It’s easier than you think
One of the first things people ask us when they consider switching to washable incontinence products is: but how do you wash them? It’s a completely understandable question. The idea of managing washable incontinence products can feel complicated — until you actually do it.
The truth is, caring for your Dignity4You products is straightforward. They go in the same washing machine you already use. They don’t need special detergent. They don’t require soaking or hand washing. And they’re rated for up to 200 machine washes — meaning a product you buy today could genuinely last for years.
Here’s everything you need to know.
Step 1 — Rinse straight after use
As soon as you remove a product, give it a quick cold rinse to remove any residue before washing. Cold water is important here — hot water sets stains rather than removing them. A simple rinse under the tap or in a basin is all that’s needed.
You don’t need to soak products before washing. Over-soaking can actually break down the fibres faster over time.
Step 2 — Machine wash at 40°C
Dignity4You products are machine washable at 40°C. This temperature is hot enough to hygienically clean the product, but gentle enough not to damage the cotton fibres or the waterproof polyester layer.
You can wash them with your regular laundry. No special detergent is needed — your standard washing powder or liquid is fine. Avoid fabric softener, though: it can reduce the absorbency of the cotton layers over time.
Step 3 — Protect the Velcro before washing
If you’re washing a flannelette adult nappy, there’s one important step: fold back the Velcro fold-back strip before putting it in the machine. The nappy comes with an extra fold-back strip specifically designed to secure the Velcro hook strip during washing. If the Velcro hook is left exposed, it can snag and damage other items in the wash.
It takes two seconds and protects both your nappy and the rest of your laundry. Once it becomes habit, you’ll do it without thinking.
Step 4 — Tumble dry or line dry
Dignity4You products can be tumble dried at full heat — which is convenient and keeps the cotton soft. The polyester waterproof layer is heat-resistant, so you don’t need to worry about damaging it in the dryer.
If you prefer to line dry, that works perfectly too. South African sunshine and a warm breeze dry most products quickly. Just avoid leaving them in direct harsh sun for extended periods, which can fade fabric over time.
How many products do you need?
The general rule is to own two more products than you use in a day. If you use two products per day, own four. This allows for the washing and drying cycle — one in use, one clean, one being washed or drying.
For most people starting out, three products is a sensible minimum. It gives you enough rotation to always have a clean product available, even if laundry day is delayed.
Getting 200 washes out of every product
The 200-wash lifespan is based on standard machine washing at 40°C with regular detergent. To reach that lifespan consistently:
- Don’t use fabric softener (it reduces cotton absorbency)
- Wash at 40°C — not hotter
- Always fold back the Velcro before washing
- Tumble dry at full heat or line dry — avoid radiator drying
- Store products clean and dry between uses
Treated well, a Dignity4You product can genuinely outlast years of disposable alternatives — and save you thousands of rands in the process.
A note on hygiene
Washing at 40°C removes bacteria and odours effectively. If you’re concerned about hygiene, a 60°C wash is also safe for Dignity4You products and provides additional peace of mind. For caregivers managing products for a patient, a warm wash cycle combined with tumble drying at full heat is entirely sufficient.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Can I use any washing detergent?
A: Yes — your standard washing powder or liquid is perfectly fine. The only thing to avoid is fabric softener, which coats cotton fibres and reduces their absorbency over time.
Q: What happens if I wash at a higher temperature?
A: Washing at 60°C is safe for Dignity4You products and provides extra hygiene. Avoid boil-washing (90°C+) as this may damage the cotton fibres and waterproof layer over time.
Q: Can I use a washing bag to keep them separate from other laundry?
A: Absolutely — a mesh laundry bag is a great option, especially for the booster pads or panties. It keeps them contained and makes sorting laundry easier. Just make sure the bag doesn’t restrict water flow, which could affect cleaning.