If you’re on the cloth diaper journey, you already know it’s not just about saving money or reducing waste—it’s a whole lifestyle. And let’s be real, figuring out a good wash routine can feel like rocket science at first.

After a lot of trial and error (and more than a few loads of rewashed diapers), I’ve finally nailed down a cloth diaper cleaning routine that actually works—even when we’re out and about.

Whether you’re just starting with cloth or you’re feeling overwhelmed by stubborn smells and stains, this post will walk you through a routine that’s simple, effective, and low-tox.

📌 This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through my links, I may receive a small commission—at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Simple Faithful Mama!

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💼 When You’re Out and About

Dirty diapers don’t wait for convenience—and if you’re out running errands or visiting family, you need a system that keeps the stink in check without ruining your diaper bag.

Here’s my go-to:

• Use a wet bag with two pockets
  I personally love Nora’s Nursery Wet Bags because they come with two separate compartments: one for clean diapers and one for dirty ones. Total game changer.
• Added tip: For especially soiled diapers, I place them in a small disposable bag (like these eco-friendly diaper sacks) before putting them in the dirty side of the wet bag. Helps contain the mess and makes cleanup way easier.

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🚿 Pre-Rinse at Home

Once we’re home, it’s rinse time. This step is key to avoiding stink and stains.

Here are two easy methods:

1. Bidet Sprayer Method
   I use a handheld bidet sprayer over the toilet. It’s powerful, quick, and does a great job removing solids.
2. Toilet Dunk & Flush
   If you don’t have a sprayer yet, you can dip the diaper in a clean toilet and flush to rinse.

💡 Bonus Tip: Use a diaper spray shield to avoid splashes and save your back from constant bending.

Once rinsed, I wring out excess water and either:

• Toss them into a hanging pail liner in the bathroom
• Or, if I think they need extra love, I soak them in our laundry sink or a high-up soaking container (because: toddlers 🤪)

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🕒 How Often to Wash

I recommend washing diapers every two days. You can stretch to three in a pinch, but any longer and you risk stink and staining.

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🧺 My Tried-and-True Cloth Diaper Wash Routine

I run three cycles to get our diapers clean, fresh, and residue-free:

1. Pre-Wash

• Cycle: Quick Wash
• Temp: Cold
• Settings: Heaviest soil, extra rinse
• Detergent: Just a little!

2. Main Wash

• Cycle: Normal
• Temp: Hot
• Settings: Heaviest soil, extra rinse
• Detergent: Full recommended amount

3. Final Rinse

• Cycle: Quick Wash
• Temp: Hot
• Settings: Extra rinse
• Detergent: No Detergent

🧼 I use a low-tox detergent like Dapple Baby or Rockin’ Green, and it leaves everything clean, fresh, and baby-safe.

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☀️ Drying the Diapers

Here’s my drying strategy:

1. Start with everything on delicate (low heat).
2. Remove the shells—they dry quickly!
3. Put the inserts back in for a quick dry until fully dry.
4. On sunny Arizona days, I line-dry outdoors. The sun naturally disinfects and bleaches out stains—it’s basically magic. ✨

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👩‍🍼 My Favorite Cloth Diapering Gear

Here’s what I swear by:

• 👜 Nora’s Nursery Wet Bags
• 🚿 Handheld Bidet Sprayer
• 💦 Spray Mate Diaper Shield
• 🧺 Hanging Pail Liner
• 🌿 Dapple Baby or Rockin’ Green

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💛 Final Thoughts

Cloth diapering doesn’t have to be complicated or gross. Once you get your rhythm, it’s actually pretty satisfying. I hope this breakdown helps you feel more confident and supported!

Got any cloth diaper hacks or questions? Drop them in the comments—I’d love to hear from you.

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