Washing Tips for New Mums
The nesting instinct for new mums can kick in well before bub is due, and top of the list (aside from getting that picture-perfect nursery ready) is washing.
We take a look at expectant mums’ laundry needs, and the various stages of washing before and after baby’s arrival.
The countdown
Getting your nursery ready and the joys of ‘nesting’
While there are no hard and fast rules on the best time in pregnancy to wash baby clothes, the general consensus is that it’s advisable for all baby clothes to be washed before they’re worn. This also applies to bedding.
The freshly-washed smell should last a couple of weeks, or even up to a month or more, but this may vary on how clothes are stored.
Our advice? Wash them as close to your due date as possible, but if the nesting urge arises, go for it!
The stages of washing
How to Wash Your Baby’s Clothes – Laundry Tips
Early days and hospital stays
Once the baby arrives, schedules and routines (more often than not) go out the window. Mothers may even have to stay in hospital for longer periods of time to recover after the birth, or to get extended medical assistance for their little bundle of joy.
While new mums (and dads) juggle this life-changing and wonderful event, everyday chores like laundry generally fall to the wayside, especially if the baby blues hang around. This is where family members can assist in a practical way, by washing baby clothes or buying nappies.
Cloth nappies have seen a big resurgence in popularity in recent times – now available in some great colours, patterns and eco-friendly options – but also require additional washing.
ADD SOME SPARKLE WITH A THOUGHTFUL BABY SHOWER GIFT IDEA: Laundry Lady can assist with laundry services for your clothes while you are in the hospital, or help you get on top of your load in the home. Gift vouchers are the perfect, time-saving idea for new mums (for Baby Showers and Baby Sprinkles) and can be used across our mobile wash, dry, fold and ironing services. Plus, it’s all contactless with door-to-door pickup & dropoff.
Moving on to solids
After the mounds of nappies, bassinet & cot bedding, feeding cloths, and those oh-so-cute onesies and booties, new parents soon move on to the next stage of washing – dribble bibs for teething, and the spills and thrills of trying first solids. Soaking agents and softeners may be your new best friend at this stage.
HANDY TIP: It’s a good idea to put all the baby socks, mittens and smaller items into a netting/delicate bag when washing. No more disappearing socks!
Toddlers: on-the-go
The breakables get put on the higher shelves and the baby locks are installed. Congratulations – baby is learning to crawl!
In addition to those yoghurt and spaghetti messes, general wear and tear on clothing from learning to crawl and walk means even more outfit changes and more washing.
That’s where Laundry Lady comes in. We offer easy, affordable and quick wash, dry, fold and ironing services for the busy household. Our mobile service allows new parents to wash their hands of doing the laundry, and focus on the more important things.
Sensitive skin & allergies: what products are best?
Some parents might feel the need to seek out the very best laundry detergent for their infant’s clothes. However, according to website Better Homes & Gardens, washing your baby’s clothes in regular detergent with the rest of the family’s laundry shouldn’t be a problem.
Generally, liquid detergents (which is what Laundry Lady recommends) rinse out more completely than powders, which can leave behind flakes that might irritate an infant’s skin.
However, if there is a particular brand of sensitive formula you prefer, Laundry Lady is more than happy for you to supply your own for your booking.
Looking for some eco-friendly suggestions? Mum’s Grapevine has put together a list of some products perfect for washing newborn clothes, ranging from Koala Eco laundry wash to Organic Soapberries.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns about your particular situation, you should consult with your family doctor or paediatrician.
