Many parents have heard about the benefits of cloth diapers... they are less irritating to your baby’s skin, less harmful to the environment and more cost-effective. However, there is one major deterrent...having to wash them! 

The thought of washing a dirty diaper when it could be so much easier to throw them away may be enough to make some parents opt for the easy way out, regardless of the consequences. However, washing a dirty diaper is not as hard as you might think, especially when you know the proper way to do it. Here are some great tips for washing your baby’s dirty diaper.

1. Read Your Washing Machine’s Owner Manual: Sometimes when washing an item you’re not comfortable washing, it is best to go back to your owner’s manual and figure out the best way to wash clothing in general. If you don’t have your owner’s manual anymore, you may be able to find this information online by searching up your machine’s make and model number.

2. Determining the Detergent: You really shouldn’t need a special detergent to clean your baby’s diapers. If you have one that works for you, it will probably work on your baby’s diapers. If not, you can always switch it later on.

Detergent can be used during the pre-rinse as well as during the actual wash cycle. The pre-rinse will serve to knock off the big stuff, and the added detergent will help to eliminate odor. 

You shouldn’t have to use an excessive amount of detergent when washing your baby’s diapers. Just go with the amount recommended on the box for heavily soiled clothes and measure carefully. If you are having odor issues, you may want to add just a bit more detergent.

3. The Proper Wash Cycle: As stated earlier, it is a good idea to start with a pre-rinse. Once you are in the wash cycle, you want to use one that is as long and hot as possible. If you have a heavy-duty wash cycle, this would be the time to use it! And don’t worry about the diapers falling apart while you are washing them. They are quite durable!

4. Don’t Overload Your Washing Machine: Keeping your washing machine moderately full will ensure that all your clothes will end up clean. The owner’s manual will also give you instructions on how to load your washer correctly.

5. Clean Cloth Diapers Should Not Smell: If you find this is the case, you may be doing something wrong. Double check your methods against the recommended tips listed above to make sure you are washing correctly.

Remember, washing your baby’s cloth diapers can be made more comfortable if you go in with the right mental attitude. Don’t be scared and think of cleaning them as you would any other dirty laundry. Following these tips, you should feel confident in no time and be prepared to take advantage of all the benefits cloth diapers can offer you and your family.

Inspired by allaboutclothdiapers.com