Tuesday, May 7, 2013

Stripping...Not That Kind Of Stripping

So you are having stinky diapers and your kid is soaking through everything?  It might be time to strip your diapers.  Most people will need to strip diapers every 3-6 months.  Some can go longer.  Just depends on your wash routine.  Diapers can have buildup for a number of reasons; detergent buildup, water deposit buildup, ammonia buildup.  Here are some recommended supplies you'll need before you strip.

RLR (can be bought mostly online)
Blue Dawn dishsoap
Vinegar (this can be used for soft water)

First full your washing machine or bathtub with hot, hot, hot water.  I used my bathtub since I had a huge amount of diapers to strip.  Add 1 package of RLR or 1-2tbs of Blue Dawn to the water.  Swish around or agitate.  Next add your diapers and let soak for at least 3 hours.  I did a 12 hour overnight soak.  One that's done rinse your diapers in hot water.  It may take several rinses to get all the bubbles out.  Rinse, rinse, rinse til the bubbles are gone.  This should hopefully work and your diapers come out fresh and clean.  If you notice you are needing to strip a lot take a look at your wash routine.  What kind of water do you have?  Do you need to add a water softner?  Are you using too much or not enough detergent?  What kind if washing machine do you have?  Some energy efficient machines don't use enough water therefore are not properly rinsing the diapers.  Good luck and remember to rinse, rinse, rinse.