Yes, poop can generally be cleaned out of clothes, underwear, washcloths, and other fabric items by using a washing machine like you would with a normal load. However, there are some important steps you should take to ensure the best chance of success in thoroughly removing the stain and bacteria:
Pre-treatment: Before adding the soiled items to the washing machine, you should first pre-treat the stained areas. You can do this by gently scraping off any excess poop with a disposable paper towel or a plastic scraper. Avoid rubbing the stain, as it may spread further into the fabric.
Rinse in cold water: Rinse the soiled items in cold water as soon as possible. This will help to prevent the stain from setting and make it easier to remove during the washing process.
Use an enzyme-based stain remover: Apply an enzyme-based stain remover or laundry detergent directly to the stained areas. Enzyme-based cleaners are effective at breaking down organic stains like poop.
Wash in hot water: When adding the soiled items to the washing machine, use the hottest water setting that is safe for the fabric. Hot water helps to kill bacteria and remove stains more effectively.
Add vinegar or baking soda: You can add a cup of white vinegar or baking soda to the wash cycle to help neutralize odors and enhance the cleaning process.
Extra rinse cycle: Consider running an extra rinse cycle to ensure that all the detergent and stain remover are thoroughly washed out.
Check before drying: Before drying the items, make sure the stain is completely gone. Drying can set stains, making them much harder to remove later.
It's essential to follow the care instructions on the clothing labels to avoid damaging the fabric. Additionally, if the items are delicate or have special cleaning requirements, you might want to consider handwashing them instead.
Keep in mind that while these steps should be effective in most cases, some stubborn stains may require multiple treatments or professional cleaning.