Hand washing washable diapers
Coralie Mabouledecouche
Summary
Why wash your washable nappies by hand?
Whether you're traveling, on vacation, or without a washing machine, it's perfectly possible to gently and effectively hand wash your reusable diapers . This method preserves the fabrics, maintains absorbency, and protects the elastics. It's a practice true to the Ma Boule de Couches® philosophy: care for them so they last.
Step 1: Pretreatment
- Remove any solids above the toilet.
- Rinse with cold water to prevent stains from setting.
A quick rinse after each diaper change limits odors and makes the next wash easier.
Step 2: Soaking
In a basin of lukewarm water (approximately 35°C), add a suitable laundry detergent . Follow the recommended dosage: too much can leave residue and reduce absorbency.
Before soaking, treat the stains with Nettiva solid soap : gently rub the soiled areas and leave for a few minutes before immersion.
- 30 minutes for a routine maintenance check;
- up to 2 hours for a deeper wash.
Step 3: Washing
The heart of the process:
- Rub each layer with Nettiva soap;
- Rub the fabric against itself to remove impurities without damaging the fibers;
- Use a soft brush if necessary.
💡 Leave the foam to work for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
For sensitive skin , wear gloves to avoid drying out due to water and soap.
Step 4: Spin drying
- Squeeze the layers to remove excess water;
- Never twist them to avoid loosening the elastics or damaging the PUL.
Gentle spinning preserves the suppleness and absorption efficiency.
Step 5: Drying
- In the open air : hang the diapers in the shade or in the sun; UV rays disinfect naturally .
- In the tumble dryer : only if necessary and at a low temperature.
Rapid drying prevents bacterial growth and preserves the quality of the textile.
FAQ – Hand washing
Can washable nappies be washed by hand?
Yes, it's a gentle and effective method. Use a suitable laundry detergent and a natural soap like Nettiva .
Which soap should I use?
Nettiva soap is ideal for hand-treating stains. For soaking, choose an eco-friendly, non-greasy detergent.
Should we wear gloves?
Yes, especially for sensitive skin. The gloves prevent drying out caused by water and soap.
Can hand washing and machine washing be combined?
Absolutely! Pre-washing by hand makes machine cleaning easier and improves the final result.
How do you dry diapers?
Air dry preferably; UV rays have a disinfecting effect. Tumble drying is possible on a low heat setting.
Conclusion and practical advice
Hand washing is an eco-friendly alternative, perfect for travel or as a last resort. By following the steps— cold rinse, Nettiva pretreatment, controlled dosage, and natural drying —you preserve the quality of the fabric and your baby's skin.
Discover Nettiva solid soap — the ideal ally for pretreating washable nappies before hand washing.
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