How to Strip, Wash, and Sanitize Your Nanny & Nature Cloth Nappies

Taking care of your Nanny & Nature cloth nappies is simple, and with proper care, they will last for years while keeping your baby comfortable, dry, and happy. Below is everything you need to know to keep your cloth nappies in top condition—stripping, washing, and sanitizing them properly.

1. How to Strip Wash Your Cloth Nappies

Stripping your nappies is an essential process to remove detergent build-up, oils, and other residues that can affect absorbency and cause odours. Stripping is usually needed if:

• The nappies are starting to smell even after washing.
• They are not as absorbent as they used to be.
• There is build-up or staining that won’t come out with regular washing.

How to Strip Wash:

• Step 1: Fill your washing machine with hot water (around 60°C) and add your Nanny & Nature nappies. It’s important not to overload the machine to ensure the nappies get a proper wash.
• Step 2: Add a cloth nappy-safe stripping product or white vinegar (1/4 cup) to the water. Avoid fabric softeners or heavy-duty detergents, as these can damage the nappy fabrics and impact their performance.
• Step 3: Run a complete wash cycle on a hot setting. After this, check the water for bubbles or any detergent residue. If the water is still soapy, repeat the process until the water runs clear and clean.
• Step 4: You may need to run 2-3 rinse cycles to make sure all the soap is washed out.

2. How to Wash Your Cloth Nappies

Regular washing is essential to keep your nappies in good condition. Washing your Nanny & Nature nappies the right way will help them stay fresh, absorbent, and free from bacteria.

How to Wash:

• Step 1: Pre-rinse the nappies in cold water to remove excess waste and residue.
• Step 2: Use a cloth-safe detergent that is free from brighteners, fabric softeners, and harsh chemicals. Add the detergent as per the recommended amount (avoid overusing detergent as it can cause build-up).
• Step 3: Wash your nappies on a warm to hot wash (around 40°C-60°C), depending on the fabric care instructions.
• Step 4: After the wash, perform a thorough rinse cycle to remove all detergent residues.

3. How to Sanitize Your Cloth Nappies

Sanitizing your nappies is an important step to ensure they are free of bacteria and odors, especially after they’ve been used for multiple children or if they’ve been stored for a while.

How to Sanitize:

• Step 1: You can add white vinegar (about 1/4 cup) to the final rinse cycle for a natural sanitizing boost.
• Step 2: Alternatively, you can use a nappy-safe disinfectant (if desired), which is gentle on your cloth nappies but still helps kill bacteria.
• Step 3: If possible, air-dry your nappies outside in the sun, as the UV rays help to kill bacteria and naturally freshen the fabric.

4. How to Dry Your Cloth Nappies

After washing and sanitizing your Nanny & Nature nappies, drying them properly is essential to keep them in great shape.

How to Dry:

• Line Drying: The best method for drying cloth nappies is to line dry them in the sun. The sunlight naturally helps to freshen the nappies and kill bacteria, while also preserving the fabrics.
• Tumble Drying: If you need to tumble dry, use a low heat setting. High heat can damage the waterproof layer and elastic, reducing the lifespan of the nappies.
• Avoid Fabric Softener: Never use fabric softener on your cloth nappies, as it will reduce absorbency and coat the fabric, making it less effective.

5. Extra Tips for Long-Lasting Cloth Nappies

• Always check the care labels on your nappies for any special washing instructions.
• Wash your nappies every 2-3 days to avoid build-up.
• Store your nappies in a dry, well-ventilated area until you're ready to wash them.
• Use a laundry bag to protect your nappies during washing and drying, especially when using the machine.
• Check your nappies regularly for signs of wear and tear, such as damaged elastic or fabric.

Conclusion

With the right care, your Nanny & Nature cloth nappies will continue to provide long-lasting, eco-friendly performance. Properly stripping, washing, and sanitizing your nappies ensures that they remain fresh, comfortable, and durable, so you can feel confident knowing your baby is in good hands. Enjoy using your cloth nappies while making a positive impact on the planet!