Dirty Diaper Duty: A Crappy Guide to Handling Poop in Cloth Diapers
Cloth diapering has seen a resurgence in recent years, with environmentally conscious parents opting for a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative to disposable diapers. One common concern that often deters parents from making the switch is the prospect of dealing with messy diaper changes, particularly when it comes to handling baby poop. In this guide, we'll explore the basics of cloth diapering and provide practical tips on managing and cleaning up those inevitable diaper blowouts.
I. Understanding Cloth Diapers
Before diving into the nitty-gritty of handling poop, let's familiarize ourselves with the different types of cloth diapers available:
Flat Diapers: These are large, square pieces of fabric that need folding before use. They are secured with pins or a Snappi, and a waterproof cover is worn over them.
Prefold Diapers: Similar to flat diapers but with an extra layer of thickness in the center, making them easier to use. They also require a waterproof cover.
Fitted Diapers: These are contoured diapers with elastic around the legs and back. They have built-in closures but still require a waterproof cover.
Pocket Diapers: These consist of a waterproof cover with a pocket for an absorbent insert. The insert absorbs moisture, and both parts need to be washed after each use.
All-in-One Diapers (AIOs): A complete diapering system with the absorbent layer sewn into the waterproof cover. They are convenient but take longer to dry.
II. Dealing with the Dirty Work: Cloth Diapering and Poop
Breastfed Baby Poop: If your baby is on a strictly liquid their poop is water-soluble and can be directly deposited into the diaper pail without any special handling. Simply toss the dirty diaper into your wet bag or pail until laundry day.
For more information on Why Breastfed and Formula-fed Baby Poop is Water-Soluble and Easy to Clean check out the blog post linked.
2. Solid Foods Introductions: As your baby starts eating solid foods, their poop becomes more solid. For solid waste removal, you can use a diaper sprayer, handheld bidet, disposable or reusable liners. Shake off any excess solids into the toilet and flush.
3. Using Diaper Liners: Disposable or reusable liners can be placed on top of the diaper to catch solids. This makes cleanup easier, and liners can be disposed of or washed, depending on the type. (A list of options can be found below)
4. Rinsing and Storing: After removing solids, rinse the diaper in the toilet or use a diaper sprayer. Store rinsed diapers in a wet bag or diaper pail until laundry day. For particularly stubborn stains, consider sunning the diapers, as sunlight can naturally bleach and disinfect.
III. Washing Cloth Diapers
Proper washing is crucial to maintaining the longevity and effectiveness of cloth diapers. Follow these steps for clean and fresh-smelling diapers:
Pre-Wash: Start with a pre-wash cycle to remove any excess waste. (assuming you already removed the bulk of the feces)
Can be done in hot or cold as desired- I like to recommend cold just to save on energy.
Soft water- this can be detergent free. Hard water- you need detergent but not a whole lot.
Main Wash: Use a hot water cycle with an appropriate amount of a strong detergent. Choose a detergent that best suits your family’s needs, for help choosing check out The Comprehensive Guide for choosing the right detergent from my previous blog post.
Choose the longest heavy duty cycle.
Additives can be used for stain fighting or fabric/water conditioning.
Keep it simple.
Drying: Line-dry or machine-dry your diapers. Sun-drying not only helps to bleach stains but also provides natural disinfection.
Machine Dry on low or no heat for 60 minutes, Remove all PUL/TPU shells and finish drying absorbency on medium heat.
Line-Dry sideways to preserve the integrity of the elastics (also, take a picture and send it to me so I can be jealous).
Sun-bleach- Re-wet frequently for tough stains, do not over dry anything with elastics
Cloth diapering may seem daunting at first, especially when it comes to handling poop, but with the right knowledge and a bit of practice, it becomes second nature. The environmental benefits, cost savings, and the satisfaction of reducing your carbon footprint make cloth diapering an attractive option for many parents. With the right care and attention, cloth diapering can be a rewarding and eco-friendly choice for your baby's bottom.
Products and accessories mentioned:
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