How Using Cloth Diapers Affects Your Washing Machine (and How to Keep It in Top Shape)
Cloth diapers are a wonderful choice for eco-conscious families, offering cost savings, less waste, and healthier materials for your baby. But they do introduce some new routines, especially when it comes to your washing machine. If you’ve ever wondered, “Is this bad for my washer?” or “What extra care does my machine need?” you’re in the right place.
Here’s the good news: modern washing machines can absolutely handle cloth diapers. In fact, with the right care and maintenance, your washer can serve your family (and your fluff stash!) for many years without trouble.
What Cloth Diapers Mean for Your Washer
Cloth diapers are just laundry, but with a twist. They’re:
- Heavy when wet
- Washed frequently
- Often washed on longer, hotter cycles
All of this can increase wear and tear if your machine isn’t maintained properly. But don’t worry, it’s easy to protect your investment with just a little routine care.
Tips for Washing Machine Longevity with Cloth Diapers
🧼 1. Clean Your Washer Regularly
Cloth diapers can introduce buildup from detergent, minerals, and, yes, bodily waste. Over time, this buildup can affect performance.
Monthly Washer Maintenance:
- Run a hot wash (empty) with vinegar or citric acid to combat hard water scale.
- Wipe down seals, doors, and detergent drawers, especially in front-loaders.
- Use a washing machine cleaner every month or two if you’re washing heavy loads often.
💧 2. Use Enough Water
Many high-efficiency (HE) machines use too little water for cloth. Diapers need room to move around, rinse properly, and get fully clean.
Tips:
- Use a “deep water” or “extra rinse” setting if available.
- Select “bedding,” “towels,” or “heavy duty” cycles instead of “normal.”
- Avoid the “eco” setting for diaper loads.
🌀 3. Balance Your Loads
Wet diapers are heavy. Overloading your washer can strain the motor and suspension system, especially in front-loaders and top-load impellers.
Best Practice:
- Wash 12–18 diapers at a time.
- If your load is too small and your machine struggles to spin, throw in a towel or two for balance.
🧺 4. Lint & Drain Checks
Diapers (especially natural fibers like cotton or bamboo) can shed a surprising amount of lint during the prep and early wash cycles.
Maintenance Tips:
- Clean your drain pump filter monthly (especially for front-loaders).
- Check and clean inlet screens every 6 months.
- Keep an eye on the lint trap or discharge hose, if your model has one.
🌡️ 5. Watch Your Water Temp
Most machines handle warm and hot washes just fine. But if you wash in hot water frequently (over 130°F), check your manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure it doesn’t void your warranty.
Bonus: Front-Loader vs. Top-Loader, Which is Better?
Both can work great, but each has its quirks.
- Front-loaders are efficient but need careful loading and maintenance to avoid buildup or musty smells.
- Top-loaders (especially with an agitator) are excellent at agitating heavy items like diapers, but may use more water.
Whatever your washer type, routine cleaning and load awareness go a long way.
The Bottom Line
Your washing machine is your cloth diapering sidekick, and it deserves a little TLC. With regular maintenance, thoughtful loading, and smart cycle choices, you’ll keep your washer running smoothly and your diapers sparkling clean.
Need a reminder? Hang a mini “Washer Care Checklist” in your laundry room to stay on track!
