Can Cloth Diapers Go In the Dryer?

The shortest answer is yes they can. And here's a few guidelines if you have a stash of different types of cloth diapers...

Cotton and hemp can take higher drying temperatures (think prefolds or flats), but if you're drying anything with bamboo or diapers that have elastics, PUL or TPU (waterproof layers) then stick to a medium temperature setting.

PUL/TPU covers, pocket shells, AI2 outers or wet bag – Can go in the dryer on medium heat, but air drying can extend their lifespan. They also air dry really quickly so by the time the rest of the load is done in the dryer, your air-dried items are ready to go too.

Wool covers 🛑 NO dryer for wool, they need to lay flat to air dry. Otherwise, they'll come out of the dryer felted and Barbie sized.

Use caution: If you're drying items with PUL or TPU like waterproof covers, diapers, training pants or wet bags with a waterproof layer, make sure the load has enough room for the contents to move around freely (don't overstuff the dryer). If you have an older dryer, one that has hot spots or a load that is too large for the contents to fluff and move in the drum, it's possible for an item to get stuck against the heat element and the waterproof layer can burn, melt or delaminate. While rare, it's good to note that this kind of damage is not covered by warranty.

Dryer balls can help with making sure everything moves freely in the drum which also assists with shortening dry time and reducing static too.

Pro Tip: If you are putting items with elastics in the dryer, don't stretch the elastics when they're hot out of the dryer. For example, if you like to pre-stuff your pocket diapers, wait to stuff until after they've cooled down to extend the life of your elastics.