2 No diapering method, or any other industrial endeavor, is without environmental impact. Do not soak your diapers. This is not necessary, and can shorten the life of your diapers, depending on what additives you would add to the soaking water. Use a dry pail to store your diapers until wash day. Always wash a full load of diapers - 24 diapers, plus the required covers, cloth wipes and diaper liners.
Smaller loads use more water.
Make sure you have enough diapers to last at least three days between washings. Do not use fabric softeners - they lessen the absorbency of your diapers and can allergic reactions in sensitive babies. Instead of bleach, which can shorten the life of your diapers, use hydrogen peroxide, an environmentally friendly alternative, for whiter diapers. Choose diapers with a short drying time, and line dry if possible. Even in an apartment, a portable drying rack can be set up inside to dry diapers.