How to Reset Forgotten Soiled Cloth Nappies

Starting a cloth nappy wash routine can feel overwhelming at first, especially if you’re new to it. The key is finding a routine that works for you, and once you’ve got that down, maintaining cloth nappies becomes a breeze. But let’s face it—life gets hectic, and sometimes it’s easy to forget about a few soiled nappies sitting longer than they should. If you’ve found yourself with nappies that have been left for more than 24 hours, don’t worry! Today, we’ll walk you through how to reset those soiled cloth nappies and get them fresh again.

When using cloth nappies, it's important to store soiled ones in a well-ventilated basket such as a dry pail or container to allow airflow, as this helps prevent bacteria growth. While it’s fine to use a closed wet bag during the day when your little one is at daycare or you're out and about, be sure to remove the nappies from the wet bag as soon as you get home. If your nappies have accidentally been left sitting in a wet bag overnight, don't worry! Here’s how you can revive and reset them.

Why Leaving Your Cloth Nappies in a Closed Bag Overnight Isn't Ideal

Mold, yeast, fungus, and bacteria all thrive in warm, moist, and dark environments—the exact conditions found inside a closed wet bag. This is why it's so important to store soiled nappies in a dry, airy pail between washes to prevent harmful growth.

Resetting Your Nappies:

To reset your nappies if they've been left in a closed bag too long, simply follow our recommended Mimi & Co washing routine. Start with a prewash, followed by a main wash—both at 60°C. The key difference is that you'll also add an oxygen bleach booster to both cycles for a deeper clean and to eliminate any lingering bacteria or mold.

Step 1: Remove solids

• Dispose of poo into the toilet. This step is optional if your baby has yet to start solids.

• Then store the used cloth nappy in a dry pail for up to 24 hours

Step 2: Pre-wash

• Pre-wash your nappies on a 30-60 minute cycle at 60°C with detergent to remove most of the soiling. Afterward, place the nappies back into a dry pail for an additional 48-72 hours until you’re ready to do the main wash.

Step 3: Main-wash cycle

• Run a long (2-3 hour) cotton cycle at 60°C with detergent.

Step 4: Hang to dry

• Air dry your nappies or use a clothes/tumble dryer on low heat

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Getting the hang of a cloth nappy wash routine can be daunting at first, but with the right approach, it becomes manageable and even straightforward. If you’ve accidentally let your soiled nappies sit for longer than intended, don’t stress—resetting them is easier than it sounds. By following these simple steps, you can restore your nappies to their fresh, clean state. Remember to store soiled nappies in a well-ventilated container to avoid unwanted odours and bacteria. With regular pre-washing and thorough cleaning, your cloth nappies will stay in top shape, ready to provide excellent performance for your little one. If you have any questions or need further guidance, feel free to reach out to the Mimi & Co community for support. Happy washing!