Cleaning cloth diapers: understanding, taking action, prevention
Équipe Ma'boule de couche
Cleaning cloth diapers: an effective and safe method
Stripping cloth diapers is an occasional operation, to be used only when signs of soiling appear. It never replaces a proper washing routine, but is necessary when regular washing is no longer sufficient to eliminate the residues responsible for odors, leaks, or loss of absorbency.
Before considering deep cleaning, it's essential to verify that the basic routine is correct. The washing method for cloth diapers remains the central element of maintenance and, in most cases, prevents buildup.
Expertise Ma Boule De Couches®: this method is based on thousands of family feedback and tests carried out on different absorbent textiles, under real usage conditions.
Quick summary
Stripping cloth diapers removes ingrained residue that causes odors, leaks, and reduced absorbency. This involves a percarbonate or oxy-action bath, followed by a machine rinse and a long cycle at 60°C. This process should be done only occasionally.
The questions that parents are really asking themselves
- How to recognize when washable nappies are soiled?
- What is the difference between washing and deep cleaning?
- Is it necessary to rinse between cleaning baths?
- Can deep cleaning damage the fibers?
- How often should it be done?
Summary
1. Signs of fouling
- Odors are noticeable when the diaper is warm.
- Water beads on the inserts.
- Sudden leaks without any change in routine.
- Absorption saturated very quickly.
2. Causes of fouling
- Laundry detergent not suitable for washable nappies.
- Incorrect dosage, often related to water hardness.
- Cycles that are too short result in insufficient rinsing.
- Progressive accumulation of residues in the fibers.
The type of diaper, the systems used, and the absorbent materials greatly influence the risk of soiling. To better understand the differences between diapers, inserts, and systems, consult the cloth diaper guide .
Absorption mechanisms also vary depending on the fiber (bamboo, hemp, synthetic). These concepts are detailed in the technical guide on absorption and materials .
3. Cleaning methods
Percarbonate
- Two tablespoons for four liters of very hot water.
- Bath for a maximum of four hours.
Oxy-action
- Dosage adapted to the drum capacity.
- Strict adherence to recommended quantities.
4. Successive baths – MBDC method
- Very hot bath with percarbonate or oxy-action.
- Maximum duration of four hours.
- Repeat the bath if the water remains cloudy.
- Do not rinse between baths.
- Finish with a machine rinse and a long cycle at 60°C.
5. How often should a deep clean be performed?
Stripping cloth diapers should never be part of a routine. It is recommended a maximum of once a year, or only when signs of soiling are clearly visible.
6. Preventing fouling
- Rinse or pre-wash with cold water.
- Long cycles at 40–60 °C.
- Laundry detergent compatible with washable nappies.
- Dosage adapted to the water hardness.
- Regular machine maintenance.
The choice of laundry detergent and its dosage are crucial. You can consult the list of compatible detergents as well as the guide to the correct detergent dosage .
FAQ – Cleaning washable nappies
Why does an odor appear when the diaper is warm?
The heat reactivates the residues embedded in the fibers, which indicates soiling.
Is it necessary to rinse between cleaning baths?
No, rinsing only takes place at the end of the process, before the long cycle.
Is vinegar recommended for cleaning?
Vinegar dissolves limescale but should never be mixed with laundry detergent.
Does deep cleaning damage washable nappies?
No, if it remains occasional and respects the recommended dosages.
Last updated: January 2026
