You can wash Happy Flute diapers in hot water, and then air dry them or tumble dry them on a low setting. To keep your diapers in good condition, wash them every few days and avoid using fabric softener or detergents containing fabric softener.
Here's a more detailed guide:
1. Pre-Wash (if new):
- It's recommended to pre-wash new Happy Flute diapers 2-3 times before their first use to increase their absorbency.
2. Preparation:
- Remove any solid waste from the diaper. You can use a diaper sprayer or a liner for easier cleanup.
- Separate the inserts from the diaper cover.
3. Washing:
- Water Temperature: Wash in hot water (around 140°F or 60°C).
- Detergent: Use a cloth diaper-safe detergent. Avoid detergents with:
- Fabric softeners
- Brighteners
- Enzymes (can sometimes cause irritation for babies with sensitive skin)
- Dyes
- Wash Cycle: A typical wash cycle should include a pre-wash rinse, a main wash with detergent, and an extra rinse to ensure all detergent is removed. A heavy-duty cycle is often recommended.
- Load Size: Don't overload your washing machine. Diapers need room to agitate properly for thorough cleaning.
4. Drying:
- Diaper Covers: Air drying is generally recommended for the diaper covers to prolong their life. Avoid placing them directly in the sun for extended periods, as this can fade the colors and damage the PUL (Polyurethane Laminate) layer.
- Inserts: Inserts can be tumble dried on low. Air drying is also an option and can help them last longer. High heat can damage some inserts.
5. Important Considerations:
- Frequency: Wash your diapers every 2-3 days to prevent odors and staining.
- Fabric Softener: Absolutely avoid fabric softener, as it reduces the absorbency of the diapers and can leave a residue.
- Bleach: Avoid regular bleach use. If you need to sanitize your diapers (e.g., after a yeast infection), you can use a bleach solution sparingly (follow guidelines for proper dilution).
- Stripping: Over time, mineral buildup or detergent residue can affect diaper performance. Stripping your diapers (washing with no detergent) may be necessary occasionally. Research reliable stripping methods before attempting.
- Staining: Sunning wet diapers after washing is a natural way to remove stains.
By following these washing instructions, you can keep your Happy Flute diapers clean, absorbent, and in good condition for longer.
