How To Clean a Sheepskin Rug: Ultimate Guide

A sheepskin rug is a luxurious and cosy addition to any home decor. Its soft texture and natural warmth make it a popular choice for comfort and style. But like any other decor piece, a sheepskin rug requires proper care to maintain its beauty and functionality.

In this guide, we will explore the ins and outs of cleaning and maintaining your sheepskin rug, covering topics such as whether sheepskin is washable, how to clean it at home, deep cleaning, stain removal, faux sheepskin rugs, matted rugs, brushing, keeping it fluffy, and proper storage.

Is Sheepskin Washable?

Before cleaning, let's address a common question: Is sheepskin washable? The answer is yes but with some important caveats. While sheepskin can be washed, it must be done with care to prevent damage or loss of quality.

Due to its delicate and natural properties, Genuine sheepskin should not be submerged in water or machine-washed. Instead, spot cleaning and gentle washing techniques are recommended. On the other hand, Faux sheepskin can typically withstand machine washing, which we will discuss in more detail later.

How To Clean a Sheepskin Rug at Home

Cleaning a sheepskin rug at home is straightforward if you follow these steps:

1. Shake and Vacuum: Start by shaking the rug outside to remove loose dirt and dust. Then, use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to gently remove any remaining dirt, dust, or debris. Ensure that you vacuum in the direction of the hair to avoid pulling it.
2. Spot Clean: Mix a mild detergent solution and lukewarm water for minor stains or spills. Gently dab the stained area without saturating the rug using a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid scrubbing vigorously, as this could damage the sheepskin.
3. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove any detergent residue. Allow the rug to air dry naturally, but keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources, which can cause the leather backing to become brittle. Let the rug dry completely before using it again.
4. Brushing: Once dry, gently brush it with a soft-bristle brush to fluff up the fibres and restore their softness. Brush in the direction of the hair to maintain the rug's natural appearance.

How To Deep Clean a Sheepskin Rug

Deep cleaning your sheepskin rug on occasion is essential to maintain its freshness and longevity. Here's how to do it:

1. Prepare a Bath: Fill a large tub or bathtub with lukewarm water and add a small amount of sheepskin-specific wool detergent. Avoid using regular laundry detergents, as they can be too harsh for the delicate fibres of the sheepskin.
2. Submerge and Soak: Gently submerge the rug in the bath and allow it to soak for about 15 minutes. Be cautious not to agitate or wring the rug to prevent damage.
3. Hand Wash: Gently agitate the water with your hand to help dislodge dirt and grime. Do not rub or scrub the rug, as this can cause the fibres to become matted or damaged.
4. Rinse and Dry: Carefully lift the rug from the bath, drain the tub, and refill it with clean, lukewarm water. Rinse the rug by gently pressing it to remove detergent residue. Once rinsed, follow the same drying process as described earlier.

How To Remove Stains from a Sheepskin Rug

Accidents happen, and stains can mar the beauty of your sheepskin rug. Here's how to deal with common stains:

1. Liquid Stains: Blot the excess with a clean, dry cloth for liquid stains like wine or coffee. Then, use a mixture of mild detergent and water to gently blot the stain, working from the outside toward the centre. Rinse and dry as usual.
2. Solid Stains: For solid stains like chocolate or wax, gently scrape off the solid material with a blunt knife or spoon. Then, use mild detergent and water to remove any remaining residue.
3. Oil-Based Stains: For oil-based stains like grease or makeup, sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda on the affected area to absorb the oil. After a few hours, brush off the powder and proceed with spot cleaning, as mentioned earlier.

How To Wash a Faux Sheepskin Rug

Faux sheepskin rugs are generally more durable and can often withstand machine washing. Here's how to clean them:

1. Check the Label: Always read the care label on your faux sheepskin rug to ensure it's machine washable. If it is, follow the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Machine Wash: Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener, which can damage the rug's fibres.
3. Dry: After washing, let the rug air dry, avoiding direct sunlight or heat sources. Do not use a tumble dryer, as it can cause damage to the faux sheepskin.

How To Clean a Matted Sheepskin Rug

Over time, your sheepskin rug may become matted or flattened due to regular use. To restore its natural appearance and softness:

1. Shake and Vacuum: Start by shaking the rug outside to loosen the fibres. Then, use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to lift and fluff up the fibres.
2. Brushing: Gently brush the rug with a soft-bristle brush, always in the direction of the hair. This helps to separate and fluff up the fibres, restoring the rug's plush appearance.

How To Keep a Sheepskin Rug Fluffy

To keep your sheepskin rug looking and feeling its best, follow these tips:

1. Regular Maintenance: Vacuum and shake your rug regularly to prevent dirt and dust from settling in the fibres.
2. Rotate: Rotate your rug every few months to ensure even wear.
3. Brushing: As mentioned earlier, brushing your rug with a soft-bristle brush helps maintain its fluffiness.
4. Avoid Heavy Foot Traffic: Keep your sheepskin rug away from high-traffic areas to reduce wear and tear.

How To Store Sheepskin Rug?

If you need to store your sheepskin rug for an extended period, follow these steps to ensure it remains in good condition:

1. Clean: Thoroughly clean and dry the rug to remove any dirt or moisture that could lead to mould or mildew during storage.
2. Roll It: Gently roll the rug, fur-side in, to minimise creases and maintain its shape.
3. Use a Cotton Bag: Store the rug in a breathable cotton bag or pillowcase to protect it from dust and dirt while allowing airflow.
4. Avoid Humidity: Store the rug in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and humidity.

Following these steps, you can ensure your sheepskin rug remains a beautiful and cosy addition to your home decor for years. Regular cleaning and maintenance will keep it looking and feeling great and extend its lifespan, making it a worthwhile investment in comfort and style.