How to Care for Your Sheepskin

A genuine sheepskin rug needs very little upkeep. Wool has natural properties — lanolin, dirt resistance, moisture wicking — that do most of the work for you. Follow these steps and your rug will stay soft and fresh for years.

Shake and air

Give your sheepskin a good shake every few days to loosen dust and loose fibres. For a deeper refresh, hang it outdoors in a dry, shaded spot and let the breeze do the rest. Fresh air is one of the most effective ways to keep sheepskin smelling clean, the wool fibres naturally release trapped odours when ventilated.

Brush regularly

Use a wire sheepskin brush or a metal-toothed pet slicker brush. Brush gently in the direction of the wool to prevent tangles and restore the pile's natural loft. Regular brushing is the single most effective thing you can do to keep your rug looking its best. Don't worry if a few loose fibres come out, that's normal and expected.

Spot clean spills

Act fast. Blot the area with a clean, dry cloth and don't rub, as this pushes the liquid deeper into the fibres. For stubborn marks, dampen a cloth with cold water and a small amount of wool-safe detergent, then gently dab the area. Avoid soaking the hide. Excess moisture can stiffen the leather backing.

Vacuuming

We'd recommend shaking over vacuuming where possible. If you do vacuum, use the lowest suction setting with a plain nozzle or upholstery attachment. Avoid rotating brush heads or beater bars as these can pull and damage the wool fibres.

Outdoor use

Our sheepskins are made for outdoor use on garden furniture, patios, and covered seating areas. Wool is naturally moisture-wicking and quick-drying, so light rain or morning dew won't cause damage. Shake it out afterwards and let it air dry in a ventilated, shaded spot. Don't leave your rug outside permanently or exposed to heavy rain. Bring it in after use. Prolonged direct sunlight can dry out the wool and stiffen the leather backing over time.

Storage

Store your sheepskin in a breathable fabric bag or wrap, never plastic. Make sure it's completely dry before storing. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. If stored for a long period, take it out occasionally to air and brush.

Washing

Wash as a last resort. Sheepskin contains natural lanolin that keeps the wool soft and dirt-resistant. Every wash strips some of this away. If your rug genuinely needs a full wash, we'd recommend professional dry cleaning by a specialist experienced with leather and sheepskin. For a more detailed guide covering stain removal, odours, yellowing, and deep cleaning, read our full sheepskin care guide on the blog.