Bringing a new baby home is an exciting and overwhelming experience. Amidst all the preparations, one often-overlooked aspect is laundry. While you know you’ll have more of it, have you considered how different your baby’s laundry needs are from your own? If you regularly use scented detergents, bleach, or fabric softener, it’s time to rethink your routine.
Forget washing clothes just to freshen them up. Your baby’s laundry pile will grow exponentially due to spit-up and other messes. More importantly, a baby’s skin is far more sensitive to chemicals than adult skin. Using perfume- and dye-free detergents is a simple way to prevent discomfort from irritating chemicals. While detergents specifically formulated for babies are available, generally, avoiding heavily scented and dyed products is sufficient. In rare cases of specific allergies, finding a suitable brand through trial and error may be necessary. Monitor your baby’s skin and seek medical advice if you suspect an allergic reaction.
Separate cloth diapers from other baby clothes. Cloth diapers are significantly more soiled. Wash them separately, ideally twice. First, use bleach with a double rinse. Then, wash them again with vinegar in the final rinse cycle. Because diapers have constant contact with your baby’s sensitive skin, minimizing allergens is crucial for their comfort and well-being.
Babies grow quickly, requiring frequent clothing replacements. Always wash new clothes before your baby wears them, including outerwear, bath accessories, undershirts, socks, and onesies. The initial months are vital for establishing a suitable laundry routine and understanding your baby’s specific needs. Regardless of your chosen method, watch for allergic reactions or rashes. A comfortable baby is a happy baby.