Diaper Washing Basics

Always follow manufacturer’s directions

Everyone usually comes up with their own diaper washing method. The reason is that we all have different washing machines, different water types and also different skin sensitivities requiring the use of different detergents. So, I will give you the basics and then you can take it from there.

Washing and Drying Process   

1.        First, I use the dry pail method.  For this, I use both a pail and a pail liner.  I use a pet food storage pail that has a seal around the lid. 

2.        Diapers from breastfed babies or loose stools can just be tossed into the pail. For babies with solid stools, you must remove the solid waste from the diaper before putting the diaper into the pail. You can use flushable liners, a diaper sprayer or a dedicated non-food spatula to scrape solids into the toilet without dunking.  After solids are removed, you can put the diaper intro a dry pail.

3.        I first run a full cycle on the largest capacity setting for 2-3 days worth (24 diapers or so, the washer basin shouldn’t be more than ¾ full) on COLD with about 3 Tablespoons of detergent. Basically, I use half of the recommendation on the detergent container.

4.        Then, I run the diapers through a second cycle on HOT with ½ of the previous amount of detergent (about 1.5 Tablespoons).

5.        Then, I do an extra rinse on the final cycle. You can add a couple drops of lavender oil or tea tree oil to the final  rinse to deodorize and disinfect.

6.        Finally, I dry my diapers on Medium High Heat. 

Washing Non-Wool Covers

Unless soiled - you can air out covers between uses. Make sure they are dry before using again.

Many Velcro fastener covers have fold-back Velcro tabs so that you can secure them before washing, preventing the tabs from adhering to other diapers and wipes. If the cover doesn’t have fold-back tabs, fasten the Velcro to the front of cover and turn cover inside out before washing.

Most non-wool covers can be washed and dried with diapers. You should always  follow the manufacturer’s instructions.