Washing Nappies

Washing Nappies

How should reusable nappies be washed?

Nappies and wraps can be washed at 60 degrees Celsius and tumble-dried. Please note that tumble-drying can reduce the lifespan of your nappies and wraps however this must be balanced against convenience and it is your choice. A compromise can be to tumble them for 10 minutes either at the beginning or end of their air drying time.

Modern washing machines use very little water for efficiency but this isn't so good for soiled nappies, so if you have a problem select the high water level wash option. Using non-bio powders can help babies with skin problems but will fade colours in time.

It seems that extra bleaching agents are used to compensate for the lack of enzyme cleaning action. Wraps can be used several times before washing, and then at 40 or 60 degrees Celsius - this will extend their life. Either reuse straight away or alternate, letting one air out.

Using fabric softener on any fabric reduces absorbency and is not recommended.

Polyester fleece can pill (bobble) and the degree to which this happens depends on the washing and drying and the particular manufacture of the material.

What about pre-washing?

Three washes at 40 or 60 degrees Celsius with your normal washing powder is sufficient. Change your baby more frequently until full absorbency is reached and you have matched absorbency to your baby's wetness habits.

Are there any washing machines that aren't recommended?