How to Wash: Detergents

I think the most important thing you should know about cloth diapers is that they don't need the following:

• Bleach
• Fabric softeners - putting softeners on your cloth diaper will greatly affect its absorbency. 
• Other enzymes advertised on ordinary detergents.

So if you see these three on your laundry detergent, do yourself a favor and don't use it on your nappies. :) The good news is that there are available detergents that are cloth diaper friendly, such as:

• Cycles -  This was the first detergent that we tried with Nathan's diapers. I like it, no fuss and it does what it has to do -- clean the nappies. I like the smell too! I also use it when washing his clothes.
• Charlie's Soap - Bob had the shock of his life when I told him we have to buy a detergent that costs around 700 pesos for a tub. The real shocker is that if you do the math, it turns out that it's really cheaper than what we even use for our clothes. You need just a teeny tiny amount of Charlie's soap to clean a load of nappies.
• Smart Steps - this is available on most supermarkets. I say it's okay, but I'd still choose Cycles or Charlies over it. Some mommies said it's a bit harsh on the bum. 

So far, those three are the ones we've tried and had positive results. Just remember no bleach, no fabric softeners and you'll be good to go. :)