If you choose reusable nappies, sterilising and washing will be a part of your daily routine for quite a while. So here’s how to get organised.

Washing reusable nappies

If you use a disposable inner liner with your reusable nappy, any soiling can be dropped straight into the toilet. If the nappy itself gets dirty, hold the corner firmly over the toilet and let the toilet flush over the surface of the nappy to remove the worst of the soiling.

• Store used nappies in a bucket until you are ready to wash them.
• You can use a nappy sanitising liquid in the bucket, but this isn’t suitable for all nappies, so do check. Some mothers use a few drops of tea tree oil, a couple of teaspoons of white vinegar or a handful of washing soda in the bucket or simply drop them in a covered bucket and store them dry till wash time, with maybe a little tea tree oil. 
• Wash the nappies using a non-biological washing powder. 
• Check the washing temperature to use as it varies from brand to brand. Dry nappies outside if possible; the fresh air and sunshine will help make them whiter and softer.

Laundry services

In some areas, nappy laundry services take all the effort out of washing and drying reusable nappies. The used nappies are stored, collected regularly, and then returned to you nice and clean. You do, of course, pay for this service.