Vinyl diaper covers create a complete waterproof barrier between your baby's cloth diaper and external surfaces. Unfortunately, vinyl is a stiff fabric that is prone to deterioration and cracking, notes the website of the cloth diapering company Diaper Junction. While Diaper Junction typically recommends fleece cloth diaper covers, if you still use vinyl diaper covers, laundering them properly will ensure a longer life. Handle and wash with care to ensure a long life and waterproof capabilities for your baby's vinyl diaper covers.
Step 1
Rinse the diaper cover as soon as you notice that it is soiled. Some cloth diaper enthusiasts install a toilet sprayer that allows them to flush fecal matter directly into the toilet after the diaper has been soiled. If you don't have one, you'll need to discard as much matter into the toilet as you can, then rinse the diaper cover in the bath tub.
Step 2
Keep soiled vinyl diaper covers in a sealed plastic bin so you can clean them all at the same time to save water. A large plastic bin with a snap-on lid is ideal; separate it into compartments for diaper covers and cloth diapers.
Step 3
Fill your laundry sink or a metal tub with warm water and add a capful of your regular laundry detergent. Swish with your hand to agitate the water and create suds, then add the diaper covers.
Step 4
Scrub the diaper covers with your hands and rub the covers together to remove any stains. If stubborn stains persist, add 1 tbsp. of baking soda to the water for abrasiveness. Continue to wash until the vinyl diaper covers are clean.
Step 5
Hang the vinyl covers to dry. Excessive heat from your dryer could melt or break down the material. If you're running short on time, place the covers in the dryer for 10 to 15 minutes and allow them to line dry the rest of the way.
Step 6
Disinfect your sink after washing diaper covers by filling it with one gallon of water and 1 tbsp. of regular bleach. Wash down the bottom and sides with a cloth to remove any traces of fecal matter from your sink. Rinse with hot water.
Tips and Warnings
- You might save time by washing vinyl diaper covers in the delicate cycle of your washing machine, but for the best longevity, wash by hand.
Things You'll Need
- Diaper bin
- Detergent
- Baking soda
- Bleach
