How to wash reusable nappies (it’s easier than you think)

One of the biggest myths (and roadblocks) about switching from disposable nappies to reusables is washing. How hard is it? Do you have to soak or scrub them? How will I deal with poo?  

It's actually pretty simple, and yes, they’re machine washable.  

Here’s how it’s done... 

How to wash Modibodi’s Reusable Nappy (it’s easier than you think)   

Forget your grandma’s tedious cloth nappies – and the hours of scrubbing white towelling that went with them. Our Reusable Nappy is designed for multi-tasking modern parents…and babies’ comfort of course. That means no soaking, no special detergents, no scrubbing and no stains, thanks to our clever BLACK antimicrobial lining which minimises any ammonial smell (from pee) and fights bacteria.    

BEFORE USE  

Wash the nappy (and booster) on a cold wash cycle before use to activate the absorbent technology. Hang to dry and it’s ready to use.  

STEP 1: Remove solids   

Pop any poo in the loo. If you’re using our Biodegradable Bamboo Liner, wrap the liner (and any remaining solids) in a little toilet paper and chuck it into a compost bin, or regular rubbish bin.   

Rinse the nappy to remove remaining solids.  

If NOT washing right away, pop rinsed nappies into a wet bag or dry pail (with holes) until wash time.  

STEP 2: Pre-wash option  

Rinsed nappies can be thrown straight into a long wash cycle at up to 60°C.   

Alternatively, to remove heavy soiling so the full washing cycle is done with clean water, pop nappies and boosters into a pre-wash or quick wash cycle at up to 60°C with a small amount of regular laundry detergent (but no fabric softeners please).  

STEP 3: Main wash   

Wash nappies and boosters using regular laundry detergent on a long cycle at up to 60°C (again, no fabric softeners). You CAN wash them with your other clothing.  

STEP 4: Dry    

We recommend line drying as the environmentally friendly option, however our reusable nappies can be gently tumble dried. When hanging, lift and separate floating lining or hang inside out for faster drying. Avoid stretching the elastic leg openings.   

HANDY WASHING TIPS  

• We advise washing nappies daily, or every other day, to prevent fabrics from deteriorating.   

• You can use a dry pail with holes to store nappies between washes. Pee nappies can go straight into the pail, soiled nappies should be scraped or rinsed before putting them in.   
• When hanging nappies to dry, hang inside out for a quicker dry time and avoid stretching the elastic openings.    
• Your regular laundry detergent will do the job – no need for bleach or other harsh cleaners.  
• No fabric softeners please – they affect the performance of the absorbent materials.  
• The ideal spin speed for our nappies is 1000RPM or less to boost longevity. 

• If tumble drying, use a gentle setting. 

And that’s a wrap. It’s basically rinse, wash, dry, repeat. Just like your Modibodi underwear.