Cloth nappies are an amazing choice if your little one suffers from sensitive and easily irritable skin, as they comfort and most importantly, protect the skin.
However, many parents think cloth nappies are actually a bane, when in fact, they are simple and much more cost effective.
In this article, Cheeky Wipes are going to go through some top tips to perfectly store and wash your cloth nappies.
Where Do I Start With Storing My Cloth Nappies?
Wet nappies are actually simple, all you need to do is take off the nappy and place it in a nappy container, and there is no need to soak the nappy in water, instead you can use the ‘dry-pailing’ technique, which makes the process even simpler than you would imagine.
When looking at cloth nappies that may be more than just wet, it’s recommended that you just give the nappy a quick rinse of water. Then, when wash day arrives, you can simply add these cloth nappies to the list, which are simple to clean.
The Washing Process
When looking at the temperature of the wash, it needs to be anywhere between 40-60 degrees, but a great top tip is to do a quick cold rise wash first, as you are preventing any stains from setting within the warmer water.
It is also a great idea to wash your cloth nappies on a higher degree wash from time to time (60 degrees) as they help to keep your nappies free from any harmful bugs, and during the summer, you should take advantage of the beautiful sun rays and line dry them.
During the actual washing process, it is important that your washing machine is not overfilled, so your nappies have the opportunity to move around and get properly clean.
When looking at what products to use, we recommend avoiding fabric conditioner, as they can damage certain types of cloth nappies. Many manufacturers recommend non-bio liquids, and even eco-balls, which make the wash amazingly simple.
The Drying Process
As we have already said, line drying in the open air and sunlight is always a great option, but not everyone has full access to an outdoor washing line, or even still, it can be raining outdoors.
An indoor drying rack is an essential purchase not only for your cloth nappies, but for the amount of clothes you are faced with from your little one needing to be repeatedly changed!
Depending on the weather conditions and if your central heating is on or not, the drying process can take around 24 hours. But, if this option is not for you and you have a tumble dryer, then they can be used. You will need to check the manufacturer information to see if they are tumble dryer safe beforehand.
However, many do say to avoid repeat tumble drying, as it can shorten the life of your cloth nappies.
Keeping Your Cloth Nappies Organised
Now that you know the simplicity of the wash and drying princess of cloth nappies, the next area you need to focus on, is how to make the whole process easier.
Lets see how you can –
The overall timing of when you wash your cloth nappies can make a huge impact.
It is vital that you find a time in your week where you are able to complete the important tasks on your list, which includes the rounds of washing.
You may find that on an evening, when your little one is in bed, can be the best time for you to focus on this, and you can simply leave them to dry overnight. Or, you may prefer to wash your nappies first thing in the morning and organise yourself through the daytime, the choice is up to you and what you prefer.
You may find in the summer that having your wash ready to dry in the morning is great, as you can leave them to dry outside and be ready for the day.
Cloth nappies are an amazing alternative if you feel your little one and yourself will benefit from using them. We hope these simple tips can help make the process even simpler for you.