Why laundry detergent is essential for the care of cloth diapers

Choosing the right detergent for cloth diapers is crucial to prevent buildup, ensure good absorption, and protect your baby's sensitive skin. An unsuitable detergent can leave residues that reduce the effectiveness of the inserts and cause skin irritation.

Proper laundry care begins with choosing a gentle detergent, free of harsh additives, combined with a suitable wash cycle. Also, check out our article on essential laundry detergent ingredients .

Ingredients to avoid to preserve your diapers

• Fabric softeners: reduce the absorbency of diapers.
• Soaps (Marseille, Aleppo, black): contain glycerin which clogs fabrics.
• Essential oils: sometimes irritating to sensitive skin.
• Phosphates and enzymes: accelerate the wear and tear of textile fibers.
• Dishwashing liquids: too degreasing, they damage diapers.

Tip: If a laundry detergent mentions "soap made from...", check the asterisk: if it's a synthetic fragrance, it's compatible. Otherwise, avoid it! Also, see our list of compatible detergents .

Powder or liquid laundry detergent: which to choose?

• In powder form: ideal for hard water, more effective against grease and deposits.
• Liquid: suitable for fresh water, but requires additional rinsing.

Tip: If you are using an eco-friendly laundry detergent, add a little sodium percarbonate to boost cleaning.

Recommended washing cycles

Prewash

• Cotton program between 20 and 30 °C .
• Duration: at least 30 min .
• Spin speed: 1200 rpm minimum.
• Consumption: approximately 45 L of water .

Main wash

• Temperature: 40 to 60 °C .
• Duration: minimum 1 hour 30 minutes .
• Spin speed: 1200 rpm or more.
• Consumption: 65 to 75 L.

Tip: Add an extra rinse for a residue-free wash.

💧 Discover your personalized washing routine calculator based on your water, machine and detergent.

Which washing program should I choose?

The cotton program is the most recommended:

• Sufficient time for a complete cleaning;
• Effective temperature against bacteria;
• Optimal spin cycle for quick drying.

Avoid synthetic programs: too short, they leave residues and wear out the elastic bands.

Tips to extend the lifespan of your reusable nappies

• Avoid homemade laundry detergents: they are often poorly formulated and leave residues.
• Do not overload the machine: the diapers must move freely.
• Add percarbonate to strengthen eco-friendly laundry detergents.
• Use the tumble dryer on low heat only for the inserts.
• Prefer air drying in the shade.

To learn more, see our Complete Guide to Cloth Diapers .

Conclusion and practical advice

• Choose a gentle laundry detergent, without glycerin or fabric softener.
• Use a cotton cycle at 40–60 °C with sufficient rinsing.
• Prefer the powder in hard water and avoid overdosing.

With a good routine, your diapers will remain absorbent, clean, and durable.

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