FAQ: Washing Wool Soakers

One of the most amazing diaper covers you will ever use is one made of wool.  I know, it seems crazy that something made with wool and all those tiny little holes will hold back liquid, but it does!  It is not waterproof, rather, it is water resistant and it's the lanolin in it that makes it such.  You cannot wash wool with the rest of your diapers, however, it requires a separate process.

How often should you wash it? 
You really only need to wash wool once every two weeks or when soiled.  I know it seems crazy, but I'll tell you from experience, that it's true!  You should air the soaker out between washes so that the liquid it absorbs will evaporate, but once it's dry it will be ready and fresh to go again!

What water temperature should you use?
I recommend cold to warm water.  Never use hot water.

Is there a special process to washing it? 
Use natural detergent, or better yet a wool wash and let your wool soak inside out in a tub of water and the detergent for about 10 minutes (look at the package of the detergent for clearer instructions on how much to use per gallon of water.  Next, rinse the wool by submerging it gently in cold water. Do not wring the soaker out, though you can squeeze it gently.  Roll in a dry towel to remove the excess water.

Can I put my wool in the dryer?
Putting wool in the dryer will cause it to shrink and felt, which is generally not the desired end.  You should lay your wool flat to dry.  It may take a day or two, so be patient.

Do I need to lanolize it every time I wash it?  
You only need to lanolize your wool (add more lanolin to it) when it starts to leak or become less water-repellant.  You can either use a wool wash with lanolin already in it, or use pure lanolin disolved in warm water added to a tub of water and repeat the steps used when washing wool.

Do you have any wool?  Is it handmade or store-bought?  What is your wool-washing routine?