Wool Covers - Instructions for Lanolising

Shorties, longies, soakers, and capris are just a few of the types of woollen covers available. Wool is fantastic because it is highly breathable, which helps moisture evaporate. You can aid the effectiveness of a woollen cover by lanolising it periodically, usually when it stops repelling water or start to retain smells. This is usually happens every 4 - 8 weeks, depending on usage. At other times they simply require a wool wash when they start to get smelly or dirty.

To lanolise a wool cover use plain anhydrous lanolin (eg Lansinoh).
First, hand wash the cover, if necessary, in a little soap. Covers can be lanolised either wet or dry and many people find it useful to turn them inside out before lanolising. .
Then, mix a small amount of lanolin (about the size of a pea) with very hot water in a jar until it melts, and dilute with warm water. Some people also add just a few drops of of wool wash or baby shampoo to help disperse the lanolin.
Pour the mixture evenly over the covers in a bucket, and top up with warm water until they are just covered.
Soak for at least 15 minutes (the longer the better), and then remove cover.
Do not rinse it, but squeeze out any excess water and lay out flat to dry.

If you are using a spray lanolin, just spritz it on, massage it in a little and allow your cover to air dry.