Why proper maintenance is essential for cloth diapers

Proper maintenance of cloth diapers is essential to maintain their effectiveness, prevent leaks, and ensure lasting comfort for your baby. Improper washing can impair their absorbency and reduce their lifespan. Adopting good practices helps keep diapers performing well, clean, and healthy every day.

Washing new inserts: an essential step

Before use, absorbent inserts for cloth diapers must be washed several times to remove manufacturing residue and activate their absorbency. A simple rinse is not enough.

• Perform 3 to 5 complete washes before first use.
• Use a suitable detergent, without additives or softening agents.
• Allow to dry completely between washes to enhance the capacity of natural fibers.

How to properly care for used washable diapers

Used cloth diapers require specific care to be safely reused. It is essential to clean and disinfect them before use.

• Machine wash at 60°C, using a long cycle and a suitable amount of detergent.
• A sodium percarbonate bath (1 tablespoon per liter of hot water) is recommended for natural disinfection.
• Prefer drying in the sun, which acts as a natural antibacterial.

Synthetic fibers: absorption and limits

Synthetic fibers like microfiber or bamboo charcoal offer fast but consistent absorption. They are easy to maintain but have some limitations.

• Fast absorption, ideal for retaining surface moisture.
• Quick drying, convenient for frequent rotations.
• Do not place in direct contact with the skin: risk of irritation.

Natural fibers: absorption that improves over time

Natural materials like hemp, bamboo, cotton or Tencel are known to increase their effectiveness with each wash.

• Hemp : Very absorbent, but takes longer to absorb moisture.
• Bamboo : soft, absorbent, but longer drying time.
• Tencel : ecological material, regular absorption and respectful of the skin.
• Cotton : good absorption and quick drying.

Tip: Natural inserts reach their maximum performance after about 10 washes.

Practical tips to optimize absorption

• Avoid fabric softeners and detergents containing agents like glycerin, which clog fibers.
• Use a long cycle at 40 or 60°C to effectively remove residue.
• Add a final rinse to ensure no detergent residue.
• Layer the materials: a microfiber over a hemp or bamboo insert combines rapid absorption and useful volume.
• Check the integrity and fit of waterproof overlays to limit leaks.

Conclusion

Properly caring for your cloth diapers extends their lifespan, preserves their absorbency, and provides maximum comfort for your baby. Natural fibers become more effective with each wash, while synthetic fibers offer convenience and speed. By following these best practices, you limit leaks, optimize hygiene, and make a sustainable gesture for the planet.