A genuine sheepskin rug brings natural texture, warmth and character to your home. Whether yours sits beside the bed, softens a favourite armchair or adds a finishing touch to the living room, a little regular care can help keep it looking its best.
But how do you clean a sheepskin rug without damaging its delicate wool fibres or leather backing? The key is knowing when to brush, how to deal with small spills and which cleaning methods to avoid.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to care for your sheepskin rug, keep it fresh between cleans and help preserve its natural texture. Always check the care instructions supplied with your particular rug before using any cleaning method.
How Often Should You Clean a Sheepskin Rug?
Sheepskin rugs don’t necessarily need frequent deep cleaning. Regular light maintenance can help prevent dirt from building up and keep the wool looking fresh.
How often your rug needs attention depends on where you use it. A rug beside a bed may need less frequent cleaning than one in a busy living area.
As a general guide:
- Regularly: Give the rug a gentle shake or air it out when needed.
- Occasionally: Gently brush the wool to help maintain its texture and loosen surface debris.
- As needed: Deal with small spills promptly, following the manufacturer’s care instructions.
- For deeper cleaning: Check whether professional sheepskin cleaning is recommended for your particular rug.
How to Clean a Sheepskin Rug at Home
The safest cleaning method depends on the construction of your rug. Genuine sheepskin combines a wool fleece with a leather backing, and excessive moisture, heat or unsuitable products can damage either part.
For routine care, start with the gentlest approach and avoid washing the entire rug unless the manufacturer’s instructions specifically allow it.
1. Shake out loose dirt
Take the rug outside, where practical, and give it a gentle shake to release loose dust and debris. Avoid vigorous shaking that could stretch or distort the rug.
2. Brush the wool gently
Use a suitable sheepskin brush, following the direction of the fleece where possible. Gentle brushing can help loosen debris and separate the wool fibres, keeping the surface looking soft and well cared for.
Avoid pulling at knots or brushing too aggressively, as this can damage the natural fleece.
3. Spot clean small marks
If you notice a small spill, act promptly. First, check the rug’s care instructions and choose a cleaning method suitable for genuine sheepskin.
Where appropriate, gently blot the affected area with a clean, slightly damp cloth. Avoid rubbing, soaking the fleece or allowing moisture to penetrate the leather backing. You can also try a detergent suitable for sheepskin, such as this one.
If the mark persists, consult a specialist cleaner rather than experimenting with stronger products.
4. Allow the rug to air
After routine maintenance, airing your rug in a dry, well-ventilated space can help freshen it. Keep it away from direct heat and prolonged exposure to strong sunlight.
Never put a genuine sheepskin rug on a hot radiator or use a tumble dryer unless the manufacturer’s instructions explicitly permit it.
Can You Wash a Sheepskin Rug in the Washing Machine?
Not all sheepskin rugs are machine-washable. Washing a genuine sheepskin rug in a machine can damage the leather backing, alter the shape or affect the softness of the fleece.
Before washing your rug, check the manufacturer’s care label. If machine washing isn’t explicitly permitted, don’t assume that a wool or delicate cycle will be suitable.
For rugs that require specialist care, professional cleaning by someone experienced with genuine sheepskin is often the safer option.
How to Remove Odours from a Sheepskin Rug
If your rug has developed an unpleasant smell, start by identifying the likely cause. Trapped moisture, spills or a lack of ventilation may contribute to unwanted odours.
- Air the rug in a dry, well-ventilated area.
- Make sure it is completely dry before returning it to the floor or putting it into storage.
- Address any visible spills using a suitable method recommended for the rug.
- Seek specialist advice if the odour persists or the backing has become damp.
Avoid spraying perfumes or fragranced cleaning products directly onto the fleece, as these may leave residue or affect the natural fibres.
How to Dry a Sheepskin Rug Safely
If your sheepskin rug becomes damp, drying it correctly is important. Genuine sheepskin has a leather backing that can become stiff, shrink or distort if exposed to unsuitable drying conditions.
Unless the manufacturer’s instructions state otherwise:
- Keep the rug away from radiators, heaters and other direct heat sources.
- Avoid prolonged direct sunlight.
- Allow it to dry naturally in a well-ventilated area.
- Do not wring, twist or aggressively manipulate the rug.
- Make sure it is completely dry before placing it back on the floor.
If the rug has become thoroughly soaked, or its leather backing feels stiff or misshapen, contact a specialist cleaner for advice.
How to Keep Your Sheepskin Rug Soft and Fluffy
One of the lovely things about genuine sheepskin is its natural texture. While some changes in the fleece are normal with use, gentle maintenance can help keep your rug looking cared for.
Brush it carefully
Occasional gentle brushing can help separate the wool fibres and remove loose debris. Use a brush intended for sheepskin and avoid aggressive brushing.
Rotate it occasionally
If your rug sits in a regularly used area, rotating it from time to time can help distribute everyday wear more evenly.
Keep it away from excess moisture
Prolonged dampness can affect the leather backing and may encourage unpleasant odours. Avoid leaving the rug in persistently damp areas.
Store it properly
If you’re putting your rug away for a season, make sure it is clean and completely dry first. Store it in a cool, dry place, ideally in a breathable fabric bag or covering, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
What Should You Avoid When Cleaning Sheepskin?
Because genuine sheepskin combines wool and leather, some common household cleaning methods can do more harm than good.
- Excessive water: Avoid soaking the rug or saturating the leather backing.
- High temperatures: Keep it away from hot radiators and other direct heat sources.
- Harsh detergents: Don’t use bleach or general household cleaners unless specifically approved for your rug.
- Aggressive scrubbing: Rubbing can damage the fleece and spread stains.
- Unapproved machine washing: Always check the manufacturer’s instructions first.
When in doubt, choose the gentlest suitable method or seek advice from a professional sheepskin cleaner.
Find a Genuine Sheepskin Rug for Your Home
With regular gentle care and the right cleaning approach, a genuine sheepskin rug can remain a beautiful part of your home. From a soft layer beside the bed to a natural accent in the living room, its texture brings warmth and character to a variety of spaces.
If you’re looking to introduce natural texture into your home, explore the Simply Sheepskin rug collection to discover a range of styles and colours.
You can also explore our wool blanket collection for more natural textures to layer throughout your home.
