Are you a parent of a youngster, and looking for the best way to clean up those embarrassing poop stains on cloth diapers? Removing them can seem like an impossible task at first, but don’t worry- with the right strategy and information it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
In this post, we’ll break down the exact steps you need to know to make sure that your baby’s cloth diaper is always sparkling clean! Read on as we tackle everything from pretreating the stain before washing, using different sanitizing agents during wash cycles, and drying techniques afterward.
As a parent, you’re likely no stranger to removing poop stains from your baby’s cloth diapers. But did you know that different fabrics require special cleaning methods and products to get the stains out safely?
Learning how to get poop stains out of cloth diapers can save time and effort while also extending the life of your precious cloth nappies. Here we’ll cover tips on how to effectively tackle poop stains so that anyone with a stash of cloth diapers can keep them looking as good as new!
14 Tips On How to Get Poop Stains Out of Cloth Diapers
1. Use a Prewash
A prewash is a short cycle that adds extra water and agitation to the cleaning process. This can help loosen and remove stains before you do a full wash. So if you want to get rid of poop stains, run a prewash cycle before your normal cleaning session.
2. Scrape Off the Solids
It’s important to do this step first. Use a spatula or spoon to scrape off any remaining solids before treating and laundering the diaper. This will help ensure you remove all the poop from the diaper.
3. Rinse With Cold Water
Before treating the diaper, rinse it with cold water first. This will help remove any excess residue and ensure the treatment can penetrate the fabric. It will also help prevent the stain from setting in. So this can be a great first step for tackling poop stains.
4. Soak With an Oxygen-based Stain Remover
Using an oxygen-based stain remover is a great way to get rid of tough stains without damaging the fabric. A pre-soak with this type of cleaner can help lift and remove tough stains, so it’s worth giving it a try. Also, be sure to follow the instructions on the package before using it.
5. Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is a powerful cleaning agent that can help remove stains and odors. You can sprinkle some baking soda on the stain and let it sit for 10 minutes before washing it off with cold water. This will help break down the proteins in the poop, making it easier to remove during laundering.
6. Use Ammonia
Ammonia is a powerful cleaning agent that can help break down proteins in the stain. So if you want to get rid of tough poop stains, you can try using some ammonia on the affected area. Just be sure to use it sparingly and rinse it off with cold water afterward.
7. Sun or Air Dry
If you want to get rid of poop stains naturally, you can try air or sun drying the diaper. This will help break down the proteins in the stain, which makes it easier to remove during laundering. So if you have time, it’s worth giving this a try before doing a full wash. Also, this is a great way to help prevent stains from setting in, so it’s definitely worth doing.
8. Use a Specialty Laundry Detergent
If you can find a specialty laundry detergent that is designed to get rid of tough stains, this can be a great option for tackling poop stains on cloth diapers. Look for products that are specifically designed for this purpose and follow the instructions on the package when using it.
9. Use a Stain Pen
If you have a stubborn stain that won’t come out, you can try using a specialty stain pen. These pens contain special ingredients that help break down proteins in the stain, making it easier to remove during laundering. So if you have a tough stain, it’s worth giving this a try.
10. Use White Vinegar
White vinegar is a great natural cleaner that can help break down the proteins in the stain, making it easier to remove during laundering. So if you want to get rid of tough poop stains on cloth diapers, you can try using some white vinegar on the affected area. Just be sure to rinse off with cold water afterward.
11. Use a Specialty Soaker
If you want an extra boost of cleaning power, you can try using a specialty soaker on the diaper before laundering it. These soakers contain special ingredients that help break down proteins in the stain, making it easier to remove during laundering. So if you have a tough stain, it’s definitely worth trying one of these soakers.
12. Launder As Usual
After pre-treating the diaper and using specialty cleaners or soakers, you can finish by laundering the cloth diaper as usual with your normal detergent. This should help remove the remaining poop stains and ensure the fabric is clean. Just be sure to follow the instructions on your detergent’s packaging for the best results.
13. Line Dry or Hang Dry
Once you’re done laundering, it’s a good idea to line dry or hang dry the diaper in order to prevent any future staining. Sunlight can help break down proteins in the stain, which makes it easier to remove during laundering. So if you can, try to hang dry your diaper whenever possible.
14. Repeat If Necessary
If you still see a residual stain after laundering, you may need to repeat the process until it is gone. Don’t be afraid to soak or pre-treat the diaper again if necessary, as this will help break down proteins in the stain and make it easier to remove during laundering.
With enough patience and effort, you should be able to get those pesky poop stains out of your cloth diapers once and for all!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Precautions Should I Take?
When attempting to remove a poop stain from cloth diapers, it is important to take the necessary precautions. First, always wear protective gear such as gloves and a face mask when handling feces or removing stains. Second, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions for laundering cloth diapers properly.
Always wash in hot water, use a heavy-duty detergent, and use a sanitizing cycle if available. Finally, before putting the diaper back on your baby, inspect it for any remaining residue or staining.
What Types of Stain Removers Are Safe to Use?
There are several types of stain removers that are safe to use on cloth diapers, such as enzyme-based cleaners, oxygen bleach, and natural stain removers. It is important to read the label of any product you intend to use and follow the instructions carefully.
Never use chlorine bleach or fabric softener on cloth diapers, as these may damage the materials and lead to skin irritation for your baby.
Do I Need to Rinse the Diaper After Treating a Poop Stain?
Yes, it is important to rinse the diaper after treating a poop stain. This will ensure that all residue from the stain remover has been removed and will help avoid any skin irritation for your baby. Additionally, be sure to inspect the diaper for any remaining staining before putting it back on your baby.
Repeat the treatment process or try a different product if the stain is still visible.
How Often Should I Wash Cloth Diapers?
It is recommended to wash cloth diapers at least every other day. This will help remove any staining or residue from soiling and prevent bacteria and odour build-up. Additionally, be sure to use a heavy-duty detergent and a sanitizing cycle if available.
Following the manufacturer’s instructions for laundering cloth diapers will help ensure they are as clean and safe for your baby as possible.
Conclusion
Now you know how to get poop stains out of cloth diapers. By pre-treating the stain, using a specialty cleaner or soaker, and laundering correctly, you should be able to remove any stubborn staining. Be sure to take the necessary precautions when handling feces and use only products that are safe for cloth diapers.
Overall, tackling those pesky poop stains on cloth diapers can be daunting at times. But with the right cleaning products and a bit of elbow grease, your diapers will look good as new in no time!
And even beyond that, you can keep your diapers from becoming stained in the first place by following simple steps like rinsing them as soon as they’re soiled, using liner pads to keep stains at bay, and switching to flushable liners when needed.
