How to Wash Cloth Diapers at Home

Cloth diapers have come a long way. You don't have to worry about accidentally sticking yourself or your baby with a pin or about the diapers leaking like many parents in the past had to. Most cloth diapers have elastic around the leg openings and easier-to-use Velcro closures. Using cloth instead of disposable diapers saves your family money, especially if you use the same diapers for multiple children and wash them at home. You don't need special equipment to wash diapers. In most cases, it's as simple as doing a load of laundry.

Things You'll Need

  • Diaper bin
  • Baking soda
  • Fragrance-free, dye-free laundry detergent
  • White vinegar

Instructions

    • 1

      Drop soiled diapers in the diaper bin as you change your baby throughout the day. Add a sprinkle of baking soda to the bin after each new addition and put a lid on the bin to keep odor to a minimum. If there is any solid material in the diaper, dump it into the toilet and flush before placing the dirty diaper in the bin.

    • 2

      Load the dirty diapers into your washing machine. Don't overfill the machine. It should be about half full of diapers if you use a top-loading machine. If you have a front-loading machine, leave approximately six inches between the top of the pile of diapers and the top row of holes on the drum.

    • 3

      Run a rinse cycle using cold water or run the presoak option, if your machine has it.

    • 4

      Adjust the water temperature on your machine to hot, if you are washing all-cotton diapers. Set the machine to the highest water setting and turn it to regular wash. Add fragrance-free detergent.

    • 5

      Pour 1/2 cup of vinegar into the machine as it switches to the rinse cycle. The vinegar helps deodorize the diapers and will remove irritants that cause diaper rash, according to Ask Dr. Sears.

    • 6

      Check the diapers after the wash cycle is complete. They shouldn't smell like diapers at all. If the diapers have a scent, repeat the washing process.

    • 7

      Transfer the clean diapers to the dryer and dry on high heat for approximately one hour or until they are completely dry to the touch.

    2. Previous:

    Next:

    • How to Change a Baby's Diaper
      While it might seem complicated, diaper changing is a skill you will master quickly with a newborn. During the first few weeks, youll be changing your babys diaper every couple hours. Follow these tips and techniques to get started and before you kno
    • What is it that so great about laughing babies?
      There are many reasons why laughing babies are so delightful and captivating:1. Pure Joy and Unconditional Love: - Baby laughter is a direct expression of pure joy and happiness. Its a reminder of the simple pleasures in life and the innocence of c
    • Alternatives to Teething Rings
      When your baby is teething, chances are youd do anything to make her feel better. Teething can cause discomfort, but it can also be downright painful. Most baby supply stores sell teething rings designed to comfort your little one and ease her pain.