Ep 5. Diaper Cleaner

In this episode of Dirty Jobs, host Mike Rowe visits a diaper service to learn the ins and outs of cleaning and sanitizing used diapers. As he arrives at the facility, he meets the owner who explains that the company services over 2,500 families, with each family having a weekly pick-up and delivery of freshly laundered diapers. The owner also mentions that the heavily soiled diapers require a great deal of care and attention, which is where Rowe comes in.

Rowe is introduced to the workers responsible for sorting and washing the dirty diapers. He is quick to notice the pungent smell permeating the entire facility and visibly struggles to adapt to the odorous environment. Regardless, Rowe chooses to push forward with his mission and dons his protective gear before joining the workers in their sorting process.

As he sorts through piles of dirty diapers, Rowe quickly learns that some of them are soiled with much more than just urine and feces. He encounters diapers with stickers, rocks, and even half-eaten carrots embedded in the fabric. Despite the disgust, Rowe manages to maintain his sense of humor, but even he struggles to find a silver lining in the overwhelming amount of dirty diapers.

Once the sorting process is complete, Rowe moves on to the washing stage. He learns that the washers used for cleaning the diapers must have specific settings for water temperature, detergent, and spin speed to ensure that the diapers are adequately sanitized. Furthermore, the washers must be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized between each use to prevent any cross-contamination.

Next, Rowe visits the workers responsible for folding and packaging the freshly washed diapers. He notes that the workers must fold each diaper in a specific way to create a compact bundle that will maximize storage space and make delivery easier. Additionally, each bundle must be inspected to ensure that it meets each family's specific needs. Some families may require more or fewer diapers, while others may prefer a specific type of fabric or brand.

As the episode comes to an end, Rowe reflects on the hard work and dedication of the workers at the diaper service. He acknowledges that their job is not an easy one, and that they are often underappreciated for the essential service they provide. He notes that the workers' attention to detail and focus on sanitation is meant to protect not only the families they serve but also the wider community from potential health hazards.

Overall, the Diaper Cleaner episode of Dirty Jobs provides viewers with an in-depth look at the behind-the-scenes work done by a diaper service to keep babies clean and healthy. Mike Rowe's witty commentary and willingness to get his hands dirty make for an entertaining and informative episode that sheds light on a job that is often overlooked but of vital importance.