Couple of laundry questions before I start CDing

[dlamis]

I thought I was completely ready to start and realize that I still have a lot to learn!

Do I really have to use the same detergent for diapers AND our clothes?
Can I use softener when doing a load of my DH's shirts (he loves the smell)?
Can I use any sort of diaper cream? I only use the natural stuff or the un-petroleum jelly from Whole Foods. Is this ok?
FWIW- we have a normal washer (not front loader or HE) and we have soft water (water softener).
Is there anything else I should know about laundry? I thought I had read everything there is to read about CDing!

Thanks so much!
Daniella

[Jojo F.]

It is best to use the same detergent for diapers and clothes otherwise you will need to strip your washer everytime before you wash diapers.

You do not want to use fabric softener, it will make the diapers less absorbant.

You will want to make sure your diaper cream is cloth friendly, some will stain and will make the diapers less absorbant.

Since you have soft water you will want to use very little detergent and definitely do extra rinses to be sure all of the detergent is out of the diapers.

This site has a lot of great info about cloth diapering- http://www.pinstripesandpolkadots.com/basics.htm

[bea3]

I think Jojo F's answers are completely accurate and thorough. I would only add that a flushable diaper liner can protect your diapers from diaper cream should you use it.