Say goodbye to rash cream buildup on your cloth nappies!

Have you ever noticed greyish patches on the parts of the nappy that touches the bum, even after you have bleach sanitised those nappies?

Let’s talk about what such stains are, why bleach doesn’t remove them, how you can shift them and how to prevent this issue in the future.

What causes the grey marks

These greyish-white marks are a build-up of rash cream. When not thoroughly washed out, rash cream forms a thin, greasy film that sits directly on the part of the nappy that touches baby’s bum. If this happens repeatedly, dirt and grime in the wash sticks to this film.

Why bleach doesn’t remove them

Bleach is an amazing oxidiser. It does a fantastic job at removing any remnants of poo and wee, as well as microscopic organisms and fungal spores that lurk in secondhand nappies. The problem is that rash cream is usually made from an inorganic ingredient: zinc oxide. 

Bleach has little effect on inorganic compounds, especially greasy substances like rash cream.

Using rash cream with cloth nappies

Reading this, you might wonder if you can use a rash cream with cloth nappies. The good news is, if you’re following a Clean Cloth Nappies routine, there’s absolutely no need to avoid them!

The key lies in understanding and applying the four cleaning factors to your wash routine. When these factors are optimised, nappy cream is easily removed during the regular wash cycle, meaning you can use it without compromising your nappies.

• Increase your detergent: If you regularly use rash cream, you will need more detergent for a thorough clean. If you suspect rash cream marks on the secondhand nappies you’ve just bought, add some detergent alongside the bleach into your in-wash sanitise. The surfactants in the detergent will help break down residual cream left on the nappy.
• Turn up the heat: Washing at 60°C will significantly improve the removal of barrier cream and other residues. You can use a hot cycle even for your in-wash sanitise.
• Lengthen your first wash: A longer first wash cycle provides more time for the detergent and water to work their magic. Aim for a first wash that is around 60 minutes. 
• Spot treat as required: If the first three factors aren’t enough to shift the marks, it’s time to apply some elbow grease. Grab a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush or a nail brush is perfect), add some bar soap or liquid detergent and gently scrub the marks.

Apply rash cream mindfully

The best way to prevent cream from transferring to your nappies is to only apply a small amount at a time. Lightly massage it into the skin until it is translucent. If the area looks white afterwards, put a little less on next time.

Excessive amounts can rub off the skin and onto the fabric of the nappy. Not only does this contribute to those stubborn marks, but when too much cream is trapped on the fabric, moisture can become trapped between the skin and the nappy material, potentially making rashes worse. 

By implementing these tips, you’ll not only remove existing marks, but also prevent future buildup, keeping your cloth nappies in top condition. ✨