Why Use Wool Diaper Covers?

If you are new to cloth diapering or if you are considering it, you may be curious about wool. Wool is used as a cover for cloth diapers. Wool covers can be in the form of soakers, shorties, longies, and a few other options. There are many variations of wool covers, but they all do the same thing. Wool keeps sheep dry, and it can keep your baby dry too! Wool is very breathable, so it even can be worn in the summer months. Wool that has not been chemically treated is not scratchy at all, it is actually very soft. Wool is able to absorb moisture without feeling damp, so it is ideal for heavy wetters, for naptime, or for bedtime. You can even use wool over a disposable diaper! Wool is naturally anti-bacterial, and doesn't have to be washed as often as other fabrics. I know that sounds gross, but it really isn't! If your wool gets damp, you just hang it to dry and any smell will dissipate. If it doesn't, it's time to wash!

Washing Wool:

Washing wool isn't as difficult as some people think that is is. There are many different methods for washing wool. If you buy your wool from a company or work-at-home mom, the wool will usually come with instructions. Some people wash their wool (especially interlock) on the "wool" setting on their washers with a gentle soap. Most hand wash with either special wool wash, or a simple chemical free baby shampoo. I will put up a more detailed post of various washing and re-lanolizing methods at some point.

Types of wool covers:

Knit or crochet: Crafty moms can make their own wool covers if they know how to knit or crochet. There are many work-at-home-moms who make and sell knit (or sometimes crochet) wool covers. 

Interlock: Wool interlock covers are very popular. They tend to hold up very, very well. They can be bulkier than other options, but they also can work the best.

Recycled: Recycled wool is made out of recycled sweaters or other materials. Recycled wool is one of the cheapest options, especially if you know how to sew. 

 

More About Wool:

As you can see, wool covers can also double as clothing. Wool pants (or longies) can be worn over a diaper and used as pants. Wool soakers can also be worn underneath clothing or pajamas without adding a lot of bulk. Other types of wool clothing include skirties, leggings, dresses and just about everything in between. So what are the advantages and disadvantages of using wool over other types of diaper covers?

Advantages:

Wool is the only type of cover that is anti-bacterial

Wool absorbs moisture, unlike other covers wool rarely leaks

Wool is a natural material and is gentle against babies skin

Wool is a very "green" and sustainable product

Wool covers can be very budget friendly, if you are crafty

Disadvantages:

Unless you make wool covers yourself, they typically cost more than other covers

Some people have allergies to wool 

Wool requires more upkeep than PUL or fleece covers

If you have never tried wool, I strongly recommend that you give it a shot! Wool, like most parts of cloth diapering, has a learning curve, but once you learn you can save a lot of time and effort because it really does eliminate a lot of laundry by preventing leaks. Do you use wool covers? If so, what brand is your favorite? I love Wild Coconut Wear interlock covers, but there are many other brands and lots of work-at-home-moms that make great covers too.

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