Which Detergent Should I use

Which Detergent Should I use?
Generally, you will need to use less detergent than normal for washing cloth diapers because they are easily susceptible to build-up. The detergent you use for washing your other clothing may also work for your cloth diapers, to be sure check out our detergent chart. There are some detergents that work especially well for cloth diapers though, fragrance, dye and additive free detergents are usually best for something so close to your baby's skin.

For babies with sensitive skin, Free Clear formulas or Sensitive formulas usually do not contain dyes and fragrances. Be aware that some children can develop severe allergies to coconut and citrus based products. These two items are often found in laundry detergents. Allergies to anything can develop at virtually any time. Changing your laundry detergent is one of the most simple changes you can make to start trying to figure out what is causing your child's reaction. Allergies can be aggressive in some cases, so don't waste time thinking your child might recover without intervention. To help you weed through a rash or possible allergic reaction in your child consider these: your detergent, possible teething, new foods in your child's diet, clothing materials they come into contact with, and how well your detergent is being rinsed from your child's diapers. Don't forget the amazing cleaning power of adding baking soda to your wash cycle and distilled white vinegar to your rinse cycle. Not only are they highly effective, but they are also cheap!

It is best to avoid detergents with whitening enzymes. These enzymes can actually attack baby's sensitive skin and cause horrible, blistering rashes! You should also avoid washing cloth diapers with soap products since repeated washing with soap creates a waxy build-up that reduces the absorbency of an material.

Should I Dunk in the Toilet

Should I Dunk in the Toilet?
Many parents cringe at the thought of having to rinse soiled diapers before washing them. This is the very reason why many would prefer to use disposables and "throw away" the problem. Dunking them in the toilet is not necessary however. In most cases, all that you need to do is lightly shake any excess feces into the toilet, perhaps using a bit of toilet paper, an old rubber scraper or a diaper sprayer to remove stubborn spots, and then simply throw the diaper into your diaper pail. If you baby is still only drinking milk (especially breastmilk) you need not worry about removing the feces as it will wash right out in the washing machine. If you would feel more comfortable rinsing your cloth diapers, a diaper sprayer that attaches to your commode or bathroom sink is a great idea but certainly not a necessity. Many cloth diaper retailers sell diaper sprayers or mini-showers, as they are often called.

Cloth Diapers in the Laundromat

Cloth Diapers in the Laundromat
Taking cloth diapers to a Laundromat can be a chore, but it is possible! The good news about Laundromat washing is that many times huge front-loading machines are available that can wash up to 40-50 diapers at a time - and they're easier on your diapers than a top-loading machine. With this in mind, you may be able to limit your Laundromat visits to once or twice a week. It is also helpful to use a pail liner and avoid hauling the entire diaper pail into the Laundromat. One of the major issues is the detergent build-up that can occur due to others using the same machines. The best way to avoid this is to wipe out the insides of both the washer and the dryer that you will use and the detergent dispenser if possible. Another idea is to run your regular laundry through first in the machine that you will be washing your cloth diapers in making sure to use the same cloth diaper safe detergent for all loads.