If you've heard other breastfeeding parents quietly rave about “wool nursing pads,” they're almost certainly talking about LANACare. Made in Denmark and used by midwives and lactation consultants across Northern Europe for over 30 years, LANACare pads work differently from the disposable or cotton pads most people start with — and once parents switch, they rarely go back. Here's everything you need to know.
Why wool, not cotton or disposable?
Ordinary nursing pads sit wet against your skin, which can lead to soreness, irritation, and the damp environment that contributes to problems like thrush. Merino wool does the opposite. It can absorb roughly a third of its weight in moisture while still feeling dry to the touch, and it's naturally breathable, so your skin stays dry and warm rather than damp and cold.
There are three benefits parents notice most:
- Natural lanolin soothes skin. LANACare wool retains its natural lanolin, the same substance recommended for healing sore, cracked nipples. Gentle, consistent contact helps skin recover.
- Warmth protects against complications. The mild, consistent warmth of wool over the breast is associated with a lower risk of plugged ducts, mastitis, and nipple vasospasm (Raynaud's).
- They're self-cleaning. Wool naturally resists bacteria and odour. Most days, simply airing your pads out is enough — you'll only need 2–3 pairs total, not a drawer full of disposables.
Choosing your size
LANACare Softline pads come in a range of diameters so you can match the pad to your needs. Smaller sizes are discreet under a bra for light leaking; larger sizes give fuller coverage.
| Size | Diameter |
|---|---|
| Mini | 9 cm (3.5 in) |
| X-Small | 12 cm (5 in) |
| Small | 15 cm (6 in) |
| Medium | 18 cm (7 in) |
| Large | 22 cm (9 in) |
| Oval (teardrop) | 18 × 27 cm (7 × 11 in) |
There are also Extra-Thickness versions in X-Small, Small and Medium for heavier leaking or overnight use. If you're between sizes or not sure, message us and we'll help you choose.
How to wash wool nursing pads (the right way)
This is where wool surprises people: you wash it far less than you'd think, and never the way you'd wash cotton.
- Most of the time, just air them. Hang pads out between feeds and the wool refreshes itself.
- When they do need washing, hand-wash gently in lukewarm water using LANACare Lanolin-Replenishing Wool Wash. Unlike regular detergent — which strips wool's natural lanolin and shortens its life — this wash restores lanolin as it cleans.
- Lay flat to dry. Never wring, and never use the dryer.
- Avoid hot water, regular detergent, and the dryer. All three damage merino fibres.
Every few weeks you can also “re-lanolize” pads to top up their natural protection — a quick soak in lukewarm water with a little wool wash keeps them soft and soothing for many months.
Complete your wool care kit
- LANACare Organic Merino Wool Nursing Pads (Softline) — the everyday reusable pads, in every size.
- LANACare Lanolin-Replenishing Wool Wash — the only wash you should use on wool nursing items.
- LANACare Lanolin Cream — pharmaceutical-grade lanolin to soothe sore, cracked nipples.
A note on quality and authenticity
LANACare wool is GOTS-certified organic merino, brushed to a softness you have to feel to believe. Nexporta is an authorized Canadian retailer, so everything ships genuine and fresh from Vancouver with tracked, Canada-wide delivery — no grey-market guesswork.
Have a question about sizing, washing, or whether wool is right for you? Message us — a real person will help.