How to wash cloth nappies

Cleaning cloth nappies is easy—no soaking, scrubbing, or special detergents required. Follow our simple 4-step washing guide to achieve perfectly clean cloth nappies every time.

Washing dirty cloth nappies in 4 simple steps:

Step 1: Remove solids

Drop poo in the loo and store the used cloth nappy in a dry pail. 

Step 2: Pre-wash cycle

Run a pre-wash cycle 40-60 degrees with detergent every 1-2 days. This removes the majority of soiling and gets your nappies ready for the main-wash. Store nappy in a dry pail until the main wash.

Step 3: Main-wash cycle

Run a long main-wash cycle 40-60 degrees with detergent every 2-3 days.

Step 4: Hang to dry

Air dry nappies until completely dry.

Wash Routine Example:

Everyone will develop their own washing routine to suit their lifestyle, here’s an example washing routine to show you how simple it can be.

Every morning

Run a pre-wash cycle containing yesterday's used nappies and last night’s night nappy. Place pre-washed nappies into a dry pail once finished.

Every second night

Run a main-wash cycle containing all pre-washed nappies from the dry pail. Make this a long wash at 40-60 degrees. Hang to dry the following morning.

Prepping Your New Cloth Nappies

Why is it important to prep your new cloth nappies? Like any absorbent fabrics (think bath towels or tea towels) the fibres need to be softened and ‘worn in’ to help them reach their maximum absorbency. If you want to, you can repeat the prep steps above 2-3 times on the inserts to really maximise absorption. 

How to prepare your new EcoNaps cloth nappies before first-time use:

Step 1: Soak your inserts overnight in warm water. 

Step 2: Wash both inserts & covers with detergent. 

Step 3: Completely dry inserts and covers. 

Step 4: Your new nappies are now ready to use!

Free Download: How to wash cloth nappies laundry template

Make fitting cloth nappies simple for anyone in your household. Print this free guide and keep it in your laundry room for an effortless washing experience.

Download our free washing cloth nappies laundry template here