The Ultimate Guide to Washing Reusable Cloth Wipes
Reusable cloth wipes have become more popular as a sustainable and cost-effective choice for baby care, especially when using cloth diapers. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the step-by-step process of washing reusable cloth wipes, ensuring that they remain effective, hygienic, and environmentally friendly.
Prepping Your Cloth Wipes
Before diving into the washing process, it's essential to prepare your cloth wipes. Because our reusable cloth wipes are made out of athletic wicking jersey (AWJ) and bamboo velour the natural oils in the fabric must be fully washed out.
To prep your wipes, wash them at least 5 times so they can become fully absorbent. This doesn't mean that you can't use them after one wash, it does mean however, that the bamboo won't reach its full absorbency until the 5th wash. If you notice the wipe repelling, it may be due to a lack of prepping or washing.
Stain Removal
All cloth diaper items stain, including reusable cloth wipes. It does not personally bother me, but if you'd like to address stains on your cloth wipes, you can pre-treat them before washing them. Create a simple stain removal solution using a mixture of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stained areas and let it sit for a few minutes before tossing the wipes into the laundry.
Machine Washing Reusable Cloth Wipes
Our reusable cloth wipes are machine washable, making the cleaning process convenient and efficient. You can place the cloth wipes in a mesh laundry bag to prevent them from tangling with other items in the wash if you'd like, or just toss them with your regular cloth diaper laundry. Then, use our simple wash routine; prewash cold with no detergent to get rid of any residue, the warm/hot with detergent of choice, then follow with an extra rinse.
Drying Cloth Wipes
After the wash cycle is complete, consider air-drying your cloth wipes to minimize environmental impact. Hang them on a clothesline or drying rack to benefit from the natural breeze and sunlight. If you prefer using a dryer, opt for a low-heat setting to prevent any potential damage to the fabric.
Storing Clean Cloth Wipes
Once your reusable cloth wipes are clean and dry, it's important to store them properly. You can keep them in a dry wipe container or a diaper warmer, just remember, if you are using a diaper warmer to change the solution every 2 days to avoid mold.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you live in a warm or humid climate, we recommend not using a wipe warmer with solution due to the high chance of developing mold. You can always spray the cloth solution on the baby and then wipe.
What To Do With Your Wipes When You're Done With Baby
Once you are done with your cloth diapering days, these can be sanitized and used as cloth napkins, washcloths, and so much more! They can even be used in the kitchen as cleaning rags.
By following these steps and incorporating eco-friendly practices, individuals can make the most of their cloth wipes, extending their lifespan and minimizing their environmental impact. As we collectively strive for a greener and more sustainable future, adopting proper washing habits for reusable cloth wipes becomes an integral part of embracing a more mindful and eco-conscious lifestyle.
