When it comes to cloth diapers, finding a wash routine that consistently keeps your diapers fresh smelling and stain free for an extended period of time can be tricky. I’ve tried several detergents and they’ve all done the trick for awhile, but then I’ve either run into issues: ammonia smells persisted, it didn’t work well with my using All Free and Clear on my other laundry, or the cost per load didn’t jive with my cding to save money philosophy.
I’m excited to bring you a review of a cloth diaper friendly soap I’ve used for a couple of months now. I’ve tested quite a few detergents over the past couple of years, but this is the first review I’ve written after using one for more than a couple of weeks. After using detergent comparison charts on Diaper Jungle and Pin Stripes and Polka Dots, reading user reviews, and looking at costs per load plus shipping rates, I decided to try Eco Sprout Soap.
At the time, my diapers were in a kind of blah condition. They inserts didn’t look as bright and white as I wanted, they had a lingering smell, and just seemed a bit dingy. I am not generally a big fan of any product that requires me to prep before using, but I decided to follow the directions and soak my entire stash in the bathtub to eliminate previous build up. I actually boiled some water to get it really hot, then combined with 4 to 6 tablespoons (I have quite a few diapers) and let them soak overnight. I then did the detergent-free rinses and was immediately impressed by the results.
Since that time, I’ve used Eco Sprout detergent exclusively on my diapers and even on some of my regular loads of laundry. Here’s why I continue using it:
1. A little bit goes a long way. In my top loading washer with soft water, 2 tablespoons does the trick when I wash every other day.
2. Simple wash routine. Presoak/Rinse in cold, hot/cold wash with detergent, then follow up rinse with cold. No extra rinses.
3. Diapers look clean and bright. No lingering smells. No ammonia issues. No pick-me-ups needed yet.
4. Cost. A 96 oz bag cleans 96 to 192 loads for $24.98. I purchase mine from the Fuzzibunz store where I can use my rewards and it used to ship for free – now on orders over $35. Once you know you like a product, however, you can simply buy a couple bags at once.
The only complaints I have – and they are minor ones – have to do with scent and packaging.
1. The scent is barely noticeable and I have tried more than one. I know it ultimately washes out, but it is fun to have the detergent smelling good all the same.
2. The packaging isn’t very durable and doesn’t always seal easily or well. I’m always afraid it’s going to spill. I’d love to see some sturdier packaging with a better seal.
When I use Eco Sprout Soap, I like that I’m supporting a SAHD, an entrepreneur who saw a need in the cloth diapering community and decided to do something about it. I’ve chatted with Jared via twitter and I can tell he is passionate about making a quality product. He also cares about customer satisfaction and the Eco Sprout website is easy to navigate with clear FAQS and directions.
I love Eco Sprout so much, I contacted Jared and he generously offered a 24 ounce bag for one lucky reader – winner picks the scent. To enter, use the Rafflecopter link below and, if you decide to follow Eco Sprout Soap via facebook or twitter, why not stop and thank them for the giveaway here? Good luck!
Fresh Linen!! 🙂
I would choose the Sandalwood Vanilla!
I would choose the seasonal Sweet Pumpkin Spice!
I just spent the day stripping all of my cloth diapers. I could certainly use a new product.
I would love the warm vanilla sugar. Or maybe their new green tea!
I would love to try the Lavender Chamomile scent!
fmgrice2(at)yahoo(dot)com
I would choose “In the buff” Great review,
I think i’d choose the Fresh Linen!
I love EcoSprout!
ashleeklemm{at}gmail{dot}com
I would get fresh linen danaahudson@gmail dot com
i would choose sandalwood vanilla…yuuuummmmm
tormentedcause at aol dot com
I love the lavender chamomile!
I’d choose Sandalwood Vanilla. Thanks!
I would choose the Seasonal – Sweet Pumpkin Spice scent!
SHull2319 at gmail dot com
Fresh Linen!
I would choose the Seasonal – pumpkin spice scent!
Carolyn H
graceink at yahoo dot com
ooo sweet pumpkin spice!
smartinez03 at live dot com
warm vanilla sugar
vashti m
hun423 at hotmail.com
I would choose the Fresh Linen scent.
Sweet Pumpkin Spice.
ayakers (at) gmail (dot) com
I want to try the new green tea scent!
Lindsay Oussa