How to Remove Stains From Cloth Nappies Naturally

April 1, 2026 Biome team

EcoNaps Modern Cloth Nappy - Indigo Pinstripe

Cloth nappies can be such a simple, practical swap — but let’s be honest, keeping them fresh can feel like the part that tests you!

Over time, stains build up, things can start looking a bit tired, and it is easy to assume you need harsh chemicals to get everything bright again. Usually though, the gentler methods are the ones that work best over time.

If you have ever found yourself staring at a stained nappy or wipe and wondering what on earth to do with it, there are a few simple things that can make a real difference.

In Australia alone, billions of disposable nappies go to landfill each year — one of the reasons many families start exploring cloth in the first place. Keeping them clean in a simple, low-tox way is often what makes it more sustainable long term.

If you are building a low-tox routine more broadly, you might also enjoy our non-toxic baby essentials checklist, which covers simple swaps across everyday baby care.

How to whiten cloth nappies naturally (without harsh chemicals)

Sunlight — the simplest solution

It might sound almost too simple, but sunlight really is one of the most effective ways to lift stains from cloth nappies.

Hanging nappies outside in the sun allows natural UV rays to help break down stains and gently brighten fabric, often without needing anything extra. It is one of those low-effort habits that can feel strangely satisfying once you see it work.

Using oxygen bleach to remove cloth nappy stains safely

When nappies need a deeper clean, oxygen bleach can help lift stubborn stains without being as harsh on the fibres.

Unlike chlorine bleach, oxygen bleach works by releasing oxygen bubbles that help loosen and lift staining from the fabric rather than stripping it. It can be a much gentler option for nappies, reusable cloths and the fabrics you are washing often.

Choosing a gentle, natural laundry detergent

Gentle, natural laundry detergents are designed to clean effectively without leaving behind residues that can build up in fibres over time. This helps nappies stay absorbent, breathable and comfortable for your baby.

It can also make a difference for sensitive skin. Harsh detergents, synthetic fragrances and optical brighteners can linger in fabric, sitting against your baby’s skin throughout the day. We touch on this more in our guide to gentler baby care products, which often overlap with laundry choices too.

A simpler, low-tox detergent like Biome's Laundry Bar keeps things clean without adding anything extra — better for nappies, better for skin, and lighter on the environment too.

If you’re looking for a safe, simple way to whiten cloth nappies, this combination of sunlight, oxygen bleach and a gentle detergent is usually all you need.

It’s also not just for nappies — the same approach works beautifully for baby clothes, reusable wipes, sheets and everyday laundry too, keeping everything fresh without needing harsher products.

Stainless steel pegs and sock hangers are a great way to avoid plastic that breaks over time.

What to avoid when washing cloth nappies

To keep cloth nappies working as they should — and to protect your baby’s skin — it helps to steer clear of a few common culprits.

Chlorine bleach
Can weaken fibres over time, reducing the lifespan of your nappies. It can also leave residues that may irritate delicate skin.

Fabric softeners
These coat fibres to create a “soft” feel, but in nappies this can reduce absorbency and lead to build-up over time.

Heavily fragranced products
Synthetic fragrances can linger in fabric and sit against your baby’s skin all day. For some little ones, this can contribute to irritation or sensitivity.

Optical brighteners
Often added to detergents to make fabrics appear “whiter”, these do not actually clean the fabric and can leave residues behind.

If you are curious about what conventional wipes are made from (and why many families switch), you might also find this helpful: what are baby wipes made of?

And if you are weighing up reusable vs disposable options more broadly, this guide on how long baby wipes take to decompose gives a really helpful perspective.

Keeping things simple

Cloth nappies don’t need to be all or nothing. Whether you use them every day or just at home, it still counts.

Once you find a simple rhythm that works — a bit of sun, a gentle wash, the right detergent — it becomes much easier to stay on top of.

If you’re using reusable baby wipes too, they can go in the same load, which keeps things simple. If you’re newer to them, this guide on how reusable baby wipes work is a helpful place to start.

And if you’re slowly simplifying what comes into your home, our guide to hidden toxins in baby products is a good next read.

FAQs

Can I use bleach on cloth nappies?
Chlorine bleach is generally best avoided, as it can damage fibres and reduce absorbency over time. Oxygen bleach is a gentler alternative that can help lift stains without the same impact.

Does sunlight really remove stains from cloth nappies?
Yes, sunlight can naturally help fade stains thanks to UV exposure. It is one of the simplest and most effective methods, especially for fresh stains.

How do I keep reusable wipes clean?
Reusable wipes can usually be washed alongside cloth nappies using a gentle detergent. For a deeper clean, an occasional oxygen bleach soak can help keep them fresh without harsh chemicals.