Using and Washing Instructions
Using and washing real nappies is not difficult, it is the same as washing any other clothes.
Pre wash
Before you put a cotton nappy on your baby it should be pre-washed at least twice. Like a well-worn towel a nappy gets better with use. The more you wash the nappy the more absorbent it gets, so it may need to be washed six times before it is at its best.
Caring for nappy covers
Nappy covers need special care and attention to keep them waterproof. Make sure you do not exceed the maximum temperature stated and always use a non-biological detergent. The covers will last longer if they are hand washed, towel dried to remove excess moisture then air-dried. If you are machine washing, do up the Velcro and turn inside out for thorough washing.
Storing nappies
Any soling on the nappy can be scrubbed off in the sink using a long handled washing up brush. If your shower is near to the toilet you can shower off the poo into the toilet. A laundry net in the nappy bucket ensures a quick transfer of nappies into the washing machine. No soaking is necessary as a few drops of your favourite essential oil in the container will make the container smell nice (but because the poo has been flushed away, you are not soaking in chemicals then the container does not usually get smelly). Hand rinse your waterproof covers and drip dry. Never soak waterproof covers.
If you want to, you can soak nappies to help prevent stains setting, although this is not essential. Change the solution everyday. Add one of the following to a bucket of water:
- 1 tbs bicarbonate of soda
- 2-3 tbs white vinegar
- 5 drops of tea tree oil
- 2 tbs lemon juice
Washing nappies
When you have a couple of days worth of dirty nappies, place them in the washing machine and put on a short rinse and spin cycle then add the rest of your whites and non-bio detergent on any degree cycle suitable to you. You can also use a laundry ball/disk. You can wash nappies separately if you prefer by using a pre-wash cycle in order to rinse them with fresh water first. A 60 degree wash is adequate but then again, its your choice what wash you choose. Boil washing is not necessary, but if you prefer, you can choose this option. Do not use bleach or biological detergents as they can ruin the elastic, and do not use fabric softeners as they coat the cotton in chemicals. To make your nappies soft, use a tablespoon of vinegar in the final rinse.
