Alcmena Washing Instructions
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Before using your nappies/inserts/boosters for the first time, we recommend soaking them in water overnight and then washing them around 3 times (normal-length cycle) to make them more absorbent. Keep in mind, it will take 8-10 washes to gain maximum absorbency.
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Dry Pail: Shake solids into the toilet, rinse out excess and place nappy in a dry pail (any basket with holes).
For Night Nappies, hot hand wash with small amount of detergent OR go straight to Step 2, but wash on 60 degrees.
Pre-wash (every 1-2 days): Short cycle using 1/2 recommended detergent for heavily-soiled loads, 40-60 degrees, spin (800-1000rpm) and dry pail until Main Wash day.
Prewash daily if main wash is more than every 3 days.
Main Wash (every 1-3 days): Long cycle (2-3hrs), full dose of detergent, 40-60 degrees, spin (800-1000rpm).
Higher spin speeds may cause the elastics to slacken and can void your warranty.
You can add small, light-coloured items to bulk up the main wash.
Dry: For inserts (dry in the sun or in dryer); and for nappy shells (dry in shade or on low heat).
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Fabric softeners can be used, but infrequently (e.g. 1 in every 3rd wash) as they can reduce absorption of the inserts.
Don't expose the nappy shell (the waterproof part) to heat over 60 degrees
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Dry in sunlight if possible to reduce bacteria and stains (also it's cheaper!).
If inserts become stiff, opt for tumble dry and the insert should soften.
Wash your dirty nappies every 1-2 days if possible, to discourage growth of bacteria.
If using nappy balms containing zinc/petroleum, place a reusable or disposable liner on top of the insert.
It is ok to use nappy balms as long as you have: (1) adequate agitation (sufficient loading in the machine), (2) non-eco detergent and (3) warm-hot water – this will help wash out your rash creams.
Test your wash routine on a microfleece liner first if unsure.