How to wash cloth diapers
Coralie Mabouledecouche
Summary
- Why laundry detergent is essential for the care of cloth diapers
- Ingredients to avoid to preserve your diapers
- Powder or liquid laundry detergent: which to choose?
- Recommended washing cycles
- Which washing program should I choose?
- Tips to extend the lifespan of your reusable nappies
- FAQ – Laundry detergent for cloth diapers
- Conclusion and practical advice
Why laundry detergent is essential for the care of cloth diapers
Choosing the right detergent for cloth diapers is crucial to prevent buildup, ensure good absorption, and protect your baby's sensitive skin. An unsuitable detergent can leave residues that reduce the effectiveness of the inserts and cause skin irritation.
Proper laundry care begins with choosing a gentle detergent, free of harsh additives, combined with a suitable wash cycle. Also, check out our article on essential laundry detergent ingredients .
Ingredients to avoid to preserve your diapers
- Fabric softeners: reduce the absorbency of diapers.
- Soaps (Marseille, Aleppo, black): contain glycerin which clogs fabrics.
- Essential oils: sometimes irritating to sensitive skin.
- Phosphates and enzymes: accelerate the wear and tear of textile fibers.
- Dishwashing liquids: too degreasing, they damage diapers.
Powder or liquid laundry detergent: which to choose?
- In powder form: ideal for hard water, more effective against grease and deposits.
- Liquid: suitable for fresh water, but requires additional rinsing.
Recommended washing cycles
Prewash
- Cotton program between 20 and 30 °C .
- Duration: at least 30 minutes .
- Spin speed: 1200 rpm minimum.
- Consumption: approximately 45 L of water .
Main wash
- Temperature: 40 to 60 °C .
- Duration: minimum 1 hour 30 minutes .
- Spin speed: 1200 rpm or more.
- Consumption: 65 to 75 L.
Which washing program should I choose?
The cotton program is the most recommended:
- Sufficient time for a complete cleaning;
- Effective temperature against bacteria;
- Optimal spin cycle for quick drying.
Tips to extend the lifespan of your reusable nappies
- Avoid homemade laundry detergents: they are often poorly formulated and leave residues.
- Do not overload the machine: the diapers must move freely.
- Add percarbonate to strengthen eco-friendly laundry detergents.
- Use the tumble dryer on low heat only for the inserts.
- Preferably, air drying in the shade.
FAQ – Laundry detergent for cloth diapers
Can I use an eco-friendly laundry detergent?
Yes, if it doesn't contain soap or vegetable oil. Add percarbonate to boost the cleaning power.
How much laundry detergent should I use?
Adjust according to the level of dirt: too little = odors; too much = buildup.
How can I tell if my diapers are soiled?
If they smell strongly after washing or leak quickly, a deep cleaning is necessary.
Conclusion and practical advice
- Choose a gentle laundry detergent, without glycerin or fabric softener.
- Use a cotton cycle at 40–60 °C.
- Opt for powder in hard water.
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