Washing cloth diapers is simple once you know the basics. However, a few common mistakes can lead to issues like leaks, odors, and wear over time. In this article, we’ll walk you through the biggest cloth diaper washing mistakes and how to easily avoid them.

Why Proper Washing Matters for Cloth Diapers

Washing isn't just about cleanliness; it's about protecting the fibers, maintaining absorbency, and extending the life of your diapers.
Improper washing can lead to:

• Stains

• Stink issues

• Leakage problems

• Fabric deterioration

Biggest Cloth Diaper Washing Mistakes to Avoid

Washing Mistake #1: Not Pre-Rinsing Dirty Diapers

Skipping the pre-rinse cycle is a huge mistake. Without a cold rinse, waste particles can lock into the fabric during the main wash.

How to Avoid It:

Always do a cold, quick pre-rinse or pre-wash cycle without detergent before your main wash. This step flushes out solids and prevents stains from setting.

Washing Mistake #2: Using the Wrong Detergent

Natural and gentle doesn't always mean better for cloth diapers. Some "free and clear" or "eco" detergents lack the power to clean diapers effectively.

How to Avoid It:

Choose a strong, mainstream detergent without fabric softeners.

Washing Mistake #3: Overloading the Washer

Cramming too many diapers into a load prevents proper agitation, leading to incomplete cleaning and bad smells.

How to Avoid It:

Aim to fill the washer drum about two-thirds full. Diapers need room to move so water and detergent can work effectively.

Washing Mistake #4: Not Enough Water

Modern HE (high-efficiency) machines are water-saving, which sounds good, but not for diapers! Too little water means the diapers won't rinse clean.

How to Avoid It:

Select the "Extra Water" or "Deep Water Wash" setting if your machine has one. If that's not an option, you can place a wet towel in the drum to help increase the water level. Just make sure the washer is still about two-thirds full so diapers have enough space to move and get properly cleaned.

Washing Mistake #5: Using Fabric Softeners or Dryer Sheets

These products coat fabrics with a water-repellent layer, which is the exact opposite of what you want for an absorbent diaper!

How to Avoid It:

Never use fabric softeners or dryer sheets. Instead, if you need to soften your cloth diapers, use wool dryer balls.

Washing Mistake #6: High Heat Drying Without Caution

High heat can degrade elastics and waterproof layers over time.

How to Avoid It:

Tumble dry on low heat or air-dry whenever possible.

Final Thoughts: The Right Care = Longer Life for Your Cloth Diapers

Washing cloth diapers properly isn't complicated, but small mistakes can add up.
With the right wash routine, your cloth diapers will stay soft, absorbent, and fresh wash after wash.

Looking for the perfect cloth diaper for your little one? Browse our diaper collection!