Handwashing Cloth Diapers

I had a couple of people as me about how hard it would be to handwash cloth diapers.  I have never actually done this but have researched some general guidelines!

Handwashing Cloth Diapers

• Step 1: Decide where you are going to work and plug the sink or tub drain and add a cloth diaper friendly detergent (add according to washer directions)
• Step 2: Add water as hot as you can stand!
• Step 3: Add the diapers and swish swish swish. This is a good time to let them soak for a little while so go find something else to do :)
• Step 4: After soaking (or you can skip the soak if you want) knead the diapers with your hands (rubber gloves are useful in this step!).
• Step 5: Unplug the sink or tub and let the water drain out.
• Step 6: Fill the tub with clean fresh hot/warm water and swish swish swish again.
• Step 7: Rinse the diapers under hot or warm running water until the water is clear.
• Step 8: Wring out your diapers very well and place in the dryer or hang to dry.

Tips for Handwashing Cloth Diapers

• If you handwash and hang dry, it may be best to stock up on extra diapers as this process takes a bit longer.
• Flat diapers are the easiest to handwash and will dry the quickest. Pocket diapers are a good second for quick drying.  AIO's are very hard to wash and take forever to dry when handwashed!
• Washing cloth diapers by hand is less overwhelming if you wash every day or every other day.
• Some people like to use your own or child's used bathwater to pre-soak your cloth diapers before washing.
• Like washing in washing machine, you should always rinse your cloth diapers in cold water before washing to prevent stains from setting.
• Try handwashing cloth diapers in a large bucket with a plunger as agitator.
• Don't worry if your cloth diapers come off the line stiff as boards, once they warm up they will soften.
• If you can't dry your cloth diapers outside try a wooden drying rack or hang clotheslines on a porch or in the kitchen.