How to Clean and Care for Baby Muslin Cloths
By Shop Kids Clothes & toys | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: Tips & Care
Keep your baby's muslin cloths soft, absorbent, and long-lasting with these simple washing and care tips. Avoid common mistakes that ruin fabric.
Quick answer
Wash baby muslin cloths in warm water on a gentle cycle with mild detergent, then air dry or tumble dry low. Avoid fabric softener and high heat to preserve softness and absorbency.
Why muslin cloth needs special care
Muslin is a lightweight, open-weave cotton fabric that becomes softer with each wash—but only if you treat it gently. High heat and harsh chemicals can shrink the fibers or cause pilling, reducing the cloth's usefulness for burping, swaddling, or wiping messy faces.
The LEWIS Muslin Cloth 2-Pack, made from organic cotton, is designed for daily use, but even premium muslin benefits from a consistent care routine. A few small habits make the difference between cloths that last for years and those that turn stiff or frayed after a few months.
Step-by-step muslin cloth care routine
- Pre-treat stains right away: Rinse fresh stains (formula, spit-up, food) under cool running water, then rub a drop of mild liquid detergent into the spot. Let it sit for 5 minutes before washing. Avoid hot water on protein stains—it sets them. Check for leftover stains after washing; repeat pre-treatment before drying.
- Wash on a gentle cycle with warm water: Use warm water (not hot) and a gentle cycle. Choose a mild, fragrance-free liquid detergent. Skip fabric softener and bleach—softener coats the fibers and reduces absorbency, while bleach weakens the weave. If your machine has an extra rinse option, use it to remove all detergent residue.
- Air dry or tumble dry on low: Lay cloths flat or hang them to air dry for the longest life. If using a dryer, select the lowest heat setting and remove cloths while still slightly damp to avoid over-drying and shrinkage. Over-drying is the most common cause of stiff, shrunken muslin—pull them out early.
Product spotlight
- LEWIS Muslin Cloth 2-Pack - Mini butterfly / Apple blossom mix: Made from the softest quality organic cotton and adorned with playful prints, the LEWIS muslin cloths are a favoured essential for everyday life with babies and toddlers. Organic cotton muslin is naturally gentle on sensitive skin and becomes even softer over time when cared for properly, making it ideal for daily burping, swaddling, and cleanup.
LEWIS Muslin Cloth 2-Pack - Mini butterfly / Apple blossom mix
