Wool as a Cloth Diapering Necessity

In Cloth Diapers 101, we began a journey into the world of prefolds, fitteds, and all-in-ones. I kept it simple for anyone who was new to the concept. But, now, my friends, I believe you are ready for the miracle fiber that is wool. Wool has fast become a cloth diapering necessity in our household. Wool can be worn many ways to suit the style that you prefer.

If wool gives you images of scratchy pull-over sweaters worn at Christmas, may I suggest giving wool another chance? Wool is one of the healthiest, breathable fibers in the world. Because of its breathability those who are often plagued by diaper rashes find that they disappear overnight! Wool is a diapering necessity due to its ability to absorb 40% of its weight in water before feeling wet to the touch. Wool is also naturally antibacterial. A wool diaper cover will not need to be washed for a very long time. Unless soiled, wool can go up to a month without being washed. Simply air the cover between wearings and it should smell as fresh as new and be ready to be worn again. Frequently changing diapers will also assist your wool covers in going longer between washings.

When properly maintained a wool cover should not leak. Each time you wash your wool make sure to lightly lanolize as in the steps you are about to read.

To wash your cover, start with a sink full of tepid water. Squirt a small amount of gentle soap into the sink as it fills. You may use baby soap or a soap specifically made for wool such as Eucalan Wool Wash or Ewe Need It Woolie Wash. These soaps have added lanolin that will coat the wool and add to its waterproof abilities. Add your wool piece and swish gently. Let your wool soak in the water for fifteen minutes while the water cools completely. Return to your wool and work the water through very gently to avoid shrinking or felting the wool. Once the water is cooled all the way the risk of shrinking or felting is very small anyway. If you have used a wool wash with lanolin drain the water with your wool still in the sink. This will allow the lanolin to be deposited over the wool. Do not rinse. Gently, roll your wool in a bath towel until all excess water is absorbed. Hang to dry or dry flat. Your wool will take anywhere from 24 hours to two days to dry depending upon type of wool and how large your piece is. Voila! You're done and you don't have to rewash for several weeks!

If you decide to use lanolin that is separate from the soap simply combine about one-half teaspoon of solid lanolin to a baby food jar of hot water and a drop of baby wash. You can microwave this mixture to make the water hot enough to melt the lanolin. Shake the mixture and add it to your sink full of water in lieu of the wool wash stated above. Wait for your water to cool and follow the rest of the instructions. Your wool will feel slightly sticky before it dries due to the lanolin. Applying lanolin to your wool will increase its waterproof abilities and add life in between washings.

There are many types of wool diaper covers. Shorties and longies are shorts and pants made from knitted wool, a wool blend known as interlock, or recycled sweaters. Just like PUL covers, wool can also come in a wrap-style cover that fastens with snaps or Aplix. You can also find wool soakers which are like the wool version of pull-on pants that our grandparents used. None of these options have ever proven to be scratchy and they are also very affordable.

Wool is healthy, breathable, easy to maintain and looks great too. To find great wool covers see the Resources section below.