Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Baby Laundry: General Information
Do not wash baby clothes with diapers. Baby clothes can be
washed with the other family clothing.
Wash all new baby clothes and diapers before you use
them--this ensures that they are clean and soft and
comfortable for your baby.
CHOICE OF DETERGENTS
In addition to cost, a factor to watch for in your choice of
detergent is a possible allergic reaction of your baby to
the detergent.
NOTE: To preserve the fire-retardant qualities of your
baby's clothes, be sure to launder them in
detergent, NOT soap. Follow the manufacturer's
instructions.
It is probably not a good idea to use fabric softener in the
washer or dryer. It tends to be highly perfumed and may
cause a rash on the baby.
WASHING DIAPERS
Diaper rash is caused by bacteria; you can therefore help
prevent diaper rash by keeping your diapers as germ-free as
possible.
HINTS FOR WASHING DIAPERS:
- Keep a pail for diapers by the dressing table where they
can soak until you rinse them.
- A solution of borax and water in the soaking pail will
help remove stains and make the washing easier.
- RINSE ALL diapers no matter how soiled before placing in
the diaper pail.
- Run diapers through two wash cycles. On the first, use
hot water, soap, and bleach or whitener. On the second,
use just water, adding white vinegar to the last rinse
cycle. Vinegar gets rid of soap residue and acts as a
whitener and clothes softener.
- Baking soda added to last rinse keeps diapers soft and
smelling fresh.
- Hang diapers outside to dry: it helps bleach and
disinfect them.
- Avoid putting plastic pants in the dryer.
- Hard water may require additional rinsing to remove soap
residue.
HINTS FOR REMOVING DIFFICULT BABY STAINS:
- Soak stained baby clothes in hot water with a solution of
1/2 cup vinegar and 1/2 cup laundry soap.
- Use a moistened cloth dipped in baking soda to remove
sour milk stains on clothes.
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