Welcoming a new baby into the world means a whole new world of laundry! Those tiny outfits are adorable, but they also require special care to keep them soft, clean, and safe for your little one's delicate skin. Don't worry, though – this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about washing your baby's clothes.
Section 1: Before You Start
- Read the Labels: Always check the care instructions on each garment before washing.
- Pre-Wash New Clothes: Before your baby wears any new clothing, wash it to remove potential irritants like dyes, sizing, and chemicals.
- Separate Colors: Wash dark and light colors separately to prevent color bleeding.
Section 2: Choosing the Right Detergent
- Baby-Friendly Detergent: Opt for a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free detergent specifically designed for baby clothes.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Steer clear of detergents with bleach, fabric softeners, and artificial fragrances, which can irritate sensitive skin.
- Concentrated Detergents: Use a small amount of detergent, as concentrated formulas can leave residue on clothes.
- Test for Allergies: If your baby has sensitive skin or allergies, test a small amount of detergent on their skin before washing their entire wardrobe.
Section 3: Washing Machine Settings
- Gentle Cycle: Use a gentle or delicate cycle for most baby clothes to minimize wear and tear.
- Cold Water: Wash baby clothes in cold water to prevent shrinking and preserve colors.
- Low Spin Speed: Use a low spin speed to prevent excessive wrinkling and stretching.
Section 4: Handling Stains
- Act Quickly: The sooner you treat a stain, the easier it will be to remove.
- Pre-Treat Stains: Apply a baby-safe stain remover or a mixture of baking soda and water to the stain before washing.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach on baby clothes, as they can irritate sensitive skin.
Section 5: Drying Baby Clothes
- Air Dry When Possible: Air drying is gentle on fabrics and helps preserve the quality of baby clothes.
- Tumble Dry on Low: If you must use a dryer, use a low heat setting to prevent shrinking and damage.
- Avoid High Heat: High heat can damage delicate fabrics and cause shrinkage.
Section 6: Special Care for Delicate Items
- Hand Wash Delicates: For delicate items like hand-knitted sweaters or items with embellishments, hand washing is the safest option.
- Sanitize When Necessary: If a baby has been sick, sanitize clothes and linens by washing in hot water or adding a sanitizing agent to the wash.
Clothes Worth Washing Again and Again
The best baby clothes are the ones that come out of the wash just as soft and vibrant as they went in. Dew & Dove's GOTS-certified organic cotton is built for exactly that — wash after wash, season after season.