How to Wash Cloth Diapers - Frequently Asked Questions

Cloth diapering offers a sustainable and economical alternative to disposable diapers. However, the initial learning curve can be daunting, especially when it comes to washing and maintaining them. Fear not, new cloth diapering parents! This blog tackles frequently asked questions (FAQs) to equip you with the knowledge for clean and effective cloth diapering.

First Wash

Should I wash the cloth diapers and langots before using them for the 1^st time? Why?

• Yes. You should always wash the cloth diapers and langots before using. This will properly prep the diapers to absorb. If not done, leaks will occur.

Should I follow both prewash and main wash?

• Yes. You should follow the wash routine for 1^st wash also.

Storing

How should I store the soiled cloth diapers and langots?

• Soiled cloth diapers and langots should be stored in an open, airy, and dry pail. Do not rinse and store. As for diapers that are soiled with poop, remove, rinse with plain water, squeeze excess water, and store separately. The space should be well-ventilated and away from moisture and reach. Do not store in dark or closed spaces like wet bags.

For how long can I store soiled diapers before washing them?

• Ideally, you can store it for 48 hours. For breastfed newborns, it can be stored for 72 hours. If you find an ammonia smell, then you may need to wash early.

Do I need to pre-rinse soiled diapers?

• You can store it as such without rinsing it. Rinsing before storing will make the diapers wear and tear earlier.

Do I need to use laundry tabs while storing?

• Yes. For newborn diapers and Fluffie, you need to use the laundry tabs while storing, washing, & drying to avoid lints spoiling it.

Can I wash the cloth diapers without removing the pads?

• No. You need to remove the pads from the outer cover to get them cleaned well.

Washing

How often should I wash cloth diapers?

• Generally, wash diapers every 1-2 days. You can store soiled diapers in a dry pail and wash them when you have a full or half load or every other day.

What detergent should I use for cloth diapers?

• Cloth diapers and langots are heavily soiled laundry. So it needs great cleaning power. Choose a detergent that has actives and surfactants. Baby detergents are not suitable. Avoid detergents with fragrance, optical whiteners, and bleach. You may use liquid detergents formulated for machines if you are washing by machine.

Can I use fabric softeners or sanitizers for cloth diapers?

• Absolutely not! Bleach can damage the fabric and elastics, while fabric softeners & sanitizers can leave a coating that reduces absorbency. It will also cause repulsion leaks. Repulsion leaks occur without even the pads absorbing anything.

What type of wash cycle should I choose for Cloth Diapers?

• Ideally, you can choose Cotton, Cotton 30, or 40 mode if the diapers are made of cotton. The washing temperature should not exceed 40 degrees. Washing in plain water is also sufficient.

Do I need an extra rinse cycle?

• If visible soap suds remain, you can give an extra rinse cycle. This can be helpful during winter as the extra rinse will help the pads and langots dry faster.

How long should the cycle run?

• A total of 60-70 minutes is more than enough with a good rpm. You can do Prewash for 30 minutes, followed by Main wash for 30-40 minutes including Rinse in the main wash cycle. The washing time should not exceed 90 minutes.

Can I use the dryer or drying mode in the machine?

• One may use it in extremely cold climates. But it is not necessary when you can line dry. The temperature should not exceed 60 degrees in such cases. Do not dry the waterproof covers in dryers. Only the pads.

Do I need to remove sizing every time I wash?

• No, you need not remove the size setting on the outer cover every time. You can wash it as such in the machine. If you hand wash, make sure to rinse the outer covers well.

Do I also need to prewash if I wash by hand?

• Yes. Prewash is needed regardless of the mode you use. Prewash removes the dirt and preps the diaper for cleaning. The actual cleaning happens only in Main wash after the dirt is removed. If you skip either one, the diapers may not be cleaned well.

Drying

What's the best way to dry cloth diapers?

• Sun is a natural disinfectant and helps eliminate stains, so air drying outdoors on a clothesline is ideal.

Can I tumble-dry cloth diapers?

• Yes, but on low heat only! High heat can damage the elastics and PUL (waterproof) layer. Avoid drying the waterproof covers. Dryers are not energy saving or sustainable.

What if I can't air-dry my diapers?

• If weather or space limitations prevent air drying on a clothesline, you can dry it indoors using a clothesstand.

Maintaining

How long will cloth diapers last?

• Cloth diapers can last 2-3 years with proper care. Factors like washing routine, frequency of use, and fabric quality can affect lifespan.

What signs indicate my diapers need replacing?

• Replace diapers if they leak frequently, the elastics lose their stretch, or the PUL layer delaminates.

How often should I change the pads?

• Pads need changing if affected by buildup or any infection. Ideally, you may change pads every year.

How do I store unused cloth diapers?

• Store unused diapers in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not mix them with regular clothes and store them separately. Wash before using them. Cloth Diapers (pads) have a long shelf life however, the elastics in the outer cover may relax over time when not in use.

Do I need to give a hot water wash every month?

• For a well maintained and cleaned diaper, hot water wash is not needed. If your pads are affected by detergent buildup or if they smell bad, you can give hot water wash. Hot water wash for ammonia buildup or Mineral Buildup will not reset the diaper pads back to normal.

Can I use rash creams or moisturizers with cloth diapers?

• No. Most rash creams and moisturizers form a thick layer on the diaper, which affects the absorbency. You can use a liner on top if rash creams are to be used. Although liners will also be affected and cause repulsion, discarding & replacing the liners are more cost-effective.