Hints and tips using reusable diapers

Reusable diapers have been gaining popularity among parents over the past few years as a more environmentally-friendly alternative to disposables. A 2008 European environmental agency report comparing the environmental impact of both disposable and reusable diapers, confirmed that if reusable diapers are laundered responsibly they can be up to 40 percent kinder to the environment. Despite the initial investment in purchasing a diaper system, reusable diapers have also shown to be more cost effective than disposables over the first two years of a child’s life.

The benefits of reusable diapers are plain to see - less waste in landfills, soft, natural fibres against baby’s skin and they are economical. However some parents are put off by the thought of storing soiled diapers, as well as putting dirty diapers through the wash. Here are some helpful tips and ideas for hesitant parents, using traditional, reasonably-priced products from Dri-Pak.

The first thing parents considering using reusable diapers will need is a bucket with a tight fitting lid for soiled diapers to be placed in. A mesh liner for the bucket is also recommended so that no touching of soiled diapers is required once the bucket is full. A great tip is to periodically sprinkle naturally deodorising bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) into the bucket to help prevent smells. Once the bucket is full, simply lift the mesh bag out of the bucket, and either put the diapers straight into the washing machine initially on a cold rinse, or leave them to soak in a regular hot Soda Crystal solution to help remove stains prior to washing.

When washing the diapers use a non-biological washing powder or liquid as biological detergents are more likely to irritate a baby’s sensitive skin. Adding Soda Crystals to the detergent drawer helps to soften the water, and aid the cleaning action of the detergent, meaning only the minimum amount is required to clean the diapers.

For very sensitive skin use Clean & Natural Pure Laundry Soap (Call MSO Distributing, it's not on the website, but is in stock.)  and a scoop of Soda Crystals in place of detergent. Containing only pure soap, Clean & Natural Pure Laundry Soap gently cleans without fragrances or detergent that can irritate skin. To prevent the diapers losing absorbency, an occasional hot wash with a white vinegar rinse will eliminate any soap build-up on the diapers.

Do not use fabric softener, as it leaves a residue on the surface of the fabric which affects absorbency and can stop the diapers working properly. White vinegar is a good natural alternative to fabric softener that will ensure no residue is left on the fabric.
For parents worried about bacteria building up within the washing machine, a regular hot wash using half a bag of Soda Crystals will eliminate  any smells and wash bacteria out of the machine.