How to Pack Away Your Cloth Diapers for Long-Term Storage
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I wrote the original version of this post for New & Green Baby Company.
One of the best perks to cloth diapering is the money you save by using reusable diapers instead of disposable ones.
When you can use all those diapers for a second child, your savings are multiplied – not to mention you get to keep using all your favorites!
Here are four tips for packing your diapers away and protecting your investment.
Wash them with plain ol’ hot water
Wash all the diapers to store away in a hot wash cycle without any detergent. This will make sure to remove any detergent residue that may be lingering on the fibers that can eat away at elastics and synthetic fabrics over time. It will also make sure you start without any residue when you unpack them again. Also, if you decide not to use them with another child, it makes them all the more ready to donate or sell!
Put the diapers through an extra dryer cycle
You want to make sure your diapers get packed into their storage containers completely dry so that no mold can grow. Put the diapers through an extra dryer cycle or outside for a full day on a hot, sunny day to make sure they are thoroughly dry all the way through, especially for fitteds and all-in-ones.
Use sturdy, dry storage containers
Rubbermaid-style totes are ideal for this situation, as they offer dry storage, keep insects and dust out, and protect the diapers in case of unforeseen circumstances, such as leaking pipes and flooding. Large garbage bags can also work, but be sure to store them off the floor and set them in a place where they won’t get ripped open. Avoid cardboard boxes or baskets that can facilitate mold and mildew growth, especially if you live in a moist climate.
Store them in a temperature consistent place
Put your storage containers in a place that won’t vary considerably through the seasons – that is, avoid damp garages, storage sheds that get super-hot and humid, and basement suite closets that have no air circulation. This will make sure moisture can’t infest your lovely fibers to grow molds and mildew.
Taking care of your diapers will ensure that they last you for years, saving you time and money.
Do you have other tips for storing cloth diapers for long-term? Please share!
Are space bags safe to use for storage?
Yes, space bags would work well! Just make sure they’re sealed well – I’ve had mixed success with space bags for other items. Some stay well sealed and some seem to reinflate, so just make sure your bags are airtight for long-term storage success. 🙂
I have stored my diapers for my dream baby. I let a friend borrow a stash to try out…and I remember reading to wash the diapers first as soon as you take them out of storage to avoid elastic damage. I had a few that I didn’t wash first and the elastic stretched almost immediately while the ones I washed first stayed springy. May be a coincidence but it’s worth trying!!