Along with the new baby comes… laundry. It is a challenge for parents to find the right products that can remove dirt, stains and smell without irritating baby’s sensitive skin. This guide will help you through in this routine task with ease.
Machine or Hand wash?
There is no problem with machine wash as long as the clothes are pre-washed or treated properly prior to using the machine. Set the machine to low spin or sensitive clothes settings so as not to damage the clothes in the process.
Preparation
All new clothes should be washed prior to using them. This removes the dust, chemicals and other irritants from manufacturing and storage the clothes in the store. For new Make sure to read the care instructions found on the label. Determine which fabrics are color-fast so you can wash them separately. Close all buttons and fasteners so it will be caught up in the washer.
Choosing a Detergent
Experts say that as long as your baby’s skin is not hypersensitive, you can include your baby’s clothes with the rest of the family. As much as possible, avoid using your usual household bleach for whites, as it may leave strong odors and residue. Liquid detergents are more suitable as it rinses out completely in comparison to powder detergents.
To test a detergent brand, try the new product on washing 1-2 clothes then try those on your baby. If you see that the baby is uncomfortable or itchy, then the detergent may be too harsh. Select detergents that have no dyes or strong fragrances. If the baby is proven to have sensitive skin regardless of your detergent brand, try to rinse clothes three times, and add some vinegar on the last rinse. Do this until your baby is about one year of age.
Treating Stains
Stains can be best treated when fresh. For protein stains like milk and food, rinse the soiled clothing in cold water first. For feces, wash the clothing manually: soak in cold water then apply liquid detergent on the soiled part to loosen stains.
For urine, soak in cold water diluted with ammonia or vinegar, rinse. Then rewash as normal.
For baby oil, prewash it with your liquid detergent or stain remover. Then rinse in hot water.
For fruit or vegetable stains, prewash by rinsing in cool water, then soak the stain part with rubbing alcohol or a stain remover. Then wash normally. If this still does not remove the stain, try apply baking soda and water paste on the stained parts.
Please note ever to mix bleach with baking soda, vinegar or ammonia as the combination produces toxic fumes.
Washing Cloth Diapers
Make sure to wash cloth diapers or “lampin” separately. Immediately rinse soiled diapers in cold water and soak them in a diaper pail. You can add a little liquid detergent to the water soak as to keep the cloth diapers from smelling bad until it is time to wash them. Never use bleach or any harsh chemicals on cloth diapers as it may react with urine which may cause diaper rashes.
