Essential Oils in the Wash?

Q:

We use dryer balls and I've read you can add a few drops of essential oils to the wool to add a nice perfume to your laundry. Is this OK when drying Sandy's fitteds and Wizard Duo inserts?

A:

We do not recommend any oils be added to your dryer. You don't want the oils to transfer to the absorbent portion of the diaper system because it could cause them to become repellent (causing leaks). You can, however, add a few drops of oils to your wash if you are doing a load of covers only. Essential oils will have no ill effect on covers.

My question for you is, why do you want to add the oils? Are you looking to mask the smell of an unclean diaper?

If you are dealing with ammonia or 'barnyard' smells when your diapers are soiled it means something is wrong with your wash routine.

Read these blog posts to find out how to deal with the problem, without masking the smell:

Cloth Diapering 101: How do I deal with ammonia?

How to sanitize your cloth diapers

Cloth Diaper Washing 101

Care Guide

If you have a question you'd like answered, contact us. We're always happy to help!