What's a soaker?

Wondering what a wool soaker is? What are longies and shorties? And what about sleep sacks and skirties? Wonder no more!

Wool soakers, longies, shorties, and sleep sacks are all garments made of 100% wool (no superwash) that go over cloth diapers. The pants form (longies) can be made in any length from shorts (shorties) to capris, bloomers, pantaloons, etc. Sleep sacks are long well, sacks, that are usually worn by newborns and very young babies. There is an opening at the bottom for easy access during diaper changes - similar to newborn gowns.

Wool is wonderfully breathable and keeps baby’s skin at a good temperature. Babies who are prone to diaper rash seem to do much better with cotton cloth diapers and woolies. Wool will absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture before it begins to feel damp. The only challenge you might have is what's called compression wicking. This is when additional clothing is put on over woolies. The pressing of the additional clothing against the wool can cause the wool to become damp prematurely. I have always felt though that if you're going to knit (or purchase) wonderfully made woolies - why in the world would you want to cover them up! Show your wool proudly! Wool is great choice, and of course, can be incredibly cute. It’s especially a favorite amongst cloth diaperers for nighttime. Wool soakers (all woolies) only need to be washed when soiled or every week or so. Truth be told, I have often gone much longer than one week between washings for my little one's longies & soakers. Especially with a young baby. I have a tutorial on wash & care of wool soakers and all woolies here.