Nappy Care

For care of your wool covers see the wool care page.

Soaking nappies

It is not essential to soak nappies, although doing so will prolong their life. If you choose not to soak, you may want to do a pre-wash or rinse prior to the main wash to remove excess urine from the nappies. If you do decide to soak them do not use products that contain bleaching agents, optical brighteners or tea tree oil on brightly coloured fabrics as it may alter the colour. Try a spoon-full of bicarbonate of soda instead. Use a bucket with a well fitted lid to prevent accidents and change the water daily to prevent build-up of bacteria. Soiled nappies should be rinsed in the toilet flush before storing.

You do not have to use a nappy bucket for storing nappies, either wet or dry. Many commercial ones have insufficient room for one day's nappies. A plastic pedal bin is cheap, allows more choice of colour and is handy to use when carrying a baby. If you are soaking your nappies, consider a plastic bin with a twist-on lid. Using a mesh laundry bag in the nappy bucket or bin makes loading the washing machine simpler, whichever method you use. Keep the bin wherever you find convenient - the bathroom is a useful place as it has wipe-down surfaces.

Washing nappies

How often you need to wash nappies will depend on how many you have and the age of your baby. A newborn baby will require more changes than a toddler. Washing at 60°C is most effective at getting nappies clean and is recommended for a newborn baby's nappies. However, a wash at 40°C is perfectly adequate when combined with an occasional wash at a higher temperature and will prolong the life of your nappies. Use a third of the amount of washing powder recommended on the packet - this is quite sufficient and kinder to your baby's skin. Ensure the nappies are adequately rinsed. Do not use conditioners as they reduce the nappies' absorbency. A few drops of lavender oil provide a sweet smell as well as antibacterial properties.

Drying nappies

Air drying, especially outside, is best for nappies. Tumble drying is fine but can be harsh on the nappies, expensive and not environmentally friendly. It can however soften nappies and make them more absorbent. Do not dry your nappies on a radiator as this will damage the nappy fibres