It is generally okay to put clothes that have poop on them into the washing machine, but there are some important steps you should take to ensure proper hygiene and prevent the spread of bacteria and germs.
Pre-treat the clothes: Before putting the clothes in the washing machine, remove any excess poop from the fabric. You can do this by gently scraping off the solid waste and flushing it down the toilet. Avoid using your hands; instead, use a disposable tool like a plastic scraper or an old credit card. After that, rinse the soiled area under cold water to remove any remaining debris.
Use hot water: To kill bacteria and germs effectively, wash the soiled clothes in hot water. The specific temperature may vary depending on the fabric and garment care instructions, but a water temperature of at least 140°F (60°C) is generally recommended.
Use a strong detergent: Use a detergent that is effective in removing stains and killing bacteria. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct amount of detergent to use based on the load size.
Use the longest wash cycle: Opt for a longer wash cycle to ensure the clothes are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized.
Separate the clothes: If possible, wash soiled clothes separately from other laundry to avoid cross-contamination.
Clean your washing machine: After washing the soiled clothes, consider running an empty cycle with hot water and detergent to clean and sanitize the washing machine drum and remove any remaining bacteria.
Practice good hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling soiled clothes to prevent the spread of germs.
In cases where the clothes are heavily soiled or if there's a risk of contamination with harmful bacteria or viruses, consider using disposable gloves when handling the items, and follow any additional guidelines or recommendations from health authorities.
Additionally, if you're washing cloth diapers, there may be specific instructions from the diaper manufacturer or guidelines for proper washing and care. It's essential to follow those guidelines to maintain the integrity of the diapers and ensure your baby's hygiene.