How to Sanitize Cloth Diapers?
Every parent is responsible for ensuring the utmost cleanliness and hygiene for their baby’s cloth diapers. There are many reasons to use cloth diapers, from battling stubborn stains and lingering odors to addressing more severe concerns like recurring diaper rashes or yeast infections.
Your diapers might also be resold, given to a family member or friend, or stored between babies. In this guide, we explain how to sanitize cloth diapers.
This article provides an overview of popular cloth diaper sanitization methods without favoring one approach. It aims to present the pros and cons of various ways based on expert recommendations. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific product, as improper sanitization or washing can reduce the lifespan of cloth diapers and damage fabric, elastics, and fasteners.
Chlorine Bleach
Chlorine bleach is a powerful disinfectant commonly used in various cleaning and sanitizing processes, including cleaning cloth diapers. It can eliminate bacteria, viruses, and fungi when used correctly, making it a valuable tool for maintaining diaper hygiene. However, there are essential considerations when working with chlorine bleach to ensure its effectiveness and safety.
One of the significant drawbacks of bleaching cloth diapers is that chlorine bleach is a potent chemical. Improper use can harm your diapers, making them deteriorate fasterIt, in turn, may lead to the need for more frequent diaper replacements. Therefore, while bleach can be a valuable tool for diaper sanitation, it should be employed with care to ensure the longevity of your cloth diaper investment.
What kills yeast in cloth diapers?-
Bleach is a yeast-killing powerhouse for cloth diapers. It’s invaluable for sanitizing, battling yeast infections, and disinfecting against bacterial or fungal issues. Chlorine bleach’s effectiveness lies in its water and sodium hypochlorite composition, making it a versatile cleaner. However, misuse should be avoided by following proper dilution, storage, and usage guidelines.
Yeast diaper infections are another reason to sanitize your baby’s cloth diapers. These infections often result from yeast in the diapers and can be transmitted to your baby, requiring proper handling before reusing the diapers.
Yeast infections originate from naturally occurring bacteria in the digestive system. When these bacteria overgrow, they can cause illnesses. Therefore, it’s advisable to continue sanitizing your cloth diapers for an entire week after your baby’s symptoms have disappeared to ensure thorough elimination of all bacteria.
Advantages and disadvantages of Chlorine Bleach
Readily Available: Bleach is easily accessible, making it a convenient choice for many households.
Cost-Effective: It is an affordable cleaning solution that delivers powerful results.
Well-Researched and Tested: Extensive research has gone into the efficacy of bleach as a disinfectant.
Extreme Effectiveness: Bleach’s ability to eliminate many microorganisms makes it highly effective.
Resistance Prevention: Unlike some disinfectants, bleach’s mode of action prevents microorganisms from developing resistance.
Eco-Friendly: Bleach breaks down rapidly into salt and water, posing minimal environmental impact.
Handle with Care
While bleach offers numerous benefits, it must be used responsibly. Caution should be exercised when storing bleach, keeping it out of reach of children. Additionally, safety measures should be observed, just as with any other household cleaner.
Instances When Bleach May Not Be Suitable
Despite its versatility, there are specific situations when bleach is not the ideal disinfectant. These scenarios include:
Iron-rich water: Bleach is an oxidizing agent, accelerating rust formation when combined with iron-rich water. It can lead to stains on fabrics and surfaces.
Allergies: Individuals with bleach allergies should refrain from using it. Allergic reactions can vary in severity, and it’s essential to prioritize safety.
Product Care Considerations: Some cloth diaper manufacturers may have guidelines regarding bleach usage, as it could affect the warranty. Checking the manufacturer’s recommendations before using bleach on cloth diapers is advisable.
Proper Handling and Storage
For safe and effective use of bleach, consider these guidelines:
- Dilute bleach in water before adding items for disinfection.
- Utilize the bleach tray if your washing machine has one.
- Ensure the bleach contains at least 5.25% sodium hypochlorite, as the label indicates.
- Be aware that bleach effectiveness diminishes over time, and bottles older than a year should be replaced.
Note on Fabrics
While PUL (Polyurethane Laminate) remains colorfast and does not fade when exposed to bleach, certain fabrics like knit or cotton may experience fading when subjected to bleach.
How do you disinfect cloth diapers with bleach?
You might wonder, “Why use bleach on cloth diapers?” Indeed, cloth diapering is often associated with a desire to reduce chemical exposure.
How to Use Chlorine Bleach?
Ingredients and Measurements
Cold or Lukewarm Water: Use bleach containing at least 5.25% sodium hypochlorite with cold or lukewarm water.
Measurements: The amount of bleach needed varies depending on the container’s size.
Average Bathtub: Add bleach to halfway-filled water in the tub.
Other Containers (including washer): Use 1-1.5 tablespoons of bleach for every 1 gallon (about 4 liters) of water.
The Sanitization Process
To properly bleach your diapers, soak them in a bleach solution for at least 30 minutes but no longer than one hour. After soaking, rinse the diapers thoroughly with hot water and then wash them in the washing machine using a regular warm-water cycle along with detergent.
Final Rinse: If you detect any lingering bleach odor on the diapers after washing, consider an additional rinse cycle for thorough cleaning.
How do you disinfect cloth diapers without bleach?
Method 1- Hydrogen Peroxide
An Overview of Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a versatile liquid substance composed of water and hydrogen. While store-bought versions are clear, it’s a gentle light blue in its natural state. This compound is well-known for its disinfectant properties and has various household uses, from first-aid applications to cleaning purposes.
Hydrogen peroxide’s primary advantage is its non-toxic nature, making it a safe home-use choice. However, while it’s generally safe, large amounts on the skin can be irritating, and it should be kept out of reach of children.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Hydrogen Peroxide
Advantages
Affordability: Hydrogen peroxide is readily available at grocery stores and pharmacies, making it a cost-effective option.
Effective Stain Remover: It functions as a bleaching agent, making it excellent for removing stains from cloth diapers.
Trusted Disinfectant: Hydrogen peroxide is a well-trusted and widely used disinfectant.
Disadvantages
Colorfastness: Like bleach, hydrogen peroxide can affect fabrics with colors, potentially causing fading or damage.
When It’s Ideal to Utilize Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is best used when cloth diapers are clean and need stain and build-up removal. It’s not typically used for washing heavily soiled diapers but shines in the stain-removing department.
How to sanitize cloth diapers with peroxide
Using hydrogen peroxide to sanitize cloth diapers is straightforward:
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide for a medium load.
- 2 cups for a large load.
- Sanitization Process:
- For sanitization, fill your washing machine with warm or hot water and add hydrogen peroxide and 1 cup of borax if desired.
- If you prefer, soak the diapers for 30 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Repeat steps if necessary.
Remember never to pour hydrogen peroxide directly onto clothing or fabric; like chlorine bleach, it should be diluted for safe and effective use.
The Power of Borax
Borax, a white, chalky mineral, is a standard household cleaner. Combined with hydrogen peroxide, it amplifies the disinfecting power of peroxide, making it an excellent choice for sanitizing cloth diapers.
How to Use Hydrogen Peroxide and Borax Together
When sanitizing used diapers or after stripping, use the following method:
Soak:
Hydrogen peroxide in the amount of four cups.
Borax in one cup.
Cold water should be used for washing, and four cups of hydrogen peroxide and one cup of borax should be added to detergent for each wash load, especially during treatment of yeast or other infections.
Pros of Hydrogen Peroxide and Borax Method:
- Ingredients are readily available.
- Cost-effective for soaking.
- It is approximately 85% as effective as bleach.
Cons:
- Expensive to treat yeast in the wash.
- Potential for fading diapers, similar to bleach.
- May void manufacturer warranties.
Is using laundry sanitizer on baby clothes safe?
An Overview of Lysol Concentrate Disinfectant
Lysol is a well-known American cleaning and disinfectant brand. The active ingredient in most Lysol products, including the concentrated disinfectant, is benzalkonium chloride. Benzalkonium chloride is a chemical compound known for its effectiveness against bacteria. While it’s considered highly toxic if ingested in large quantities, it’s commonly used in cleaning supplies, cosmetics, shampoos, and skincare products to prevent bacterial growth.
Lysol harnesses the germ-fighting power of benzalkonium chloride in its concentrate disinfectant. This product is designed to be diluted with water and used to clean various household items and surfaces.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Lysol Concentrate Disinfectant
Advantages
Availability: Lysol products, including the concentrated disinfectant, are readily available in most stores, making them easy to keep on hand.
Ease of Use: Following the manufacturer’s instructions for dilution with water makes Lysol concentrate disinfectant simple.
Disadvantages
Debate Among Cloth Diaper Bloggers: There is an ongoing debate among cloth diaper bloggers regarding the safety of using Lysol concentrate disinfectant on cloth diapers.
Lack of Specific Cloth Diaper Information: Lysol advertises its concentrate disinfectant for laundry and cloth diaper cleaning. However, more limited information about using the product effectively for clothing items must be provided.
Alternative Laundry Sanitizers: Lysol offers a line of laundry sanitizers that may be a safer choice for disinfecting cloth diapers, as they are bleach-free.
When It’s Ideal to Utilize Lysol Concentrate Disinfectant
Based on research, it’s advisable not to use Lysol’s concentrated disinfectant on cloth diapers. Instead, consider using one of their laundry sanitizer products designed explicitly for laundry and cloth items.
However, if you are a fan of Lysol products, you can continue using the concentrated disinfectant to clean your baby’s toys, household surfaces, and the floors they play on.
Lysol’s laundry sanitizers offer a gentle solution for fabrics and come in a free and straightforward option, suitable for baby clothes and cloth diapers. These sanitizers can be used for regular loads of laundry and deep-cleaning cloth diapers.
Instructions for Using Lysol Concentrate Disinfectant
As mentioned earlier, avoiding using Lysol concentrate disinfectant on clothing or cloth diapers is recommended. Instead, opt for one of Lysol’s laundry sanitizer products, which work like regular laundry detergent and are safe for use with each diaper wash, as they are bleach-free.
You can also add a capful of Lysol laundry sanitizer to your washing machine to soak cloth diapers before the wash cycle. This method effectively kills 99.9% of viruses and bacteria. Furthermore, Lysol laundry sanitizers are compatible with high-efficiency (HE) machines and can be used with cold water.
Alternative Method: Lysol Original Concentrate
Method:
Soak (for sanitizing used diapers or after stripping):
For treating yeast or other infections, mix 1 cup of Lysol Original Concentrate with cold water (half a bathtub or a medium load in a non-HE washing machine).
Pros:
- Relatively Easy to Find: Lysol Original Concentrate is relatively easy to find.
- Does Not Cause Fading: It won’t cause fading to fabrics.
- Effectiveness: It kills flu virus and 99.9% of germs.
Cons:
- Cost for Treating Yeast: When used to treat yeast in the wash, it can be expensive.
- Availability: Finding the quantity needed for yeast treatment may take more work.
- Scent: It may impart a Lysol sent to the diapers.
How do you sanitize cloth diapers naturally?
An Overview of Pine Oil Disinfectant
It is an essential oil derived from various pine trees and plants. Traditionally, it was obtained through the distillation of pine stumps, needles, twigs, and cones. However, synthetic pine oil, created in 1995, now constitutes around 90% of the oil sold today.
Pine oil is renowned for its disinfectant and antiseptic qualities. It has found its way into household cleaners, particularly Pine-Sol, and is also utilized in wood and furniture cleaners. Pine oil-based products offer a pleasant and uplifting scent many people find enjoyable.
Advantages and Disadvantages Pine Oil Disinfectants
Advantages
Safe for Fabrics: Pine oil disinfectants are safe to use with light and dark fabrics, eliminating concerns about color fading, unlike bleach and hydrogen peroxide.
Odor Elimination: Pine oil has a delightful fragrance, making it an ideal option for eliminating unpleasant odours.
Effectiveness: Pine oil disinfectants are effective at removing stubborn stains.
Disadvantages
Allergic Reactions: Some individuals, particularly babies, may experience allergic reactions to pine oil, such as hives or rashes.
Expense: Pine oil disinfectants can be relatively expensive compared to other options.
Scent: While many enjoy the pine scent, it may make diapers and fabrics smell strongly of pine.
When It’s Ideal to Utilize Pine Oil Disinfectants
Pine oil disinfectants excel at removing stubborn stains and eliminating odors. For cloth diapers and other fabrics, consider using pine oil disinfectants in the following scenarios:
Spot Cleaning: Use pine oil disinfectants as a spot cleaner by gently rubbing the product directly onto stains. Allow the stained area to sit with the remover before proceeding to the soaking or washing cycle.
Soaking: If you prefer not to use pine oil cleaners in your washing machine, consider using a bathtub or a large bucket for soaking.
How to sanitize cloth diapers with Pine Oil Disinfectants
Pretreat Stains: Pour a small amount of the pine oil disinfectant directly onto the stain. Alternatively, pour some into a cup and use a toothbrush to work on the colors.
Allow Diapers to Sit: Let the diapers sit for 10-20 minutes with the stain remover applied.
Machine Wash: Put the cleaned diapers in the washing machine.
Add Detergent: Add your regular laundry detergent.
Wash on a Regular Cycle: Run a regular wash cycle.
If you use pine oil disinfectant in your washing machine as a cleaning agent, add one cup after filling the machine with water. It’s essential to note that pine oil disinfectants are not recommended for use on specialty fabrics, so always check with your cloth diaper manufacturer first.
Alternative Method: Pine Oil Disinfectants
Method:
Soak (for sanitizing used diapers or after stripping):
Two cups of pine oil disinfectant.
Use half a bathtub of cold water or a medium load in a non-HE washing machine.
Pros:
- No Fading: Pine oil disinfectants won’t cause fading to fabrics.
- Natural Choice: They offer a more “natural” disinfecting option.
- Effectiveness: Pine oil disinfectants are highly effective.
Cons:
- Expense: Pine oil disinfectants can be significantly more expensive than other options.
- Scent: They may impart a strong pine scent to the diapers.
- Oily Residue: Pine oil disinfectants may leave an oily residue that can be challenging to wash out, mainly when used during the treatment of yeast.
- The EPA registers Hexol and other pine oil disinfectants as effective disinfection options. However, they are relatively costly and may leave an oily residue. If you choose to use them, wash the diapers thoroughly using hot water and a strong detergent to remove any residue.
Step 1: Fill 1/2 bathtub with cold water (or use a medium load in a non-HE washing machine).
Step 2: Add 2 cups of pine oil disinfectant.
Step 3: Soak cloth diapers for the desired duration, then rinse well.
Note: Pine oil disinfectants are unsuitable when treating yeast or other bacterial/fungal infections due to potential residue and strong scent.
How to clean and sanitize cloth diapers with Grapefruit Seed Extract
An Overview of Grapefruit Seed Extract
Grapefruit Seed Extract is a natural antimicrobial agent extracted from grapefruit seeds and pulp. This extract is well-known for its powerful bacteria-fighting properties and delightful citrusy scent. You can find Grapefruit Seed Extract in various forms, including laundry powder, detergent, essential oil, and vitamin supplements.
It’s important to note that while some Grapefruit Seed Extract products are intended for human consumption, others are specifically designed for laundry and household use. If you plan to use it for laundry, opt for 100% grapefruit seed extract from a reputable source.
Advantages and Disadvantages Grapefruit Seed Extract
Advantages
Pleasant Scent: Grapefruit Seed Extract has a refreshing citrus scent that leaves fabrics smelling fresh and clean.
Natural: It is an entirely natural disinfectant, unlikely to cause allergic reactions.
Effectiveness: Grapefruit Seed Extract effectively disinfects and kills many viruses and bacteria without harsh chemicals.
Disadvantages
Stain Removal: While it excels at disinfection, Grapefruit Seed Extract does not remove stubborn stains. It’s best used in combination with stain removers like OxiClean.
Time-Consuming: To achieve maximum effectiveness, Grapefruit Seed Extract must sit on the diapers overnight, which requires time and planning.
When It’s Ideal to Utilize Grapefruit Seed Extract
Grapefruit Seed Extract is an excellent choice to eliminate mold or cloth diaper yeast. It is particularly effective against these issues. The human-consumable version can also be used after your baby has been sick, as it naturally kills many viruses and bacteria without relying on harsh chemicals.
Using Grapefruit Seed Extract requires patience and time to work effectively. Allowing it to sit on the diapers overnight is essential for optimal results.
How to sanitize cloth diapers with Grapefruit Seed Extract?
Prepare a Spray Solution: Fill a spray bottle with water and add ten drops of Grapefruit Seed Extract. Shake the bottle to ensure thorough mixing.
Spray the Diapers: Evenly spray the solution onto the cloth diapers, ensuring complete coverage.
Overnight Soak: Let the diapers sit overnight. This extended exposure time enhances the disinfection process.
Follow-Up Wash: After the overnight soak, wash the diapers using your preferred method to remove any remaining stains. Grapefruit Seed Extract is primarily a disinfectant and may not effectively remove stains.
Facts About Grapefruit Seed Extract
Grapefruit Seed Extract is often abbreviated as GSE, and it should not be confused with grapeseed extract.
GSE is synthesized from grapefruit seeds and pulp and possesses a broad spectrum of antimicrobial properties, including a microbicide, bactericide, fungicide, antiparasitic, and antiviral agent.
While GSE is effective, it can be relatively expensive compared to other disinfection options.
Some studies suggest that the preservatives in GSE, rather than the GSE itself, are responsible for its disinfectant properties, challenging its status as a purely natural alternative.
GSE is an excellent alternative to bleach for specific materials, such as non-colourfast knit and cotton fabrics, as they are less likely to fade. GSE is an excellent alternative to whiten for particular materials, such as non-colourfast knit and cotton fabrics, as they are less likely to fade.
For more evidence of GSE as a disinfecting agent, please see:
How to sanitize cloth diapers in the washing machine
An Overview of the Sanitizing Cycle
The sanitizing cycle is a specialized setting on your washing machine that adds protection and germ-fighting power to your regular laundry routine. Its primary purpose is to thoroughly eliminate stubborn germs and bacteria that a standard wash cycle might miss. Furthermore, it serves as a preventative measure to ensure that future loads of laundry are not contaminated by the germs accumulated in your machine.
Typically, the sanitizing cycle involves an additional rinse with boiling water or a final process with extra hot air in clothes dryers.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Sanitizing Cycle
Advantages
Effortless Sanitization: The sanitizing cycle simplifies, ensuring that your cloth diapers and clothing emerge from the wash free of germs and sanitized.
Disadvantages
Resource Intensive: The cycle consumes extra water and electricity, potentially increasing operational costs and environmental impact.
Time-Consuming: The extra cycle adds to the overall duration of the laundry process.
Stain Removal: While practical for disinfection, the sanitizing cycle does not address stain removal, necessitating a stain removal method.
When It’s Ideal to Utilize the Sanitizing Cycle
Illness: It is highly advisable to use the sanitizing cycle when your baby or household members are unwell. It helps eliminate germs from all cloth materials your baby has met, reducing reinfection risk.
Regular Maintenance: Using the sanitizing cycle periodically, such as once a month, is a proactive way to ensure ongoing sanitation, especially if you are not dealing with specific stains.
Incoming Germs: When clothing and bedding return from daycare or vacations, the sanitizing cycle can be instrumental in preventing foreign germs from infiltrating your home.
Instructions for Using the Sanitizing Cycles
The sanitizing cycle is typically straightforward and aligns with your washing machine or clothes dryer’s instructions. Follow these steps to complete the process, which may be outlined in your computer’s manual:
Follow Instructions: Refer to your machine’s user manual for guidance on activating the sanitizing cycle.
DIY Sanitization: If your machine lacks a dedicated cycle, create your DIY version by adding an extra rinse with the hottest water temperature available. Use this method sparingly, as excessive exposure to boiling water may damage the fabric over time.
Reasons for Sanitizing Cloth Diapers
Sanitizing cloth diapers is essential for various reasons:
Baby’s Illness: Sanitizing cloth diapers when your baby is sick or has a yeast infection prevents germ spread and maintains a clean, safe environment.
Diaper Rash Treatment: In cases of severe diaper rash requiring medicated ointments or creams, sanitation is vital to prevent contamination.
Pre-Owned Diapers: Sanitizing pre-owned cloth diapers before use is a common practice to ensure they are hygienic and safe for your baby.
Hand-Me-Downs: Before using cloth diapers for friends or family, thorough sanitation is necessary to maintain cleanliness and safety.
Do I need to sanitize used cloth diapers?
Sanitizing reusable cloth diapers is essential to ensure they are free from harmful bacteria and germs before being used on your baby or toddler. Inadequate washing of cloth diapers can lead to the persistence of various types of bacteria, some of which can cause skin infections, diarrhea, and urinary tract infections.
The most common bacteria found in improperly washed cloth diapers include:
Staphylococcus aureus (Staph): Commonly found on human skin and in various body areas, staph bacteria can lead to skin infections like impetigo.
Escherichia coli (E. coli): Some strains of E. coli, usually found in human and animal intestines, can lead to illnesses like diarrhea, urinary tract infections, respiratory disease, and pneumonia.
Proteus vulgaris:. This particular type of bacteria is commonly linked to urinary tract infections and other infections.
Ammonia/Bacteria: A flawed cloth diaper wash routine can leave behind ammonia and bacteria from feces, which may result in diaper rashes.
Additional Reasons to Sanitize Used Cloth Diapers
Apart from eliminating harmful bacteria, there are other compelling reasons to sanitize used cloth diapers:
Lingering Odor: Pre-loved diapers may retain lingering odors due to an improper wash routine, strong-smelling detergents, or indoor pets. Sanitizing can help minimize or eliminate these unwanted odors.
Stain Removal: Sanitizing modern cloth diapers may aid in the removal of stubborn stains that regular washing might not eliminate.
In addition to bacteria, improperly washed cloth diapers can also harbor yeast, a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida in the body. While the likelihood of pre-loved cloth diapers causing illness in your baby is low, sanitizing all secondhand items with bleach before use is advisable. Notably, diapers shared among siblings in the same household typically do not require sanitization.
Precautions When Sanitizing Used Cloth Diapers
- Check Diaper Material Compatibility
Not all cloth diaper materials are bleach-friendly. Some materials, like natural fibers (cotton, hemp, bamboo), can handle bleach better than synthetic ones. Always consult the diaper manufacturer’s guidelines to determine if bleach is safe.
- Perform a Patch Test
Conduct a patch test on one diaper before subjecting your entire diaper stash to bleach. This test helps you evaluate how the diaper material reacts to bleach and ensures it doesn’t cause damage or excessive fading.
- Use the Right Concentration
If bleach is compatible with your diapers, use the correct bleach-to-water ratio. Typically, a 1:10 bleach-to-water solution is recommended for sanitizing cloth diapers. Accurate measurements are crucial to avoid using too much bleach, which can lead to skin irritation.
- Properly Rinse Diapers
After sanitizing, rinse the diapers thoroughly. Any residual bleach can cause skin irritation, so it’s essential to remove it entirely. Multiple rinses may be necessary to ensure bleach is eliminated.
- Sun Dry Whenever Possible
Natural sunlight has natural disinfectant properties. Whenever feasible, sun-dry your sanitized diapers. Sunlight not only helps with disinfection but also aids in stain removal.
- Regular Maintenance
After sanitizing diapers, run an empty washing machine cycle to prevent cross-contamination with other laundry and keep the machine free from bleach residue.
- Observe Allergies and Sensitivities
Be cautious if you or your baby have bleach allergies or sensitivities. In such cases, explore alternative sanitization methods like hydrogen peroxide or vinegar.
- Assessing Water Hardness
The hardness of your water supply can impact the effectiveness of bleach. Excess iron in the water can lead to staining when it reacts with bleach. A simple test involves placing a drop of bleach and a piece of white fabric (such as a snippet from an old sock) into a container filled with tap water. After 15 minutes, check if the material turns orange. If it does, your water is hard. In cases of hard water, alternative disinfecting methods, like those mentioned in this guide, should be considered to prevent staining issues.
Fabric Damage
Bleach is a potent chemical that can damage fabric if not used correctly. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding bleach dilution and usage to protect your cloth diapers. Use bleach sparingly in your cloth diapering routine and reserve sanitization with bleach for specific situations. Bleaching should not become a regular part of your diaper care routine.
Color Fading
Bleach may cause colors on your cloth diapers to fade over time. While this doesn’t affect functionality, it’s worth considering if you prefer vibrant diaper colors.
Environmental Impact
Bleach is a chemical that can have negative environmental implications. If you’re an environmentally conscious parent, you may want to explore bleach alternatives that are gentler on the planet.
How often should I sanitize cloth diapers?
Sanitizing cloth diapers should be done on an as-needed basis. Typically, it would help if you sanitized them when issues arise, such as yeast infections, persistent odor problems, or when acquiring used diapers. Over-sanitizing can potentially damage the diapers, so doing it only when necessary is essential.
Safety Measures to Take When Sanitizing Cloth Diapers at Home
Wear Protective Gloves
To ensure your safety when handling bleach, always wear protective gloves. It will prevent any potential skin irritation or chemical burns, allowing you to carry out your tasks confidently.
Therefore, before you start sanitizing, ensure you have durable protective gloves.
Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions
Bleach is a potent chemical that should be used only as directed on the product packaging. Different bleach brands may have varying concentrations and usage instructions. To ensure proper sanitization and prevent accidents, carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the bleach container.
Never Mix Bleach with Another Cleaning Agent
One of the most critical precautions is never mixing bleach with any other cleaning agent. Combining bleach with other household cleaners can create toxic fumes that are harmful when inhaled, leading to respiratory problems and other health issues.
Check Bleach Expiry Date
Depending on storage, bleach typically has a shelf life of 6-12 months,. Over time, bleach degrades, and its effectiveness diminishes. Expired bleach may not provide the desired sanitization results. Therefore, it’s essential to check the expiry date on your bleach container and ensure that you’re using bleach that is within its recommended shelf life.
Consider Diaper Material
While the waterproof lining of most pocket diapers is made of a colorfast material known as PUL (Polyurethane Laminate), which does not fade in a bleach solution, the same cannot be said for all diaper materials. Knits and cotton fabrics, for instance, may fade even when bleach is properly diluted. Consider the materials of your cloth diapers before proceeding with bleach sanitization. If you have concerns about fading, you may want to explore alternative sanitization methods.
Is Oxygen Bleach Effective for Sanitizing Cloth Diapers?
Oxygen bleach, known as all-fabric bleach, is favored for its stain-removing and fabric-brightening abilities. While gentle and eco-friendly, it falls short in sanitizing used cloth diapers. Despite its allure, it may not effectively eliminate germs, making sodium hypochlorite bleach the most reliable for baby safety. In summary, when sanitizing cloth diapers, prioritize your baby’s well-being using bleach designed for disinfection.
Oxygen bleach, though appealing, may not thoroughly sanitize cloth diapers. Choose disinfecting bleach for your baby’s safety
FAQs
Q-1 How to sanitize used cloth diapers?
Dilute bleach in cold water and select a disinfectant-labeled bleach with at least 5.25% sodium hypochlorite, as indicated on the packaging, for effective modern cloth diaper sanitization.
Q-2 How do you clean cloth diapers naturally?
Enhance cloth diaper freshness and stain removal with baking soda, lemon juice (1/2 cup), and an extra rinse for improved water flow.
Q-3 Will the Bleach Ruin the Diapers?
It can potentially harm fabrics.
The Finals Word on Sanitizing Cloth Diapers
Ensuring that cloth diapers are adequately sanitized to maintain your baby’s health is essential and well-being. Following the outlined steps, including dilution, soaking, and thorough rinsing, you can effectively eliminate harmful microorganisms and maintain a hygienic diapering routine.
Also read
References
- 2022. Can You Bleach Baby Clothes? Link
- Bul Peroxide. 2022. How to Use Hydrogen Peroxide for Cleaning and Disinfecting. Link
- Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D, ThoughtCo. 2020. What Is Borax and How Is It Used? Link
- 2022. Link
- 2022. Lysol Laundry Sanitizer Kills 99.9% of Bacteria Detergents Leave Behind. Link
- Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, Kristeen Cherney, Healthline. 2019. What You Need to Know About Pine Essential Oil. Link
- Meredith Bull, ND, Cathy Wong, VeryWellHealth. 2021. What Is Grapefruit Seed Extract? Link