How to Use Reusable Diapers
Cloth diapers have come a long way from the bulky folded cloth and plastic pants of previous generations. Cloth diapers come in a multitude of styles, colors and price ranges. Although budget-conscious caregivers can still opt to use prefolded or flat cotton diapers with stylish waterproof covers, others may choose the added convenience of all-in-one diapers or pocket diapers. No matter which type of reusable diaper you choose, using and caring for them is easy once you learn a few guidelines.
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Instructions
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Wash your new diapers before using them. Cloth-diaper manufacturers recommend up to seven washings before the diapers are used the first time to remove all the oils from the fabric and to increase absorbency.
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Place the diaper on your baby according to manufacturer's instructions. Most diapers have hook and loop fasteners or snap enclosures, and many diapers sold today are "one-size," meaning snaps can be done up or undone on the body of the diaper to make it fit a newborn up to a toddler.
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Change your baby's diaper when it is wet or soiled. Shake any solids into the toilet, and rinse any remaining solids from the diaper, either by swishing it in the toilet bowl or by using a diaper sprayer. Remove the stuffing if it is a pocket diaper, and place it in your diaper pail. Separate covers do not need to be washed every time unless they have become soiled. Typically a cover can be used two to three times before being placed in the diaper pail.
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Wash your diapers once you have enough for a load. It is advisable to wash them at least every two to three days to avoid bacteria growth. Place the soiled diapers in your washing machine, and do a cold rinse. Follow this with a hot wash using a small amount of detergent -- you only need about 2 to 3 tbsp. to get your diapers clean. After the hot wash, run at least two rinse cycles. Natural detergent free of dyes, perfumes and brighteners will help your diapers last longer and will minimize the chance of irritating your baby's bottom. Several brands of detergent are made especially for cloth diapers.
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Dry your diapers. PUL covers should be air dried if possible, but all inserts can be put in the drier. Take advantage of warm, sunny days to hang your diapers outside, as the sunlight will often make any remaining stains disappear.
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Tips & Warnings
Covers made of more breathable fabrics, such as wool and fleece, are also widely available.
Don't let yourself get turned off by the cost of cloth diapers. Keep in mind that they are often a one-time purchase and can be used for multiple children.
Soiled diapers from an exclusively breastfed baby do not need to be rinsed first -- throw the whole diaper straight into your diaper pail.
Many commonly used diaper rash creams, such as zinc oxide, can ruin your cloth diapers. If you choose to use diaper cream, make sure it is safe for cloth diapers.
Over time, detergent build-up can make your diapers stinky, even when dry. To resolve this, strip your diapers by washing them in hot water with a squirt or two of original blue Dawn dish detergent, and rinse until no bubbles appear.
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