This post is about the benefits of line-drying cloth diapers.
Cloth diapers have gained popularity in recent years due to their eco-friendly nature and cost-effectiveness. One aspect of cloth diapering that often goes overlooked is the method of drying them.
While many parents opt for machine drying, line-drying cloth diapers offers a range of benefits that not only contribute to the longevity of the diapers but also promote sustainability and overall well-being.
In this article, I will explore the numerous advantages of line-drying cloth diapers and why it’s loved by so many families!
READ MORE: LINE-DRYING CLOTH DIAPERS INDOORS IN SMALL SPACES (MAXIMIZING SPACE)
1. Natural Stain Remover
This was the number one reason why I, and many parents as well, choose to line-dry their cloth diapers outside. Unless you are doing elimination communication and not dealing with poopy stains, poop will eventually stain your diapers. As you continue to cloth diaper, unfortunately, stains are part of the process. My most preferred method before reaching for any product, is to line-dry my diapers right out of the washer, and let the sun take care of the stains.
Credit image above to: The Country Bumpkins
2. Energy Efficiency
Line-drying cloth diapers is also an energy-efficient alternative to using a dryer. By harnessing the power of the sun and wind, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint, further proving that cloth diapering is good for the environment.
Traditional dryers consume a substantial amount of electricity, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Line-drying not only saves energy but also helps to conserve natural resources, making it a more sustainable choice.
3. Cost Savings
One of the primary reasons parents choose cloth diapers is to save money. Line-drying your cloth diapers can further enhance these savings. By eliminating the need for a dryer, you can reduce your monthly utility bills. Over time, these savings can add up significantly, making line-drying an economical choice for families.
READ MORE: Can I Save Money with Cloth Diapers? Actual Cloth Diapers Cost
Additionally, if you choose to line-dry your diapers, it can also motivate you to line-dry the rest of your laundry, since you have either already installed a line-drying rope or bought a drying rack.
4. Gentle on Fabrics
Cloth diapers are made of various materials, including cotton, bamboo, and hemp. These fabrics require gentle care to maintain their absorbency and durability.
Line-drying allows the diapers to air dry naturally, without the harsh heat and tumbling of a dryer. This gentle drying method helps to preserve the integrity of the fabrics, ensuring that your cloth diapers last longer.
Additionally, I have found that inserts, regardless of the materials, tend to take up to 2 hours in my drier to fully dry.
By air drying them in the 90-100 degree Texas heat, it almost becomes easier and faster than using a drier.
I will admit I do tend to forget to turn the drier on for a second round hours later and then suddenly it’s 10 pm and the diapers I need for the next day are still moist.
READ MORE: DIFFERENT TYPES OF CLOTH DIAPER INSERTS: COTTON, HEMP, BAMBOO, AND MICROFIBER
5. Natural Disinfection
Sunlight is a natural disinfectant and can help eliminate bacteria and odors from cloth diapers. When you line-dry your diapers outdoors, the UV rays from the sun work to naturally sanitize them, in addition to being a natural stain remover. This is particularly beneficial for families dealing with diaper rash or sensitive skin issues.
The sun’s rays can help kill bacteria and reduce the risk of infections, providing a hygienic and healthy diapering option.
6. Reduced Wear-and-Tear
The constant tumbling and heat exposure in a dryer can cause wear and tear on cloth diapers, leading to decreased absorbency and a shorter lifespan. Line-drying eliminates the mechanical stress and excessive heat, helping to maintain the integrity of the diapers.
This is the reason why it is recommended, that if you opt to use a drier, to choose the lowest settings available.
By reducing wear and tear, line-drying can extend the lifespan of your cloth diapers, allowing them to be used for multiple children or resold to other families.
7. Fresh Outdoor Scent
Line-drying cloth diapers outdoors gives them a fresh, natural scent. The gentle breeze and exposure to fresh air can leave your diapers smelling clean and revitalized.
This natural scent can be a pleasant change from the artificial fragrance often associated with dryer sheets or fabric softeners, both of which you should not be using in your cloth diapers.
Additionally, the absence of chemicals found in these products can be beneficial for babies with sensitive skin.
8. Connection with Nature: Grounding Opportunity
Line-drying cloth diapers provides an opportunity to connect with nature. Taking a few moments to hang the diapers on a clothesline allows you to step outside, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the beauty of the outdoors. This simple act can be a mindful and grounding experience, promoting a sense of well-being and reducing stress.
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Line-drying cloth diapers offers a multitude of benefits that go beyond just drying clothes. It is an energy-efficient, cost-saving, and eco-friendly option that promotes sustainability and prolongs the life of your cloth diapers.
The natural stain remover and disinfection properties of sunlight, reduced wear and tear, fresh outdoor scent, and the opportunity to connect with nature are additional advantages that make line-drying a compelling choice for cloth diapering families.
By incorporating line-drying into your cloth diaper routine, you can contribute to a greener planet while enjoying the many benefits it brings.
Other Cloth Diapering Posts:
- How to Store Dirty Cloth Diapers + 6 Storage Ideas
- Practicing Elimination Communication with Cloths Diapers
- The Best Cloth Diaper Storage Ideas for Small Spaces
- Everything You Need to Know About Cloth Diapering a Newborn