The Ultimate Detergent for Cloth Diapers That Tackles Even the Most Odorous Baby Laundry

As the ongoing pandemic continues to drive up prices and create shortages of disposable diapers, many families are opting for cloth diapers as a viable alternative. While the initial investment is higher due to the need for a substantial supply of diapers and accessories, using cloth diapers can provide significant savings over time. These fabric options are typically gentler on a baby’s sensitive skin, and the variety of vibrant colors and playful patterns adds charm. Moreover, cloth diapers are environmentally friendly, reducing the number of disposable diapers that take up space in landfills. Did you know it can take up to 500 years for a single-use diaper to break down? Therefore, having one of the top detergents for cloth diapers is essential to make this choice work effectively.

How Often Should You Wash Cloth Diapers?

Cloth diapering isn’t always a pleasant experience, especially when facing the strong odor of soiled diapers awaiting laundry. It’s advisable to wash them every two days at most—three days is the absolute limit—to prevent stains and ammonia accumulation. Unlike disposables, cloth diapers lack moisture-wicking properties, necessitating more frequent changes, particularly in the early months of your baby’s life.

Choosing the Right Cloth Diaper Detergent

An effective cloth diaper detergent must be robust enough to handle even the messiest diaper incidents, yet gentle enough for delicate skin. According to Laura Connors, a cloth diapering enthusiast and founder of CleanBabyDiapers.com, “If a detergent works well for your regular laundry and doesn’t include fabric softeners, it’s likely suitable for your diapers.” Treat them as you would any heavily soiled laundry.

When shopping for a cloth diaper detergent, be cautious of brightening agents or fabric softeners, as these can diminish a diaper’s ability to absorb moisture. It’s also wise to avoid detergents containing harmful substances like parabens, phosphates, and formaldehyde.

Top Detergents for Cloth Diapers

Babyganics Laundry Detergent – $14.99 [Available on Amazon]
Bambino Mio Miofresh Laundry Detergent, 6-Pack – $45 [Available on Amazon]
The Laundress Baby Detergent, 2-Pack – $71 [Available on Amazon]

Best Natural Detergents for Cloth Diapers

Nellie’s Non-Toxic Detergent – $20.99 [Available on Amazon]
Seventh Generation Detergent – $13.99 [Available on Amazon]

Best Detergents for Hard Water

Charlie’s Soap Laundry Detergent – $12.99 [Available on Amazon]
Rockin’ Green Hard Rock Detergent – $21.99 [Available on Amazon]

Finding the right detergent for cleaning cloth diapers is crucial. Bambino Mio offers a brightener- and enzyme-free formula that effectively cleans and deodorizes without leaving residues. Users appreciate that their cloth diapers maintain absorbency and color. One reviewer mentioned, “With my baby eating solids, it’s essential to get the diapers really clean, and this product delivers.”

The Laundress Baby Detergent was created by founders who were in search of a gentle yet effective cleaning solution. Its plant-based ingredients are safe for both babies and toddlers, and it’s allergen and phosphate-free. While it may be pricier upfront, each order includes two highly concentrated bottles, each capable of up to 64 washes. Many users have praised its delightful scent.

Babyganics is another long-standing reputable brand, known for its plant-derived composition free from brighteners, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances. Reviewers confirm that it effectively tackles stains and messes.

Nellie’s Non-Toxic Detergent is favored for its ability to leave diapers fresh and odor-free. The powder fully dissolves in each wash, leaving no residue behind.

Seventh Generation’s triple-enzyme formula is both tough on diaper odors and environmentally conscious, earning EPA Safer Choice certification for its safer ingredients.

If you live in a hard water area, Charlie’s Soap Laundry Detergent is formulated to counteract mineral deposits. Its natural water softening properties help ensure a thorough clean.

Lastly, Rockin’ Green Hard Rock is designed to work efficiently in hard water, effectively removing stains while remaining gentle on a baby’s skin.

For more insights on this topic, check out this blog post or visit Make a Mom for expert advice on your fertility journey. Additionally, WebMD offers a valuable resource on pregnancy and home insemination.

Search Queries:

In summary, selecting the right detergent for cloth diapers is essential for maintaining cleanliness and ensuring your baby’s comfort. With options ranging from natural to hard-water specific formulas, there is a detergent to suit every family’s needs.