Introduction

We use 100% real sheepskin, a luxurious and durable natural material known for its softness, warmth, and comfort. However, to maintain its beauty and longevity, proper care and cleaning are essential. Whether you own a sheepskin girth, breastplate pad or noseband disc, following these best practices will keep your sheepskin in top condition.

How to Clean the Sheepskin

Unlike synthetic materials, real sheepskin requires gentle handling. Always check the care instructions before cleaning.

Materials Needed

Wool-safe detergent
Soft cloth or sponge
Wash basin or large bowl
Clean towel
Sheepskin brush
Lukewarm water

Spot Cleaning (For Minor Stains)

Step 1: Dampen a soft cloth with lukewarm water.
Step 2: Add a small amount of wool-safe detergent (avoid regular detergents, bleach, or fabric softeners).
Step 3: Gently blot the stained area—do not rub.
Step 4: Wipe with a clean, damp cloth to remove soap residue.
Step 5: Let the sheepskin air dry naturally in a shaded, well-ventilated area.

Hand Washing (For Deeper Cleaning)

Machine washing is NOT recommended for our products, as it can damage the fleece.

Step 1: Prepare a wash basin with lukewarm water and a small amount of wool-safe detergent.
Step 2: Gently agitate the water—do not rub, wring, or twist the fleece.
Step 3: Soak for 10-15 minutes, allowing dirt to loosen.
Step 4: Rinse thoroughly with clean, lukewarm water until no soap remains.
Step 5: Remove excess water by pressing gently—never wring or twist.

How often should you clean sheepskin? To maintain its softness and longevity, sheepskin should be shaken and brushed weekly, spot cleaned as needed, and deep cleaned every 6 to 12 months, depending on use. If your sheepskin is exposed to heavy dirt or sweat, consider cleaning it more frequently.

What are the common mistakes to avoid when cleaning sheepskin? Using harsh detergents, as they strip away the natural lanolin oils that keep the sheepskin soft and supple. Another mistake is soaking the sheepskin for too long, which can weaken it and reduce its durability. Machine washing or drying should also be avoided—the agitation and heat can ruin the sheepskin. Lastly, skipping the brushing step after drying prevents the wool from regaining its natural plush texture, leaving it matted and less comfortable.

How to Dry the Sheepskin Properly

Drying sheepskin incorrectly can cause shrinkage or stiffness. Follow these steps for the best results:

Step 1: Lay flat on a towel in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
Step 2: Stretch and reshape the sheepskin while damp to prevent shrinkage.
Step 3: NEVER use direct heat (no tumble drying, no radiators, no direct sunlight).
Step 4: Once dry, you can gently brush the fleece to restore its softness and fluff.

Wait until the sheepskin is completely dry before using it again. Using it while it’s damp can flatten the fleece and distort its shape. Always let it air dry thoroughly in a shaded, ventilated area.

Maintenance and Care

How to care for and maintain the life of sheepskin? Taking small steps to care for your sheepskin regularly will help minimize the need for deep cleaning.

Keep It Fresh

Shake it out regularly to remove dust and loose dirt.
Air it out in a shaded area to prevent odors.
Brush it with a sheepskin brush to keep the wool fluffy and prevent matting.

Protect It from Damage

Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources, which can dry out and stiffen the leather backing.
Rotate its position if used as a rug or seat cover to prevent uneven wear.
Avoid spills—but if they happen, act fast!

Brush your Sheepskin

Can you brush sheepskin, and how often should you do it? Yes! Brushing sheepskin is an important part of maintaining its softness and appearance.

Use a metal sheepskin brush or a pet slicker brush—these are ideal for detangling the wool without damaging the fibers.
Wait until the sheepskin is completely dry before brushing.
Gently work through the fleece in the direction of the wool, focusing on matted areas to revive the fluffiness.
Brush once every week or two, and always after washing or spot cleaning

Final Thoughts

With the right care, real sheepskin can last for many years while staying soft, clean, and luxurious. By incorporating regular maintenance, gentle cleaning, and proper drying, you can enjoy the natural beauty and comfort of sheepskin for a long time.

Now that you know how to properly care for your sheepskin girths, you can enjoy its warmth and elegance without worry!

FAQs

1. What should I do if my sheepskin item is labeled non-washable?

If your sheepskin item is labeled non-washable, it's best not to attempt any immersion cleaning. These items are typically backed with materials that may shrink or harden when wet. Instead, lightly brush the fleece and spot-clean the surface with a damp cloth and a small amount of wool detergent. For a more thorough clean, it's safest to take your sheepskin to a professional cleaner who is experienced with real wool products.

2. How can I keep my sheepskin soft and fluffy?

To maintain that soft and fluffy texture, regularly shake out your sheepskin and vacuum it using a suction-only vacuum (avoid rotating brushes). Lightly spritzing the wool with water and gently scrunching it can help revive the fibers if they begin to lose their curl. After washing and once dry, always brush your sheepskin with a metal brush or slicker brush to detangle and restore its loft. Regular brushing also keeps the fleece resilient and comfortable.

3. Can I use my regular laundry detergent to clean sheepskin?

No, regular laundry detergents are too harsh and can damage the wool fibers. Always use a detergent specifically made for wool or sheepskin to preserve its softness and structure. Real sheepskin contains natural oils, particularly lanolin, which plays a key role in keeping the fleece soft, supple, and resistant to dirt. Lanolin has self-cleaning and anti-bacterial properties that help reduce the need for frequent washing. Over-washing can strip these oils, so always aim for gentle, infrequent cleaning to preserve them. Using a wool-safe detergent ensures that the lanolin remains intact and your sheepskin stays naturally luxurious

4. How to deal with stubborn stains and odors on sheepskin?

Even with care, accidents happen. Here’s how to tackle them:

Oil Stains – Sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda, let sit overnight, then brush it off.
Odors – Sprinkle baking soda on the fleece, let sit for a few hours, then shake it out and brush.
Deep Odor Removal – A light mist of wool-safe fabric refresher can help neutralize lingering smells.

5. Can UV exposure cause damage or yellowing in sheepskin?

Yes, direct exposure to sunlight or strong artificial light can cause real sheepskin to yellow over time due to oxidation. This is a natural process and doesn’t reflect poor quality. To prevent yellowing, always dry sheepskin in the shade and avoid placing it near windows or heat sources. When storing, keep it in a cool, dark place to maintain its original color.