Increase the absorbency of your washable diapers
Équipe Ma'boule de couche
Improving the absorbency of washable diapers
Quick summary
Good absorbency depends on three factors: thorough break-in of the inserts, a judicious choice of fibers , and residue-free care . When these elements are aligned, washable diapers become ultra-efficient, even for heavy wetters or long nights.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why isn't my insert absorbing as well anymore?
- How many washes are needed to properly break in an insert?
- Which fibers will best absorb a baby's urine?
- How to prevent clogging and leaks?
Summary
Absorbency is a key factor in the performance of a cloth diaper . If your diaper leaks, saturates quickly, or has surface beads, the problem rarely lies with the diaper itself. The cause is almost always related to the break-in period, the materials, or the care instructions . This guide will help you understand, correct, and optimize absorbency for the long term.
Why does the absorbency of cloth diapers decrease?
A decrease in absorption may be related to:
- incomplete break-in (fibers still closed);
- an excess of detergent that coats the fibers;
- the presence of fabric softener or glycerin ;
- an incorrect combination of materials depending on the baby's flow.
The good news: in 90% of cases, a simple fix is enough to restore optimal performance.
The break-in washing of the inserts: a key step
Before their first use, the inserts must be washed several times to open the fibers:
- 3 to 5 complete washes are necessary;
- use a mild, glycerin-free laundry detergent;
- Alternating washing and drying improves absorption.
Our Bambelis and Doux'Plis inserts are specially designed for a rapid and stable performance increase.
Choose the right fibers for better absorption
Each fiber has its own personality. Ideally, they should be combined:
- Bamboo: high absorption capacity, perfect for nighttime.
- Hemp: ultra absorbent but slow: ideal as a base layer.
- Tencel: soft, breathable, eco-friendly and stable.
- Cotton: good balance of absorption and quick drying.
- Microfibre: absorbs quickly but not much: always under a veil.
Caring for your washable nappies to preserve absorbency
- Avoid fabric softeners and greasy detergents.
- Wash at 40–60 °C in two cycles.
- Add a rinse to remove any residue.
- In case of performance loss: perform a complete cleaning .
Tips to boost absorption
- Add a DouxBoost booster for the night.
- Avoid diapers that are too tight (compression = leaks).
- Mix the fibers: bamboo + hemp = winning combo.
- Dry in the sun: disinfection + natural regeneration.
FAQ – Absorption and maintenance
Why is my washable nappy leaking?
Often this is due to buildup or incomplete break-in. Check the detergent and the position of the insert.
Which material is the most absorbent?
Hemp, especially when combined with a fast fiber such as bamboo or Tencel.
How can you tell if an insert is properly broken in?
When the water penetrates immediately without beading on the surface.
Can I use washable nappies at night?
Yes, by adding a booster and a bamboo or hemp insert for long-lasting absorption.
Conclusion
Improving the absorbency of cloth diapers relies on simple steps: breaking in the fibers, choosing the right inserts, and properly caring for your equipment . With these adjustments, performance becomes optimal and nights... much more peaceful.
MBDC tip: 70% of absorption depends on the choice of fibers — the rest comes from your care routine.
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