How to remove stool from washable diapers?
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Removing stools from cloth diapers: the simple & hygienic method
Quick summary
Removing poop from cloth diapers may seem tricky, but with the right techniques and tools, it's simple, quick, and hygienic. This guide helps you, step by step, to manage poop whether your baby is breastfed or fed solids.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Should you rinse the stools of a breastfed baby?
- How to easily remove thick stools?
- Do sails simplify maintenance?
- How to avoid stains and odors?
To learn more, check out our complete 2026 guide to washable nappies and the 2026 washing method .
Useful articles: removing stubborn stains · types of veils & dry effects · quantifying urine volume
Breastfed babies: why bowel movements are easy to manage
With exclusive breastfeeding, stools are usually liquid and water-soluble. The result: easy care—often no rinsing required. If you wish to rinse, a quick rinse under running water is all it takes. And for a natural whitening effect, a little sunshine works perfectly.
Babies who are eating solid foods or are formula-fed
As soon as your baby's diet changes (weaning or formula feeding), their stools become more compact. To preserve your cloth diapers, it's essential to remove the stools before washing . This prevents fiber saturation, odors, and stubborn stains.
Tools for easily removing stools
Here are some accessories that greatly facilitate maintenance:
a non-serrated spatula or spoon;
a toilet bidet sprayer for rinsing without splashing;
a protective veil — for even more comfort.
A splash guard with the shower jet - See the spray shield
A practical method for removing stools
Place the open diaper over the toilet;
Remove the bulk of it with the spatula;
Rinse gently with the shower head if necessary;
Allow to dry before storing to avoid odors and proliferation.
Preventing and removing stains
A few simple steps are all it takes: use a protective cloth, rinse if necessary, rub gently with mild soap or stain remover, then expose to sunlight. For a complete guide on stain removal, see: removing stubborn stains .
Hygiene & storage
Between washes, store your diapers in a waterproof bag or a ventilated bucket. Follow the 2026 washing routine to prevent the buildup of bacteria, odors, or residue.
FAQ – Removing stool from cloth diapers
Should you rinse the stools of a breastfed baby?
No. A breastfed baby's stools are water-soluble: rinsing is not necessary. You can put the diaper directly in the washing machine with your regular 2026 laundry routine . A light rinse is still possible if you wish to minimize odors.
How to easily remove thick stools?
Place the diaper over the toilet, remove as much as possible with a spatula or smooth spoon, or gently rinse with a bidet spray. This method protects the absorbent fibers and prevents saturation.
Which type of sail should I use to make maintenance easier?
Disposable or washable liners allow for the quick removal of thick stools. To understand the differences between materials, consult our guide on staying dry and liners .
How can I prevent stools from leaving stains?
Use a protective cover, rinse if necessary, and expose the diaper to sunlight—an excellent natural bleaching agent. If a stain persists, follow our complete guide: removing stubborn stains .
Can feces damage absorbent fibers?
Normal stools do not damage the fibers. However, highly acidic stools (from a sick baby, diarrhea, or medical treatment) can soak into the fabric, leave lingering odors, or require more thorough cleaning. Removing stools before washing remains essential to maintain diaper hygiene and prevent buildup in the fibers.
What should I do if the diapers smell bad after removing the stool?
Odors often stem from a lack of oxygenation or insufficient washing. Review your routine and adjust it according to your washing method . Allow diapers to dry completely before storing them to prevent fermentation.
Do you have to remove the stool even if you're using a liner?
Yes. The veil makes removal easier, but it does not replace removing stools before washing, especially after introducing solid foods.
At what point do stools change with the introduction of solid foods?
Generally, from the first purees onwards, stools become more compact and need to be removed. This can also influence the frequency of diaper changes depending on the estimated urine volume .
Can you put a soiled diaper directly into the washing machine?
Only for breastfed babies. As soon as solid foods or formula are introduced, stools must be removed to avoid saturation, stains and stubborn odors.
How should diapers be stored after stool removal?
Place them in a well-ventilated basket and allow the fibers to breathe. Then follow a short cycle + long cycle according to the recommended washing routine.
Conclusion
Removing stools is easy when you know how: a good tool, a few simple steps, and a regular care routine. This ensures clean, durable, and comfortable diapers for your baby. To take it a step further, consider adjusting the washing frequency based on the estimated urine volume using our urine volume calculator .
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