đ Why Do My Cloth Diapers Smell Fishy?
A fishy or sour, ammonia-like smell coming from cloth diapersâespecially after your baby peesâis a red flag that something in your wash routine or diaper maintenance needs attention. While it might make you wrinkle your nose, itâs a common issue and totally fixable.
đ§Ș What Causes Fishy-Smelling Diapers?
That fishy odor is usually linked to one of the following:
-Â Ammonia buildup: Over time, leftover urine breaks down into ammonia, which creates that sharp, sour-fishy smell. It can also cause rashes or even ammonia burns if left untreated.
-Â Inadequate rinsing: If your diapers aren't getting fully rinsed, waste and detergent residue can linger and turn stinky.
-Â Not enough detergent: Underwashing can leave behind bacteria and waste, even if diapers look clean.
-Â Hard water: Minerals in hard water can bond with detergent and urine, trapping smells in the fabric.
-Â Overstuffed washer: If the machine is too full, there may not be enough water or agitation to clean thoroughly.
đ§Œ How to Fix Fishy Smelling Diapers
1. Do an Ammonia Reset Soak
If you suspect ammonia buildup, give your diapers a one-time treatment:
Bleach Soak (for ammonia and bacteria)
- Mix 1 tablespoon of regular bleach per gallon of cold water (or œ cup for a full washer).
-Â Soak clean diapers for 30â45 minutes, then wash and rinse thoroughly.
â ïž Always check manufacturer guidelines. Most PUL and microfiber can handle occasional bleach soaks, but natural fibers might be more sensitive.
OR Try a Rinse & Strip
-Â Do a rinse with hot water and no detergent.
-Â Then soak clean diapers in a stripping solution (see barnyard smell post).
-Â Rinse until the water runs clearâno suds or residue.
2. Tweak Your Wash Routine
Hereâs what a solid wash routine might look like:
Pre-wash:
-Â Short cycle, warm or hot water
- A small amount of detergent
-Â Goal: remove the bulk of urine/solids
Main wash:
-Â Long, hot cycle
-Â Full dose of a strong detergent
-Â Donât overfill the drumâdiapers need room to move
-Â Optional: add a water softener if you have hard water
Extra rinse (optional):
-Â If you suspect detergent residue or live in a hard water area, a final rinse can help.
đĄ Prevention Tips
-Â Wash every 2â3 daysâdonât let diapers sit too long.
-Â Use enough detergent for a heavily soiled load, not just lightly dirty baby clothes.
-Â Ensure good water flow and agitation in the wash.
-Â Donât skimp on rinsesâurine and detergent both need to be fully flushed out.
-Â Watch for changes in your babyâs diet, illness, or hydrationâthese can affect pee chemistry and stink levels.
đš If It Still Smells FishyâŠ
If the odor keeps coming back after wash adjustments:
-Â Double-check for hard water issues and consider using Calgon or a softener.
-Â Inspect your diapers for any damageâmicrofiber especially can trap stink over time.
-Â Make sure you're not using any fabric softeners, vinegar, or DIY detergent mixes that might interfere with diaper absorbency or cleaning.
A fishy smell isnât funâbut itâs your diaper stashâs way of saying, âHey, I need a little TLC.â With the right tweaks and possibly a deep clean, you can banish that odor and keep your cloth journey fresh and stink-free.