How to Wash Cloth Diapers: A Simple, Effective Guide for Clean Diapers Every Time
Learning how to wash cloth diapers can feel overwhelming at first, but once you understand the basics, cloth diaper laundry becomes one of the easiest parts of your routine. Whether you are using Lighthouse Kids Company cloth diapers or another brand, the washing process is simple, effective, and beginner friendly.
This guide will walk you through how to wash cloth diapers step by step, explain how often to wash them, share the best detergents to use, and give you helpful tips to keep your diapers smelling fresh and functioning well. If you have ever wondered how to wash cloth diapers correctly or how to simplify your cloth diaper laundry routine, this article will help you feel confident and stress-free.
The Basics: How to Wash Cloth Diapers
Below is the straightforward wash routine recommended for Lighthouse Kids Company diapers. This method works for AIO diapers, pocket diapers, inserts, flats, and covers.
Step 1: Remove Solids Before Washing
Before you begin washing cloth diapers, make sure all solids (poop) are removed. There are several cloth diaper-friendly ways to do this:
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Use a disposable or reusable liner to catch solids
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Use a diaper sprayer
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Flip solids into the toilet when the baby starts eating solid foods
This step ensures your main wash can work more effectively.
Step 2: Prewash in Cold Water With No Detergent
Run a short cold water cycle with no detergent. This prewash removes leftover urine, residue, and any small particles left after removing solids. Cold water is recommended because it is energy efficient and helps loosen debris without setting stains.
Step 3: Main Wash Cycle With Hot Water and Detergent
This is the most important step in washing cloth diapers.
Run a long or heavy-duty cycle using hot water around 140°F or 60°C.
Add a high-quality detergent that is safe for cloth diapers.
After the main wash is complete, run one additional cold rinse to ensure all detergent is fully removed.
A proper main wash is key to keeping your cloth diapers clean, safe, and absorbent.
Step 4: Drying Your Cloth Diapers
Dry your diapers on low heat in the dryer or hang them to dry.
Hanging cloth diaper shells can extend their lifespan since TPU and elastic last longer with gentle care. Inserts and AIO diapers can be dried on low without issues.
Helpful Tips for Washing Cloth Diapers Successfully
Over years of experience working with thousands of families, the Lighthouse Kids Company team has learned what helps cloth diaper laundry routines run smoothly. Here are our top suggestions.
Do Not Overload the Washer
A typical regular-sized washing machine can handle around 18 cloth diapers per load. Overloading the washer prevents proper agitation, which can lead to odor, buildup, or stains.
Wash Every 2 to 3 Days
Washing cloth diapers regularly prevents mold, ammonia buildup, and lingering odors. If you live in a humid climate, washing frequently is especially important.
Choose the Right Detergent
Although Lighthouse Kids Company does not require one specific detergent, many of our customers have had success with:
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Original Tide
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Tide Free and Clear
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Rockin Green Dirty Diaper Detergent
Avoid Borax because it can be harsh on bamboo, inserts, and the diaper shell.
What a Typical Washing Day Looks Like
Here is a simple example of what washing cloth diapers might look like in your home:
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Spray or remove solids when the baby poops
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Store dirty diapers in a wet bag until you have a full load
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Run your prewash and main wash cycles at night
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Transfer diapers to the dryer in the morning
This schedule keeps the process simple and consistent.
How to Prep Cloth Diapers Before First Use
Lighthouse Kids Company cloth diapers use natural bamboo knit inserts, which are highly absorbent but require several washes before reaching full performance. Bamboo contains natural oils that must be washed out before it can hold maximum moisture.
How Many Times Should You Wash Cloth Diapers Before Use?
Lighthouse Kids Company diapers reach full absorbency after about 5 wash cycles.
You can absolutely use the diapers after the first wash, but if you notice leaks, it may be because the inserts are still absorbing at a lower capacity.
How to Prep Cloth Diapers
Prepping cloth diapers is simple:
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Prewash with reduced detergent
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Complete a short dry cycle
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Repeat until you reach about 5 total washes
You do not need to scrub, soak, or boil anything. Just wash and dry repeatedly.
As the inserts prep, you will notice the fabric becomes slightly textured around the edges and no longer lies perfectly flat. This is normal and means your bamboo insert has reached its full absorbency. There is no need to stretch or flatten it.
Best Detergents for Washing Cloth Diapers
Our team has guided thousands of parents through cloth diaper laundry routines, and through that experience, we have seen which detergents perform best with natural fibers and modern TPU shells.
Here are the top detergents we recommend for washing cloth diapers:
1. Original Tide
This is one of the most effective detergents for getting cloth diapers thoroughly clean. It handles stink, buildup, and heavy soils very well.
The only downside is that overuse may cause repelling, so measure carefully.
2. Tide Free and Clear
A great choice for babies with sensitive skin, eczema, or fragrance reactions. Tide Free and Clear still cleans extremely well while being gentle on skin.
3. Rockin Green Dirty Diaper Laundry
A more natural detergent option. Ideal for families who want to avoid stronger commercial detergents but still need effective cleaning power.
Always follow detergent instructions and avoid products that use fabric softeners or additives that can coat fibers.
Why a Good Wash Routine Matters for Cloth Diapering
A strong wash routine is the foundation of successful cloth diapering. Clean diapers absorb better, last longer, and keep your baby comfortable. Proper washing extends the lifespan of TPU, elastic, and bamboo inserts, and prevents common issues like ammonia smells, rashes, and leaks.
Consistency is more important than perfection. Once you find a routine that works for your home, water hardness, and machine type, cloth diaper laundry becomes predictable and easy.
Final Thoughts: Cloth Diaper Laundry Can Be Simple
Learning how to wash cloth diapers does not need to be complicated. By following a simple prewash and main wash routine, choosing a reliable detergent, and washing every few days, you can keep your diapers clean, fresh, and performing beautifully.
Whether you are wondering how to wash cloth diapers for the first time or looking to improve your routine, Lighthouse Kids Company is here to help you make cloth diapering simple, sustainable, and enjoyable.
