Unlocking the Mystery of Strip Washing: Definition and Importance

Strip washing is a method used to thoroughly cleanse reusable nappies, providing a deeper clean than a standard washing routine. Its purpose is to reset any issues that may arise, such as lingering odours or decreased absorbency. However, it's important to note that strip washing should not be a regular occurrence. If you find yourself needing to strip wash frequently, it's likely that there's an underlying issue with your washing routine that needs to be addressed. This could include using too much detergent, not rinsing thoroughly, or other factors that may affect the efficacy of your nappies. By understanding the need for strip washing and ensuring it's done only when necessary, you can maintain the effectiveness and longevity of your modern cloth nappies.

 

Why do you need to sanitise your modern cloth nappies?

According to Mimi from Mimi & Co:

This question often arises among parents, especially those new to cloth diapering. At Mimi & Co, we understand that while sanitising your nappies may not be a regular occurrence, there are certain situations where it becomes necessary. Over the past few years, I've found myself resorting to sanitisation on three separate occasions, each prompted by unique circumstances.

The first instance occurred when I acquired second-hand nappies. Despite thorough washing, the history of these nappies remained unknown, making sanitisation essential to ensure their cleanliness and safety for my baby.

The second scenario arose when I encountered an ammonia buildup due to negligence in my wash routine. This oversight led to an unpleasant odour and potential irritation for my little one, prompting the need for a thorough sanitisation to eliminate any lingering bacteria.

Lastly, I found myself sanitising my nappies when my youngest contracted hand, foot, and mouth disease. As my babies shared nappies, preventing the spread of infection became paramount. Sanitising the nappies helped mitigate the risk of transmission and ensured a safe environment for my children.

 

Apart from these specific situations, there are several other reasons why sanitising your nappies may be necessary. For instance, purchasing second-hand nappies, washing in cold water, using inadequate detergent, or encountering persistent odours, stains, mold, or fungal and bacterial infections may warrant sanitisation. Additionally, addressing nappy rash or redness effectively often involves sanitising to eliminate potential irritants and promote healing. By understanding these reasons and taking proactive measures, you can maintain the hygiene and integrity of your cloth nappies, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for your little one.

How to strip wash your cloth nappy inserts/liners

At Mimi & Co, strip washing your cloth nappy inserts is a straightforward and essential process to maintain their efficacy and cleanliness. Understanding when and why to strip wash your inserts is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Several factors may necessitate strip washing, including hard inserts, the use of softeners, ammonia buildup, acquiring second-hand or passed-down nappies and inserts, or as a preventive measure against the spread of infections.

When it comes to the strip wash process, simplicity is key. Begin by separating your inserts from the nappies and placing them in the washing machine. Opt for a hot water cycle using your washing machine at 90 degrees and let the inserts agitate for a minimum of 30 minutes to thoroughly cleanse them. Following the wash cycle, consider tumble drying your inserts on low heat to maintain the effectiveness of your inserts.

Hard inserts can be a common issue encountered during your cloth nappy journey, often attributed to the use of softeners. These additives can accumulate in the fabric over time, compromising its absorbency and effectiveness. By incorporating regular strip washing into your cloth diaper care routine, you can mitigate the risk of hard inserts and maintain the optimal performance of your nappies for your baby's comfort and protection.

How to sanitise your modern cloth nappies

Sanitizing your modern cloth nappies and inserts is a crucial step in maintaining their cleanliness and ensuring your baby's health and comfort. At Mimi & Co, we understand the importance of a thorough sanitisation process, and we're here to guide you through it step by step.

 

To begin, gather your modern cloth nappies and prepare a bleach solution using liquid bleach. Follow the recommended ratio provided on the back of your bleach packet, ensuring that you achieve the appropriate concentration for effective sanitisation. If you have a large quantity of nappies, you can use your bathtub for soaking. Alternatively, a laundry sink works well for smaller batches.

Once you've prepared the bleach solution, immerse your nappy shells in the solution, ensuring that they are fully submerged. Allow them to soak for a sufficient period, typically around an hour, to ensure thorough sanitisation. During this time, the bleach will work to eliminate any bacteria, germs, or odours that may be present.

After the soaking period is complete, transfer your nappies to the washing machine for a normal wash cycle at 60°C. The hot water will help to remove any residual bleach from the fabric, leaving your nappies clean, fresh, and sanitised.

It's important to note that sanitising your nappies should be done sparingly and only when necessary. Over-sanitisation can lead to wear and tear on the fabric and may compromise the integrity of your nappies over time. Therefore, it's best to reserve this process for situations where it's truly needed, such as when dealing with bacterial or fungal infections or when acquiring second-hand nappies.

By following these simple steps, you can effectively sanitise your modern cloth nappy stash, ensuring a hygienic and comfortable experience for your little one. At Mimi & Co, we're committed to providing you with the information and support you need to care for your cloth nappies and keep them in pristine condition for years to come.

 

Understanding the importance of strip washing and sanitising your modern cloth nappies and inserts is essential for maintaining their cleanliness, effectiveness, and longevity. Strip washing provides a deeper clean than standard washing routines, resetting any issues that may arise, such as lingering odours or decreased absorbency. However, it should only be done when necessary, as frequent strip washing may indicate underlying issues with your washing routine. Similarly, sanitising your nappies is crucial for eliminating bacteria, germs, and odours, ensuring a hygienic environment for your baby. Whether you're dealing with hard inserts, ammonia buildup, or acquiring second-hand nappies, knowing how and when to strip wash and sanitise your cloth nappies is key to keeping them in optimal condition. At Mimi & Co, we're here to support you every step of the way, providing guidance and resources to help you care for your cloth nappies and provide the best for your little one.