Wednesday, June 17, 2009

The Truth About Washing Detergents


Did you know the #1 reason we find customers aren't getting the best out of their nappies is because of their washing powder? It's a simple thing to change and it can make all the difference.
Using an eco-friendly, biodegradeable detergent that is suitable for sensitive skin is what we recommend in our care instructions and on our website, and believe it or not we don't recommend these just because we care for the environment, they really do have real benefits for your nappies as well.
Detergent issue #1
Perhaps the most common mistake made with detergents is the use of brands that don't break down easily (or at all!) and are full of enzymes, perfumes and fillers, these are usually the cheaper brands but don't be fooled because using a better quality detergent will usually allow you to use and spend less in the long run. While it's obvious non-biodegradeable detergents are not so environmentally friendly did you know they can also leave an oily build up on your nappy that will prevent them from absorbing and cause leaks? The perfumes are also more likely to irritate baby's skin and overuse of these detergents can speed up the deterioration of the fabrics in your nappy, particularly elastics.
Detergent issue #2
Detergent overuse. Did you know we recommend using just 1-2Tbsp of detergent in your wash? That's right as little as possible. This will also help prevent build up, fabric deterioration and skin irritation. And with almost 4 years experience washing nappies I can honestly say a Tablespoon or two of detergent is all I need in my wash to make my nappies clean!
Detergent issue #3
Baking Soda and Vinegar has been recommended by many cloth nappy users in recent years, but I am yet to find a manufacturer who supports its use - why? Vinegar and baking soda washes will deteriorate your fabrics very very quickly and could leave you with nappies that aren't any use at all!
Detergent issue #4
Napisan is a sticky subject, some people don't think it affects modern cloth nappies while others believe it can encourage quick deterioration of elastics and can even encourage the waterproofing on your nappies to 'delaminate' or pull away from the outer fabric. Mum & Bubs don't recommend the use of Napisan, which is not biodegradeable, and we recommend replacing it with biodegradeable Nappy Fresh which will definately be kind to your nappies.
Detergent issue #5
Lux Flakes, Pure Soap Products & Fabric Softeners. All worth avoiding as they cause 'build up' (often within 1 or 2 washes!) and cause leaking.
We particularly like Next Generation, Ecostore, Ecover & Persil Sensitive


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