Care Instructions
With proper care and cleaning a quality sheepskin product can last a lifetime. General care of sheepskin items includes regular brushing of the wool to maintain the soft, fluffy appearance. Products should only ever be stored in breathable cloth bags. Avoid prolonged direct sunlight and any exposure to heated air or water. Certain cleaning agents described below are also to be avoided.
Sheepskin Rugs
General Care Instructions: Regular brushing and shaking of a sheepskin rug will help to maintain and restore the natural soft appearance. Products can also benefit from vacuuming with a suction nozzle attachment only. Do not use a rotating vacuum head attachment.
Spot Cleaning by hand is recommended: Clean the affected area using moist soft cloth in circular motion, starting outside of the affected area and work into the centre. Use a dry cloth to apply pressure and remove excess moisture. Use warm water with a max temperature of 100°F / 38°C. Use a recommended cleaning agent – refer to Cleaning Agent section.
Washing: Machine wash on the most Delicate setting and using cool or warm water with a max temperature of 100°F / 38°C. Use a recommended agent – refer to Cleaning Agent section. Soaking/submerging shearling pelts may harden the leather backing as this process removes lanolin and natural oils from the hide.
Cleaning Agents: We recommend the use of non ionic mild liquid detergents only, such as Eucalan™. Do not use products containing biological enzymes or bleach. Do not use non alkaline products and do not use fabric softeners.
Drying: Sheepskin rugs should be flat or line dried only. Do not tumble dry. Do not force dry. Do not dry in direct sunlight. The leather backing should be pulled back into original size and shape while damp prior to drying. We recommend brushing using a wire bristled carding (pet) brush once while the rug is damp and then again when completely dry. Please note that excessive heat will cause hardening of the leather and/or product shrinkage. Air movement while drying is recommended if possible.
Dry Cleaning: Our sheepskin rugs can be dry cleaned, although we do not usually recommend it as the process removes lanolin and natural oils from the pelt. For major stains or soiling we suggest seeking a professional dry cleaning service experienced with leather and shearling products.
Wool Bedding
Wool Mattress Covers: For minor stains, spot cleaning is the best method. Use a mild wool detergent or a mixture of water and a small amount of vinegar. Dampen a cloth and gently dab the stained area. Avoid rubbing, as this can damage the wool fibers. Blot the area with a clean, dry towel and let it air dry completely.
Hand Washing is the gentlest method. Fill a bathtub or large sink with cold water and add a small amount of wool detergent. Submerge the mattress cover and gently agitate the water with your hands. Let it soak for about 15 minutes, then drain the water and rinse the cover thoroughly with cold water to remove any soapy residue.
Machine Washing: Use a Wool or Delicate cycle on your washing machine. Set the water temperature to cold. Use a small amount of wool detergent. Avoid using a spin cycle or, if needed, set it to a very low speed.
Drying: Tumble on air-only and do not add heat, as this can cause wool to shrink. It's preferred to lay the mattress cover flat on a clean, dry towel and gently press the water out by rolling the towel with the cover inside (don’t wring or twist). Let the cover air dry in a flat position away from any heat sources.
Wool Filled Duvets are dry-clean only. Ask your local dry cleaner if they have experience with wool.
To keep wool bedding smelling fresh we suggest airing it out periodically by hanging it outdoors in the shade. You can also use a gentle fabric refresher spray (designed for wool) or sprinkle a bit of baking soda on it and vacuum it after a few hours. When not in use, store your wool products in a cool, dry place. Use a breathable storage bag to protect it from dust and pests like moths.
Sheepskin Slippers
Spot clean the shearling uppers with a damp cloth or use a suede brush to lightly rejuvenate the leather. If natural odors develop, you can refresh your slippers by sprinkling baking soda on the inside of the slippers and letting it sit overnight, then vacuum the inside of the slippers in the morning. Another method to remove stronger odors from your sheepskin slippers is to place them in the freezer for 24 hours. And as always, avoid high heat sources such as heaters, blow dryers, and radiators.
Shearling Gloves, Mittens, Jackets and Hats
Spot clean the outermost suede with a damp cloth or use a suede brush to lightly rejuvenate the leather. Gently press the sheepskin article between two towels to remove excess water. Reshape the item and let it air-dry naturally away from direct sunlight or heat sources which can cause the leather to dry out or crack. Once dry, you can apply a specialized leather conditioner to the exterior to keep the leather soft and supple.
Tips: Avoid full immersion: Never fully immerse shearling leather in water, as it can damage and dry out the leather. Test cleaners: Always spot-test any cleaner on a hidden area first to ensure it won’t damage the material. Do not machine wash or dry: Washing machines and dryers agitate the stitching work of these soft leather articles. Regularly brushing the shearling and spot cleaning will help maintain their appearance and longevity without needing frequent deep cleanings.
Sheepskin Car Seat Covers
1. Regular Maintenance (Brushing, Shaking, & Vacuuming): Periodically removing your seat covers and giving them a good shake and a brush will help to remove debris and prevent matting. Vacuum: You can also use a non-industrial vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove dust and dirt. Make sure the vacuum setting is low to avoid damaging the fibers.
2. Spot Cleaning: If you spill something, immediately blot the area with a clean, dry towel. Avoid rubbing, as it can push the stain deeper. Mix a small amount of wool detergent with cold water. Dampen a soft sponge or cloth, then gently blot the stain. Avoid soaking the area, as too much moisture can harm the leather backing.
Rinse: Use a clean, damp cloth to rinse out the detergent from the cover.
Dry: Blot with a dry towel to remove excess moisture. Air dry in a shaded area, away from heat sources, to prevent shrinking or stiffening.
3. Hand Washing (For More Thorough Cleaning). Mix a small amount of wool-safe detergent with cold water. Submerge the sheepskin cover in the solution, gently agitating it with your hands. Don’t scrub too hard, as this can damage the wool. Rinse the cover in cold water to remove all soapy residue. Press out excess water by gently squeezing. Avoid twisting or wringing. Dry naturally by laying the seat cover flat on a towel in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct heat. You can gently stretch the leather backing while drying to maintain shape.
4. Deep Cleaning (Professional Cleaning). If your sheepskin covers are heavily soiled, it's best to take them to a professional cleaner who specializes in wool or sheepskin products.
Additional Tips: Avoid bleach & harsh chemicals as they can damage the wool and the leather backing. Do not machine wash or dry, as this can cause shrinkage and damage the fibers.
We cannot be held responsible for the outcomes of our products if they are not cared for as described here.
Comparable shearling and wool products are welcome to follow these care and maintenance guidelines, but consideration should be given to the product origin, age, and condition.