How to Properly Wash Wool Diaper Covers

If you're wondering how to wash wool diaper covers without messing
them up, you're not alone. Wool sounds delicate. But with just a bit of
care, it’s one of the easiest and most forgiving fabrics out there.

Yes, You Can Wash Wool: And It's Easier Than You Think

Wool diaper covers don’t need daily washing. They’re naturally
antibacterial and breathable. That means they stay clean longer. But
when it is time to clean them, don’t worry, you won’t need a washing
machine, special tools, or a big routine. Just a bowl, some lukewarm
water, and a few minutes.

• Wool is naturally self-cleaning
• You only need to wash it every 2–3 weeks
• It helps regulate moisture and temperature
• Proper care makes it last through multiple babies

How Often Do You Need to Wash Wool Covers?

Let us give you the good news: you don’t need to wash wool every day.
Or even every week. If it doesn’t smell, and it isn’t soiled, it’s good to go
again. That’s part of what makes wool such a great fabric for busy
parents. You don’t have to constantly think about laundry. Wool sort of
takes care of itself, at least for a while.

That’s because wool has natural lanolin, a waxy substance that helps it
repel moisture and resist odors. It acts almost like a built-in shield. After
a quick air-out between uses, your wool cover is fresh and ready to go
again. Of course, if it starts to smell funky or picks up a stain, then it’s
time for a gentle wash.

• Wash every 2–3 weeks, or if it’s visibly dirty
• Let it air dry between uses
• Don’t wash just for the sake of it—wool doesn't like being over-
  washed

Step-by-Step: Hand-Washing Wool Without Fear

Hand-washing wool sounds like a big deal. But honestly, it’s pretty
gentle and quick. No scrubbing. No drama. Just a simple soak and a
little patience.

Start with lukewarm water. Hot water can shrink wool, so keep it cool.
Use a wool-safe soap: baby shampoo works in a pinch. Soak the cover
for about 10 to 15 minutes. Then gently press the water through it. Don’t
wring, twist, or rub hard.

• Use lukewarm water (never hot!)
• Pick a gentle wool-safe soap or baby shampoo
• Soak for 10–15 minutes
• Press gently to clean, rinse with cool water
• Roll in a towel to blot out extra water

Lanolizing 101: Why It’s a Must for Wool Covers

Lanolin is what keeps your wool covers magical. It helps wool repel
moisture and keeps smells away. Without lanolin, your cover starts to
absorb everything—and that’s not great.

After a few washes, wool loses some lanolin. That’s when you lanolize.
It’s just a fancy word for soaking your wool in water mixed with a bit of
lanolin. Think of it like lotion for your wool—a way to keep it soft, strong,
and waterproof.

• Lanolize after every 3–4 washes or when wool starts absorbing too
  much
• Melt lanolin with a drop of baby shampoo in warm water
• Add mixture to a larger bowl of lukewarm water
• Soak the cover for 4 hours (overnight for maximum protection)
• Gently rinse and dry flat

How to Dry Wool Covers the Right Way

Wool likes to take its time drying. No dryers, no sunlight, no heat. Just a
flat surface and a bit of patience.

After washing, lay the cover flat on a clean towel. Shape it gently. Let it
sit in a well-ventilated space. Depending on the room, it can take a full
day to dry.

• Always lay flat to dry
• Never use a dryer or hang it up
• Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources
• Reshape while damp to avoid stretching or puckering

What Not to Do (Save This List!)

Wool doesn’t ask for much, but there are a few things it really doesn’t
like. Getting these wrong can ruin a good cover fast. So it’s worth
repeating.

Skip the hot water. No wringing. No harsh soaps. And don’t toss it in the
dryer. Treat wool like a favorite sweater you never want to shrink.

• No hot water or machine washing
• No fabric softeners, bleach, or strong detergents
• Don’t twist, wring, or rub hard
• No drying racks or clips that stretch the fabric
  

Fixing Common Wool Problems (So You Don’t Panic)

Sometimes wool gets fussy. It might smell even after washing. Or feel
stiff or scratchy. Don’t panic—most issues are easy to fix.

If it smells, try lanolizing again. If it’s stiff, you may have used too much
lanolin. If it feels itchy, a lanolin bath or gentle conditioner can help bring
back softness.

• Does the wool still smell? It probably needs more lanolin
• Feels stiff? Use less lanolin next time
• Feels itchy? Try a lanolin bath or wool conditioner
• Misshapen? Reshape while damp and let it dry flat
  

Why Babee Greens Wool Covers Are Worth It

Babee Greens uses 100% natural wool. No synthetic blends. No plastics.
Just clean, soft wool that’s good for your baby and the planet.
These covers are made in Asheville, North Carolina, by people who
care. With the right care, they can last through potty training—and still
be good for the next baby.

• GOTS-certified organic materials
• Designed and sewn in the USA
• Breathable and naturally antibacterial
• Made to last for years, not months
  

It’s Not Hard: And You’ll Love the Results

Washing wool diaper covers might seem like a lot. But once you do it, it
feels easy and satisfying. Like one of those quiet wins that make
parenting a little smoother.

With just a few tools and a simple routine, you’ll keep your wool covers
clean, soft, and strong. And if you ever need help, Babee Greens is here
to guide you.