As the pandemic continues to disrupt the supply chain and inflate prices for disposable diapers, many families are embracing cloth diapers as a viable alternative. While the upfront investment may be higher due to the need for a substantial supply of diapers and accessories, switching to cloth can save families hundreds of dollars in the long run. Cloth diapers are generally gentler on a baby’s delicate skin, and their vibrant colors and patterns add a fun touch. Moreover, they are eco-friendly, reducing the number of disposable diapers that end up in landfills—did you know a single-use diaper can take up to 500 years to decompose? To effectively manage cloth diapers, having the right detergent is essential.
How Often Should You Wash Cloth Diapers?
Caring for cloth diapers isn’t always straightforward, especially when faced with the unpleasant odor of soiled diapers awaiting laundering. It’s recommended to wash them every two days at most—three days is the absolute limit—to prevent stains and ammonia buildup. Unlike disposable options, cloth diapers aren’t as efficient in moisture-wicking, which may necessitate more frequent changes during the first few months of your baby’s life.
Choosing the Best Cloth Diaper Detergent
An effective cloth diaper detergent needs to be powerful enough to tackle even the most challenging messes while remaining gentle on sensitive skin. “If a detergent is effective for regular laundry and is free from fabric softeners, it will likely work for your diapers,” states Jenna Smith, a cloth diapering enthusiast and founder of the blog, DiaperDiaries.com. “Treat them like a heavily soiled load of laundry.”
When selecting a detergent, avoid those with brighteners or fabric softeners that may hinder a diaper’s absorbency. It’s also wise to steer clear of potentially harmful ingredients like parabens, phosphates, and formaldehyde. Below are some of the top detergents for cloth diapers, including natural options and those ideal for hard water, to make laundry day easier.
Top Detergents for Cloth Diapers
- Babyganics Laundry Detergent – $14.99
- Bambino Mio Miofresh Laundry Detergent, 6-Pack – $45
- The Laundress Baby Detergent, 2-Pack – $71
- Best Natural Detergent for Cloth Diapers: Nellie’s Non-Toxic Detergent – $20.99
- Seventh Generation Detergent – $13.99
- Best Detergent for Hard Water: Charlie’s Soap Laundry Detergent – $12.99
- Rockin’ Green Hard Rock Detergent – $21.99
Bambino Mio’s detergent is a standout, effective in eliminating odors and built without brighteners or enzymes. Users love that it maintains the absorbency of their cloth diapers. The Laundress Baby Detergent, created by founders who couldn’t find a gentle enough option for their own clothes, is made from plant-based ingredients and is allergen-free. Babyganics is praised for its plant-derived formula, while Nellie’s Non-Toxic Detergent is celebrated for its ability to keep diapers fresh without any residue.
Seventh Generation offers a triple-enzyme formula that is both effective and environmentally friendly. For households with hard water, Charlie’s Soap and Rockin’ Green Hard Rock provide solutions that combat mineral buildup without compromising diaper quality.
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Summary
Finding the right detergent for cloth diapers is essential for maintaining cleanliness and ensuring your baby’s comfort. Look for powerful yet gentle formulations that avoid harmful chemicals and enhance absorbency. With options like Babyganics and Nellie’s Non-Toxic Detergent, keeping your little one’s diapers fresh and clean is achievable.