Cloth Diapering 101: Washing

Washing cloth diapers is really no more difficult than washing regular laundry! Here are some tips to get you started on the right track.

Prewashing

Prewash all new diapers at least once in hot water with a small amount of detergent before use. Unbleached cotton, organic, hemp, and bamboo diapers must be prewashed at least 5-10 times (for at least the first few times, they should be washed separately from your other diapers). Diapers will not be fully absorbent until prewashed adequately. 

Washing your diapers

• Before placing in pail, remove any solid poop using a diaper sprayer or flushable liner. The poop of an exclusively breastfed baby does not need to be rinsed - it will be rinsed away in the first step of washing.
• Set your machine to the maximum water level.
• Run your diapers through a cold pre-wash or rinse cycle.
• Wash diapers in hot water with 1/2 (top loader) to 1/4 (HE machine) of the recommended amount of detergent. Detergent should be free of dyes, perfumes, fabric softeners, and enzymes. We recommend Rockin' Green or The Laundry Tarts Detergent.
• If desired, run your diapers through an extra rinse to avoid detergent buildup.
• Tumble or hang dry. Hang in the sun to remove stains naturally. Many people prefer to hang their covers or empty pocket diapers to dry to extend the life of elastics, water-proof materials, and hook-and-loop closures.

Detergent and Urine Residue

Detergent or urine residue can cause your diapers to lose absorbency, cause diaper rash, and/or cause your diapers to retain an ammonia odour. If you are experiencing these problems, wash your diapers normally, then run your diapers through a few hot wash cycles without detergent, with your machine set to the highest water level. Adding a couple of squirts of Original Dawn dish liquid or Calgon Water Softener to the first detergent-free cycle will help remove residue. Continue hot wash cycles until you no longer see bubbles in the wash water.

Using a zero-residue detergent such as Rockin' Green and using lots of water will prevent residues from causing problems with your diapers.

You may also need to adjust the amount of detergent you are using. Too little detergent can result in urine residue (diapers not getting clean enough), while too much can result in detergent residue. When your diapers are clean, they should smell like nothing! If they smell like detergent or like urine, adjust the amount of detergent you use accordingly.

Storage of dirty diapers

Most cloth diapering families use the dry pail method, which involves storing dirty diapers in a waterproof diaper pail liner or hanging wet bag (which are machine washable), then just dumping the diapers into your machine on laundry day along with the laundry bag. We recommend owning two pail liners or hanging wet bags so that you have one to use while the first is in the wash. To use a pail liner, simply use a large garbage bin or hamper with a lid, line it with the diaper pail liner and you are ready to go!

When you change your baby, simply toss the used diaper into the dry pail. An exclusively breastfed baby’s poops do not need to be rinsed or removed in any way. If your baby has solid poops, shake the excess into the toilet, and then place the diaper in the pail. The washer will take care of the rest. For the "in between" stage of poops, consider using flushable diaper liners or a diaper sprayer to remove solids from the diaper before washing. Both are easy to use and you never have to touch ANY poop!

If using a diapering system with covers, the cover can be re-used until soiled, and just the flat, prefold, fitted, or soaker pad can be tossed in the pail. If you are using pocket or all-in-one diapers, remove the insert (if there is one), fasten the laundry tabs, and throw it all in the pail. If you are using a wool cover, see below for wool care tips.

Buying a wet-bag for when you go out makes taking cloth diapers along easy! A wet-bag is a waterproof bag with a zipper that you can stick in your diaper bag and use to store your dirty diapers while out. Just toss it in your pail when you get home and wash the wet-bag along with your diapers on wash day!

Laundry day

Most people wash their diapers every 2-3 days. Usually 2 dozen diapers is a good sized load, without being over-full. Too many diapers in a load may not come as clean and can cause friction and pilling of the fabrics. After a few loads you will figure out what works for you in terms of length between washes and how full to fill your machine.

Dump your diapers and the diaper pail liner/wet bag into the machine. Do a cold or warm rinse cycle before washing to avoid setting stains or smells. Then do a hot wash cycle with about 1/4 to 1/2 the amount of detergent you would normally use for clothing. After washing either tumble-dry or line dry. Line drying outdoors in the sunlight will save energy, plus remove stains and make your diapers look new! Try it and see for yourself! To avoid stiff diapers, set them out on the line during early morning or late afternoon hours when they will not dry as fast. Line drying your diapers will also extend their life - although everything can be thrown in the dryer together as well if you cannot line dry or just don't have time!

Many people like Rockin Green, Allen’s Naturally detergent, Original Tide, Country Save, Sunlight, other biodegradable detergents, and many others. Find what works for you!

Avoid using detergents with whitening agents as they can break down diapers and cause skin irritaion. Also avoid using baby detergents such as Ivory Snow or Dreft, and avoid ultra concentrated detergents as they can cause build-up..

If you find your diapers are holding a bad odour, try doing an extra, hot rinse cycle after washing to remove detergent build-up, which is often the cause of odours. If odours or rashes persist, consider switching to Rockin' Green Detergent which is free of residues which cause laundry issues! Visit our Smelly Diapers FAQ for more info!

Avoid using bleach on your diapers as it will eat away at the fibers of your diapers leaving holes and affecting absorbency. It also can irritate your baby's skin.

Avoid using fabric softener as it can cause your diapers to repel liquid rather than absorb. Really, when it comes to washing diapers, keep it simple! Using more than one product can lead to buildup or other laundry problems, plus it can make it hard to troubleshoot if you do have issues down the road.

Wool Care Instructions

Using and caring for wool diaper covers can seem intimidating but is quite simple in reality! Using wool has many advantages which you can read about here. Most wool covers will come with washing instructions from the retailer, however here are some general instructions for wool care.

Wool covers only need to be washed when they are soiled – wool has natural self-cleaning and anti-bacterial properties due to the lanolin it contains. If your wool cover is wet after use, just hang it to air out before using it again. If the urine smell does not fade when dry or if the cover is soiled, then it’s time for a wash. Plan to wash your covers about once a month.

Wool covers also need to be lanolized about once a month (with regular use). You can wash and lanolize at the same time. Follow these instructions, but omit the lanolin if you want to wash only.

• Rinse your wool cover in cold water if you need to remove any poop.
• Run your sink water until it is HOT.
• Plug the sink and put a small glob of Lanolin at the bottom along with a small glob of wool wash or baby shampoo. Lanolin is available in most baby stores/Walmart in the section for products for nursing moms. You can also purchase Eucalan no-rinse wool wash which replaces both products.
• Run a bit of hot water over the Lanolin and soap to melt it. Mix well.
• Fill the sink the rest of the way with lukewarm water. Add the wool, gently squeeze the water through the wool, and then let it soak for 15-20 minutes.
• Drain the water and roll the wool up in a towel to squeeze out the excess liquid. Then hang or lay flat to dry. That’s it!

Cloth Diapering 101: Types of Cloth

​​Every family has a system or combination of systems that works best for them. It really depends what you want from your diapers (for example, economy, ease of use, cuteness). Here is an explanation of each system with their features.

Prefolds

Prefold diapers are rectangular pieces of absorbent cloth that have several layers. Most prefolds are either 4x6x4 or 4x8x4, which indicates the number of layers on each side and in the super absorbent thicker strip down the middle of the diaper.

Prefolds can be secured either with Snappi diaper fastener, or simply folded and laid into a diaper cover, which is then fastened onto the baby. Prefolds require a cover because they are not waterproof.

• Prefolds are one of the most economical ways to diaper. 
• Some would argue they are the easiest to launder as they do not need any special care like folding or the removal or stuffing of inserts. They also dry quickly.
• You can choose which type of cover to use, PUL or wool (read on…)
• Prefolds are a two-part diapering system meaning you need to use a diaper and a diaper cover.
• Prefolds don’t have a lining to wick moisture away from the baby’s skin, although you can add a micro-fleece liner inside the diaper for this purpose.
• Prefolds are pretty plain as far a cloth diapers go, although some people like to dye or embellish them.
• Prefolds are available in preemie, infant, and toddler sizes.

Using Prefolds:

Start by prewashing your prefolds at least a few times in hot water. They will quilt up, and become more absorbent with each wash.

There are many ways to fold prefolds:

Tri-fold and place inside a snug-fitting diaper cover. Then fasten onto your baby. The cover will contain any poop blowouts.

The poop-pouch fold - lay the prefold on the table and place baby on top. Fold the front of the prefold up between baby's legs letting the diaper bunch up between baby's legs to form a pouch. Fasten with a Snappi or pins. Use a cover to make this system waterproof.

Cover prefold with a diaper cover for a waterproof system. Some parents of older babies like to use a prefold Snappied without a cover to let the bum get some air - just change your baby once he/she feels wet.

Washing prefolds couldn't be easier! Shake solid poop into the toilet and toss it in the dry pail (exclusively breastfed babies' poop can go straight into the pail). On laundry day dump them in the washer - then either tumble dry or hang in the sun to get stains out and save energy. There is something so serene about a clothesline full of prefolds drying in the sun!

Here's a little video to learn how to fold prefolds. I've used this myself. I refer the jelly roll fold for my little guy.

Fitted Diapers

Fitted diapers are contoured cloth diapers which generally resemble disposable diapers in that they have a contoured shape and have gathered edges around the legs, and fasten with either Aplix (velcro) or snaps. However, as with prefold diapers, a waterproof diaper cover is necessary.

• Fitted diapers typically cost $10-20 or more a piece, depending on the style and material. Fitteds can be made from cotton, bamboo, or hemp.
• Fitted diapers tend to be better at containing messes and preventing leaks than prefolds due to elastic leg casings. Many people use fitteds for overnight for this reason
• Fitteds are a two-part diapering system meaning you need to use a diaper and a diaper cover. You can choose which type of cover to use: PUL, wool or fleece.
• Some fitted diapers don’t have a lining to wick moisture away from the baby’s skin, although you can add a liner inside the diaper for this purpose if you prefer.
• Fitted diapers are available in sized or one-size designs.
• Fitted diapers are available in plain, coloured, or printed designs.
• Many parents will put a fitted on their baby without a cover or pants while at home and then change whenever they become wet. This is a great way to let baby’s bum get some air (like on hot summer days!) and can help prevent or cure a diaper rash.
• Fitted diapers often take longer to dry in your dryer or on a clothesline than prefolds - although many have soakers that snap or flip out to decrease drying time.

Pocket Diapers

Pocket diapers are a two-piece diapering system typically with a piece of fleece that makes up the inner portion of fabric, and a waterproof outer layer. An absorbent material (such as an insert or a prefold) is placed inside of the two pieces, making the whole system act as an all-in-one system that keeps babies dry. Pocket diapers are available with Velcro or snap closures, depending on your preference.

• Most pocket diapers require that you remove the insert before laundering.
• Pocket diapers are available in sized (XS, S, M, L or Size 1/Size 2) or one-size versions which can fit babies from birth to potty learning – these can be a great way to save money. See our FAQ on choosing between One Size and Sized Diapers for more info.
• Pocket diapers are available in many cute colors and prints!
• The absorbency can be customized to suit your baby’s needs. For example, a great nighttime solution is to double stuff a pocket diaper with two inserts for extra absorbency. Others like to add a doubler to the pocket to boost absorbency when needed.
• Pocket diapers have a quick drying time since the absorbent insert is removable for laundering. It's easy to extend the life of your pocket diapers by hanging the empty pockets to dry while drying the inserts in the dryer. This preserves the integrity of elastics and Aplix closures.
• Pocket diapers are very babysitter and grandparent-friendly! They can be pre-stuffed out of the dryer so they are ready to use at changing time.

All-in-One Diapers

All-in-one diapers are exactly that: A waterproof outer and absorbent inner all in one! These are available with snaps or Velcro fasteners. These diapers are ideal for out-of-home use, as they are very similar to disposables.

• The absorbent material is sewn directly into the diaper – no need to stuff pockets or remove inserts before laundering.
• All-in-one diapers are very babysitter and grandparent-friendly.
• All-in-one diapers take longer to dry in the dryer or on a clothesline than pocket diapers
• Some All-in-one diapers do not allow for customizable absorbency, although you can add a diaper doubler to the inside if you like. Many brands have a pocket opening to add extra absorbency if needed! 

*Some Diapers are really "All in Two" Diapers which means that the absorbent soaker is removable. This helps cut down on laundry plus saves money because more soaker than covers can be purchased and you can re-use the cover when changing the diaper (just change the absorbent part)!

Cloth Diapering 101: Cloth Diaper Terms

Sizing

Sizing can be different from one manufacturer to another but will usually fall into one of the following categories.

One Size

One size diapers are meant to fit babies from birth to potty training. In general, one size diapers will not properly fit smaller newborn or preemie babies, leading to a gapping diaper and leaking. Many manufacturers who produce a one size diaper also offer a preemie or newborn line to ensure a proper fit for your newborn.

Two Size

Two-sized diaper systems are designed to effectively diaper your baby from birth to potty. In an effort to maximize the fit and affordability of cloth diapering your baby, Thirsties created the Duo line of products. Size one fits babies between 6-18 lbs, and size two fits babies from 18-40 lbs. Each of the two sizes in the Thirsties Duo line feature three rows of snaps to adjust the rise to your baby’s shape, it is like having three sizes in one.

Sized

Sized diaper systems offer a specialized fit for your baby, but each size covers a narrower range than that of a Duo or One size system. Thirsties Diaper Covers are part of a sized system and are available in four sizes, x-small, small, medium, and large.

Components

Hook and Loop Closures

Hook and loop closures make diaper changes quick and provide an amazingly snug fit. Although hook and loop closures are the most convenient closure option, they have a shorter lifespan than snaps. Thirsties products use Aplix(R) brand’s hook-and-loop system which is made in the USA and is regarded as the most durable on the market.

Snap Closures

Snaps are easy to use, are more durable than hook and loop and are strong deterrents to toddlers who prefer to be diaper-free. Snaps are also used throughout the Duo line on the adjustable rise.

Gussets

Gussets are a crescent-shaped inserts added to the leg openings of many cloth diapers for added performance and expansion. Thirsties signature leg gussets move with your baby, providing advanced protection against leaks.

Fabrics

PUL

No stuffy plastic or rubber pants! PUL provides a very reliable, pliable, and breathable yet waterproof outer layer for Thirsties’ covers, wraps, and diapers. PUL stands for polyurethane laminate and is made from extremely durable polyester knit to keep your baby and his or her clothes dry.

Microfleece

A soft, napped wool-like fabric made from synthetic fibers. Microfleece fabric does not absorb, but rather allows moisture to pass right through, which is why it is often used as the layer closest to your baby’s skin. The microfleece layer provide a ‘stay-dry’ effect for your baby’s comfort. Microfleece can help to reduce diaper rash, resists staining, and is buttery soft to the touch.

Hemp Jersey

Hemp jersey is as soft as your favorite t-shirt but is more durable than pure cotton of the same weight and absorbs 25% more moisture! By using hemp, you are able to gain a substantial amount of absorbency without adding a tremendous amount of bulk to your diapering system. Thirsties hemp jersey is one of the softest and most durable available in the market. It is used in Thirsties prefolds and inserts.

Microfiber Terry

Our synthetic microfiber terry is used throughout our line as a soaker due to its performance characteristics of being highly absorbent and quick drying.

Cotton Velour

This velvety fabric is a cotton/poly blend that is absorbent, luxuriously soft and custom knitted and dyed to Thirsties specifications. It is used in Thirsties’ fitteds, doublers and wipes.

Cloth Diapering 101: What do I need to get started?

The number of diapers to purchase is based upon your budget, your diapering choice, and how often you will be laundering your diapers. The recommendations below are based on the assumption that you will be doing laundry every other day.

How many daily diaper changes should I expect?
Newborn: 10–12 diapers
6–12 months: 8-10 diapers
12–24 months: 6–8 diapers
24+ months: 4-6 diapers

How many diapers will I need in rotation?
Newborn: 20–24 diapers
6–12 months: 16-20 diapers
12–24 months: 12–16 diapers
24+ months: 8-12 diapers

How many covers do I need?
A wrap or cover can be wiped clean and reused several times before requiring a full washing. Most people recommend one wrap for every 3-4 diapers in rotation.

Do I have to purchase new diapers?
NO! You can purchase gently used diapers from maybe stores and online shops! It's definitely worth it to save a few dollars.

What accessories do I need?
I recommend purchasing 2 pail liners, a cloth diaper friendly diaper ointment, 1 wet bag, 3 dozen cloth wipes, 1baby wipe solution mist, cloth diaper friendly detergent (I use TIDE Original Powder in my HE machine), 1 diaper sprayer (optional), and wool dryer balls if using the dryer. If line drying, you may want to purchase a clothes line or a drying rack. I also recommend a 3 pack of snappis if you are using prefolds!

Cloth Diapering 101: Thirsties' Types of Cloth

There are different styles of diapers to meet the needs of each individual family and baby. All babies are shaped differently and have different absorbency needs so one type of diaper may work better for your baby than another. In addition to fit and absorbency, many families may also compare convenience versus cost. For example, an all in one or pocket diaper may be more convenient, but a two piece system is typically less expensive and can be more absorbent.

All In One

All In One, commonly known as AIO, is the most similar type of cloth diaper to a disposable diaper. The one piece system consists of a waterproof cover with the absorbency sewn inside.

Thirsties Duo AIO includes a signature tunnel design which allows for thorough cleaning and stuffing of additional absorbency as needed. The interior is lined with a stay-dry fleece to keep baby comfortable and dry. The soaker (absorbency) is made of microfiber terry.

To use: Simply slide the diaper under baby and fasten with hook and loop or snap closure.

Pros: Convenient, easy, quick, daycare and sitter friendly, great for diaper bags, can be paired with insert for additional absorbency

Cons: AIO’s may take longer to dry than other diapers, may need additional absorbency for heavy wetters or extended, overnight use.

Pocket

A pocket diaper is a 2 piece system consisting of a waterproof outer shell sewn together with stay-dry lining with openings on one or both ends. The sleeve or pocket that is created is used to stuff the included absorbent insert.

Thirsties Duo Diaper (our pocket diaper) comes with a waterproof shell with a stay-dry lining sewn into it. The openings on both ends make for easy stuffing while allowing the insert to easily agitate out of the diaper in the wash. The inserts feature two layers of serged microfiber terry snapped together with five serged layers of hemp jersey; seven thirsty layers in all!

40% of our customers chose pocket diapers as their favorite type of cloth diaper. (Based on 2012 Thirsties Customer Survey of 720 cloth diapering families)

To use: Secure the insert within the tunnel or pocket, slide the diaper under baby and fasten with hook and loop or snap closure. You may find it easier to stuff the inserts into the diapers right after washing and drying, so that your diaper is ready for use.

Pros: Convenient, adjustable, daycare and sitter friendly (when inserts are pre-stuffed), absorbent

Cons: Bulkier than other diapers, need to stuff inserts into diaper after laundering

Fitted

Fitted diapers are made from absorbent fabric that is tailored to fit, providing complete coverage around your baby. Fitted diapers require the use of a diaper cover to make it waterproof. The use of the fitted diaper and a cover provides two elastic barriers at the legs and waist to prevent leaks.

Thirsties Duo Fab Fitted includes a signature tunnel design which allows for thorough cleaning and stuffing of additional absorbency as needed. The interior is lined with a stay-dry fleece to keep baby comfortable and dry. The soaker (absorbency) is made of microfiber terry.

To use: Simply take the fitted diaper, slide under baby, and fasten hook and loop or snap closure. Repeat steps with the diaper cover.

Pros: Ultra absorbent, soft, comfortable, can be paired with insert for additional absorbency

Cons: Bulky, long dry time, higher cost, 2 piece system that must be paired with absorbent layer

Prefold and Flat

Prefold and flat diapers are what most people think of when cloth diapering is referenced. Prefolds are popular for their affordability and are the most common diaper supplied by cloth diaper services. Using prefolds or flats requiring folding the diaper and then covering it with a waterproof diaper cover. Snappis are a popular closure used to secure prefolds and flats.

Thirsties Duo Hemp Prefold’s revolutionary tunnel design provides a trim fit and is beneficial for better washing and quicker drying times. Our custom hemp jersey is incredibly soft and knitted right here in the USA. We do not recommend the use of diaper pins or Snappi fasteners with Thirsties Duo Hemp Prefolds as the fabric is knit and the sharp points on the fasteners may damage the fabric. We recommend trifolding our prefolds.

To use: Fold the prefold into thirds, and lay into a trim waterproof cover such as the Thirsties Duo Wrap or Thirsties Diaper Cover, and fasten hook and loop or snap closure. For added absorbency in the front for little boys fold the prefold down on top and then trifold.

Pros: Very absorbent, durable, soft, versatile, affordable

Cons: Takes extra time to fold

Stay Dry Duo Insert (exclusive to Thirsties)

Thirsties Stay Dry Duo Insert is a specialty that has two layers of our fast absorbing microfiber terry, topped with our stay-dry and stain resistant microfleece and snapped together with five layers of our buttery soft hemp jersey. Use the insert with a trim fitting cover to provide a snug fit.

To use: Lay the insert into the diaper cover, slide the insert and cover under the baby, and fasten hook and loop or snap closures.

Pros: Easy, quick, absorbent, affordable

Cons: Less coverage than a prefold or fitted diaper

Cover and Wrap

Covers and wraps are waterproof barriers that are used over fitteds, prefolds, specialty inserts, or flat diapers. The laminate inside of the diaper can be wiped clean between uses, allowing you to use the cover for 3-4 diaper changes before washing.

Thirsties offers our Diaper Cover and Duo Wrap as waterproofing options for your cloth diapers. The Diaper Cover comes in 4 sizes, has a generous cut, and the x-small features an umbilical cord cut-out. The Duo Wrap uses the duo sizing system and offers a trimmer fit.

To use: With the absorbent layer fastened on baby or placed inside the cover, slide cover under baby, and fasten with hook and loop or snap closure.

Pros: Light and pliable, double leg gussets, easy to use

Cons: 2 piece system that must be paired with absorbent layer

You can find this article here.