HOW TO PROPERLY CARE FOR CLOTH DIAPERS
Reusable diapers can be very comfortable, eco-friendly, and pleasant to use if we know how to care for them properly.
Based on modern, scientifically grounded reusable diaper washing principles, we have prepared a clear routine that helps prevent odors, ammonia buildup, and maintains the longevity of the diapers.
1. HOW TO STORE DIRTY DIAPERS
Remove solid waste.
Store diapers dry, in a breathable place (e.g., a breathable bag, a ventilated plastic container, a basket).
Perform a pre-wash within 24–48 hours after use.
Longer storage without a pre-wash increases the risk of ammonia formation.
2. PRE-WASH
Purpose: to rinse out urine and solid residues before the main wash.
What to do:
45–70 min program (e.g., Synthetics, Mix).
Temperature: 40°C.
Use ½ of the regular detergent amount if washing every 48 hours
(⅓ of the regular amount if washing every 24 hours).
What to avoid: short, gentle 15–20 min cycles — they are insufficient.
3. MAIN WASH
Purpose: to fully remove urine residues and dirt.
What to do:
2.5–3 hour Cottons program (or another long wash program).
Temperature: 40°C.
Full detergent dose according to the packaging.
Load the drum to ⅔ or ¾ capacity (can be washed with other laundry; avoid items larger than 60×60 cm).
Wash every 2 days (if the pre-wash was done within 48 hours, washing every 3–4 days is possible).
If suds remain, add an extra rinse.
If odor problems occur, wash every 2 days.
4. DRYING
Dry in a dry, warm, well-ventilated environment.
Can be tumble-dried on a low temperature setting.
5. ODOR AND AMMONIA PREVENTION
Ammonia forms when urine salts remain in the fabric — not because of “dirt”.
For prevention:
Store dirty diapers in a well-ventilated place.
pre-wash every 24–48 hours;
use enough detergent;
ensure enough water;
use a long wash program;
avoid overloading the drum, but ensure it is adequately filled;
adjust the routine if odors appear.
6. WHAT TO DO IF AMMONIA SMELL IS PRESENT?
If the smell appears immediately when the baby urinates, better washing is needed.
Steps:
Perform a proper pre-wash (40°C, 30–60 min, ½ detergent dose).
Perform a long main wash (40°C, 2.5–3 hours, full detergent dose).
If the smell disappears after 1–2 washes, the issue is resolved.
CHLORINE DISINFECTION
Chlorine disinfection is only necessary in rare, specific cases, such as:
Persistent odor after 2–3 thorough washes;
Strong, “sharp” odor in a dry diaper;
After viruses or diarrhea;
Presence of mold.
1. Preparation
Use liquid chlorine, e.g., standard 5% or 6% concentration.
Mix at a ratio of 1 part chlorine : 100 parts water, or follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Use a plastic bucket or bag resistant to chlorine.
2. Disinfection
Add chlorine to a bucket filled with cold water (do not use hot water).
Place clean, pre-washed diapers into the bucket (after pre-wash and main wash).
Soak the diapers for 5–10 minutes.
After soaking, rinse thoroughly with cold water to remove all chlorine residues. You can rinse manually by filling with cold water and repeating 2–3 times.
3. After Disinfection
Perform a full main wash at 40°C with the recommended amount of detergent.
Dry as usual.