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Stripping Cloth Diapers

Stripping cloth diapers is something most cloth diapering mamas will have to do from time to time. There are many reason why you would need to do this.


The most common culprit is detergent buildup. This buildup will cause stinkyness, water repelling and diaper rash. Using too much detergent can make it difficult to get your diapers fully rinsed out. What happens, wash after wash, is a nice little build up forms on the diapers. You really only need to use about 1/4 to 1/2 of what the manufacturers recommend.

Detergent for cloth diapers

Another culprit that may have you needing to strip your diapers is using the wrong kind of detergent. Many natural detergents have oils in them that will build up on your diapers. Also, detergents with fragrance, brighteners, etc. will leave stuff on your diapers, which you don't want.




Diaper rash creams, especially those with zinc oxide are very difficult to get out of cloth diapers and can cause water to repel. Also, diaper rash creams that have fish oil in them can make your diapers stink like fish.. ewww!! A definite good reason for stripping cloth diapers!





So, when is it time to strip your diapers?
  • If they are really stinky, even after washing.

  • If they are repelling instead of absorbing water (this happens alot with pocket diapers when they get detergent buildup).

  • After using diaper cream with zinc oxide, oils, or waxes.

  • If your diapers start to leak and not absorb as well as they used to.

Just like all things cloth diaper related, stripping cloth diapers varies from family to family. Everyone's washing machine and water quality varies. You may find you need to experiment to find what works best for you. How do you know it worked?? Your diapers will be clean, odor free and working great! Trust your nose. If your diapers smell stinky, they are not clean.

Here are some basic instructions for stripping your diapers, which can be adjusted to better suit your personal laundry needs.



Stripping Your Diapers

Step 1: Start with clean diapers. Wash and rinse like you normally would. You don't need to dry them since they are just going to get wet again.

Step 2: Wash your diapers in super hot water without detergent, just hot water. You may want to turn the water heater up to do this. Make sure to read the manufactures instructions for your diapers before doing this step. Some diapers shouldn't be washed in very hot water.

Step 3: Rinse your diapers again, in a hot cycle if you can. Peak into the washer during the rinse to see if there are any bubbles in the water. Repeat this step as many times as you need to until there are no more bubbles in the water. No bubbles means there is no more soap buildup on your dipes, which is what you're after! This can take 4 or more rinse cycles, so don't be surprised if you have to rinse over and over again.

Step 4: Dry your diapers. Even better, dry them out in the sun. Sunshine is great at getting rid of stains and killing germs.





Additional Tricks for Stripping Cloth Diapers: Stripping Cloth Diapers with Dawn

Most people I know strip their diapers once a month or every other month. Though some people have to do it much less. If you find you are spending too much time stripping cloth diapers, try using a different type of laundry detergent or experimenting with your laundry routine.



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