At Modern Cloth Nappies, we know that stains can be one of the trickier parts of cloth nappy care. Whether from milk, solids, or a little extra “mess,” stains are completely normal and don’t mean your nappies are dirty or less effective. In fact, a bit of discolouration doesn’t affect absorbency or performance at all, it’s purely cosmetic.
Still, we understand it’s nice to keep your nappies looking as lovely as the day they arrived, and the good news is: you can lift stains naturally and effectively, all year round – even when the winter sunshine is hiding behind the clouds.
Let the Light Do the Work
Sunlight is nature’s best stain remover. The UV rays gently lift and fade stains without any harsh chemicals - just like how daylight is sometimes used to help babies with mild jaundice.
Even during the colder months, UV is still present, so don’t be discouraged by grey skies. Hanging your nappies outside, or even inside by a bright window can make a real difference. The key is giving them access to light rather than heat, so a cool, bright spot works beautifully.
Tip: Pop your clean, damp nappies on a drying rack by a sunny window for a natural indoor “sunning” session.
Choose Gentle, Eco-Friendly Stain Support
If you’d like an extra helping hand, opt for a biodegradable, baby-safe stain remover or oxygen-based booster. These can be added to your main wash or applied directly to the stained area beforehand.
Soak Smartly
For those extra-tough stains, a short soak can work wonders. Use cool or lukewarm water with a touch of your usual detergent, leave for an hour or two, then rinse before your main wash. Avoid soaking in detergent overnight or for long periods, as this can weaken elastic and fibres over time.
This small step helps loosen any stubborn marks and keeps your nappies fresh without resorting to harsh chemicals or unnecessary waste.
Embrace the Realities of Reuse
It’s worth remembering that stains don’t reflect poor washing or hygiene, they simply show that your nappies are being loved and reused, just as they’re meant to be. Over time, regular washing and exposure to daylight naturally fade most marks.
Every stain is a small reminder of the sustainable choice you’ve made, keeping disposable nappies out of landfill and choosing a gentler way to care for your baby and the planet.
Stains may happen, but they’re nothing to worry about. With a little natural light, a gentle wash routine, and eco-friendly products, your Modern Cloth Nappies will stay clean, fresh, and ready for reuse, whatever the season.
Sustainable parenting isn’t about perfection, it’s about small, conscious choices that add up to a big difference.
