How to Properly Wash Cloth Diapers in HE and non-HE Washing Machines
Want consistently clean cloth diapers without the guesswork? Follow these easy, proven steps for both High Efficiency (HE) and standard washing machines. Don’t forget to review our full list of Recommended Laundry Detergents For Cloth Diapers.
Basic Cloth Diaper Wash Routine in 4 Easy Steps
STEP 1: Soiled cloth diaper treatment
Wet diapers can go straight into a dry pail.
Remove solid waste by knocking or spraying it into the toilet. To minimize stains and mildew, rinse thoroughly and wring out before storing.
Always store diapers in a breathable dry pail. Wash every 2–3 days to prevent odor and buildup.
TIP: Leave the lid slightly open to allow air circulation and reduce odors.
Water Temperature Guidelines:
For best durability, manufacturers recommend washing cloth diapers—especially PUL waterproof shells—at 90°F. In some cases, higher temperatures may be necessary (e.g., illness, ammonia buildup), but never exceed 130°F for any diaper components. Prolonged use of hot water can significantly reduce the lifespan of PUL, microfiber, and bamboo fabrics.
STEP 2: Prewash
Removes surface soil and prepares diapers for a deeper clean.
TIP: Place Hook-&-Loop diapers in a mesh laundry bag (4–5 per bag) to prevent damage from snagging.
STEP 3: Main Wash
This cycle deeply cleans the absorbent layers. Use proper agitation and detergent to get results that prevent buildup, odor, and leaks.
STEP 4: Dry
Line dry or tumble dry on low to medium heat.
TIP: Turn All-in-One diapers inside out to speed up drying.
How To Wash Cloth Diapers In High Efficiency (HE) Washing Machine
PREWASH: Choose a short cycle with agitation (30–45 min). Look for settings like “Speed Wash,” “Quick Wash,” or “Express.” If using a top-loading HE machine with low agitation, try “Normal” or “Cottons” instead.
Add a small amount of detergent (about line 1 or half a cap). If you have hard water, add water softener.
Avoid: Using the “Rinse/Spin” or built-in “Prewash” setting. These don’t provide enough agitation and don’t allow detergent to be added properly between cycles.
MAIN WASH: Fill the drum 2/3 to 3/4 full. Add small clothing items if needed to improve agitation—avoid large items that might wrap around the diapers.
Choose the longest, most powerful cycle available (e.g., “Heavy Duty,” “Whites,” or “Power Wash”). Use max soil and spin settings. Enable stain treatment or “boost” features if available.
Turn off auto prewash and extra rinse settings.
Add the full amount of detergent recommended for a heavily soiled load, plus water softener if needed.
How To Wash Cloth Diapers In Standard (non-HE) Washing Machine
PREWASH: Use a cycle with at least 6 minutes of agitation—“Heavy Duty,” “Cotton,” “Normal,” or “Regular.” Use cold or warm water with a small amount of detergent (line 1 or half a cap). Add water softener if needed.
MAIN WASH: Select the longest cycle with the strongest agitation (commonly “Heavy Duty,” “Power Wash,” or “Super Wash”).
With synthetic detergent, any water temperature is fine. With plant-based detergents, use warm water for best performance.
Use the full detergent dose for heavily soiled loads. Increase slightly if using free & clear or plant-based detergent. Add water softener if needed.
TIP: If diapers develop buildup or odor over time, perform a monthly deep clean or stripping routine as needed.
Disclaimer: The wash routine guidelines provided by EcoAble are for informational purposes only. While we strive to offer helpful and accurate advice, EcoAble disclaims all liability for any loss or damage, including direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages, resulting from the use of this information. It is your responsibility to follow settings appropriate for your washing machine and materials. EcoAble is not liable for any damage caused by washing machines, dryers, or misuse of our products. By using these guidelines, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.