A Quick Guide to Washing Cloth Nappies
Modern cloth nappies are easy to care for when you follow a simple two-step wash routine. After use, remove any solids and store nappies in a dry pail until wash day.
Start by removing any solids and storing dirty nappies in a dry pail until wash day.
The first wash (pre-wash) should be completed every 1–2 days. This is a short wash cycle using detergent to remove urine, soiling, and the majority of bacteria from the nappies. Think of it as a rinse and clean that prepares the nappies for the main wash.
The second wash (main wash) is a longer cycle using a full dose of quality detergent and warm or hot water. This wash thoroughly cleans the nappies, inserts, and accessories, removing any remaining waste, oils, and detergent residue. For best results, the washing machine should be loaded correctly to ensure good agitation.
Once washed, line dry in the sun where possible or tumble dry according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Following a consistent pre-wash and main wash routine will help keep your cloth nappies fresh, absorbent, and leak-free for years to come.
Read our complete How to Wash Modern Cloth Nappies: The Complete Australian Guide for detailed instructions and troubleshooting tips.
Quick Guide to Washing Reusable Sanitary Pads
Reusable sanitary pads are easy to care for and can be washed as part of your regular laundry routine. After use, fold the pad in on itself and fasten the snaps if applicable. Place used pads into a wet bag, laundry basket or dedicated container until wash day.
Pre-Wash or Rinse
Before the main wash, run a short cold rinse or pre-wash cycle. This helps remove the majority of blood and prepares the pads for a deeper clean.
Main Wash
Wash your pads with a quality detergent on a regular laundry cycle. Reusable sanitary pads can usually be washed with clothing, towels or other household laundry.
Dry Completely
Line dry or place on an indoor drying rack until completely dry.
A Quick Guide to Washing Swim Nappies, Breast Pads, Change Mats & Wet Bags
Many reusable parenting essentials can be washed as part of your regular laundry routine, making them easy to care for and ready for everyday use.
After use, simply place swim nappies, breast pads, change mats and wet bags into your laundry basket until wash day. If a wet bag contains damp items, empty it before washing and turn it inside out where possible.
Wash with a quality detergent on a regular laundry cycle. These items can usually be washed alongside other household laundry, making them simple to incorporate into your existing routine.