Why can’t I use soap on my cloth diapers and covers?

Pure soap is not recommended for use on laundry due to the fact that soaps can leave a residue on your
image of soap
diapers and covers, in the form of soap scum.
This makes the diapers repel moisture rather than absorb it, and it is also harsh on the laminates used in your diaper covers, making them absorb rather than repel liquid. Soap and detergent are both cleaning agents, yet detergents are formulated specifically for laundry and other purposes. A detergent is a synthetic product, meaning the ingredients are processed and mixed together to form the detergent. Soap is made by simply mixing lye with vegetable or animal fats, although other ingredients may be added. The best choice for washing your diapers is to use detergent on them; however, all detergents are not alike! For cloth diapers, you will want to choose a detergent with no additives such as Brighteners, Chlorine Bleach, Enzymes, Dyes, Fabric Softeners, and Fragrance. Check out the Diaper Jungle website to see which detergents contain these additives. These ingredients can be harmful to your diapering products, your baby’s skin, and/or the environment. The only detergent we recommend with 100% confidence that it is safe for your diapers, your baby, and the planet we share is our very own. True, Thirsties Pre-Wash and Super Wash can be more costly than store brands, but will keep your diapers clean and looking like new longer! For other recommended detergents, please go to our FAQs page on our website: http://www.thirstiesbaby.com/customer-center/faqs/ -> Laundering Tips.
Previous post Next post

36 comments

  • Thanks great information

    Audrei on
  • Great information! I love that you guy’s strive to make CDing easy!

    Grace Godinez on
  • This is a great post for cloth diaper newbies! What detergent to use was a big question I had when we started using cloth. We have had great luck with the Thirsties pre and super washes!

    Felicia R on
  • Ooh, so glad to see that my favorite detergent is listed as a “pretty good” option. A girlfriend swears by Charlies, and I was thinking of trying that as well.

    Pearl on
  • washing is always such a tricky area. I’ve done better with diapers with this kiddo, though. :)

    Anne-Marie on

Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published