Finding the right detergent for cloth diapers can sometimes be quite a challenge. Here, one detergent is recommended, there, another for cleaning PUL cloth diapers. In this article, we want to give a brief overview of the ingredients in laundry detergent.
Why is it important to know the ingredients in laundry detergent?
Similar to wool and silk, the correct composition of the detergent and the right washing routine are crucial when washing cloth diapers. For most fabrics, the washing method isn't as critical, but once you learn the proper technique, your shirts, sweaters, and pants will also benefit. Therefore, we'll take a look at what detergents consist of and what each ingredient actually does.
Types of detergents
Laundry detergent
For cloth diapers, including Lybbie diapers, a heavy-duty detergent is recommended. It is especially suitable for temperatures between 30°C and 95°C and washes the vast majority of fabrics and textiles. It is generally well-suited for cleaning white laundry or rags. Therefore, choosing the right heavy-duty detergent for Lybbie diapers will also result in cleaner results for other garments.
Color detergent
Color detergent is generally used at temperatures between 30°C and 60°C and cleans colored textiles. Although the PUL layer of most cloth diapers, including the Lybbie diaper, is colored, the diaper should be washed with regular detergent and not color detergent.
Some laundry detergent ingredients
surfactants
The main ingredient in laundry detergent is surfactants. They loosen dirt and oils from the fibers and help two liquids that normally don't mix to blend together. These include liquids such as oil and water.
Washing alkalis
Washing alkalis are a collective term for all additives that raise the pH value. This softens the fibers better and makes it easier to remove dirt.
water softener
Water softeners are used to soften the water and allow surfactants to work more effectively. Thanks to water softeners, less limescale also builds up in the washing machine.
Enzymes
Enzymes remove protein- and starch-based stains. These usually include egg, milk, and blood stains. Enzymes are generally not suitable for cloth diapers because they can cause them to wear out faster, but in reality, the effect is not as bad as often described.
Bleach
Bleach is used to remove colored stains from textiles. These are usually sauces or fruit juices.
Fragrances
Fragrances are meant to give laundry a pleasant smell, but should generally be avoided as they can irritate the skin (especially delicate baby skin) and trigger or exacerbate allergies.
