Preserving the Life of Cloth Diapers

It's a known fact that cloth diapers can save you hundreds, if not thousands of dollars over the poopy butt years.  But even though cloth diapers can withstand the bottoms of several children, there are some things you can do to ensure that they remain in good condition as long as possible and you get the most for your money!

Watch the heat
If you dry your diapers in the dryer, make sure any that contain PUL or elastic aren't dried on full heat. In the winter, I hang mine on a makeshift clothes rack, so they don't see dryer time at all.  Line drying will also help preserve the life of the fabric on the diapers.  But, as great as line drying outdoors is, the outdoor elements, especially the hot sun, can do a number to your diapers as well.  Make sure they don't sit out there in the heat for hours, or your diapers may only last through one child.

Wash frequently 
You don't have to wash your cloth diapers every day, but if you're wondering how often you need to wash them, while the stench is making your eyes water and your husband vomit, then it's time to wash.  Don't go longer than 3 days or else you can end up with mildew and permanent stank.

Use care when washing
Use the right soap, formulated for cloth diapers (my personal favorite and the only one that doesn't give my baby a rash is from the Peaceful Housewife - it's seriously amazing!!!).  Don't use bleach or fabric softeners.  Make sure all aplix or Velcro is secured so it doesn't snag or get caught on other diapers.

Avoid diaper cream
Most children get rashes at some point in their diapers days, but at all costs avoid the nappy cream.  All they do is cling to the fabric, putting a barrier on the diaper and therefore, your diaper loses absorbancy.  If your baby has a rash and air time just isn't doing it, either get a diaper rash cream that is cloth diaper safe, use coconut oil or use a traditional diaper rash cream with a disposable liner on the diaper.

Rotate
Make sure you aren't using the same dozen diapers all the time.  When your diapers come back clean, put them on the back of the shelf or the bottom of the basket and bring the others up to be used in the rotation.

Happy diapering!