How to's for our Bamboo Cloth Diapers and Organic Wool Soakers
Washing Wool Longies and Soakers
Wool covers are very easy to care for and only need to be washed every 2-4 weeks or when soiled. Spot cleaning is fine, too. Some moms go much longer between cleanings, especially if they have a large "stash" of diaper covers they use on a daily basis. Washing is only really necessary when the cover begins to retain a smell once aired out and dry. Since wool is naturally antibacterial this is the true signal that the diaper cover is in need of a good soak in some soap.
Green Way Wool Diaper Covers and Longies should be hand washed in a dishpan full of lukewarm water (about 98F) with a wool wash such as Eucolan, which has lanolin in it. Lanolin helps maintain the moisture repellant qualities of the wool. Take the tie out, but wash at the same time as the cover. If the diaper cover is heavily soiled it is better to spot clean that area first with running water so that the solids don't get all through the rest of the knitted cover. Allow the cover to soak for 15-30 minutes. Squeeze water out by hand (no rubbing or wringing or you may end up 
with a partially felted and shrunken cover), then squeeze again rolled up in a towel. Lay flat or hang dry away from direct heat or sunlight (sunlight will actually change certain colors). For the first washing I recommend drying flat and shaping carefully. Anytime your cover has become stretched out of shape it is good to dry it flat after carefully reshaping it - this is what knitters call "blocking." It is fine to pull and stretch the wet wool back into shape, but just don't be too rough with it!
When your cover starts to become less effective in containing moisture it is time to lanolize. Find out how to lanolize your wool diaper cover or longies here.
To read about the many benefits of choosing wool diaper covers, read our article here. We hit upon many good points in the article, but be sure to check out our Resources page for links to other sites with more great information and green living products.
