Avoid clogging your washable diapers
Coralie Mabouledecouche
Soil buildup is one of the main enemies of cloth diapers . It reduces absorbency, causes leaks through wicking , and can irritate baby's delicate skin. Fortunately, a few simple steps can prevent this and ensure the longevity of your diapers. Here's how to identify, understand, and effectively prevent soiling.
Signs to watch for
Soiled cloth diapers quickly lose their effectiveness. Here are the most common symptoms:
- Redness or skin irritation on baby's bottom;
- Unpleasant odor persists even after washing;
- More frequent or localized leaks ;
- Water-repellent effect: water beads on the surface instead of being absorbed.
To check the condition of the fibers, perform a Swoosh Test : if the foam remains stable or abundant, it is a sign of detergent buildup.
Factors that cause fouling
Fouling can have several combined causes:
- Water quality : hard water deposits limescale in the fibers (consult the water hardness map to adapt your routine).
- Laundry detergent type : some contain fabric softeners or oily agents that saturate fabrics. Choose a detergent compatible with cloth diapers .
- Washing method : a cycle that is too short or poorly rinsed does not allow for the complete removal of residues.
- Frequency of washing : washing too infrequently promotes bacterial growth and urine crystallization.
Solutions to prevent fouling
1. Initial cold rinse without wringing
This increases the weight of your diapers, and your machine will use more water in your cycles.
2. Using the correct amount of laundry detergent
Too much laundry detergent leaves residue, while too little won't clean properly. Adjust the dosage according to your water hardness .
3. Choose the right wash program
A long cycle at 40–60 °C is ideal for dissolving fats and removing fibers without damaging them.
4. Monthly washing machine maintenance
To ensure optimal washing of washable nappies, it is essential to maintain your washing machine regularly.
Once a month, perform a complete maintenance cycle with suitable products, as recommended by the manufacturers.
This preventative cleaning helps to eliminate limescale, detergent residue and internal deposits that can impair washing efficiency.
Tip: A clear rinse test after washing is the best indicator of an effective routine. The water should be crystal clear, with no residual foam.
Conclusion
Preventing buildup starts with adopting a washing routine suited to your water and detergent. Well-maintained diapers remain absorbent, hygienic, and comfortable for your baby—day after day.
To learn more:
FAQ – Soiling of washable diapers
How can I tell if my diapers are soiled?
Unusual leaks, a persistent odor, or cloudy water during rinsing indicate a buildup of detergent. The Swoosh Test makes it easy to confirm this if the buildup is due to using too much detergent.
Does white vinegar damage diapers?
No, in small doses and used in a separate rinse, it helps dissolve limescale. It simply shouldn't be mixed with laundry detergent, but it can damage your washing machine.
Which laundry detergent is best suited for washable nappies?
Choose a compatible laundry detergent , without glycerin, soap and fabric softener to preserve the absorbency of fabrics.
How often should you clean your diapers?
A complete cleaning once or twice a year is sufficient to eliminate invisible residues and restore absorption performance.
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