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Step 1
To use wool with cloth diapers you must understand why you should choose wool. Wool can absorb up to 40% of its weight in moisture before feeling wet to the touch. Wool is a breathable, natural fiber. It allows air to circulate around baby's bottom to prevent diaper rash. Wool has antibacterial properties that allow it to go several weeks before needing to be washed.
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Step 2
There are many kinds of wool diaper covers to choose from. Look for covers that are at least 90% wool. You can choose from a wool interlock fabric, knitted or crocheted wool, or wool recycled from wool sweaters. Wool covers also come in various styles. There are wool soakers that resemble pull-up pants. Wool wraps close much like a disposable diaper. Their closures are either made with snaps or hook and loop (Velcro, Aplix). Wool shorties and longies are shorts and pants made from wool. These replace everyday shorts and pants. Your wool can do double duty this way.
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Step 3
Try all of these options to find the cover that works best for you and your child. Wool can be used during the day and overnight. Choose a heavyweight wool for those long nights and a lighter wool for daytime use.
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Step 4
When your child needs to be changed, remove the cover and lay it out or hang it to dry. By airing out your wool covers you will extend the time between washings. Your wool should smell fresh after it has been aired out. Unless it becomes soiled, wool can go about four weeks between washings. Your washing schedule will also depend upon how many covers are in your rotation at a time. The more covers you have the less often you will have to wash.
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Step 5
As your child outgrows his wool garments you can trade to another size or sell to buy new. There are websites online that allow cloth diapering parents to buy and sell diapers. These forums can help you decide what works for you without making a huge investment in cloth diapers.
