By Graham PalmerKnowing how to clean cloth diapers comes down to a repeatable routine: store soiled diapers properly, do a cold rinse, run a hot wash with the right detergent, and dry thoroughly. Done consistently, this keeps diapers absorbent, free of odor, and free of residue that causes leaks and irritation. This guide walks through each stage, from the pail to the drying rack, so you can build a routine that works for your household.
Before You Start: What You Need
Most cloth diaper cleaning problems trace back to the setup rather than the wash itself. Gather these items before your first load so the routine runs smoothly.
Shopping for one? See our guide: Cloth Diapers or Disposable (2026): Which Is Better for Your Baby?.
- A lidded diaper pail or wet bag for storing soiled diapers between washes
- A washing machine with a cold rinse option and a hot or extended wash setting
- A cloth diaper-safe detergent with no fabric softener, bleach, or added scent boosters
- A dedicated sprayer or diaper sprayer attached to the toilet (optional but helpful for solid waste)
- A mesh laundry bag for small parts like snaps-free inserts and liners
- A clothesline, drying rack, or dryer with a low-heat setting
Step 1: Handle Solid Waste Correctly
Breastfed baby poop is water-soluble and typically goes straight into the wash. Formula-fed and solid-food poop should be removed before the diaper goes into the pail. Flush solids down the toilet, scrape off what remains with a spatula or dull knife, or use a diaper sprayer. Dispose of the waste into the toilet and avoid flushing wipes, liners, or diapers, which can clog plumbing.
Once solids are removed, place the diaper in the pail or wet bag. Keep the lid closed to limit odor. Dry pail users should not add water to the pail, while wet pail users typically fill it with plain water and a small amount of detergent, depending on the system.
Step 2: Choose Between a Dry Pail and a Wet Pail
There are two common storage methods, and each affects how you approach the first wash.
Dry Pail Method
Diapers go into the pail without any liquid. This is simple and avoids the risk of soaking, but it can produce more odor between washes. Use a dry pail liner or a breathable pail, and wash at least every two to three days to limit smell and bacterial growth.
Wet Pail Method
Diapers soak in water, often with a small amount of detergent. Many parents find this reduces odor and loosens stains, but it requires care. Keep the pail out of reach of children and pets, and check the manufacturer’s guidance on how much water and detergent to use. Always drain and rinse before adding the diapers to the washer.
Step 3: Do a Cold Pre-Rinse
Before the main wash, run a cold rinse cycle without detergent. This removes urine salts, loose waste, and surface dirt. Hot water at this stage can set stains and protein-based residue into the fabric, so keep it cold. A quick rinse cycle of about 15 to 20 minutes is usually enough.
Some parents skip the pre-rinse and go straight to a hot wash, but a cold rinse first tends to produce cleaner results and reduces the chance of stains becoming permanent.
Step 4: Run the Main Wash
The main wash is where detergent does its work. Most cloth diaper manufacturers recommend a hot wash between 130 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit (about 54 to 60 degrees Celsius), though some detergents and fabrics are designed for lower temperatures. Check your diaper’s care label and your detergent’s instructions.
Water Level and Load Size
Use a full-water setting so diapers can move freely and rinse well. Avoid overloading the drum. A common guideline is to fill the washer about two-thirds full, which allows enough space for agitation. Wash no more than one full load of diapers per cycle.
Detergent Amount
Use less detergent than the label on a regular load suggests. Too much detergent leaves residue that reduces absorbency and can cause repelling, where liquid beads on the surface instead of soaking in. Start with about half the recommended amount for a standard load and adjust based on how your diapers perform. Hard water may require slightly more detergent.
Use a Second Rinse
After the main wash, run an extra rinse cycle without detergent. This clears any remaining soap, which is one of the most common causes of leaks and reduced absorbency.
Step 5: Choose the Right Detergent
Cloth diaper-safe detergents are free of fabric softeners, optical brighteners, and added perfumes, because these coat fibers and reduce absorbency. Look for products labeled as safe for cloth diapers, plant-based formulas, or ones specifically recommended by diaper manufacturers. Avoid bleach-based products on everyday loads, as they can degrade elastic and PUL laminates over time.
If you have been using detergent and your diapers are repelling, you may have buildup. Stripping is a deep-cleaning process that removes residue. Read more in Choosing and Stripping Cloth Diaper Detergent.
Step 6: Dry Diapers Thoroughly
Drying is the final step, and it matters. Sun is a natural disinfectant and helps lift stains, so line drying in direct sunlight is a good option when weather allows. If you use a dryer, choose a low or medium heat setting. High heat can damage PUL, elastic, and synthetic fabrics. Check each diaper before storing, and make sure inserts and all layers are completely dry.
For more on drying methods, see Proper Methods for Drying Cloth Diapers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using fabric softener. It coats fibers and reduces absorbency over time.
- Using too much detergent. Residue builds up and causes repelling and odor.
- Washing in cold water only. Cold cycles may not kill bacteria or remove oils from urine and waste.
- Overloading the washer. Diapers need room to agitate and rinse.
- Letting diapers sit too long. Wet diapers in a dry pail can develop strong odor and bacterial growth. Wash every two to three days.
- Using high heat in the dryer. This shortens the life of elastic and waterproof layers.
- Skipping the pre-rinse. Hot water on untreated waste can set stains.
Tips for Easier Cleaning
- Keep a consistent wash schedule so the pail never gets too full.
- Wash new diapers several times before use, following the manufacturer’s directions, to improve absorbency.
- Check the washer’s filter and drum regularly so residue does not transfer to diapers.
- Keep a log for a week if you are troubleshooting. Note the detergent amount, water temperature, and drying method to find what changes help most.
- Store clean diapers in a dry place with airflow. Damp storage invites mildew.
Recommended gear
A breathable pail liner makes dry pail storage easier by keeping moisture and odor contained between washes. View on Amazon
A diaper sprayer attached to the toilet allows you to remove solid waste quickly without handling it. View on Amazon
A mesh laundry bag protects small inserts and liners so they do not get lost in the drum or tangled with other items. View on Amazon
FAQ
How often should I wash cloth diapers?
Most families wash every two to three days, depending on the number of diapers and the storage method. Washing more often helps limit odor, especially with a dry pail.
What water temperature should I use?
Many manufacturers recommend a hot wash between 130 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, with a cold pre-rinse first. Always check your diaper and detergent labels for specific guidance.
Can I use regular laundry detergent?
Some regular detergents contain softeners, brighteners, or fragrances that can reduce absorbency. A cloth diaper-safe detergent is the safer choice for regular use.
Why are my cloth diapers repelling liquid?
Repelling is usually caused by detergent buildup, fabric softener residue, or hard water minerals. Reduce detergent, avoid softeners, do an extra rinse, and consider a stripping routine if the problem continues.
Is bleach safe for cloth diapers?
Bleach can damage elastic and waterproof layers over time and is generally not recommended for routine cleaning. Consult your diaper manufacturer’s instructions before using any sanitizing product.
Can I dry cloth diapers in the dryer?
Yes, on a low or medium setting. High heat can damage PUL, elastic, and synthetic materials. Line drying in sunlight is a gentle option that also helps with stains.
How do I clean diapers after a diaper rash or illness?
Use a hot wash and an extra rinse, and dry in sunlight when possible. If your baby has a persistent infection or rash, consult your pediatrician for guidance on hygiene and treatment.
Do I need to wash new diapers before use?
Many manufacturers recommend washing new diapers several times before first use to activate absorbency. Follow the care instructions that came with your diapers.
Conclusion
Cleaning cloth diapers is a simple routine once it becomes habit: store properly, pre-rinse in cold water, run a hot wash with a measured amount of cloth diaper-safe detergent, add an extra rinse, and dry thoroughly. Small adjustments to detergent and water temperature often solve most common problems. For more on setting up your routine, see How to Wash Cloth Diapers.
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About Graham Palmer
Graham focuses on practical advice for natural & eco parenting: what matters before you buy, what to skip, and how to get more out of what you already own.
