Everything You Need to Know about Pre-Washing Baby Clothes
Parents always want the best for their children. As a mommy, you most certainly agree, right? You wouldn't ever skimp out on the quality of food, toys, and clothes if there was no budget in the equation.
New mommies may not know this, but quality goes beyond what you purchase from the store. You also need to take note of the proper care and use of items, like baby clothes.
It's quite evident that baby clothes are personal use items. It only makes sense that they go through thorough washing before your precious baby wears them.
Why Do Mommies Need to Pre-Wash Baby Clothes?
You must pre-wash your baby’s clothes because you don't know where the items have been. It doesn't matter if they are brand new or hand-me-downs; baby clothes may be carrying dirt, grime, or bacteria that you certainly do not want on your baby.
For instance, brand new baby clothes may have never had anyone wearing them, but you don't know where the fabric has been or who had handled it before it arrived in your home.
Meanwhile, hand-me-downs may have stayed in storage for quite some time before the previous owners brought them out. You don't know if dust has built up or critters touched the clothes while in storage. It's much better to be safe rather than sorry.
How Do Mommies Pre-Wash Baby Clothes?
Like adult clothing, baby clothes have special washing instructions you need to follow to ensure the fabrics last for a long time.
Ideally, you follow the label's instructions. If not, check out these tips:
- Separate the baby clothes from other fabrics.
- Wash them with a mild detergent.
- Use cold or warm water.
- Inspect the clothes after washing. If they need more washing, rewash them. Otherwise, put them in the dryer.
- Once dry, assess the clothes to make sure they are thoroughly dry - you do not want mold to form.
- Store the items in a clean, dry place such as dresser or closet.
Before washing baby clothes, you should also take time to research soaps and detergents that work best for them. Babies have sensitive skin, and harsh chemicals on their clothes may cause a reaction.
What Other Items Do Mommies Need to Pre-Wash before Use?
Baby clothes aren't the only items that require thorough washing before use. In fact, you should pre-wash these other items as well:
1. Baby blankets
More than one baby may have used baby blankets. If so, they could have been carrying germs from baby to baby and from person to person. As an extra precaution, wash these items before your baby uses them.
2. Stuffed animals
Stuffed animals are soft, cuddly, and adorable. However, these items may have been on the floor or in other areas where germs may have built up. Plus, you never know what type of person may have interacted with the stuffed toys, therefore it is a good idea to wash them too.
3. Cloth diapers
If you plan to use cloth diapers to reduce your environmental footprint, great! Still, you mustn't forget to pre-wash your cloth diapers before putting them on your baby. The same goes for cloth diaper covers and wipes.
Conclusion
It's one thing to have the best toys and clothes for your precious little one. It's another to make sure the items you buy are adequately clean.
Hopefully, this guide has given you some insight on why you need to pre-wash baby clothes and how to do so. Now, you know how to care for your baby's clothes!
If you are looking for minimalist baby clothes, make sure to check out S T I T C H. The Label. We offer a variety of comfy, stylish clothing that range from newborns to two years old.