Alcmena Washing Instructions

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.

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. Dry: For inserts (dry in the sun or in dryer); and for nappy shells (dry in shade or on low heat).

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

• 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.