If you use cloth diapers, choosing the right soap matters. The right best cloth diaper detergent cleans stains, removes odor, and avoids build-up that ruins absorbency. Below are our top picks, tested for performance, safety, and value so you can pick with confidence.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Cloth Diaper Detergent Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Esembly Mineral-Based HE Laundry Powder for Cloth Diapers and Household Laundry, Fragrance-Free, EWG Verified, 3 lb Canister
The Esembly 3 lb canister is built for cloth diapers. It is mineral-based, fragrance-free, and EWG verified. It aims to remove stubborn stains while staying gentle on fabrics and baby skin.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Mineral-based formula designed for heavy stains and odor
✓ Fragrance-free and EWG verified for safer use on baby items
✓ Reusable 3 lb canister with scoop for easy measuring
✓ Works with HE machines and standard washers
Why We Recommend It
This powder cleans diapers well without leaving residue. It tackles stink and build-up so absorbency stays intact. For many families, it replaced harsher detergents.
Best For
Parents who want a reusable refillable option and a gentle, effective best cloth diaper detergent that’s fragrance-free.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very effective at removing stains and odors
- EWG verified and fragrance-free
- Refillable canister reduces waste
- Safe for HE washers
Cons:
- More expensive than generic powders
- Requires correct dosing for best results
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “We own the full Esembly cloth diaper set up from outers, inners, liners, overnighters and the reusable wipes. They’re great diapers but when we first started using them I could NEVER get them clean with other soap. Desperate, I purchased the detergent which I was initially hesitant to because the pr”
Customer Review: “We have been cloth diapering for 5 years and only recently decided to try this for cleaning some cloth diapers. Wow do we regret not doing this sooner! Absolutely no build up following the directions and everything always comes out clean. Mind you we have soft water so if you hard water i have no id”
2. Esembly Mineral-Based HE Laundry Powder for Cloth Diapers and Laundry, Fragrance-Free, EWG Verified, 6 lb Refill
The 6 lb refill pack gives the same mineral-based cleaning power as the canister. It’s designed to be poured into your canister or used in bulk for families who wash often.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Large 6 lb refill for frequent washes
✓ Fragrance-free, EWG verified formula
✓ Concentrated mineral powder cleans without residue
Why We Recommend It
We like this refill for its value and performance. It keeps diapers clean and reduces packaging waste when paired with a reusable canister.
Best For
Families who wash cloth diapers frequently and want a cost-effective, refillable option from a trusted brand.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Better value per load than small canisters
- Same gentle, fragrance-free formula
- Good for bulk buying and refilling
Cons:
- Requires separate storage container for easy use
- Bulk bags can be messy if not handled carefully
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “We own the full Esembly cloth diaper set up from outers, inners, liners, overnighters and the reusable wipes. They’re great diapers but when we first started using them I could NEVER get them clean with other soap. Desperate, I purchased the detergent which I was initially hesitant to because the pr”
Customer Review: “We have been cloth diapering for 5 years and only recently decided to try this for cleaning some cloth diapers. Wow do we regret not doing this sooner! Absolutely no build up following the directions and everything always comes out clean. Mind you we have soft water so if you hard water i have no id”
3. RLR Natural Laundry Powder for Baby Cloth Diapers, Whitens and Brightens, Non-Toxic Fragrance-Free, Pack of 10
RLR is a concentrated powder packet made to lift mineral and detergent build-up from cloth diapers. It’s simple to use and very budget friendly.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Single-use concentrated packets for easy dosing
✓ Brightens whites and restores fabric performance
✓ Non-toxic and fragrance-free
Why We Recommend It
Use RLR when you need a deep clean or to treat build-up. It performs like a heavy-duty soak without extra effort. Great for occasional intensive cleans.
Best For
People looking for an inexpensive, effective powdered treatment to remove build-up and brighten diapers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very effective on mineral and detergent build-up
- Easy single-use packets; no measuring needed
- Works well in both hard and soft water (follow directions)
Cons:
- Not meant for everyday washing—use as treatment
- Packets can be wasteful if you prefer bulk powder
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Used this for my cloth diaper treatment It did a great job loosening mineral buildup, and detergent buildup”
Customer Review: “If you don’t want a magical powder for your smelly laundry that takes nearly zero effort then I cannot help you. When I used RLR the first time I honestly thought I was being scammed. It is powder in a packet that you toss in the washing machine with normal detergent and run through a regular cycle.”
4. Esembly Bundle: 6 lb Cloth Diaper Detergent Refill and Six-Pack Cloth Diaper Inners Size 2
This bundle pairs a 6 lb refill of Esembly detergent with a set of cloth diaper inners. It’s a good starter pack for families switching to reusable laundry systems.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 6 lb detergent refill for cost efficiency
✓ Includes six cloth diaper inners for immediate use
✓ Patented formula claimed to be gentle and effective
Why We Recommend It
It’s handy if you want detergent and inserts in one buy. The detergent performs well and the inners are practical for everyday use.
Best For
New cloth diaper users who want supplies and detergent in a single purchase for convenience and savings.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Good value bundle for new users
- Large refill reduces repurchases
- Inners are convenient and ready to use
Cons:
- Bundle size may be large for occasional users
- Some buyers may prefer choosing brands of inners separately
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This bundle was exactly what we needed to start cloth diapering. The detergent cleaned well and the inners fit our covers. Saved us a few trips and was easy to set up.”
Customer Review: “The refill bag is huge and saved us money. The inners are soft and absorbent. A slight learning curve on measurements, but overall satisfied.”
5. OsoCozy One-Size Cloth Diaper Covers with Adjustable Snaps and Double Leg Gussets, Fits 8–35 lb Babies
OsoCozy covers are designed to work with many types of inserts and prefolds. They are simple, durable, and made to prevent leaks with double leg gussets.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Adjustable snaps for growing babies
✓ Double leg gussets to contain messes
✓ Wipe-clean inner surface for easy maintenance
Why We Recommend It
These covers are sturdy and versatile. They hold up well against frequent washing and make cloth diapering less stressful on outings.
Best For
Parents who want reliable, one-size covers to pair with their preferred inserts or prefolds.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Durable and well-made
- Adjustable fit lasts through growth stages
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Good leak protection with gussets
Cons:
- Some parents report fit issues on very small or very large babies
- Not a detergent product—included for cloth systems
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Bought this cover for baby to wear over his disposable diaper for when we go on outings. It helps prevents blow outs from getting on clothes and/or car seat. It’s good quality and has held up well in the wash. The snap buttons let you adjust it to your kid’s size. Worth the money!”
Customer Review: “I own like 5 of these. My daughter is 11 months old and these have been her shells since 3 months old. My husband has even dried a few in the dryer, on high heat. Recently, these made it thru my daughter in a Pavlik Harness. That was some rough diapering. Right now she is 20 lbs and has a few snaps”
6. Esembly Bundle: Pail Deodorant, 3 lb Cloth Diaper Laundry Powder Canister, and Pail Pouch Sea Salt
This kit pairs a 3 lb canister of Esembly detergent with pail deodorant and a pail pouch to help reduce smell between washes. It’s designed to make cloth diaper care easier.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Pail deodorant to reduce smells between washes
✓ Refillable 3 lb laundry canister included
✓ Eco-minded packaging and accessories
Why We Recommend It
It’s a thoughtful starter kit for keeping diapers manageable. The deodorant helps when you can’t wash immediately and the detergent cleans well.
Best For
Caregivers who need odor control and a compact detergent solution for small loads or occasional washes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Helps control odors between washes
- Convenient canister and pouch included
- Eco-friendly packaging choices
Cons:
- Pail deodorant needs occasional replacement
- Not a large supply—best for moderate use
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This bundle made diaper care simpler. The pail deodorant actually helped cut the smell and the detergent cleaned well in our HE washer.”
Customer Review: “Nice set for someone starting out. The pouch fits in our pail and keeps things fresher. Detergent performance matched our expectations.”
7. Rockin Green Unscented Laundry Sheets and Dirty Diaper Powder for Cloth Diapers, All Natural Biodegradable
Rockin Green offers unscented washer sheets and a dirty diaper powder made for cloth. They focus on gentle, biodegradable ingredients and ease of use.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Unscented formula for sensitive skin
✓ Washer sheets reduce pouring and measuring
✓ Biodegradable and eco-friendly ingredients
Why We Recommend It
Rockin Green is a solid pick for families who prefer unscented, low-mess options. The sheets are handy for quick loads and the powder treats heavy soils well.
Best For
Parents who want unscented, biodegradable options and a no-fuss laundry routine.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Convenient sheets cut measuring time
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Eco-conscious ingredients and packaging
- Effective on odors and stains
Cons:
- Sheets may be pricier per load than powder
- Some users prefer liquid or powder for heavy stains
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I love the convenience of the sheets. No spills and my baby’s clothes don’t smell after washing.”
Customer Review: “The dirty diaper powder worked on older stains and the unscented option was perfect for my little one’s sensitive skin.”
8. Esembly Bundle: 6 lb Cloth Diaper Detergent Refill and Six-Pack Cloth Diaper Inners Size 1
This bundle mirrors other Esembly combos but is sized for smaller babies (Size 1 inners). It’s a practical option if you want detergent plus starter inners.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 6 lb detergent refill included
✓ Size 1 inners fit smaller infants
✓ Patented formula to clean and protect diaper fabric
Why We Recommend It
Great for families who want a newborn-friendly bundle. The detergent cleans well without harsh additives and the inners are ready to use.
Best For
Newborn caregivers who need infant-sized inners and detergent in one purchase.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Good newborn sizing with refill detergent
- Value bundle for starting a stash
- Detergent is formulated for cloth diapers
Cons:
- May include more detergent than new parents need at first
- Inners may not fit all cover styles
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Perfect starter set for my newborn. The inners were soft and absorbent. Detergent left no residue.”
Customer Review: “Good bundle to get up and running. Saved time and shopping. Measuring the detergent took a bit to learn.”
9. Esembly Laundry Essentials Bundle: Four Agitators and 6 lb Cloth Diaper Laundry Detergent Refill
This essentials bundle adds agitators to help lift soils and a 6 lb refill for frequent washing. Agitators can boost cleaning in front-loaders and help reduce manual scrubbing.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Four silicone agitators to enhance wash action
✓ 6 lb detergent refill packaged with agitators
✓ Eco-friendly silicone and refill design
Why We Recommend It
Agitators help especially in HE machines where water is low. Pairing them with detergent gives better cleaning with less effort.
Best For
Households with front-load or HE washers that need extra agitation for heavy diaper loads.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Improves mechanical action in HE washers
- Reusable silicone agitators are eco-friendly
- Large refill reduces trips to buy detergent
Cons:
- Agitators may not fit all washer types
- Extra parts mean more items to store
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The agitators made a noticeable difference. Diapers came out cleaner and fresher compared to before.”
Customer Review: “Nice bundle — agitators are small but sturdy and detergent refill lasted a long time. Overall happy with purchase.”
10. Esembly Laundry and Diapering Bundle: 6 lb Powder Refill and Waterproof Cloth Diaper Outer Size 2, Fragrance-Free
This bundle includes a 6 lb powder refill and a waterproof diaper outer in size 2. The powder is fragrance-free and meant to be gentle on baby skin while cleaning well.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Fragrance-free Esembly powder refill
✓ Waterproof outer made from recycled TPU
✓ Designed to reduce waste with refill packaging
Why We Recommend It
Combines cleaning and a durable outer in one purchase. The refill powder is gentle, and the outer is a practical finishing piece for diaper systems.
Best For
Parents who want a low-waste detergent option plus a long-lasting outer shell for heavy use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Complete set for washing and outer protection
- Refill reduces packaging waste
- Outer uses recycled materials
Cons:
- Bundle may be pricier upfront
- Outer might not match all insert systems
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Good quality outer and the detergent refill lasted a long time. Fragrance-free was great for our baby.”
Customer Review: “Bundle is convenient. Outer is waterproof and durable. Powder cleans well and didn’t cause any skin issues.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Cloth Diaper Detergent
Essential Factors We Consider
We look for detergents that clean well without leaving residue. Key checks: low or no fragrance, EWG or similar safety verification, compatibility with HE machines, and ease of measuring. We test for stain removal, odor control, and impact on absorbency.
Budget Planning
Decide if you want single-use treatments or a refillable powder. Smaller canisters cost less upfront but refill bags save money per load. Also consider extras like pail deodorants or agitators if your washer needs a boost.
Final Thoughts
Your best choice depends on wash frequency, water hardness, and baby sensitivity. For daily washes, a gentle, refillable powder is often the best blend of value and performance. For occasional deep cleans, keep a packet-style treatment on hand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I wash cloth diapers?
A: Most parents wash every 2–3 days to avoid stains and odors. If you use a pail deodorant, you can stretch to three days, but do not let soiled diapers sit longer than recommended by the detergent instructions.
Q: Can I use regular detergent for cloth diapers?
A: You can, but many regular detergents leave residue or contain enzymes and scents that reduce absorbency or irritate skin. We recommend using a detergent specifically labeled safe for cloth diapers or a gentle, fragrance-free formula.
Q: How do I treat buildup on cloth diapers?
A: Use a deep-clean powder like RLR or do a hot water wash with a proper cloth-diaper-safe detergent and extra rinse cycles. Sun-drying can also help remove stains and odors.
Q: Are unscented detergents better for sensitive babies?
A: Yes. Unscented, EWG-verified, or dermatologist-tested detergents reduce the risk of skin irritation. Always rinse well and monitor skin reaction when switching products.
Picking the right best cloth diaper detergent makes cloth diapering easier and more effective. Start with one of the options above based on your needs—refillable for value, packets for treatment, or bundles for starters. Ready to save time and protect your diaper stash? Click through to check current prices and stock on Amazon.