There it is, here to rear its ugly head. And unfortunately, it made home in your cloth diapers.

If you’re not sure what I’m talking about, I’m referring to mold and mildew. As much as you’d like to protect your precious stash, cloth diapers are susceptible to fungi. Thankfully, you can prevent mold and mildew from growing in your diapers, but, if they’ve already turned into a science experiment, you can combat it!

How does mold grow in cloth diapers?

Think about it: Cloth diapers get wet and often sit for days in a wet bag or diaper pail that’s typically packed with other damp items. This dark, warm and moist environment is a breeding ground for mold and mildew.

What does mold and mildew look like?

Mold will look like little black dots scattered in the fibers of your cloth diapers. Mildew looks more like a rash and is usually a brown or rust color, often found in patches. Both are easily preventable.

 I have mold in my diapers. Now what?

Bleach is the only way to kill mold. Be sure to wash contaminated diapers with 1/4 cup of regular liquid chlorine bleach in hot water. DO NOT USE THE SANITIZE CYCLE, as temperatures are too hot and could damage your diapers.

How do I prevent mold from growing in my diapers again?

• We recommend washing your diapers every other day, but if you’re busy and can’t keep up with a frequent laundry schedule, try not to go too long in between loads.
• Always make sure to clean out your diaper pail. Clean it with a disinfectant each time you empty it. You could also use a pail liner to keep the germs at bay. Just toss it into your washer with your cloth diaper laundry. Same rule goes for wet bags — wash ’em regularaly.
• Using a vented pail. Air flow reduces the chance of mold. Deo disks can also help control pail odors.
• Unzip your wet bag while soiled diapers sit until laundry day.
• Make sure to wet enough cloth wipes for a day or two at a time and to also clean your wipe container regularly, just like your diaper pail. Pre-moistened cloth wipes can potentially grow mold, which could potentially contaminate your cloth diapers during laundry cycles. Using wipes with bottom spray will help.

Does mold and mildew stain?

Mold and mildew will often stain, but the discoloration will usually fade in time with additional washes. Try sunning or washing your diapers once a month with 1/4 cup of bleach. If there is a stain, do not worry because the mold spores are inactive.

Have more questions? Give us a call at 1-314-892-1855. We can help.

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