How to Waterproof Wool Diaper Covers

by Andrea Buckner Schoenherr

Overview

Wool diaper covers are naturally waterproof. Over time, however, the wool loses its natural lanolin, which needs to be replaced. Most cloth diaper users only wash their wool covers every couple weeks due to the nature of wool. The wool is not only naturally waterproof, as they can absorb up to 35 percent of their weight without feeling wet, but is also naturally antibacterial and breathable. Unlike synthetic materials, wool does not retain odors, and the covers can just air dry between uses unless soiled with fecal matter.

Step 1

Rinse the covers in cool water to remove any urine crystals or fecal matter. Set the covers to the side.
Step 2

Fill the sink with warm water.
Step 3

Add liquid wool wash to the water. Make sure to use a wool wash that has a high percentage of lanolin to waterproof the wool. The amount of wool wash you need depends on the brand and number of diapers being washed.
Step 4

Turn the covers inside out and place in the sink. Gently squeeze each diaper several times and submerge in the water.
Step 5

Leave the covers to soak in the water for 15 minutes.
Step 6

Drain the water from the sink. Gently squeeze excess water from the wool diaper covers.
Step 7

Place the covers between two large towels to remove even more water.
Step 8

Reshape and let air dry for 24 hours.

1
Sink Water Liquid wool wash Towels
Sink
Water
Liquid wool wash
Towels
Washing machines can also be used for some wool diaper covers. Check the manufacturer's directions for your specific wool diaper covers.
Washing machines can also be used for some wool diaper covers. Check the manufacturer's directions for your specific wool diaper covers.
Amy Nogar, owner of Zany Zebra Designs and cloth diapering expert, advises that you do not vigorously wring out the wool diaper covers. It is easy for wool to lose its shape.
Amy Nogar, owner of Zany Zebra Designs and cloth diapering expert, advises that you do not vigorously wring out the wool diaper covers. It is easy for wool to lose its shape.