How to wash cloth diapers

Why washable nappies are washed in two cycles

After a diaper change, a diaper may simply appear damp. However, the absorbent fibers contain invisible residues that must be properly removed to maintain performance over time.

Urine contains mineral salts , organic waste , and various compounds that penetrate deep into the fibers.

If these residues are not effectively removed, they accumulate wash after wash. The fibers gradually become saturated, absorption decreases, and odors appear.

This is why washing washable nappies in a single cycle does not work sustainably.

• The first cycle removes what is still soluble.
• The second cycle actually cleans the fibers in clean water.

Cycle 1 – Wash at 30°C: remove soiled laundry

The first wash cycle for washable nappies is started on a mixed or cotton program at 30°C for a minimum duration of 30 minutes .

Its role is simple: to remove urine and soluble residues before the main wash.

The cotton or mixed programs ensure real mechanical agitation , essential for water to circulate properly in the fibers.

A spin cycle at a minimum of 1200 rpm allows for the efficient expulsion of water laden with residues from textiles.

Cycle 2 – Main wash of washable nappies

Once the first cycle is finished, the machine is restarted for a second cycle on a mandatory cotton program .

This cycle must absolutely last more than 1 hour 30 minutes in order to guarantee:

• sufficient mixing
• a real mechanical action,
• a stable temperature over time.

The recommended temperature is a maximum of 40°C for diapers containing PUL.

Field feedback shows that repeated washing at 60°C can lead to progressive shrinkage of the PUL, which can reach approximately 2 cm in the long term.

• PUL does not crack
• It does not delaminate
• The waterproofing remains intact.
• But the layer may shrink slightly

Regarding absorbents: 60°C remains possible occasionally if necessary, but repeated high-temperature washes accelerate the wear of the fibers and can gradually reduce their absorbency.

Laundry detergent and water hardness: a determining factor

The effectiveness of washing washable nappies depends heavily on the dosage of detergent and its compatibility.

Using an unsuitable or incorrectly dosed laundry detergent can lead to:

• a gradual fouling of the fibers
• a decrease in absorption,
• persistent odors.

It is therefore essential to use a truly suitable laundry detergent and to adjust the dosage according to the load of laundry and the level of soiling.

-To check your product: which laundry detergent is compatible with washable nappies?

Water hardness also plays a major role. Hard water generally requires a higher dosage of detergent, while soft water will require a lower dosage.

-To find out the water hardness in your area: water hardness map of France

Common mistakes to avoid

• Wash the washable nappies in one long cycle
• Use a short program in the second cycle
• Always wash at 60°C
• Using harsh bleach on Velcro
• Underdosing or overdosing on laundry detergent
• Launching a machine that is too empty

Beware of bleaching products

Bleaching products (percarbonate, oxygen-based stain removers, etc.) as well as aggressive cleaning methods can cause Velcro to buckle .

• The Velcro fasteners generally remain functional.
• But their appearance can be altered
• Their outfit may become less visually sharp.

Good practice:

• Target any potential cleaning only if necessary
• Avoid any contact between bleaching agents and Velcro.
• Do not use bleaching products routinely

FAQ – Washing cloth diapers