This post is about how to remove stains from cloth diapers.
Living in a cloudy or cold area can pose challenges when it comes to cloth diaper stain removal, especially when the traditional method of sun bleaching is not readily available at all times. However, fear not!
In this article, we will explore how to remove stains in cloth diapers caused by your baby or toddler’s poop, even in cloudy or cold climates.
When my daughter was born, we lived in an apartment in Maryland. So not only did we not have the space, we also lived in an area where the weather is cool/cold about 6 months out of the year.
Back then, we were cloth diapering part-time due to postpartum complications, but the cold weather certainly didn’t help, specially since it was out snowing the whole time!
READ MORE: Line-Drying Cloth Diapers Indoors in Small Spaces (Maximizing Space)
We now live in Texas, and while the sun is out most of the time, we still need to deal with hurricane season. That means that we still incorporate ways to remove stains without relying on sun-bleaching.
What are cloth diapers?
Cloth diapers are reusable alternatives to disposable diapers that are made from fabric materials. They are designed to be washed and reused multiple times, reducing waste and environmental impact.
Cloth diapers come in various styles, such as prefolds, flats, fitted diapers, and pocket diapers, each with its own features and benefits. They typically consist of an absorbent inner layer and a waterproof or water-resistant outer layer to prevent leaks.
Cloth diapers require regular washing and maintenance, but they offer a more sustainable and cost-effective option for diapering infants and young children.
READ MORE: Different Types of Cloth Diapers Explained
Why should you remove stains?
Treating cloth diaper stains is important for several reasons. Firstly, treating stains helps to maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of the cloth diapers. Stains can harbor bacteria and odors, which may lead to unpleasant smells and potential skin irritations for the baby.
By treating stains promptly, you can help ensure that the diapers remain fresh and free from any potential sources of discomfort.
Secondly, treating stains helps to prolong the lifespan of the cloth diapers. Stains, if left untreated, can become set-in and more difficult to remove over time.
By addressing stains promptly, you can prevent them from becoming permanent and potentially affecting the appearance and functionality of the diapers.
Lastly, treating stains is important for maintaining the resale value of cloth diapers. If you plan to sell or pass on your cloth diapers in the future, keeping them stain-free and in good condition will make them more appealing to potential buyers or recipients.
By treating cloth diaper stains you’re taking a proactive measure to ensure cleanliness, hygiene, longevity, and potential resale value of the diapers.
How to Remove Stains in Cloth Diapers
1. Pre-treat stains promptly
Acting quickly is crucial when dealing with stains, all stains. It is preferred when you change diapers, for you to head on to the bathroom and rinse the poopy diaper or throw away the poop-filled liner.
If immediate care of the diaper is not possible, I recommend not leaving the soiled diaper for more than 24 hours, as this will stain further and then become harder to remove both the poop and stains. Many follow the rule of thumb of rinsing diapers at the end of the day so they both not accumulate nor stain further.
Invest in a cloth diaper toilet spray for maximum result to prevent your cloth diapers to stain. I used to use a liners and a peri bottle to remove anything that got on the cloth diapers. And while this worked, it does not compare to the ease of using a toilet spray. 10/10 recommend if you are able to install one.
2. Utilize stain-removing products
Invest in quality stain-removing products that are specifically designed for stain removals but are still cloth diaper-friendly. For example, Oxiclean and Bleach are effective alternatives, as they can be effective even without sunlight.
Note that if you choose to use Bleach, let your diapers soak for 30 minutes in diluted bleach with water in either a bucket or bathtub. Many people choose to bleach their cloth diapers to clean them after receiving preloved diapers.
3. Try natural stain-removal remedies
If you prefer natural alternatives, several household items can help remove stains. For example, a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water can be used to treat stains. Like mentioned above, as when using Bleach, you can let your diapers soak in a diluted vinegar with water bath.
Baking soda paste, made by mixing baking soda with water, can also be effective for certain stains.
4. Have a cloth diaper wash routine that works for you
When laundering cloth diapers, continue your usual cloth diaper wash routine. Developing a cloth diaper wash routine that works for you depending on your water type and washing machine is crucial to maintaining your cloth diapers clean and extending their longevity.
Additionally, using a quality cloth diaper-friendly laundry detergent can enhance the cleaning process without damaging the cloth diapers.
READ MORE: Benefits of Line-Drying Cloth Diapers
To remove stains in cloth diapers and living in a cloudy or cold area doesn’t have to mean there are no alternatives to sun bleaching. By promptly pre-treating stains, utilizing stain-removing products, trying natural remedies, and continuing your cloth diaper wash routine, you can effectively remove stains and maintain your cloth diapers.
With these alternative methods, you can confidently tackle stains and keep your cloth diapers stainless, regardless of the weather conditions outside.
Other Cloth Diapering Posts:
- How to Store Dirty Cloth Diapers + 6 Storage Ideas
- The Best Cloth Diaper Storage Ideas for Small Spaces
- Benefits of Line-Drying Cloth Diapers
- Everything You Need to Know About Cloth Diapering a Newborn
- Can I Save Money with Cloth Diapers? Actual Cloth Diapers Cost