Modern cloth nappies (MCNs) are a great alternative to disposable diapers. They are reusable, environmentally friendly, and can save parents money in the long run. However, many parents feel unsure about how to properly clean and care for them. This guide will walk you through the steps of cleaning modern cloth nappies to keep them fresh, hygienic, and long-lasting.
Why Choose Modern Cloth Nappies?
Before diving into the cleaning process, let’s take a quick look at why many parents are opting for modern cloth nappies.
Eco-friendly: Cloth nappies reduce landfill waste as they are reusable.
Cost-effective: Although they require an upfront investment, cloth nappies save money over time.
Chemical-free: MCNs don’t contain the harmful chemicals found in some disposable diapers, making them safer for babies with sensitive skin.
Stylish designs: Cloth nappies come in a range of colors and patterns, allowing parents to choose designs that suit their taste.
Now that we understand the benefits of cloth nappies, let’s move on to how to clean them properly.
Step 1: Preparing Dirty Nappies for Washing
The first step to ensuring your modern cloth nappies stay clean and last long is proper preparation before washing.
Remove any solid waste: If your baby has soiled the nappy, it’s important to remove any solid waste before washing. You can do this by shaking the waste into the toilet. Some parents use a nappy sprayer, a small attachment for the toilet that makes this process easier.
Rinse the nappies: After removing solid waste, give the nappies a quick rinse under cold water. This helps prevent stains from setting and removes any urine or lingering waste.
Store in a dry pail: Place the rinsed nappies in a dry pail or a wet bag until you’re ready to wash them. Avoid soaking them in water, as this can lead to unpleasant odors and may damage the fabric over time.
Step 2: Pre-washing the Nappies
Pre-washing is an essential step to effectively clean modern cloth nappies.
Use a short cold wash: Before doing a full wash, it’s a good idea to run the nappies through a short, cold wash cycle. This helps to rinse out any remaining waste and prepares the nappies for the main wash.
Avoid fabric softeners and bleach: Fabric softeners can coat the fibers of cloth nappies, making them less absorbent. Bleach can degrade the fabric and elastic over time. Stick to baby-safe detergents free from harsh chemicals.
Step 3: Main Wash
The main wash is where the real cleaning happens. Here’s how to ensure your nappies come out fresh and clean.
Choose a long wash cycle: Select a long wash cycle on your washing machine (at least 2 hours). This ensures that the nappies get a thorough clean.
Use the right amount of detergent: Overloading your machine with detergent can leave residues, while too little won’t clean the nappies effectively. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on your detergent to ensure the right amount. It’s better to use a high-quality detergent that is safe for babies.
Select the correct temperature: Wash your cloth nappies at 40°C (104°F) for regular cleaning, but if they are heavily soiled or need a deeper clean, washing them at 60°C (140°F) can help eliminate bacteria and stains.
Step 4: Drying the Nappies
Once the nappies are washed, drying them properly is crucial to maintain their durability.
Line-drying is best: Drying nappies outside on a line is the best option. The sun acts as a natural disinfectant and helps remove stains. The UV rays of the sun can also help kill bacteria.
Avoid high heat: If you use a tumble dryer, opt for a low-heat setting. High heat can damage the elastic in the nappies and cause the fabric to wear out faster.
Air dry inside: If drying outside isn’t an option, air-dry the nappies indoors on a clothes rack. Make sure they are completely dry before using them again, as damp nappies can lead to mold and odors.
Step 5: Dealing with Stains and Odors
It’s common for cloth nappies to develop stains or odors over time. Here’s how to tackle these issues effectively.
Sunlight for stains: The sun is a natural stain remover. Simply place your nappies outside in direct sunlight after washing. This method works well for removing yellow or brown stains.
Baking soda for odors: If you notice that your nappies are starting to smell, add a tablespoon of baking soda to the pre-wash cycle. This will help neutralize odors and leave the nappies smelling fresh.
Vinegar rinse: Occasionally, you can add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to remove odors and any detergent build-up. However, avoid doing this too often as it may damage the elastic over time.
See Also: When To Stop Wearing The Merlin Suit
Step 6: Strip Washing
Strip washing is a deep cleaning method used when your nappies have detergent build-up, have developed a bad odor, or have lost their absorbency.
Soak in hot water: Fill your washing machine or a large tub with hot water (around 60°C/140°F) and add a small amount of detergent. Soak the nappies for 4–6 hours.
Run multiple rinse cycles: After soaking, rinse the nappies in the washing machine on a long rinse cycle to remove any detergent residue.
Dry thoroughly: Once the strip wash is complete, dry the nappies as usual. This method restores absorbency and helps get rid of any lingering odors.
Step 7: Long-Term Care for Modern Cloth Nappies
Proper long-term care can extend the life of your cloth nappies and keep them functioning effectively.
Rotate your nappies: To prevent wear and tear, rotate your nappy collection. Using the same nappies repeatedly without rest can cause them to wear out faster.
Check the fit: Ensure that the nappies fit your baby properly. A snug fit around the legs and waist prevents leaks and ensures the nappy functions as intended.
Inspect regularly: Regularly inspect your nappies for signs of damage, such as thinning fabric or stretched elastic. If needed, replace any worn-out components like inserts or elastics.
Conclusion
Cleaning modern cloth nappies may seem overwhelming at first, but with the right routine, it becomes second nature. Remember to pre-wash, use the proper detergent, and choose the right temperature to keep them in top condition. Dry them properly and tackle any stains or odors promptly to ensure they stay fresh. By following these steps, you’ll keep your cloth nappies clean, hygienic, and long-lasting for your baby’s comfort and your peace of mind.
Happy cloth nappying!
Related topics:
