Washing baby clothes requires special care, because baby skin is much more sensitive than adult skin. It’s essential to use appropriate techniques and products in order to keep textiles soft and safe from allergens and irritants. Here are a few tips on how to wash your baby's clothes gently yet thoroughly.
1. Prepare clothes for washing
Before washing your baby's clothes, make sure you sort them properly. Separate clothes according to colour (white and coloured), but also according to how dirty they are. In addition, new clothes should always be washed before your baby wears them for the first time, to remove any chemical residues.
Tip: don't forget to close zips and turn clothes inside out to protect patterns and embroidery. Using a washing net can also protect delicate fabrics.
2. Choosing the right detergent
Choosing a detergent that is suitable for sensitive skin is crucial. Products without dyes, perfumes or harsh chemicals are the most highly recommended. Hypoallergenic detergents are ideal for avoiding skin reactions. Avoid chemical fabric softeners, which can irritate your baby's sensitive skin. You can, however, use more natural solutions, such as white vinegar, which acts as a softener without any toxic residue.
3. Wash at the right temperature
To eliminate bacteria while protecting delicate fabrics, wash baby clothes at 30 or 40°C. High temperatures are not always necessary, except in the case of very dirty clothes or washable nappies, which may require 60°C cycles.
Extra tip: Using a steamer after washing can also help to gently disinfect clothes, especially delicate textiles such as cotton or wool. Steam eliminates up to 99% of germs and allergens, while preventing the wear and tear caused by frequent washing.
4. Drying and ironing
Air-dry to avoid shrinkage of delicate fabrics. If you use a tumble dryer, choose a delicate or low temperature programme. For ironing, a moderate temperature is sufficient. Using a steamer is an excellent option for smoothing and freshening baby clothes without exposing them to the direct heat of an iron.
5. Storage and regular maintenance
Store baby clothes in a clean, dry environment, away from direct light to prevent fading. Regular care with a steamer can also help clothes last longer, by refreshing fibres between washes.
To recap
Taking care of your baby's clothes requires attention and products that are adapted to their delicate skin. By following these simple steps - sorting, hypoallergenic washing, gentle washing, natural drying - and incorporating the use of a steamer, you'll ensure that your baby's clothes are clean, soft and safe every day. Don't hesitate to discover our steamer solutions on the SteamOne website for optimum care of your delicate laundry and baby clothes.