Washing Nappies is Easy
Washing Reusable Nappies
- Fold down Velcro tabs to stop fluff gathering
- Flush any solids down the toilet
- Pre soak nappies in either a solution of water and bicarbonate soda or white vinegar - 1/4 of a cup to the bucket (this can be bought in bulk). For extra antibacterial power add 2-3 drops of Nature Baby Teatree Oil.
- Alternatively use 2 dessert spoons of Earthwise Nappy Wash. Soak for at least 3-6 hours.
- Empty bucket into washing machine and spin out dirty water
- Wash nappies at 50-60°c warm wash
- Do a final rinse to get rid of any detergent residue which may irritate your baby's skin
- Dry outside if possible, sunshine is a wonderful antiseptic and bleaching agent, or you can tumble dry on a low setting
If you have a washing machine then reusables are not a huge chore.
The Dry Method
(Also known as the ‘dry pail’ method)
In order to avoid wear and tear on their nappies and save on strain and expense many people like to use the dry method of soaking their nappies.
You may wish to sprinkle a couple of drops of Nature Baby Teatree Oil on your nappies and keep your soiled nappies in a tightly closed bucket until you have enough for a load. No water or detergents necessary! This method is particularly recommended for pocket micro fleece nappies such as the bumGenius.
Washing Nappy Covers
Nappy Covers do not need to be washed as often as nappies and can be used repeatedly without washing, unless soiled. In fact it is best not to overzealously wash your covers as this can reduce their waterproofing capabilities.
Many types of covers can just be rinsed by hand and hung to air and dry.
Woollen covers benefit from exposure to sunlight and air as much as possible as this allows them to let go of bacteria and odour. Over-washing woollen covers reduces their lanolin content which is what makes them waterproof.
As a general rule; as covers come in all variety of fabrics these days the manufacturer's instructions should be strictly followed when it comes to covers as washing or drying the wrong way is likely to affect the waterproofing of the cover. To get maximum life from any nappy cover it is best to hand or gentle machine wash and air dry. Tumble dryers should be avoided.
