Yes, You Can Use Cloth Diapers at Daycare! Here's How
"Sorry, cloth diapers aren't allowed at daycares." Have you heard this before? We sure have! But guess what? In most cases, it’s not true. Not only are cloth diapers perfectly legal in Washington State daycares, but many childcare centers are already successfully using them. In fact, Kidspace, ELDC Greenwood, and ELDC Broadview are currently Diaper Stork customers.
Let's bust some myths and get your little one's daycare on board with sustainable diapering!
The Big Question: Are Cloth Diapers Legal in Daycares?Absolutely! In Washington State, cloth diapers are 100% permitted in daycare settings. While there are some basic regulations to follow (just like with any childcare practice), they're straightforward and easy to implement.
What Do the Rules Actually Say?
According to Washington Administrative Code (WAC 110-300-0221), here's what daycares need to do when using cloth diapers.
- Keep it Simple: No rinsing needed! (Really, it's actually required NOT to rinse them)
- Seal it Up: Used diapers go in a waterproof bag
- Store Separately: Keep a dedicated container for cloth diapers
- Daily Processing: Parents take home the dirty diapers each day
Early learning providers must provide a container designated for disposing of soiled diapers and diapering supplies only. The diaper disposal container must be:
- Hands-free and covered with a lid to prevent cross contamination
- Lined with a disposable plastic trash bag
- Within arm's length of the diaper changing area
That's it! Pretty simple, right?
How Diaper Stork Makes It Even Easier?We've been partnering with Seattle-area daycares for years, making cloth diapering as simple as possible for both childcare providers and parents. We can help with both education and/or full-on service. Here are some ways you can call on us:
- Provider Support: We'll work directly with your daycare to set up an easy-to-follow system.
- Clear Instructions: We provide simple guidelines for staff on handling cloth diapers.
- Regular Service: Consistent pickup and delivery schedules that work with your daycare's routine.
- Problem Solving: Have a unique situation? We love finding solutions!
Whether you're a parent hoping to use cloth diapers at daycare or a childcare provider interested in offering this eco-friendly option, we're here to help! We can:
- Provide information packets for your daycare
- Answer questions from childcare providers
- Help set up a system that works for everyone
- Offer ongoing support as needed
Together, we can make sustainable diapering the norm in childcare settings, one happy baby at a time. Contact us to discuss your options. We're excited to help more families and daycares make the switch to sustainable diapering! For a full list of regulations, please see the complete text of WAC 110-300-0221.