How to remove stains/smells from baby clothes?

Babies are adorable—but their clothes? Not always. Between spit-ups, milk dribbles, diaper leaks, and food messes, baby clothing takes a real beating. Luckily, there’s a way to tackle these everyday challenges without harming your baby's delicate skin.

In this blog, we’ll show you how to safely and effectively remove stains and odors using baby laundry detergent and other natural, gentle solutions. 

Why Regular Detergents Aren’t Enough

Most commercial detergents contain harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and artificial brighteners. While these might clean adult clothes well, they can irritate a newborn’s skin. Newborns have sensitive skin that’s highly absorbent, so it's essential to choose the best detergent for newborns—one that’s both natural and gentle.

That’s where baby laundry detergent comes in. It’s specially formulated to lift tough stains while protecting your baby's skin from irritation. 

Step-by-Step: How to Remove Stains from Baby Clothes.

1. Pre-Treat the Stain

Use a baby cleaning liquid or dab a bit of baby laundry detergent directly onto the stain. Gently rub the fabric together or use a soft toothbrush. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before washing.

2. Use the Right Detergent

Not all baby detergents are created equal. Choose one that’s free from dyes, enzymes, and artificial fragrances. Indimums Baby Laundry Detergent is a top choice because it’s:

  • Made from plant-based ingredient - Reetha (Soapnut)

  • Dermatologist-tested and hypoallergenic

  • Free from sulfates, phosphates, and synthetic dyes

  • Removes both stains and odors effortlessly

  • Light, natural scent that smells good but isn’t harsh

Indimums Natural Laundry Detergent for Baby

3. Choose a Gentle Cycle

Wash the stained clothes using a gentle cycle and cold or warm water. Avoid high temperatures unless you're sanitizing after a blowout or illness. If needed, run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all soap is removed.

4. Line Dry in the Sun

Sunlight is a natural stain remover and disinfectant. Not only will it help fade any lingering marks, but it also gives the clothes that smells good freshness without using artificial fragrances.

Tips for Removing Specific Baby Stains

Milk and Formula Stains

Soak in cold water for 30 minutes, then treat with baby laundry detergent before washing.

Poop and Diaper Blowouts

Scrape off excess, soak in water with baby cleaning liquid, pre-treat, and wash on a warm cycle.

Fruit and Veggie Purees

Rinse immediately. Pre-treat using a natural detergent. Add lemon juice for extra power if needed.

Urine Smells

Urine smells tend to linger. Use a detergent that’s specifically made to be natural and powerful. Add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to neutralize odors.

How to Keep Baby Clothes Smelling Fresh

Washing alone isn’t always enough. Here are some tips to ensure your baby’s clothes smell good:

  • Use a natural fabric softener designed for babies

  • Dry clothes completely before storing

  • Store clean clothes in breathable cotton bags, not plastic

Final Thoughts

Stains and smells are inevitable in a baby’s world. Gentle, effective cleaning doesn't have to be complicated. A few simple steps, the right baby laundry detergent, and some natural solutions go a long way. Try Indimums products today for a safer, gentler start—because your baby deserves only the best

Back to blog