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.
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36 comments

  • Finding the right detergent is the hardest part about cloth diapering. I’d love to try the Thristies Prewash and Superwash but it’s pretty pricey. Any upcoming sales? :)

    Amanda Duke on
  • Love my Thirsties. Have been using BioKleen Free & Clear with good results. Am about to try Charlie’s Soap (which is evidently not a soap). :O)

    Mrs. B on
  • It is so hard to find a wash routine that works for each family. I really hope that we get it right with ours. :)

    Brandy Anderson on
  • Love to use Thirsties detergent when visiting parents for a weekend! However I get the stinkies straight away when using any CD safe detergent at home (I’ve tried them all!) and I think it’s because of my very hard water. I’ve resorted to being a rebel and using Tide. Any advice to make Thirsties work for me and my hard water?

    Elissa Dinell on
  • I’ve been very happy with the Thirsties brand per-wash and super wash on my diapers…I’ve also had a lot of luck with rock n green.

    Jen on

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