Do not wash cloth diapers carelessly, yes, Bun. Apart from hygiene factors, washing in an improper way can reduce absorption and even damage the fabric. Therefore, it is important for you to know how to wash cloth diapers properly and correctly.
The use of cloth diapers may be rarely glimpsed by some mothers because they are considered impractical. In fact, cloth diapers actually save money because they can be washed and used again. In addition, this type of diaper is also considered safer because it is free from chemicals that can irritate baby's skin.
The Right Steps for Washing Cloth Diapers
Mothers do need to spend more time washing and drying cloth diapers before being put back on by the little one. Cloth diapers must be washed in a good and right way to stay durable and free from bacteria that can spread to the baby's skin.
Before washing cloth diapers, you should first read the washing instructions listed on the cloth label. The reason is, each type of fabric has a different washing method. But generally, how to wash cloth diapers can be done in the following ways:
1. Separate cloth diapers that contain feces and those that don't
Do not mix cloth diapers that have feces or baby feces on them with other laundry. This is to avoid bacterial contamination of the feces. So it's best, use a separate bucket to wash cloth diapers that have feces on them, yes, Bun.
If the cloth diaper is only exposed to the Little One's urine, you can wash it together with other laundry.
2. Dispose of feces in cloth diapers
Before washing with soap, you need to get rid of the feces in cloth diapers by flushing them until the feces are completely gone. If cloth diapers are coated with liner (additional layer) disposable, you only need to lift liner from diapers. After that, the feces from liner can be flushed down the toilet and liner thrown in the trash.
3. Soaking cloth diapers
To help remove stains on cloth diapers, you can soak the diapers for a few hours before washing them. Instead, soak cloth diapers only with water, yes. Adding detergent or bleach can actually damage the fabric.
However, make sure again how the washing instructions are listed on the fabric label. If it is written dry pailing on the label, it means that cloth diapers should not be soaked in water before washing.
4. Washing diapers with detergent
Washing cloth diapers can be done by hand or in a washing machine. However, cloth diapers that are exposed to feces should be washed by hand to make them cleaner.
If you use a washing machine, you can set the water temperature to 60°C. But if you wash by hand, you can add warm water to the laundry, yes. This is done to eradicate bacteria and fungi that may be attached to the fabric.
Avoid using detergents that contain fragrances to reduce the risk of skin irritation for your little one. Mothers can consider using special baby detergents that contain ingredients with mild formulations.
In addition, you should avoid using fabric softener when washing baby diapers, yes. Fabric softener can make cloth diapers smoother, but it can reduce the absorbency of the cloth. In addition, avoid using clothes bleach because it can irritate your little one's skin.
5. Rinse and dry cloth diapers
Rinse the cloth diaper at least 2 times so that the remaining soap is completely removed. After rinsing, try to check the smell of the diaper. If there is still an unpleasant smell, repeat washing cloth diapers in the same way until the odor is gone. The unpleasant smell of cloth diapers is a sign that there are still bacteria that can irritate your little one's skin.
After the cloth diaper is clean and does not smell, dry it in direct sunlight. Sunlight can kill any remaining bacteria on the fabric that may still be attached. But if it is not possible, drying cloth diapers in a dryer or indoors is also not a problem, how come, Bun.
You can wash your baby's cloth diapers every day or every few days. But don't let it be too long, because diapers can cause unpleasant odors and become a breeding ground for bacteria. Make sure your washing schedule matches the number of cloth diapers you have, so you won't run out of diaper stock.
Choosing cloth diapers may be more comfortable for your little one. This is because cloth is usually softer than disposable diapers. Plus, babies' skin tends to be more sensitive and prone to irritation than adults.
However, choosing cloth diapers also means you have to be more careful when washing. Pay close attention to the cloth diaper material, the washing method listed on the cloth label, and the materials used to wash it, yes, Bun.
If irritation appears on your little one's skin, immediately consult a doctor for proper examination and treatment.
