Choosing the Right Laundry Detergent for Cloth Diapers: A Comprehensive Guide
Cloth diapering has become a popular choice among eco-conscious parents due to its environmental benefits, cost-effectiveness, and the avoidance of the chemicals found in disposable diapers. However, to ensure the longevity of cloth diapers and maintain their absorbency and cleanliness, it's crucial to select the right laundry detergent and wash routine. In this blog, we will provide a detailed guide to help you make an informed choice when it comes to selecting the perfect detergent for your cloth diapers.
Understanding the Needs of Cloth Diapers
Cloth diapers have unique requirements that differ from regular laundry. They are designed to be highly absorbent and retain their absorbency over multiple uses. To maintain their effectiveness, you should consider the following factors when choosing a detergent:
Gentle but Effective Cleaning: Cloth diapers should be cleaned thoroughly without compromising the fabric's integrity. Look for a detergent that is tough on stains and odors yet gentle on the fabric.
No Residues: Residue buildup from detergents can lead to reduced absorbency and diaper rashes. Opt for a detergent that rinses clean and leaves no residue on the cloth. (no fabric softener)
Hypoallergenic: Babies have sensitive skin, so it's crucial to choose a detergent that is hypoallergenic and free from harsh chemicals or fragrances that can cause skin irritations.
Biodegradable: To align with your eco-friendly cloth diapering approach, consider detergents that are biodegradable and/or economically packaged.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Detergent
Water Hardness: The hardness of your water can affect the detergent's performance. You may need to choose a specific detergent or adjust the quantity based on your water's hardness level.
Detergent Type: There are three main types of detergents: powder, liquid, and pods. All can work with cloth diapers, but some parents prefer one over the other. Powder detergents are known for their cleaning power and the ability to prevent residue buildup, while liquid detergents are easy to measure and dissolve well in cold water. Pods are convenient but may leave residue if not properly dissolved.
Ingredients: Read the ingredient list carefully. Avoid detergents with additives like perfumes, dyes, and optical brighteners, as these can lead to skin irritations and residue buildup.
Enzymes: Some detergents contain enzymes (protease, amylase, lipase) that break down different types of stains, making them effective for removing feces and food-based stains.
Fragrance-Free: Opt for fragrance-free detergents to minimize the risk of skin allergies or irritations.
pH-Neutral: A pH-neutral detergent helps preserve the fabric of cloth diapers and reduces the likelihood of irritation.
Popular Detergent Options for Cloth Diapers
Tide: A popular and effective laundry detergent known for its deep cleaning power and heavy duty stain remover.
Persil: A high-performance detergent with strong stain-fighting capabilities, suitable for tough stains and gentle on the skin.
Seventh Generation: An eco-friendly detergent that prioritizes sustainability and uses plant-based ingredients.
Foca Powder: A budget-friendly laundry detergent in powder form, favored for its affordability and effective cleaning performance.
Essembly: Designed by experts to be gentle on baby skin and powerful on cloth diapers.
All Free & Clear: A hypoallergenic and fragrance-free detergent designed for sensitive skin and allergy concerns.
Kirkland Ultra: A laundry detergent offered by the Kirkland Signature brand (Costco), known for its affordability and effective cleaning performance.
Unicorn Baby Beyond Clean: A specialty baby laundry detergent designed for gentle and hypoallergenic cleaning, specifically formulated for infant clothing and sensitive skin.
Biokleen: An eco-friendly laundry detergent known for its plant-based and enzyme-powered cleaning, suitable for both standard and high-efficiency washing machines.
Arm & Hammer: A budget-friendly detergent with baking soda as a key ingredient for odor control and stain removal.
Proper Washing Instructions
Selecting the right detergent is only part of the equation. Follow these washing instructions to ensure your cloth diapers stay in great condition:
Pre-rinse: If your baby is eating solids foods, all solid waste must go into the toilet. Plop. Dunk. Swish. Spray. Whatever works for your family!
Use the Recommended Amount: If you are unsure feel free to reach out. I usually say start with 2 tablespoons and assess from there whether you need more or less. Most families are (in general) using way too much “laundry sauce”.
Regular Washing: Aim to wash cloth diapers every 2-3 days to prevent odors and stains from setting. bigger stashes you can possibly go longer but I wouldn’t recommend going over 5 days.
Cold Pre-wash, Hot Main Wash: Most cloth diaper washing routines include a cold pre-wash to remove loose debris and a hot main wash to thoroughly clean and disinfect.
Extra Rinse: Add an extra rinse cycle to ensure all detergent residues are removed, or you can use Distilled white vinegar in your fabric softener dispenser.
Line Dry or Tumble Dry Low: Sunlight can help remove stains and naturally disinfect cloth diapers. If line drying isn't an option, use a low-heat setting in the dryer.
In the end, choosing the right laundry detergent for cloth diapers is a crucial step in ensuring their longevity and effectiveness. Consider your water hardness, detergent type, and the specific needs of cloth diapers when making your selection. Remember to follow a proper washing routine and prioritize hypoallergenic, residue-free, and eco-friendly options to maintain the cleanliness and comfort of your baby's cloth diapers while minimizing their environmental impact.
For and extended list of detergent options and laundry boosters check out the Detergent Index (Members Only)
Need help finding something?
Shop Now
