Monday, June 21, 2010

Leaking and Wicking

I seem to have run into a leaking, or possibly wicking, issue. Many of my diapers that were not leaking or wicking at all before are now creating wet spots around the inner thighs. I have made sure they are fitting well around the legs, I tuck in the fabric, I've checked sizing, and I'm changing around 2 hours, or even shorter. I'm wondering if there is something in my laundry routine that is causing a problem.

It is not one particular brand of diaper, so I know it is not that. I'm going to do investigate and do some more research to see if I can determine the problem. Any thoughts out there?

7 comments:

Carly said...

After your Normal wash Routine do about 3 extra hot washes (no soap). The extra hot water should remove ant left over residu that you are not getting with your normal routine. I have to do this to mine every so often. good Luck!!

Tina said...

Have you tried Rockin' a Soak? I haven't had this problem myself, just yet, but I've heard other mom's talk about it and it seems that's the best solution. If you don't use Rockin' Green normally, they have samples you can buy to Rock a Soak.

Unknown said...

How many inserts are you using? Are they soaked when you do a change? I wonder if you need to add some absorbency.

Cynthia said...

All good ideas, thanks. I'll start with the extra hot washes and go from there.

@Jessica, I don't think it's that, because I'm finding the diaper isn't that soaked, but I'll keep a closer eye.

Unknown said...

From looking at your post with your laundry routine, I'm leaning towards your diapers having buildup issues, which personally is why I don't use Tide. It has additives, enzymes, and brighteners, which are typically considered "no no's". Tide has terrible ratings, actually the very lowest, and there have been many similar issues to yours with wicking among others. I would recommend stripping your diapers, which should eliminate the buildup, and then changing detergents to prevent the problem from reoccurring.

Here is a site for detergent ratings, based on their ingredients:
http://www.pinstripesandpolkadots.com/detergentchoices.htm

RDIA recommendations:
http://www.realdiaperindustry.org/guide-to-washing-cloth-diapers

A helpful page on stripping the dipes:
http://www.litegreenliving.com/stripping-cloth-diapers

I hope this helps. I personally use Bi-o-Kleen powder detergent, and it works beautifully. I have never had repelling issues. They also make a Oxygen Bleach, which I use on my dipes once a week. All natural, eco friendly too. It costs around $14 a box, I've been washing 3+ months and not even half the box is gone. I have repeatedly heard wonderful things about Charlie's Soap as well.

Cynthia said...

Ok, I'm going to strip my diapers and I just bought some Rockin' Green, so I'm going to try that.

Thanks, all!

Unknown said...

Hi Cynthia,

I'm not sure if you're still having this problem or not. Yes, it could be the build up, but it could be the amount of absorbency also. My current little one has a big bladder and is a really heavy wetter. I have to use 2 pads and I never have leaks, ever. I also use Charlie's soap, the diapers don't have any residue and come out smelling wonderful without the perfumes. Hot wash/warm rinse, extra rinse and pre wash, then dry on warm/hot. I never have smells or leaks. Hope this helps!