In recent years, more and more parents are opting to use reusable nappies for their babies, for a variety of reasons ranging from environmental sustainability to cost reduction. But how to wash reusable nappies correctly? In this article, I will provide you with all the information you need to take care of your children’s washable nappies effectively and hygienically.
In addition to reading about how to handle our Kolo nappies, here are a few more tips that can help you.
How to wash nappies step by step
First of all, it is important to note that there are different types of reusable nappies, each with its own specific washing recommendations, but there are some general guidelines that apply to all types.
- Preliminary cleaning. First of all, it is important to rinse the nappies immediately after use, so that most of the dirt is removed. This can be done in a special bucket or in the bath tub, depending on personal preference. We recommend using cold or lukewarm water for rinsing, as hot water may fix stains.
- Machine washing. Next, the nappies should be machine washed, using a mild detergent free of additives such as softeners or bleachers, which could damage the nappy fabric and irritate the baby’s skin. We recommend using only the amount of detergent needed to clean the nappies, without overdoing it.
- Pay attention to the washing programme. We recommend a washing cycle at a temperature between 40 and 60 degrees Celsius, to ensure effective removal of bacteria.
- Drying. Once the washing cycle is over, the nappies should be dried. Many parents prefer to hang them in the open air to dry in the sun, as UV rays have natural antibacterial properties and can help remove any remaining bacteria, but in the city it is also very practical to use a tumble dryer as long as you pay attention to the programme and temperature.
Which detergent to use for washable nappies?
Using the right detergent is essential to ensure clean and hygienic clothes for your child. For a green choice that is also gentle on baby’s skin, we recommend using a detergent without chemical additives, perfumes, bleachers or softeners, as these can cause irritation to baby’s skin and damage the fabric of reusable nappies.
In general, natural or ecological detergents are the best choice for washable nappies because they contain natural ingredients and no harmful chemical additives.
It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for detergent dosage and proper cleaning of the reusable nappies; we recommend using about half the amount of detergent compared to normal laundry and washing the washable nappies at a temperature of 60°C to ensure proper hygiene.
How to bleach them?
With prolonged use, they can become stained but with the right care you can get great results. You can start by soaking them with a little bicarbonate of soda before putting them in the washing machine; a pre-wash can help remove the stains and bring them back to their original white colour. Be careful not to use chemical bleaching agents, they may not only ruin the fabric but also cause irritation on the delicate skin of babies.