How To: Wool Nappy Covers Wash Guide

Wool nappy covers can be a great alternative to synthetic covers, as they are breathable, temperature regulating, and can be worn for longer periods of time between washes. However, they do require a bit of special care to keep them in good condition.

When Do I Need to Wash My Wool Nappy Covers?

Washing your wool nappies is only required if you notice that they've become a bit smelly or you notice that there is some poo on them. Early on, as newborns still tend to poo overnight, this is when you'll most frequently have to wash the wool covers. If your baby is older and doesn't poo in the nappy, try to wash the cover every 2-3 weeks or so.

How Do I Wash My Wool Nappy Cover?

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to clean and maintain your wool nappy covers:

1. Rinse out any solid waste before washing the cover. To do this, simply hold the cover under running water and gently rub the soiled area with your fingers until all solids are rinsed away.

2. Wash the cover in cool water (30*C or lower) using a wool-specific detergent or shampoo. Hot water and regular detergents can strip the oils from the wool, causing it to become stiff and less effective at holding in moisture. Gently squeeze the soapy water into the nappy cover and leave for a few minutes to soak in.

3. Empty the bowl and re-fill with cool water again (keeping it 30*C or lower) and gently squeeze the nappy again to remove any excess wool soap or shampoo.
   
   

4. Remove the nappy cover and gently squeeze the water out of the cover and reshape and lay it flat to dry. Avoid wringing or twisting the cover, as this can cause it to stretch or lose its shape. You can use a towel and gently roll the wool cover up to help soak up excess liquid before laying flat.

5. Allow to fully dry, keeping away from direct sunlight and heat sources such as bathroom heaters or dryers as these can cause felting. Once the cover is dry, you can apply a wool-specific lanolin product to help it retain its waterproofing properties (see how to apply lanolin here). 

By following these simple steps, you can keep your wool nappy covers in good condition and extend their lifespan.

See our collection of wool nappy covers.