Immersion and rinse test (Swoosh Test) for its washable diapers
Coralie Mabouledecouche
The Swoosh Test is the gold standard for checking whether your cloth diapers are dirty. Simple, quick, and revealing, it helps you adjust your detergent dosage to achieve optimal absorbency. Here's how to perform it, interpret it, and avoid common mistakes.
Summary
What is the Swoosh Test?
The Swoosh Test helps you determine if your cloth diapers are dirty or not properly rinsed . Contrary to popular belief, soiling is not always due to too much detergent: it can also come from a lack of detergent , which leaves urine and limescale residue in the fibers.
These residues prevent water from penetrating properly, reduce absorption capacity and can irritate baby's sensitive skin.
Why test washable diapers for clogging?
Proper washing is essential for the performance of your diapers. Soiling (whether due to too much or too little detergent) can cause:
- Recurring leaks : the fibers become water-repellent.
- Bad odors : stagnant urine ferments in the fibers.
- Skin irritations : soap or urine residue on the skin.
- Ineffective washing : the diaper appears clean, but remains saturated.
👉 This test is therefore as useful as good machine maintenance or a well-dosed wash depending on the hardness of your water .
How to perform a Swoosh Test?
Materials needed: a clean, dry insert, a container and very hot water.
- Fill the container with hot (not boiling) water.
- Dip a clean insert and let it soak for a few minutes.
- Shake it gently: it’s the famous “swoosh”.
- Squeeze it out into the container.
- Observe the water: color, bubbles, foam.
➡️ This test is preferably carried out on a bamboo or hemp insert, which retains residue better and gives a more meaningful result.
How to interpret the results?
- Clear, foam-free water: Your diapers are clean, but perhaps not washed enough . A light cleaning may be helpful.
- Light foam: traces of residual detergent. One or two additional rinses are sufficient.
- Excessive suds: Diapers saturated with detergent. Wash without detergent and rinse several times until the suds disappear completely.
How to remove excess or insufficient detergent?
Too much laundry?
- Rinse several times with clean water until there is no more foam.
- Run a full cycle without detergent at 40°C.
- Add a little baking soda to dissolve the residue.
Not enough detergent?
- Wash your diapers with a normal dose of detergent at 60°C.
- Use a suitable detergent, without glycerin or fabric softener.
- Add a final rinse cycle to prevent future buildup.
How to avoid fouling in the future?
- Use a detergent suitable for natural fibers (bamboo, modal, hemp).
- Adjust the dosage according to the hardness of your water .
- Prioritize a good drum filling (⅔ of the machine) as explained in this article .
- Perform a Swoosh Test every month to anticipate signs of fouling.
Conclusion
The Swoosh Test is a simple, accurate, and accessible tool for all parents to effectively maintain their cloth diapers . Clear water doesn't always mean "clean diaper": it's all a question of balancing washing and rinsing. By applying these steps, you guarantee your baby comfort, softness, and lasting hygiene.
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