How to Wash Baby Clothes, Sheets and Toys

There are few greater joys than bringing a baby into the world, but keeping them clean is no small feat. In fact, between accidents, spills, and messy daycare visits, cleaning up after little ones is something of a skill.

Ready to up your cleaning game and learn how to wash baby clothes, sheets, and toys?

If you don’t like doing laundry, you’re in luck—it’s ten times more fun when the socks, pants, and bibs are so teeny tiny! Plus, knowing your baby’s stuff is safe to touch helps any parent rest easier.

From products to techniques, here’s what to know about washing your baby’s garments and toys.

How to Wash Baby Clothes, Sheets and Toys

Baby Clothes and Sheets: Choosing the Right Laundry Detergent

Regular detergent isn’t dangerous to use on baby garments, but if your child has skin sensitivities, it’s best to use something different.

For a gentler option, read detergent labels to look for something:

For something a bit more DIY, you can always make your own detergent to control for these factors. Read this blog to learn how!

Don’t forget to consult your pediatrician if skin sensitivities arise.

Can You Wash Baby Clothes and Adult Clothes Together?

If your entire family is using the same detergent, it’s 100% safe to wash everyone’s clothing together. However, tiny garments can get tangled and damaged quite easily, so be sure to use a garment bag in this scenario.

For washing machine settings, choose:

  • A delicate or gentle cycle

  • Cold water to avoid shrinkage

  • An extra rinse, if you’re worried about detergent residue


Of course, it’s essential to clean your washing machine on a regular basis—especially with a baby in the family. This blog explains how.

Drying Baby Clothes and Sheets

While your baby’s sheets are usually fine to toss in the dryer, their clothes are a different story. Because baby clothing is crafted with so much cotton, they tend to shrink easily!

Your baby isn’t getting any smaller, so to avoid this fate, air dry their clothing as much as possible. Here’s how to tackle line drying, no matter the weather outside.

Stain Removal: Baby Edition

Next time you’re cleaning a particularly soiled garment or sheet, deal with the stain as quickly as possible—and before using the washing machine.

This article explains how to use dish soap for bodily fluid stain removals.

How to Clean Baby Toys Safe For Play

Finally, here’s how to clean baby toys:

  • Add 10-15 drops of natural dish soap to a bucket or bowl of hot water.

  • Take a clean cloth or rag, dip it into the water, and scrub down each toy.

  • Rise thoroughly with hot water and leave them out to air dry.

Still can’t clean your baby’s clothes with peace of mind? No problem - your local laundry professionals are on hand to help!

Search ‘laundry near me’ to use the safe and sanitized machines at the WaveMAX laundromat Thornton location. Or, for even more support, schedule a wash-and-fold pick-up and delivery service at www.denverwashandfold.com.