How Wool Covers Work & Why They’re the Best for Your Baby

I assume you've met Larry the sheep? Yes Larry is a legend and when it comes to night leaks, wool covers are a game-changer. Unlike synthetic nappy covers or disposables, wool offers unique benefits that make it a popular choice for eco-conscious families or parents at the end of their tether with 2am changes. Let’s explore how wool covers work and why they might be the perfect addition to your baby’s nappy routine. By the team at Baby BeeHinds

How Do Wool Nappy Covers Work?

Wool diaper covers are used as a protective outer layer over absorbent cloth diapers. They help prevent leaks while keeping your baby’s skin dry and comfortable. Here’s how they work:

Absorbency & Moisture Regulation
Wool fibers naturally absorb moisture and can hold up to 30% of their weight without feeling wet. The fibres wick away moisture from the nappy and distribute it throughout the wool cover.

Breathability
Unlike synthetic covers or disposables, wool is highly breathable, helping to regulate your baby’s body temperature and reduce the risk of nappy rash.

Lanolin for Waterproofing
The trick to wool covers is adding naturally occurring lanolin back into the wool fabric which is what repels wetness. Lanolin is a natural oil found in sheep’s wool which is removed during the process of turning raw wool into fabric, so we add it back in to make it water resistant. If you have ever felt real wool on a sheep its slightly sticky which is the lanolin secreted form the sheep. Adding back this Lanolin creates a water-resistant barrier that repels liquid while still allowing airflow, making wool covers an excellent choice for overnight use.

Odor Resistance
Wool has antibacterial properties that neutralise odours, meaning you don’t have to wash the covers as frequently as synthetic alternatives. The magic of wool is you only wash them when they get smelly – so every 3-4 weeks generally. Its seriously magic.

Benefits of Using Wool Diaper Covers

1. Eco-Friendly & Sustainable

Wool is a renewable resource, biodegradable, and naturally produced without the need for harmful chemicals. By choosing wool, you’re making an environmentally friendly choice that supports sustainable farming practices. We only use 100% Australian Merino Wool which is the finest in the world – ours is certified Mulesing Free Wool which is so important to us.

Lanolin is a naturally occuring by-product of wool textile production…. During the processing of fresh ‘greasy’ wool into fabric, the lanolin oil is removed during a process called ‘scouring’ which is a combination of washing the wool in hot water & detergents to remove the lanolin & other contaminants from the wool. The Lanolin we recommend from B Clean Co – is the highest quality you can find. Its pharmaceutical grade and the most refined lanolin available anywhere (of course Australian sourced/made). Pharmaceutical grade lanolin in this Magic Balm also doubles as a remedy for cracked nipples & dry skin so added bonus!

2. All-Natural & Gentle on Skin

For babies with sensitive skin, wool is a fantastic alternative to synthetic materials. It’s hypoallergenic, free from harsh chemicals, and reduces irritation.

3. Reduces the Need for Frequent Washing

Thanks to its self-cleaning properties, wool covers only need to be washed every 3-4 weeks unless they get soiled. Simply air them out between uses, and they’ll remain fresh. Washing and re-lanolising them is easy once you get the hang of it and any marks can be gentles treated with a bar soap for best results.

4. Ideal for Nighttime & Heavy Wetters

Because of their superior absorbency, wool covers are perfect for overnight diapering, providing leak protection and comfort for extended periods. If you are wanting 100% natural nappies, then you can use Wool Covers during the day with a Fitted Nappy but you will just need a few more wool covers than if just using for nights.

5. Cost-Effective in the Long Run

While wool covers may be costly upfront (because we only use Australian Ultra Fine Merino Wool with Internationally Recognised Certificates) their durability and infrequent washing requirements make them a cost-effective option over time.

How to Care for Wool Diaper Covers

They only need washing & relanolising when they get smelly or soiled.

Hand Wash with a Gentle Wool Wash: Use lukewarm water and a mild wool specific detergent – you only need a tiny amount.

Lanolise Regularly: Your lanolin will disappear with use so you need to reapply lanolin every few weeks to maintain their waterproof properties. Simply follow our easy steps after washing and your done.

Air Dry Flat: Lay them flat to dry to retain their shape and softness.

What can you use Wool Covers with?

Over Leaking Disposables.
Simply pop on your disposable nappy as per normal, then add your lanolised wool cover over the top making sure everything is inside the wool cover. We do highly recommend adding a layer of extra absorption between the nappy & the wool cover (something like a cotton face washer for example).

Over Cloth Nappies. If you’re using cloth nappies during the day, then you can use wool covers over the top of your day time nappies, however remember that night time needs alot more absorbency, so you’ll really need to beef up the layers inside your cloth nappy to get it right. We recommend a Fitted Nappy or the ultimate Night Time Nappy as the BEST option with the largest capacity.

Final Thoughts: Are Wool Covers Right for You?

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly, breathable, and highly effective solution, wool covers are worth considering. They provide excellent leak protection, are gentle on sensitive skin, and are a sustainable choice for modern cloth nappies.

Would you like to try wool covers? Explore our collection of premium wool covers and experience the benefits for yourself! They seriously are the magic solution you have been looking for!