While some diaper brands recommend specific washing instructions, here are some general guidelines for washing cloth diapers.

When washing cloth diapers, First dump solids into toilet.  Liquid poos do not need to be dumped.  Then remove cloth diaper insert if it has one and place cloth diaper and cloth diaper insert into DRY diaper pail.  A lidded trash can with a reusable diaper pail liner works great!  On wash day, dump diapers and diaper pail liner into washing machine.  Run them through an optional cold pre-rinse cycle with no detergent.  Then wash on hot (with a cold rinse) using a small amount (usually about 1/4^th the recommended amount) of a residue-free laundry detergent.  Dry on warm or hot.  For quick and easy stain removal, take advantage of the natural bleaching properties of the sun and allow diapers to hang dry outside!

It is very important to use a residue-free detergent when washing non-cotton diapers as the residues, dyes, perfumes, etc. can build up on the fabric causing a decrease in absorbency.  If you need recommendations on brands of detergent to use, please ask.  That being said, some people are very successful washing cloth diapers with their regular detergent.