Care for Diaper Covers

Let's face it... I believe every cloth diaper user mums will invest on diaper covers. But actually how to extend the life span of a diaper cover? I've been wondering for some times and I accidentally found the suggestions and referenece online and wish to share it here.

These are the facts:
1. "How long a cover will last will depend on the type of material the cover is made of." - (think of PUL, wool, cotton,...)

2. "Also what type of soap or detergent you use, your washing method, if you use bleach or bleach alternatives, if you line-dry or use a dryer." - (in Malaysia, we hardly have a dryer, most are line dry...)

3. "How many covers you have to use in rotation, and how often you change them." - (well, I seldom rotate, normally between 2 only, change them at the end of the day)

Advise no.1:
If you are machine washing, don't wash your covers with the diapers, but with the baby's clothing, on a gentle setting. Use only warm water, and a gentle soap.

Advise no.2:
Dry your covers in the machine for only 10-20 minutes, and hang to dry the rest of the way, if they are still damp. Don't use bleach, as it can ruin the elastic, and damage the water-proofing of your covers.

Advise no.3:
Avoid rubbing detergent directly on the diaper cover. All these products can destroy the water-proofness of your covers.

Advise no.4:
Covers generally don't have to be washed as often as the diaper. It will depend on the material of the cover. If the cover is not soiled, you could just run tap water down the inside of the cover to rinse off any urine residue. Pat dry, or hang to dry and re-use.

Nylon/Vinyl - can be air-dried between changes.
* we have PUL in m'sia but nylon...??*

With cotton blend - need to be washed after every use.
*such as imse vimse organic cotton*

Wool - every 2 weeks or when necessary
*ask me, I'm using this :) *

Advise no.5:
If you can afford it, have at least 5-6 covers in each size to rotate. The less often you have to wash your covers, the longer they will last.