Bumby Help Hub

How to Lanolize Wool in 5 Easy Steps

Modified on Fri, 13 Jun at 2:03 PM

Overview

This is where the magic happens. With just lanolin, a bit of soap, and distilled water, you’ll make a creamy emulsion that softens wool, repels moisture, and neutralizes odor—perfect for diaper covers and beyond.


Key Points

  • How to make a lanolin emulsion from scratch

  • What materials and tools you need

  • How to customize consistency

  • Using it as a soak or direct rub-on

  • Doubles as a skin balm!


How to Lanolize Wool in 5 Easy Steps

This is where the magic happens. We’re transforming golden goo (lanolin!) into a silky, spreadable emulsion that makes your wool soft, water-resistant, and odor-neutralizing. It’s especially powerful for cloth diapering, but let’s be honest—it works wonders on socks, mittens, and even your own skin.

Whether you're lanolizing diaper covers or making a luscious balm, this method is flexible. Measure with your heart—we do!


✔️ You’ll Need:

  • As much lanolin as you like (about 1 tsp per diaper cover is a good starting point, but trust your instincts)

  • About 1 cup distilled water (for freshness and shelf life)

  • A small piece of soap (or use our optimized Lanolin Emulsion Block)

  • A glass jar with a lid (mason jars are perfect)


Pro Tip:
Most soaps are made for skin—not emulsification. Our custom emulsion block is made to blend lanolin like a dream. Think smoother, creamier, and less frustration.


✔️ Step-by-Step:

1. Microwave It
Add about a half a cup of distilled water into a glass jar. Heat the water for about 1 minute, or until it's nearly boiling. 

2. Load Your Jar
Add your chosen amount of lanolin, one chunk of soap (start with one emulsion block if you’re using Bumby’s)

3. Stir the Magic
Use a spoon or stick to stir vigorously. Watch as the clear water and golden lanolin transform into a milky emulsion. Think “mayo for wool.” Use a whisk if preffered. 

4. Customize Your Consistency
Less water = thicker blend. Want a rich balm? Go easy on the water and give it a quick pulse with an immersion blender. Balm or paste—it all works.

5. Use It How You Like
Use immediately for lanolizing (add to bath), rub into wool directly, or store in a sealed jar for next time. It also doubles as a hand balm or cracked heel remedy.


This handy video also gives step by step instrucitons to help guide you



Bonus Use Ideas:

  • Add to your lanolizing soak

  • Rub into trouble spots (like leaky diaper seams)

  • Massage into your hands, feet, or dry elbows

  • Gift a jar to a fellow wool lover—they’ll thank you


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