags are good alternatives.
Wash at 60°C with plenty of water. Alternatively, run a cold pre-wash before.
Washing routine 4-7 day intervals
When several days pass between washing, it is good to find a sustainable routine. An alternative is to run a cold pre-wash every other day during storage, before all nappies are washed at 60°C.
Another option is to let the used diapers dry before putting them in storage, then they can stay for several days before washing.
Store cloth diapers
Before washing, the diapers are easily stored in a wet bag, then they don't smell. Store your wetbag in a bucket that is not completely sealed. A pedal bin works well.
Tip! If you use few cloth nappies, it is fine to wash together with other 60°C laundry, wash them in a 40°C pre-wash before adding other laundry.