I’ve had a few folks ask me about how I care for my cloth diapers. I’ve been meaning to record a vlog entry about it, but as the mom to a newborn, things don’t always go according to schedule. In the meantime, here’s what I posted on the Hawaii Moms Like Me website.
When changing baby:
- Remove liner from pocket diaper
- Spray liner and diaper with a spray like Bum Genius Odor Remover or Bi-O-Kleen Bac-Out. Contains natural enzymes/live cultures to remove stains and odor from diapers without harsh chemicals and safe for baby.
- Stick the velcro tabs to the pads. These pads are made specifically to keep the velcro in place while it’s going through your wash.
- Put into waterproof laundry bag or dry pail.
How to launder your cloth diapers:
- Empty contents of waterproof laundry bag into your washing machine. Toss laundry bag into the wash with the diapers and cloth wipes.
- Run a cold water pre-wash. If your diapers have been sitting in the pail for a few days, you might want to soak them for a bit. (I wash the diapers every other day, so I don’t have to soak them.)
- Add 1/2 the amount of laundry detergent for a hot water wash with extra rinse. The reason you use only 1/2 a scoop is because you don’t want to get residue built-up on your diapers, which will make them less absorbent and cause leaks. Use a natural laundry detergent like Allens Naturally Laundry powder or liquid. Do not use a fabric softener (also causes residue).
- If you have a clothesline, that is the best way to dry your diapers. The UV rays help to kill any bacteria that may be lingering and also bleach your diapers super white! If you are like me and don’t have that option, you can put them in the dryer. I dry them on MEDIUM heat for 50 minutes. Remember, don’t use a dryer sheet for the same reason you shouldn’t use a fabric softener. (Drying time may vary depending on your dryer and the type of diapers you own.)
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7 Responses to Cloth Diaper Care
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This is also a great list for what detergents you can use if you can’t find Allens. Another very popular option is Country Save.
I have a new washing machine that has a programmable function which has been handy for diapers. I do a very full dipes + cloth wipes load every 2 ~ 3 days and use a program that includes a cold presoak, hot wash, steam treatment (to kill bacteria) and double rinse.
Michelle: You are so lucky to have such a high-tech washing machine! I wish I had the steam treatment option on my machine. Thanks also for sharing the link for additional natural detergents that folks can use.
Donna, your approach to motherhood is like anything else you put your mind and heart into: nothing less than perfection.
Happy Thanksgiving to you, Hubby and Baby Champuru. May the Lord continue to abundantly bless you and your family.
Mark from Hawaii: Thank you so much for your kind words! Although I am a perfectionist, I don’t always do everything right, but I do try my best.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your wonderful family! God’s blessings to you, too! We have much to be thankful for this year!
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I love that your cloth diaper washing instructions are simple! So many instructions talk about simple instructions but then have 20 steps.
thanks for KISS – Keeping It Simple Sister!
A low cost, green eco friendly, healthy natural way to do diapers is to make a homemade liquid from soapberry which grows on the Chinaberry tree and has been used for thousands of years. It works very effectively.