How to Hand Wash Cloth Diapers

When you have a baby, one of the most important decisions you make is what type of diapers to use. While disposable diapers are popular and convenient, they can be expensive and bad for the environment. 

How to Hand Wash Cloth Diapers

Cloth diapers are a more sustainable option that can save you money in the long run. However, they require a little more work to maintain than disposable diapers. Here’s how to hand wash cloth diapers so you can keep your family’s eco-footprint small and your wallet heavy.

Materials You Will Need

  • A basin or sink
  • Wool wash 
  • Diaper sprayer
  • Strainer or colander

How to Keep Your Cloth Diapers in Good Condition?

Cloth diapers are a great way to save money and be more environmentally friendly, but they require a little bit of extra care to keep them in good condition. Here are a few tips for keeping your cloth diapers clean and fresh:

  • Wash Your Diapers Regularly. A good rule of thumb is to wash them after each use, but you can also wait until you have a full load.
  • Use a Mild Detergent. Avoid using harsh chemicals or fragrances, as these can irritate your baby’s skin.
  • Rinse the Diapers Thoroughly. Make sure to remove all traces of detergent before putting the diapers in the dryer.
  • Dry the Diapers on Low Heat. High temperatures can damage the fabric and cause the diapers to shrink.
High Temperatures Can Damage the Fabric

By following these simple tips, you can keep your cloth diapers in good condition for many years to come.

8 Super Steps Guide on How to Hand Wash Cloth Diapers

Step 1: Prepare the Diapers

To hand wash your cloth diapers, you will need to gather a few supplies. You will need a diaper pail or bag to store the soiled diapers in until you are ready to wash them. You will also need a clean diaper pail liner or bag to put the clean diapers in after they have been washed.

You will need a detergent that is specifically designed for cloth diapers. Be sure to avoid any detergents that contain bleach, fabric softeners, or fragrances, as these can damage the fabric of your diapers.

Once you have gathered your supplies, it is time to start washing the diapers. Begin by removing any solid waste from the diaper using a toilet brush or similar tool. Rinse the diaper thoroughly with warm water, and then soak it in a diaper pail filled with warm water and detergent for at least 30 minutes.

After soaking, scrub the diaper with a cloth or sponge to remove any remaining dirt or debris. Rinse the diaper thoroughly with warm water, and then place it in the clean diaper pail liner or bag. Repeat this process until all of the diapers have been washed.

Step 2: Fill Your Basin or Sink With Warm Water 

Hand-washing cloth diapers may seem like a lot of work, but it’s quite easy. Simply fill your basin or sink with warm water and add the required amount of wool wash, following the instructions on your product. Swish the diapers around in the water for a few minutes before rinsing them in clean water. 

You can either line-dry your diapers or machine-dry them on low heat. Either way, your diapers will come out clean and fresh-smelling. Plus, you’ll know that you’re doing your part to protect the environment by using less water and energy than you would if you washed them in a machine.

Step 3: Dunk Each Diaper in the Wash Solution  

When it comes to keeping your baby’s cloth diapers clean, there are a few different methods you can use. One option is to dunk each diaper in a wash solution and swish them around. This will help to loosen any dirt or debris that may be clinging to the fabric. 

Another option is to use a soft-bristled brush to scrub any stains or heavily soiled areas. This will ensure that the diapers are as clean as possible before they go into the wash. Whichever method you choose, be sure to follow the instructions on the washing solution or detergent to ensure that your diapers come out clean and fresh.

Use a Soft-bristled Brush to Scrub

Step 4: Empty the Basin or Sink 

It is important to empty the basin or sink and refill it with clean, warm water for rinsing between each diaper. This helps to ensure that any residual soap or other contaminants are removed from the diapers before they are stored.

Rinsing each diaper until the water runs clear also helps to prolong its lifespan by preventing build-up on the fabric. In addition, be sure to dry the diapers thoroughly before storing them away; damp diapers can lead to mold or mildew growth. 

Step 5: Use It to Rinse Off the Diapers  

Washing cloth diapers by hand is an important part of keeping them clean and free of bacteria. However, it can be difficult to remove all the detergent from the diapers, especially if they are particularly soiled. A diaper sprayer can be a helpful tool in this situation.

By attaching the sprayer to your toilet, you can quickly rinse off the diapers until all of the detergents are removed. This will make hand washing them much easier and will help to keep your cloth diapers in good condition.

Step 6: Soak Them in a New Batch of Warm Water 

Hand-washing cloth diapers may seem like a daunting task, but it’s pretty easy! If you have extra-dirty diapers or areas that need extra rinsing, simply soak them in a new batch of warm water and wool wash for 10 minutes before rinsing. 

This will help to loosen any stubborn stains and ensure that your diapers are clean and fresh. In addition, soaking your diapers will also help to prolong their lifespan. So, if you’re looking for an easy way to keep your cloth diapers clean and fresh, consider soaking them in a new batch of warm water and wool wash for 10 minutes before rinsing.

Step 7: Hang the Diapers on a Clothesline 

One of the great joys of cloth diapering is that you can hang them outside to dry in the sun for an extra-fresh, sanitizing effect! Not only does this save energy (compared to running your dryer), but it also keeps your home smelling nice and fresh. Simply hang your diapers on a clothesline or other outdoor area, and let the sun do its work. 

You may even want to consider using a diaper pail with a lid to keep any critters from getting into your diapers while they’re drying. This should be done in addition to washing your diapers, as the sun will help to kill any bacteria that may be present. Hang-drying your diapers is a great way to save energy and keep your home smelling fresh. 

Step 8: Store Your Clean Cloth Diapers

Routine diaper changes are a part of life for parents with young children, but what many don’t realize is that there are several different types of diapers to choose from.

Disposable diapers are certainly the most convenient option, but they can also be quite expensive and are not always the best choice for your child’s health. Cloth diapers, on the other hand, are a more sustainable option that can be cheaper in the long run. Plus, modern cloth diapers are much easier to use than they were in the past. 

If you’re thinking about making the switch to cloth diapers, it’s important to know how to properly care for them. Once you’ve washed and dried your cloth diapers, they should be stored in a breathable container like a cloth diaper pail with a lid or zippered bag.

Should Be Stored in a Breathable Container

This will help to keep them clean and dry until you’re ready to use them again. Hand washing your cloth diapers is also a good way to extend their lifespan. 

By following these steps and using the right amount of detergent, you can easily keep your cloth diapers clean and fresh. With a little bit of extra care, you can make sure that your family is doing its part for the environment while still taking care of your baby’s bottom!

You Can Check It Out To How to Clean a Wooden Crib

How to Remove Stains from Cloth Diapers?

Many parents of young children use cloth diapers to save money and be more environmentally friendly. However, cloth diapers can be difficult to keep clean, especially if they frequently become stained. The good news is that there are a few simple steps you can take to remove stains from cloth diapers. 

First, pretreat the stain with a mild laundry detergent or baby shampoo. Next, soak the diaper in cold water for at least 30 minutes. Finally, wash the diaper in your washing machine using the hottest water setting. By following these steps, you should be able to remove even tough stains from your cloth diapers.

You Can Check It Out To How to Clean Toy Train Tracks

Pretreat the Stain With a Mild Laundry Detergent

Conclusion

Now that you know how to hand wash cloth diapers, you can keep your baby’s bottom clean and dry no matter where you are. With a little bit of elbow grease, you can keep your cloth diapers clean and fresh – without resorting to harsh chemicals.

Give it a try and see how easy it is. So the next time your cloth diaper stash is looking a little full, remember that washing them by hand is an easy and eco-friendly solution!

Do you have any tips for hand-washing cloth diapers? Share them with us in the comments below!

You Can Check It Out Should Diapers Fit

Photo of author

Loren Jones

Hi, my name is Loren. I live with my husband and 4 lovely kiddos in the Eastern part of San-fransisco. I have a smart beautiful,curious 6 year old daughter, a handsome 11-year-old son, an intelligent and tech geek 15 years old son and a creative, artistic 12-year-old stepson. With each of my kids being five years apart, I feel that I’m now continually phasing in and out of each stage of parenting! I’ve learned a lot about the way children learn and behave, especially in a school setting with regards to curriculum. I enjoy sharing that insight through my writing and hope that it can help others.

Leave a Comment