Cloth Nappy Washing & Care

Before First Use

Give all absorbent parts of the nappy and boosters several washes before use to remove any factory residues and to build up absorbency – they get better with each wash! Simply wash them with your clothes.

How to Store Used Nappies

After changing your baby, store used nappies in a bucket (with mesh bag), or a wet bag, before wash day. Wash every two to three days. Do not soak nappies or waterproof wraps in water as this can damage the materials and reduce waterproof properties.

Disposable Liners

If using a disposable paper liner, use a single layer on the surface of the nappy. A reusable fleece liner can be used instead of a disposable liner and washed with the nappies. Disposable liners should be placed in the bin, not flushed.

Waterproof Wraps

Wraps may not need to be washed after every change.  They are durable and can be machine washed but will last longer if usually washed in the sink.  Washing a wrap is as simple as washing your hands!

Washing Made Easy

Step 1: Put just the nappies and reusable wet wipes (if using) on a short rinse cycle. The water will then drain from the machine.

Step 2: Next, run a cotton cycle with detergent at 60 degrees for babies under 6 months.  For babies over  6 months you may find 40 degrees is enough.  Instead of heat you can use a nappy sanitiser (like Bambino Mio Bright & Mighty Nappy Cleanser) to kill bacteria.

Biological or non-biological detergent? You have probably already decided which works best in your machine. Biological detergent has active enzymes are most effective at 40 degrees.  Modern machines have 40 degree plateau so you can still wash at 60 degrees.  If the detergent is not rinsed out completely it may cause eczema.

Never use fabric softener as this decreases their absorbency.

Step 3: Air-line dry where possible and away from direct heat (ie don't dry on a radiator)  Nappies and waterproof wraps can be tumble-dried on low (higher for cotton nappies).

Manufacturers' Instructions - please always refer to the manufacturers’ advice and product care labels for washing and drying reusable nappies.

Troubleshooting Advice / Tips

If you have any problems with leaking or detergent build-up, then please refer to our Tips & Troubleshooting Guide or the Residues Information.

If you see bubbles at the end of the main temperature wash, do an extra rinse and use less detergent next time.  Don’t do an extra rinse when it’s not necessary as it will make the nappies go hard.

In hard water areas like London, some natural fabric nappies can become hard and ‘crunchy’. To soften the nappies, rub them together to reactivate the fibres. Alternatively put them in a tumble dryer for 10 minutes before hanging them out to line dry. One other unusual but effective way is to collect some rain water and soak the nappies in the rain water before putting them through a final spin in your washing machine or hang them on the line in the rain.

Olive oil soap bars are excellent at removing poo stains from any fabric.  Direct sun is great for removing stains.

If you need any more advice, then please call us on 020 7014 3006, email: info@nappyeverafter.co.uk or drop by and see us.