A Simple Wash Routine

When washing cloth diapers you will follow the same process as your regular clothing - there's nothing magic or mysterious about caring for cloth diapers as long as you have a good routine and a good detergent.

Be sure to wash your cloth diapers at least every other day. If the soiled diapers are stored longer, run them through the initial rinse cycle and toss back into your diaper pail.

The Initial Rinse

The initial rinse will help loosen and relax the diaper fibers so they release solids and stains. Run your diapers through a short rinse cycle using warm or hot water (never COLD).

Tip :

You can add 1/2 oz of laundry detergent to the rinse cycle to start cleaning sooner.

The Wash Cycle

Use your washing machine's normal wash cycle and set the water temperature to hot. Use a large load size (for 12-18 soiled diapers + covers) and add the detergent manufacturer's recommended amount of detergent. Then let the machine take care of the rest!

Tip :

1. Running the diapers through an extra rinse creates unnecessary wear and over the 2 1/2 years of use, you will reduce the longevity of your diapers.

2. Select your washing machine's Sanitary Cycle for even hotter water if you can.

Drying

Once your diapers have finished the wash cycle, it's time to dry them. You can either line or machine dry them:

Line Drying

Hang to dry in your basement or outside on the line.

Pros:

- Environmentally friendly

- Economical

- Diapers last longer

- Sun naturally removes stains

Cons:

- Takes more time to dry

* TIP *

- Even works on a cold, winter's day as long as the sun is out - you will just have to machine dry the diapers afterward.

- Tossing line-dried diapers into your dryer for a short cycle will fluff them up.

Machine Drying

Toss in your dryer on medium heat (low for covers).

Pros:

- Quick and convenient