Table of Contents

How to strip cloth diapers – [Guide2023]

What is diaper stripping?

If you’re confused about the term “diaper stripping,” don’t worry. We’re here to help you understand what it means. Diaper stripping is like a superhero cleaning mission for cloth diapers. Its main job is eliminating mineral and germ buildup that can mess with your diapers’ absorbency, causing leaks.

Diaper stripping is like giving your cloth diapers a spa day to refresh them and ensure they work their best. But when should you summon this superhero cleaning squad? We’ll explore that, too. So, join us; we’ll unravel its importance and figure out How to strip cloth diapers and when to call in the cleaning heroes.

How do you know when to strip cloth diapers?

Knowing when and how to strip your cloth diapers is essential for maintaining their effectiveness and longevity. Here are some signs that it may be time to strip your cloth diapers

Lingering Odors: If your diapers retain a foul smell, even after a thorough wash, it’s a sign that detergent or urine residues may be trapped in the fabric.

Reduced Absorbency: If your cloth diapers seem less absorbent and prone to leaks, it could be due to mineral buildup from untreated hard water or excessive detergent use.

Hard Water Usage: Regularly washing cloth diapers in untreated hard water can lead to mineral deposits adhering to the fabric, affecting their performance.

Detergent Incompatibility: Using a laundry detergent unsuitable for cloth diapers can result in detergent buildup, reducing their absorbency.

Second-hand Diapers: If you’ve acquired used cloth diapers and are unsure of the previous owner’s washing routine, it’s a good practice to strip them to eliminate any potential residues.

Why Does Buildup Happen?

Many things can cause a buildup on your cloth diapers:

Diaper Cream: Not all diaper creams are suitable for cloth diapers. Some can create a layer of residue that prevents the diaper from absorbing correctly. If you need more clarification, try a different cream to see if it helps.

Detergent: Choosing the suitable detergent is crucial when washing cloth diapers. A detergent specifically designed for washing cloth diapers is recommended to avoid buildup. Using too much detergent, especially in the main wash, or using the wrong kind of detergent can accumulate on the diaper’s surface, causing it to repel liquid instead of absorbing it. You can test if the diaper is absorbent by pouring water and checking if it beads up.

Water Quality: The type of water in your home can also play a role. If you have untreated hard water, it contains minerals that can stay on your diapers during washing, making it harder for your washing machine to remove waste. Using water softeners or detergents with softening agents can help solve this issue.

Stripping should not be a routine procedure but a solution for specific situations where buildup or odor issues persist. Proper laundering with the correct detergent is usually sufficient to maintain clean and absorbent cloth diapers.

When is Diaper Stripping Unnecessary?

If you’ve washed your diapers a few times in untreated hard water, stripping is usually unnecessary.
If you’re switching from one common detergent to another and haven’t had any issues before, you typically don’t need to strip.
If you’re purchasing used diapers instead of spending time stripping them, that’s perfectly fine! Just remember to use bleach; it’s the most crucial step. Consider considering stripping if you encounter problems after using bleach.
Diaper components that don’t soak up liquids, like covers and pocket shells, generally don’t require stripping because they lack absorbent layers.

How to Strip Cloth Diapers?

Method 1. GroVia Mighty Bubbles

Step 1: Organizing and Adding the Pod

Begin the diaper stripping process by ensuring your cloth diapers are clean and have undergone a standard wash cycle.

Allocate one GroVia Mighty Bubbles pod for every 24 diapers, which includes covers, inserts, prefolds, or flats. If you find yourself dealing with more than 24 diapers, handle them in separate loads while adhering to the exact instructions.

Step 2: Initiating the Wash Cycle and Extra Rinse

Deploy your washing machine’s most extended and robust wash cycle at a high temperature. Include one Mighty Bubbles pod in the wash but avoid introducing detergent or supplementary additives.

Conclude the washing process with an extra hot rinse or wash cycle to ensure thorough cleansing.

Step 3: Performing a Sniff Test and Drying

After the final rinse, evaluate the diapers for any lingering odours. If you detect any unwelcome scents or issues like diaper rashes, consider repeating steps 2 and 3, with a maximum of three repetitions if needed.

Finally, dry the diapers as you typically would, and they’ll be ready for use.

There is no need to pre-soak when using GroVia Mighty Bubbles.GroVia strongly advises against pre-soaking, as their product is expertly designed to deliver optimal results in your washing machine, eliminating the need for extra time and effort.

Now, let’s delve into another effective laundry treatment: GroVia Mighty Bubbles Laundry Treatment, available in a convenient pod format and specially formulated to eliminate buildup from diapers. Here’s how to utilize it for diaper stripping:

Method 2. RLR laundry treatment

Step 1: Sorting the Diapers

How to strip diapers with RLR? Before embarking on the RLR soaking method for cloth diapers, organizing your diaper collection is essential. Unlike regular laundry, cloth diapers pose a unique challenge. They consist of multiple layers and intricate weaves deeply embedded in contaminants. Urine, minerals, and other residues can penetrate the diaper’s inner layers, necessitating a more thorough cleaning approach.

Step 2: Adding One Pack of RLR + a Small Amount of Detergent

You’ll need a packet of RLR detergent and a suitable vessel for an effective RLR soak. One packet is generally sufficient for about 30 diapers. The precise amount may differ depending on the number of diapers you have. Prepare your vessel, whether it’s a bathtub, top loading washing machine, or other suitable container.

Fill the vessel with hot water, ensuring that the diapers are fully submerged. Add one packet of RLR detergent to the water and a small amount of detergent to enhance the cleaning process. Adding detergent is particularly valuable due to the complex nature of cloth diapers, as it aids in breaking down contaminants and achieving a comprehensive cleanse.

Step 3: Running the Longest Cycle Available

Now, let’s explore the steps specific to various types of washing machines:

For Bathtub or Top-Loading Washing Machine

If you’re utilizing a bathtub or top loading washing machine for the RLR soak, follow these guidelines:

Place approximately 12-16 clean diapers in the vessel, adjusting the quantity if you’re using a smaller tub or container. Divide the package of RLR accordingly based on your diaper count.

First, fill the tub or machine with hot water until the diapers are entirely covered. Next, add one package of RLR to the water and stir until it has dissolved. If you are using a large tub and doubling the number of diapers, increase the amount of RLR packets accordingly.

Now how long to soak cloth diapers?

Allow the diapers to soak for approximately 5-6 hours or overnight if it aligns with your schedule.

Gently wring out the diapers and transfer them to your washing machine.

To ensure proper cleaning, please run two hot wash cycles – one without detergent and the other with detergent.

Dry the diapers as you typically would.

For Front-Loading Washing Machine

Front-loading machines present a slight challenge when it comes to soaking diapers, but it’s still achievable. Here’s what to do:

Load 12-16 clean diapers into the machine and add one packet of RLR directly.

Select the largest HOT water cycle available and allow the machine to fill up while ensuring the diapers are adequately immersed.

Let the machine run for a minute or two, then pause it to initiate the soaking process, which should last a couple of hours.

Periodically unpause the machine every hour or two, allowing it to agitate for a few minutes. It ensures that all diapers remain soaked in the water and RLR mixture throughout stripping.

Once the soaking duration reaches approximately 6 hours, resume the machine’s cycle, including the regular rinse cycle.

Follow up with another hot wash cycle, this time using detergent.

Proceed to dry the diapers as per your usual routine.

RLR may not be readily available at large retail stores but can often be found on Amazon or at local cloth diaper shops. It may sell out periodically due to its popularity but typically restocks.

RLR is a laundry additive that effectively binds to buildup in your diapers, facilitating removal. This method is primarily employed when the advertisement is caused by hard water, as its use in soft water can result in excessive suds.

Method 3. DIY Stripping Solution

Step 1-Fill a vessel with hot water.

You’ll need a suitable container for your cloth diapers to commence the DIY stripping process. Whether it’s your bathtub, laundry sink, top-loading washing machine, or any other sizeable vessel, it should be filled approximately halfway with hot water. The key here is to achieve the highest hot water setting available, as it plays a pivotal role in the procedure’s effectiveness.

Step 2: Create the Solution

Prepare your DIY mineral stripping solution by combining specific ingredients. A blend of Washing Soda, Borax, and Calgon is recommended for optimal results. The measurements are as follows:

Three tablespoons of each component are required for one stripping session. This concoction serves a dual purpose as both a cleaning and laundry booster.

If you possess only two ingredients, utilize a quarter cup of each.

A half cup will suffice if you have just one of these components.

Ensure thorough mixing to create the solution. It’s worth noting that this mixture can also function as a potent cleaning and laundry-enhancing agent.

Step 3: Soak for 4-6 Hours

Submerge your cloth diapers into the container filled with the hot water and DIY stripping solution. Ideally, allow them to soak for a duration spanning between four to six hours. This timeframe is deemed optimal for achieving the desired results. It’s essential to avoid excessively short or prolonged cloth diaper soak periods, with a minimum of two hours and a maximum of eight hours serving as the recommended limits.

Stirring the contents occasionally during the soaking process helps to maintain an effective mixture.

Step 4: Wash with Hot Water

Once the soaking period has concluded, drain the container and gently squeeze out any remaining water from the cloth diapers. The next step involves running your diapers through a cold wash cycle without adding detergent.

For added effectiveness and to address any lingering bacteria concerns, consider following this cold wash cycle with a cold-water bleach soak, lasting approximately 30 minutes.

For the complete removal of any remaining minerals, it’s advisable to wash your cloth diapers at least two times as a part of a thorough washing routine. If you have hard water, including a water softener in your process is crucial.

The final step involves drying your cloth diapers, which can be achieved by either hanging them to air dry or employing a low-temperature drying setting.

By diligently following these steps, you can successfully employ the DIY stripping solution to revitalize your cloth diapers, ensuring their continued freshness and functionality.

How often should I strip my cloth diapers?

Stripping cloth diapers is something you do only sometimes. It’s more of a solution for situations. Ideally, you will only need to do it occasionally. But if you notice gunk and buildup on your cloth diapers, cleaning them and making them fresh and thoroughly clean again is vital.

Let’s talk about which cloth diaper items need a deep cleaning and which don’t.

Here’s the rule of thumb: If it’s got absorbent stuff inside, it’s a candidate for stripping. These include:

But when it comes to items like covers or all-in twos, they’re a no-go for stripping. Why? Because these parts don’t soak up liquids, trying to strip them might mess with their waterproof abilities.

How do you strip cloth diapers naturally?

Mix three tablespoons of washing soda, Borax, and Calgon each to get started. Put the diapers into this mixture and give it a good stir or shake to get things moving. For a more detailed cleaning, consider using a gentle scrub brush to clean the absorbent parts of the diaper. It will ensure that the stripping solution gets into the fabric and does its job correctly.

How do you strip cloth diapers with vinegar?

During one of the rinse cycles, incorporate 1/2 to 1 cup of white vinegar to strip cloth diapers effectively using vinegar. You can either pour it into the detergent drawer or toss it directly onto the diapers.

How do you strip cloth diaper inserts?

To start, dispose of any solid waste in the toilet. For added convenience, consider getting a diaper sprayer, a helpful tool for your diapering routine.

Next, separate the diaper cover from the insert before washing. This separation guarantees that each part gets a thorough cleaning.

Collect the covers, inserts, wet bags, or pail liners and assemble them in the washing machine. This approach helps maintain cleanliness and hygiene.

Begin with a cold rinse cycle to eliminate any remaining residues, ensuring your cloth diaper inserts are fresh and ready for the next washing phase.

These careful steps keep your cloth diaper inserts in excellent condition, free from lingering impurities.

How to strip cloth diapers with bleach?

When using bleach on cloth diapers, it’s best to be cautious. Regular bleach with chlorine can harm the colors of your diapers and make the fabric wear out faster. So, using non-chlorine bleach only when necessary is a good idea.

Sometimes, bleaching cloth diapers are suggested for plain, uncolored flats and pre-fold diapers. But it’s important to read the instructions from the diaper manufacturer. Most modern cloth diapers are not meant to be bleached. Always follow the recommendations to keep your cloth diapers in great shape and working well.

How to strip diapers with Dawn?

Make sure the diapers are entirely wet ,apply a small amount of Dawn dish soap to the inside fabric of each diaper. Clean them by rubbing the diaper against itself or using a toothbrush gently. Clean the whole diaper, mainly focusing on areas with buildup and residue.

How do you strip diapers in a washer?

To begin with, it is essential to wash your cloth diapers thoroughly in hot water, ensuring no detergent is used. If you’re dealing with hard water, follow the instructions on the Calgon container and add it as needed. This initial step should be repeated 3-4 times, but if hard water is an issue, limit it to just two cycles.

After washing the diapers, it is essential to dry them correctly and with care.Use low heat, let air dry naturally, or hang them on a clothesline. Each method will get your diapers in excellent shape for future use.

These simple steps will keep your cloth diapers fresh and free from buildup.

What to do After Stripping Your Diapers?

After stripping your diapers, it’s a great idea to air dry them in the sunlight. The sun is a natural disinfectant, eliminating bacteria while leaving your diapers with a fresh fragrance. This step adds extra cleanliness to your cloth diapers, ensuring they are ready for your baby’s subsequent use.

FAQ

Q-1 Should I strip used cloth diapers?

When receiving second-hand cloth diapers, it’s advisable to strip them to remove potential residues.

Q-2 Will bleach ruin my cloth diapers?

A correctly diluted bleach soak won’t damage cloth diapers; it’s safe for all fabrics except wool or silk, as polyester and PUL won’t fade.

Q-3 Why do my cloth diapers smell?

Cloth diapers emit an ammonia stink when urine, containing urea, chemically changes as it breaks down, causing the odor.

Q-4 Why do my cloth diapers smell like ammonia?

The ammonia smell in cloth diapers may stem from hard water, irregular washing, improper detergent usage, or concentrated baby urine.

Q-5 How do you get the ammonia smell out of cloth diapers?

To eliminate the ammonia odor from cloth diapers, soak them overnight in water with added vinegar to lower the water’s pH. This dilution process aids in effectively removing residues from the diapers. Ensure the soaking is done safely away from the baby to prevent potential hazards.

Q-6 How to strip new cloth diapers?

You don’t need to strip new cloth diapers. Give them a good wash and dry to prep natural fibers like cotton, bamboo, or hemp, and they’ll be ready to use.

Final thoughts

We hope you will be aware of how to strip cloth diapers. Giving your cloth diapers a good strip-down is like a superhero movie for their performance and lifespan. Whether battling mineral buildup, pesky detergent residues, or funky odors, these stripping techniques swoop in to rescue your cloth diapers. They’ll come out fresh, absorbent, and smelling as sweet as a daisy. Remember to use hot water, the proper detergents, and the occasional bleach or vinegar treatment – they’re your diaper superheroes! Watch for signs of trouble and be the diaper detective your baby needs. When it’s time to strip, you’ll be their diaper hero, ensuring a comfy and happy experience for you and your little sidekick!

Also read: