Caring for your nappies
New Nappies
For new nappies, wash 2-3 times before use to to remove any coatings used by manufacturers and to improve absorbency. Absorbency will continue to increase over next few washes. Hemp and bamboo nappies will benefit from 5-6 initial washes - but can be used after 2-3 washes.
Storage of soiled nappies
Remove any poo to the toilet and if you feel it is necessary rinse in the flush or with a shower attachment. Nappies can be 'dry pailed' with no soaking solution in a lidded bucket or a drawstring waterproof bag or can be soaked. Modern washing machines are however very efficient and mean that the mandatory soaking of the past is not now required. A nappy mesh can be used inside a bucket to reduce handling of the nappies. A few drops of tea tree oil or lavender oil on a cloth in the bucket can be included to minimise smells.
If you do choose to soak nappies half fill the bucket with water plus either 3-5 drops tea tree oil, 3-5 drops lavender oil. 2-3 tablespoons white vinegar or 1 tablespoon sodium bicarbonate. Most manufacturers do not recommend Napisan, bleach or Milton as they can adversely affect PUL or PVC wraps, Velcro/Aplix fastenings and elastic. A mild commercial nappy soak can be used e.g. BioD Nappy Fresh as this does not affect hook and loop fastenings. If you soak, keep the solution out of reach of young children and change the solution on a regular basis. A nappy mesh can aid draining of the bucket before changing the soaking solution or before washing.
Washing
Secure any hook and loop fastenings and wash nappies at 40 or 60oC using a third to a half of the usual amount of non-biological detergent to prevent build up of the detergent in the nappies. Wraps (except wool wraps) can usually be included with the nappies but check their label before washing. Hand washing of PUL wraps will improve longevity.
You may wish to perform a prewash or rinse prior to the main cycle particularly if you dry pail, the nappies are particularly soiled or if you use all in one nappies. Do not use fabric conditioner as it coats the fibres of the nappies and makes them less absorbent.
For wool wraps hand wash using wool shampoo and re-lanolise afterwards by soaking in a dilute solution of lanoliser overnight. Air dry wool wraps without rinsing the lanolin from the fabric. Wool wraps do not require washing after each use - just air dry and reuse. Wash and re-lanolise wool wraps every one to two weeks or if the waterproof properties fail.
Drying
Line drying is environmentally friendly and free. The sun will sanitise the nappies and will bleach any stains in the fabric. An airier can be used and if sited by a radiator in winter will dry nappies effectively. Avoid placing PUL wraps or all in ones directly on a radiator as the waterproof properties will be affected. If you are in a hard water area your nappies may become a little stiff after line drying.
A tumble dryer can generally be used for nappies (check washing instruction label). Drying on a low heat will prolong their life. If you choose to line dry and have a tumble dryer - a 15 minute cycle before or after air drying can help soften the cloth nappies.
Tumble drying waterproof wraps or all in one nappies may shorten the lifespan of the waterproof lining. Wool wraps are likely to shrink. Therefore line drying is recommended for these items.
Nappy usage tips
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