How To Strip Cloth Diapers –How to Strip Cloth Diapers: A Comprehensive Guide Cloth diapers are a great alternative to disposable ones. They are eco-friendly, cost-effective, and reusable. However, over time, cloth diapers can develop buildup, which can lead to odor, leaks, and even rashes. The solution to this problem is to strip your cloth diapers. In this article, we will guide you through the process of stripping cloth diapers. What is Stripping? Stripping is a process of deep cleaning your cloth diapers to remove any buildup caused by detergent, fabric softeners, or other substances. This buildup can interfere with the absorbency of your diapers and cause them to smell or leak. Stripping is done to restore the diapers’ absorbency and eliminate any odor or residues. Why Should You Strip Your Cloth Diapers? If you notice that your cloth diapers are leaking or have a strong odor, it’s time to strip them. Stripping your cloth diapers helps to remove any buildup on the fabric, which can affect its absorbency. This buildup can be caused by detergent, fabric softeners, or hard water. Stripping your cloth diapers will help to eliminate any odor and restore the diapers’ absorbency. How to Strip Cloth Diapers? Before you start stripping your cloth diapers, you need to determine the type of buildup you have. If your diapers have a strong odor, it’s likely caused by bacteria or yeast. If your diapers are leaking, it may be caused by detergent buildup or hard water. Once you have determined the type of buildup, you can start the stripping process. Here are the steps to follow when stripping your cloth diapers: Step 1: Pre-wash your diapers Before you begin stripping your cloth diapers, you need to pre-wash them. Pre-washing will help to remove any loose dirt or debris on the fabric. Use warm water and a small amount of detergent to pre-wash your diapers. Rinse them thoroughly after pre-washing. Step 2: Prepare the stripping solution To prepare the stripping solution, you will need hot water, washing soda, and borax. Mix one cup of washing soda and one cup of borax in a large bowl. Add the hot water and stir until the washing soda and borax dissolve completely. Step 3: Soak your diapers Once you have prepared the stripping solution, it’s time to soak your diapers. Place your cloth diapers in a large bucket or bathtub. Pour the stripping solution over the diapers until they are fully submerged. Let the diapers soak for at least four hours or overnight. Step 4: Rinse your diapers After soaking your diapers, drain the stripping solution from the bucket or bathtub. Rinse your diapers thoroughly with warm water until all the stripping solution is removed. You may need to rinse your diapers several times to ensure that all the stripping solution is removed. Step 5: Dry your diapers Once you have rinsed your diapers, it’s time to dry them. You can either hang them outside to dry or dry them in the dryer. If you choose to dry them in the dryer, use the lowest heat setting to avoid damaging the fabric. FAQs Q1. How often should you strip your cloth diapers? A1. You should strip your cloth diapers once every three to six months, or whenever you notice that they are leaking or have a strong odor. Q2. Can you strip cloth diapers in the washing machine? A2. It’s not recommended to strip cloth diapers in the washing machine, as the stripping solution can damage the machine. It’s best to use a large bucket or bathtub to soak your diapers. Q3. Can you use bleach to strip cloth diapers? A3. It’s not recommended to use bleach to strip cloth diapers, as it can damage the fabric and shorten the lifespan of your diapers. Q4. How do you prevent buildup on cloth diapers? A4. To prevent buildup on your cloth diapers, use a cloth diaper-friendly detergent, avoid using fabric softeners, and rinse your diapers thoroughly after each use. Q5. Can you still use cloth diaper liners after stripping? A5. Yes, you can still use cloth diaper liners after stripping. Stripping only removes buildup from the fabric, not the liners. However, it’s recommended to wash the liners separately from the diapers to avoid any cross-contamination.