Using Wool FAQ

Got a question about wool? Hopefully you will find the answer here.

How does wool work?
Wool isn't waterproof in the same way that PUL wraps or plastic pants are. It works by slowly absorbing moisture from a wet nappy and allowing it to evaoprate. The unique properties of wool mean it can hold moisture without feeling wet to the touch.

Why use wool for cloth nappy covers?
It's a natural material from a renewable resource and it is biodegradable. It is breathable which is good for babies skin. It is warm in winter and cool in summer. Unlike PUL or fleece it can be used many times before it needs washing and it performs very well.

Doesn't the wool get smelly if you don't wash it?
No, it doesn't. It's hard to believe but the lanolin in the wool cleanses it and once it is dry there is no smell of urine at all.

Isn't wool itchy?
Some kinds of wool are coarse and can feel itchy but there are some varieties such as merino or bluefaced leicester which are very soft and feel almost silky against the skin.

Why do I have to treat it with lanolin?
Wool nappy covers need to be treated with lanolin every few weeks to keep them in good condition and to keep them working properly. The lanolin cleanses and conditions the wool so that it absorbs moisture slowly and allows it to evaporate wihtout the wool feeling wet. It also helps prevent bacteria from growing on the wool which keeps it smelling fresh so you don't have to wash it after each use.

What are longies?
Longies are wool trousers that can be used a both a trouser and a nappy cover. They can be knitted, made from wollen fabric or made from recycled wool jumpers.

What are shorties?
Shorties are knitted wool nappy covers that look like shorts. They can be worn on their own as shorts in the summer or under clothes, sleepsuits or pyjamas.

Can I use wool at night time?
Yes, wool is ideal for night time as it is breathable and the urine evaporates from the nappy it means your baby will feel drier in the morning.

Can I use wool in the daytime?
Yes, wool is great for daytime too. You can use longies instead of trousers or wool shorties, wraps or pants under clothing.

Can I use wool under a sleepsuit/vest/clothing?
Yes, you can use wool under clothing. Tight clothing can cause compression wicking where the moisture in the wool is squeezed out making it leak so it's best to use vest extenders or loose fitting clothing over wool.

Can you be allergic to wool?
No, but a very small number of people are allergic to wool alcohol in lanolin. If you have an allergy to lanolin or your baby develops a rash after using wool seek medical advice from your doctor or health visitor. You could try using a highly refined medical grade lanolin such as Lansinoh as this has a much lower concentration of wool alcohol and is less likely to cause irritation. Fleece or acrylic knitted nappy covers are a great alternative to wool for people who have a lanolin allergy.

Is organic wool softer than non-organic wool?
No. Organic farming does not affect the softness of wool, that all depends on the breed and age of the sheep and the size of the scales on the wool fibres. You can get get coarse organic wool and very soft non-organic wool and vice versa.

Is organic wool less likely to cause allergies?
Wool fibre it'self does not cause allergies but the chemicals used in farming and preparation of the wool can potentially cause allergic reactions, sensitivities and irritation. If your baby has a true allergy to lanolin then they will still be allergic to organic wool. If you baby is sensitive to any of the chemicals used in preparing the wool then using an undyed organic wool may solve the problem.

My baby has eczema, can I use wool?
Yes. Wool is ideal for babies with eczema as it is a breathable and soft on their skin. If you try wool and find your baby's eczema gets worse please seek medical advice from your health visitor or doctor as your baby may be allergic to lanolin.

Clair Coult