Cloth diapering can be a wonderful, eco friendly choice for your little one, but it’s not without its challenges. If you're traveling, live in a small space, or just want to save on water and electricity, hand washing your cloth diapers is a great alternative to using a washing machine. One popular, effective, and simple method is the bucket and plunger method. In this guide, we'll show you how to set up your bucket and plunger system, and provide step-by-step instructions for washing your cloth diapers.
Why Hand Wash Cloth Diapers?
- Eco Friendly; Using less water and energy compared to a washing machine.
- Cost Effective; Reduces utility bills and the need for expensive washing machines. Can reduce the amount of diapers you need in your stash.
- Portable; Perfect for those living in small spaces, traveling/camping, or with limited access to washing machines.
What You’ll Need
1. One or two 5 gallon buckets; One for washing, and one for rinsing, or you can use one bucket for both like me! You can usually find these at a hardware store. A lid is very helpful!
2. A plunger; This will act as your manual agitator. A standard toilet plunger works well, but you can also find ones specifically designed for laundry or that have an ergonomic handle. If your handle is flared, check that it can be screwed off if you want it to fit through the hole in your bucket lid.
3. Drill; To make holes in your plunger.
4. Detergent; Choose a detergent that is safe for cloth diapers, ideally free of fragrances.
5. Gloves; Optional, but helpful to protect your hands from drying detergent and water.
1. Prepare your bucket:
- Using a drill, make a hole in the lid for the plunger to fit through.
2. Prepare your plunger:
- Using a drill, make several holes in the rubber part of the plunger. This allows water to move through the plunger more easily, creating better agitation. I skipped this step, but see it recommended by other sources.
Step by step instructions for washing cloth diapers
1. Before the wash;
- Remove solid waste: Before washing, dispose of any solid waste by shaking it into the toilet. If needed, use a diaper sprayer to remove stubborn residue.
- Pre rinse: Soak the diapers in cold water to loosen any remaining waste. This can be done in your wash bucket or a sink. Let them soak for only about 10-15 minutes, then dump the water.
2. Wash the diapers
- Add detergent: Add a small amount of detergent or soap to your wash bucket filled with warm water. Avoid using too much, as it can be hard to rinse out completely. When you think you have a small enough amount of detergent, use half of that.
- Agitate with plunger: Place the diapers into the bucket and use the plunger to agitate. Plunge up and down vigorously for about 100 repetitions, mimicking the motion of a washing machine. This action will help to lift and remove dirt and grime from the diapers.
- Soak: Allow the diapers to soak for another 10-15 minutes after plunging, to ensure the detergent works its magic on stubborn stains.
- Repeat: Do another wash! You can take breaks during a wash cycle whenever needed. You can do 25 pumps 4 times, or 50 pumps 2 times. Whatever works for your stamina and strength. Tap in a partner to distribute the physical burden.
3. Rinse the diapers
- Transfer to rinse bucket; Move the diapers into the second bucket filled with clean, warm water OR dump the water and diapers out, and try to squeeze out as much soapy water as possible.
- Agitate again; Using the plunger, agitate the diapers for a few minutes to remove any remaining soap residue.
- Repeat; You may need to change the rinse water and plunge a second time if the water is still soapy.
- Alternatively; You can grape stomp or manually rinse the diapers in a bath tub. I found this to work faster, and I got a nicer rinse.
4. Dry the diapers
- Wring out excess water: Squeeze as much water out of the diapers as possible. You can roll them in a towel and press down to remove extra moisture.
- Hang to dry: Air dry your diapers on a clothesline or drying rack. Sunlight is a natural stain remover and disinfectant, so try to hang them outside if possible. If indoors, ensure good airflow to help them dry faster. You can also use a dryer if you have access to one!
Tips for success
- Use hot water: Heat is a catalyst and helps the detergent and agitation work more efficiently. Just make sure it’s not so hot that it could damage the diaper materials or burn you! This isn't usually vital, but is very helpful.
- Regular washing: Wash your diapers every 1-2 days to prevent stains and odors from setting in. Plus… the bucket is small and you can’t fit that many in a load.
- Sun drying: Whenever possible, use sunlight to help naturally bleach out stains and expedite drying. Beware, PUL and natural fibers like wool & alpaca can degrade prematurely from UV exposure.
- Off-gas your plunger, or use one that isn't brand new: New plungers can have a very pungent natural rubber or chemical tire smell. You will want to leave your plunger outside on a porch, if you don't want your diapers and clothes to smell like tires. Ask me how I found out... lol.
Hand washing cloth diapers using the bucket and plunger method is a fantastic way to stay on top of your cloth diapering routine without relying on modern conveniences. It’s eco friendly, cost effective, and surprisingly easy once you get the hang of it! With a little elbow grease and patience, you can keep your baby’s diapers clean and fresh with minimal impact on the environment. Happy washing!
Stay spooky,
Kristin
xoxo