Quick answer

Wash muslin cloths in cold or warm water on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent, then tumble dry low or air dry. Store them folded in a clean, dry drawer or basket. Avoid fabric softener and high heat to keep them soft and absorbent.

Why proper care matters for muslin cloths

Muslin is a lightweight, breathable cotton fabric that becomes softer with each wash — but only if you treat it right. High heat and harsh detergents can cause shrinkage, pilling, and loss of absorbency. Since you use muslin cloths for burping, feeding, and wiping delicate skin, keeping them clean and gentle is essential for your baby's comfort.

Choosing the right detergent

Use a mild, fragrance-free detergent that is safe for baby skin. Avoid bleach, fabric softeners, and stain removers with optical brighteners — these can coat the fibers and reduce absorbency. If you need to tackle stubborn stains (like formula or spit-up), pre-treat with a small amount of gentle detergent and cold water before washing.

Step-by-step guide to washing and storing muslin cloths

  1. Pre-treat stains immediately: Rinse fresh stains under cold water and apply a small amount of mild detergent. Rub gently with your fingers or a soft brush. Do not use hot water — it sets protein stains like milk and formula. Checkpoint: If the stain remains after washing, repeat pre-treatment before drying — heat locks in stains.
  2. Wash on a gentle cycle with cold or warm water: Place muslin cloths in a mesh laundry bag to prevent snagging. Use cold or warm water (not hot) and a gentle cycle. Avoid overloading the machine so the cloths have room to move and rinse properly. Common mistake: Hot water shrinks muslin and can weaken the fibers over time.
  3. Dry on low heat or air dry: Tumble dry on the lowest heat setting, or hang the cloths flat or on a line. Remove them while still slightly damp to avoid over-drying, which makes the fabric stiff. Air drying is the gentlest option and saves energy. Verdict: Air drying preserves softness best, but low-heat tumble drying is fine for speed.
  4. Fold and store in a clean, dry space: Once fully dry, fold each cloth neatly and store them in a drawer, basket, or shelf away from moisture. Avoid stacking them in a damp bathroom. For easy access, keep a small stack near the changing area or feeding chair. Checkpoint: If you notice a musty smell, the cloths weren't dried completely — rewash and dry thoroughly.

Products that make muslin cloth care easier

  • Yanni Grow short-sleeve Bodystocking - Sailing / Classic navy stripe / mix: Creatively designed with two sets of press-button closures, the YANNI bodystocking is a year-round staple for fast-growing babies and toddlers. It features playful prints and is made from breathable organic cotton for everyday comfort. Pairing muslin cloths with breathable organic cotton bodystockings means your baby stays comfortable and dry throughout the day, reducing the number of cloth changes needed.