Prepping my stash

lburkey21

I'm sure this has been asked a million times so I apologize up front! I'm getting ready to wash my stash so I can finally get things organized and I just wanted to get opinions on my 'plan'.

I've got a stack of used diapers - a combo of prefolds, AIOs and pockets w/ inserts. I've never used bleach in my life but I've read that it's probably the best way to ensure true cleanliness. So I'm thinking hot wash with detergent and bleach (how much??) and then a couple cold rinses. Will this ruin the Thirsties Covers?

For my new stuff, I've read the prep instructions for each brand and they all seem slightly different. Does it matter if I wash them all the same? Hot wash  with detergent and 2 cold rinses? Or should I wash them each based on the recommendation on the packaging? I don't have enough of each brand to really have any sort of full load (I have just a couple of each to try different brands).

Also, I have a HE FL and use Charlie's Soap.

I am thinking of my regular wash routine to be: cold/warm rinse, hot wash with detergent, cold rinse x2. Do I use the normal amount of detergent based on load size or is it supposed to be less?

Sorry again, I'm a complete CD washing novice!!

mrshudson618

use 1/4 cup bleach for used items, rinse until you can't smell it. 

New stuff, wash anything synthetic once.

anything all natural fibers wash and dry 3-5 times. I would wash 2-3 times, and just know that they have not reached full absorbency yet. 

use recommended amount of detergent for load size, adjust up or down if you start having issues. 

TJ1979

@mrshudson618‌ pretty much nailed it. I just wanted to add that you can do your 2-3 washes with sheets and towels and white clothes and stuff to prep them. They don't have to be washed alone. Just no dryer sheets. And use your cd safe detergent.