Here’s Your Guide to Washing Baby Clothes

Doing laundry becomes a daily thing with a baby around thanks to the unpredictable messes they create, making the washer and dryer invaluable assets. Experts emphasize the importance of regularly washing baby clothes, and it's not just about aesthetics. Dermatologists point out that a baby's skin is still developing its natural protective barrier, which makes it vulnerable to things like infections and irritants like allergies.

With washing baby clothes being a critical step in ensuring a baby's health and well-being, parents need to know when to dive into the laundry pile. According to experts, it's best to wash baby clothes before the little one sports their outfit of the day. It helps eliminate dust, dirt, or residues, ensuring comfort for the baby. Now, the question arises: what to wash and how much? According to pediatricians, washing all newborn clothes and a couple of 0 to 3 sizes is a good idea. As the baby grows, washing the clothes should continue as they will keep needing them. Doing so regularly allows parents to avoid unnecessary stress about having everything washed and ready.

When it comes to the nitty-gritty of washing, parents don't need anything fancy. A gentle detergent that is labeled for babies will do the job. A standard washing machine with delicate cycles, mild stain removers, and laundry baskets are also among the basics that all parents should have. Things that can and should be skipped include bleach, fabric softeners, and fragranced detergents because they can irritate the sensitive skin of the baby.

After the cycle, parents should perform a double rinse of the clothes to ensure the removal of all detergent residues that could irritate the baby's skin. When drying, they should opt for a low heat setting or air drying to prevent damage to delicate fabrics. Before dressing the baby in freshly laundered clothes, parents should inspect them for sharp buttons or snaps that may pose a safety risk.