How to clean a sheepskin rug

There is a particular warmth, a quiet luxury, found only in a sheepskin rug. It can transform a space—nestled by the bed, draped over a sofa, or softening a nursery corner—with its timeless elegance. This is more than decor; it is an embrace for your home.keeping your sheepskin looking its best is simple—just follow a few easy care steps.

Spent hours researching sheepskin rug care and still feeling lost? Let us help. We’ve got you covered with clear, straightforward answers right here.

⚠️ First Principles: Essential Warnings

Before you begin any cleaning, always remember these rules:

1. Always Test First: Before applying any cleaner or method to a visible area, test it on an inconspicuous corner of the rug.
2. Water is a Primary Foe: Avoid soaking or fully submerging the rug. Excessive moisture can cause the leather backing to shrink, harden, and crack.
3. Professional Cleaning is Your Best Insurance: For large stains, overall soiling, or valuable/antique rugs, hiring a professional rug or sheepskin cleaning service is always the safest and most recommended option.

Part 1: Routine Maintenance & Prevention (Weekly)

Regular upkeep is the key to extending your sheepskin rug’s life and minimizing the need for deep cleans.

• 1. Regular Shaking & Beating: Take the rug outside weekly and give it a firm shake to dislodge deep-down dust, sand, and hair. You can also gently beat it with your hand or a soft cloth.
• 2. Gentle Vacuuming (The Key Step):
  • Use a household vacuum with adjustable suction and always turn off the beater bar/rotating brush function. The rotating bristles can tangle and pull the wool fibers.
  • Use a soft brush attachment or upholstery tool on the lowest suction setting. Gently and slowly vacuum in the direction of the wool nap.
  • Never use a steam cleaner. The heat and moisture will severely damage the sheepskin.

Part 2: Spot Cleaning & Stain First Aid (As Needed)

Acting quickly and correctly prevents stains from setting.

• For Fresh Liquid Stains (e.g., wine, coffee):
  1. Blot Immediately: Use a clean, white, absorbent cloth or paper towels to blot up as much liquid as possible. Do not rub, as this spreads the stain deeper into the fibers.
  2. Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Mix a small drop of mild, neutral shampoo (no additives) or a dedicated wool/sheepskin cleanser with plenty of cool water. Alternatively, a 50/50 mix of cool water and white vinegar works well (especially for odors).
  3. Clean the Spot: Dampen a clean white cloth with the solution and wring it out well. Gently dab the stain, working from the outer edge toward the center.
  4. Rinse & Dry: Use another cloth dampened with cool water to dab the area and “rinse” out cleaner residue. Blot dry with a fresh towel and let it air dry completely.
• For Dry Stains or Odors: Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over the area. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then thoroughly vacuum it up using the gentle method described above.

Part 3: Full Clean & Refreshing (Every 6-12 Months or As Required)

This is a higher-risk procedure. Only attempt it if necessary and by following these steps meticulously.

1. Preparation: Choose a well-ventilated, cool, flat area (like a garage or large patio). Ensure the surface is clean.
2. The Gentle Wash:
   • Fill a large tub or bathtub with plenty of cool water. The temperature should never exceed 30°C (86°F).
   • Add a small amount of dedicated sheepskin cleaner or neutral shampoo and swish gently to create suds.
   • Submerge the rug completely. Gently agitate and press it with your hands to let the solution through. Do not soak for more than 30 minutes. Never scrub, twist, or wring the rug.
3. Thorough Rinsing: Drain the dirty water. Gently rinse the rug under a stream of cool, fresh water until the water runs completely clear, ensuring no soap residue remains.
4. Removing Excess Water (The Most Critical Step):
   • Lift the rug from the water. Never wring or hang it, as this will cause stretching and distortion.
   • Lay it flat on a clean, dry bath towel. Roll them up together (like a Swiss roll) and press gently to let the towel absorb maximum water. Repeat with fresh dry towels if needed.
5. Proper Drying:
   • Lay the rug fur-side up on a dry towel or a mesh drying rack in a cool, airy place with good airflow.
   • Keep it away from direct sunlight, heaters, hot air, or hair dryers, as heat will cause the leather to become brittle and shrink.
   • Gently shake and fluff the wool every few hours as it dries to maintain loft. Ensure the rug is completely and utterly dry (this may take 24-48 hours) before using it again to prevent mildew.

Part 4: Care Do’s & Don’ts

• DO:
  • Brush the fur regularly with a pet slicker brush or wide-tooth comb in the direction of the nap to keep it fluffy.
  • Use a non-slip pad underneath to prevent sliding and reduce wear on the backing.
  • Keep the rug out of direct, prolonged sunlight and away from direct heat sources.
• DON’T:
  • Never use standard carpet cleaners, stain removers, enzyme cleaners, bleach, ammonia, or strong alkaline soaps.
  • Never machine wash or tumble dry a sheepskin rug.
  • Never scrub aggressively or use harsh brushes.
  • Never apply heat to a damp or wet sheepskin rug to speed up drying.

By following this guide, you can enjoy the natural warmth and luxury of your sheepskin rug for years to come. Remember: gentle, consistent prevention and care are always better than aggressive corrective cleaning.