How to Apply Lanolin to Wool Diaper Covers

Wool is a perfect fiber for covering cloth diapers. To replenish wool's waterproof capabilities, you will need to lanolize your diaper covers about once a month. The lanolization process also cleans your diaper covers at the same time. This tutorial will show you how easy it is to keep your wool diaper covers working like new.

Things You'll Need

• Wool wash or mild baby shampoo
• Clean baby-food jar
• Warm water
• Solid lanolin (such as Lansinoh)
• Microwave
• Towel

Instructions

1. To begin this process, you will need to melt your lanolin. Fill the baby-food jar with water, 1/2 tsp. of lanolin and a squirt of the baby shampoo. Heat this mixture in the microwave without the lid for 45 seconds, on "High." Take the jar out, replace the lid and shake vigorously.

2. Next, fill your sink with warm water while adding the lanolin mixture from Step 1. Check to see that all the lanolin has been dispersed evenly in the water. Leave enough room to add your wool diaper cover.

3. Now add your wool without agitating it. Simply place your cover in the water and let it sit until the water has cooled completely. It is recommended that you only wash one diaper cover at a time.

4. Once your water is at room temperature, you can work it gently through your diaper cover. The water should feel a little sticky due to the lanolin in it. If your wool is especially soiled in one spot, focus on that spot. Rub the material together to work in the shampoo. Most spots should come out easily.

5. After you have washed the wool diaper cover, drain the water while letting your wool remain in the sink. By draining the water through your diaper cover, you help to disperse the lanolin onto the cover. The lanolin will prevent the wool from leaking while in use. Do not rinse and do not wring out the diaper cover.

6. Your final step is to remove the excess water from your wool diaper cover. Lay out your towel and place your cover on it. Now roll the towel while lightly squeezing the water out. Unroll the towel and drape your wool diaper cover over the towel bar in your bathroom. It will take about two days for the diaper cover to dry completely. Remember, you only need to wash and lanolize your wool about once a month, unless soiled, due to its antibacterial properties. Air out between wearings to maintain your the fresh scent of the wool.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't move your wool diaper cover around in the water while it is still warm. This could cause shrinking and felting, which makes wool less stretchy.