How To Launder Cloth Diapers

Once you have made the decision to use cloth diapers instead of disposable diapers, there is one little dirty issue to deal with. This is ultimately the issue that pushes people back to using disposables because they either find it difficult to handle, or just too complicated of an issue to deal with. You do not have to regret your decision to do what is best for the planet because you feel defeated by a "dirty job." Done correctly, it can be easy and stress free to deal with diaper laundry.

1. Prepare a soak bucket. Fill a 5-gallon bucket ¾ full of cold water. Add 1 C of white vinegar.
2. Pre-soak diapers. Remove any leftover solids into a toilet. Separate the diaper and the liner (if applicable) and place them into the vinegar bucket to soak. Repeat until there are enough diapers to fill a load of wash.
3. Discard excess liquid in bucket. Pour the vinegar water into either the toilet or washer drain sink. Place diapers in the washer.
4. Run a short, hot cycle. Do not use soap on this load. Hot water should be enough to get rid of anything that may be hiding in there.
5. Run a regular cycle. Use half the amount of soap you use to launder your clothing, and use either cold or warm water on regular cycle length. Using more soap will not result in cleaner diapers, but it will, over time, make the diapers less absorbent due to a build up of soap residue on the fibers.
6. Dry as normal. You can either use the dryer for this, or hang dry them if you live in a climate that will allow this. Line dried diapers tend to be less soft, but use less energy to dry. If you are using an electric or gas dryer, do not use dryer sheets or fabric softener, as they will also build up a residue on the fibers making them less absorbent.

That is all there is to it! This method has worked wonderfully for my sister and I, even on the really tough stains. You may need to experiment with different types of soap to see what works best for you and for your baby. You may also find that mixing different styles of diaper do not always yield consistent results, and the all-in-one diapers may be more difficult to clean than those with inserts or liners. With all diapers, the sooner you are able to soak them, and for a longer period of time, the better the results will be. By using this method, you should be able to save money for yourself and lessen the wear and tear on the planet that is caused by disposable diapers.