To wash cloth nappies, remove solids, store the used nappy in a dry pail or wet bag, run a short pre-wash, then run a longer main wash with enough detergent. Waladi pocket-style cloth nappies are made for a simple routine, with washable nappy shells, absorbent inserts, and wet bags to help store used nappies between washes.
You do not need to soak cloth nappies. You also do not need a complicated system. A consistent wash routine is what keeps nappies clean, fresh, and reliable.
Simple cloth nappy wash routine
- Remove solids into the toilet.
- Store the used nappy in a dry pail or wet bag.
- Run a short pre-wash every 1 to 2 days.
- Run a longer main wash every 2 to 3 days.
- Dry nappies and inserts fully before using again.
Step 1: Remove solids
If your baby has done a poo, tip or scrape solids into the toilet before storing the nappy.
For younger babies who are not eating solids yet, cleaning can be simpler. Once your baby starts solids, it is best to remove poo before washing.
If you use biodegradable nappy liners, remove and dispose of the liner as directed before washing the nappy.
Step 2: Store used nappies before washing
After changing, separate the insert from the pocket nappy if needed and place the used items in a dry pail, open basket, or wet bag.
Airflow helps reduce smell. Avoid soaking nappies in a bucket of water, as soaking can be messy and may shorten the life of elastics and waterproof layers.
Waladi wet bags are useful for daycare, outings, or storing used nappies until wash time.
Step 3: Run a short pre-wash
A pre-wash removes most of the wee and soiling before the main wash.
- Run it every 1 to 2 days.
- Use detergent.
- Use warm water if suitable for your machine and products.
- Use a cycle that rinses and spins properly.
After the pre-wash, nappies can go back into an airy basket until you have enough for the main wash.
Step 4: Run a longer main wash
The main wash is the deeper clean. Run it every 2 to 3 days, or when you have enough small items to get good movement in the machine.
- Use a long wash cycle.
- Use enough detergent for a dirty load.
- Use warm or hot water if suitable for your machine and care instructions.
- Avoid fabric softener, as it can affect absorbency.
- Avoid washing nappies with large towels or sheets, as they can stop nappies moving properly.
You can add small baby clothes or small household items to help bulk the main wash if needed.
Step 5: Dry nappies properly
Dry everything fully before putting nappies away.
- Line dry inserts until fully dry.
- Dry PUL nappy shells and wet bags in the shade where possible.
- If using a dryer, use low heat for PUL items if the care label allows it.
- Make sure inserts are completely dry before storing.
Good drying helps prevent musty smells and keeps your nappies ready for the next change.
How often should you wash cloth nappies?
Most families do a short pre-wash every 1 to 2 days and a longer main wash every 2 to 3 days.
If nappies are sitting too long, smells can build up. If your baby is a newborn or you use cloth full-time, you may wash more often.
For change frequency, read How often should you change a cloth nappy?
What if cloth nappies still smell after washing?
Clean cloth nappies should not smell strongly once washed and dried. If they smell after washing, the routine may need adjusting.
Common causes include:
- Not enough detergent.
- Washing too lightly.
- Nappies sitting too long before pre-wash.
- Main wash not having enough movement.
- Inserts not drying fully before storage.
For more help, read Do cloth nappies smell?
What do you need for washing cloth nappies?
- Enough cloth nappies for your routine.
- Absorbent inserts.
- A dry pail, basket, or wet bag.
- Detergent.
- A washing machine.
- Drying space.
If you are just starting, Waladi Everyday Sets include 1 cloth nappy and 1 charcoal bamboo insert for simple daytime use. You can build your stash gradually once your wash routine feels easy.
Common questions about washing cloth nappies
How do you wash cloth nappies?
Remove solids, store used nappies in a dry pail or wet bag, run a short pre-wash every 1 to 2 days, then run a longer main wash every 2 to 3 days with enough detergent.
Do you soak cloth nappies before washing?
No, soaking is not needed. Store used nappies as dry as possible in an airy basket, dry pail, or wet bag until wash time.
How often should I wash cloth nappies?
A common routine is a short pre-wash every 1 to 2 days and a longer main wash every 2 to 3 days. You may wash more often if using cloth full-time or during the newborn stage.
Can I wash cloth nappies with baby clothes?
Yes, small baby clothes can usually be added to the main wash to help bulk the load. Avoid large towels and sheets because they can wrap around nappies and reduce washing movement.
Why do my cloth nappies smell after washing?
Smells after washing usually mean the nappies are not getting clean enough, are sitting too long before washing, or are not drying fully. Adjusting detergent amount, wash length, storage, or drying can help.