How To Clean A Sheepskin Rug

How to Clean a Sheepskin Rug: Complete Care Guide

Sheepskin rugs add warmth, luxury, and natural beauty to any space—but they require proper care to maintain their soft texture and pristine appearance.

Whether you’re dealing with a spill, routine maintenance, or a matted rug that needs reviving, this comprehensive guide will walk you through exactly how to clean a sheepskin rug safely and effectively.

From gentle hand-washing techniques to proper drying methods, we’ll cover everything you need to know to keep your prized sheepskin looking its best for years to come.

Key Takeaways

Always shake and brush your sheepskin rug regularly to remove dust and prevent matting
For spot cleaning, address spills immediately with a damp cloth and mild wool detergent
Hand washing is the safest cleaning method for most sheepskin rugs
Some sheepskin rugs can be machine washed on a wool cycle with proper precautions
Always air dry sheepskin rugs away from direct heat and sunlight
Professional cleaning is recommended for antique or valuable sheepskin rugs

The best way to clean a sheepskin rug is to gently hand wash it using lukewarm water and a specialized wool detergent, followed by careful air drying away from direct heat sources while regularly brushing the wool to prevent matting.

Understanding Sheepskin Rugs and Their Care Requirements

Sheepskin rugs are natural products made from the hide of sheep with the wool attached. Unlike synthetic alternatives, genuine sheepskin rugs require specific care because they’re made from animal hide and natural wool fibers. The soft, fluffy texture that makes these rugs so desirable also makes them susceptible to matting, especially in high-traffic areas.

Proper maintenance of sheepskin rugs begins with understanding their composition. The leather backing can become stiff or damaged if exposed to harsh chemicals or excessive moisture, while the wool fibers can mat or tangle when improperly cleaned. Regular care not only keeps your rug looking beautiful but extends its lifespan considerably.

Many sheepskin rug owners wonder about cleaning frequency. As a general rule, regular maintenance like shaking and brushing should be done weekly, while deep cleaning should only be performed when necessary—typically once or twice a year depending on use. Over-washing can damage the leather backing and strip natural oils from the wool, so it’s important to clean your sheepskin rug only when it’s visibly soiled or developing odors.

Before attempting any cleaning method, always check the care label on your rug for manufacturer’s instructions. Some modern sheepskin rugs come with special treatments that allow for machine washing, while others (especially antique or handcrafted pieces) may require professional cleaning only. When in doubt, always opt for the gentlest cleaning method available.

Essential Supplies for Cleaning a Sheepskin Rug

Having the right supplies on hand before you start cleaning your sheepskin rug will ensure the best results and prevent potential damage. Here’s what you’ll need:

For Regular Maintenance:

A wool comb or wire pet brush with wide-set teeth
A sturdy clothes hanger or rug beater
A vacuum cleaner with upholstery attachment

For Spot Cleaning:

Clean white cloths or paper towels for blotting
Mild wool shampoo or specialized sheepskin detergent
Lukewarm water
Small bowl for mixing cleaning solution

For Deep Cleaning:

Large tub or basin (if hand washing)
Specialized wool or sheepskin detergent (never use regular laundry detergent)
Wool comb or brush
Clean, absorbent towels
Sheepskin rug cleaning kit (optional but recommended)

Avoid common household cleaners like dish soap, laundry detergent, or fabric softeners, as these can damage the natural fibers and leather backing. For best results, invest in products specifically designed for wool or sheepskin care. These specialized detergents are formulated to clean effectively while preserving the natural oils that keep sheepskin soft and supple.

If you plan to machine wash your sheepskin rug (only if the care label permits), you’ll also need a mesh laundry bag to protect it during washing. For drying, you’ll want to prepare a flat, shaded area away from direct heat sources where the rug can air dry completely.

Regular Maintenance to Prevent Deep Cleaning

The best way to keep your sheepskin rug in excellent condition is through consistent preventive care, which can significantly reduce how often you need to deep clean it. Regular maintenance not only preserves the appearance of your rug but also extends its lifespan.

Weekly Maintenance Routine

Start by taking your sheepskin rug outside and giving it a good shake to dislodge loose dirt, dust, and debris. For larger rugs that are difficult to shake, you can hang them over a sturdy clothesline or railing and gently beat them to remove embedded particles. This simple step prevents dirt from settling deep into the wool fibers.

After shaking, use a wool comb or wide-toothed brush to gently brush the wool fibers in the direction of their natural growth. This prevents matting and keeps the wool fluffy and soft. Pay special attention to high-traffic areas or spots where people frequently sit, as these tend to become compressed over time.

For larger sheepskin rugs that serve as floor coverings, vacuuming once a week with a brush attachment on the lowest suction setting can help remove dust and prevent it from settling into the base of the fibers. Always vacuum in the direction of the wool growth to avoid pulling or damaging the fibers.

Preventing Stains and Damage

To minimize the need for deep cleaning, consider implementing these preventive measures:

Rotate your sheepskin rug periodically to ensure even wear
Keep it away from direct sunlight, which can cause fading and drying of the leather
Place your rug away from high-traffic areas if possible
Implement a no-shoes policy near your sheepskin rugs
Address spills immediately before they set into stains

By following these maintenance steps regularly, you can often extend the time between deep cleanings to once every 6-12 months. Regular care is much gentler on your sheepskin rug than frequent deep cleaning, which can eventually wear down the fibers and backing if done too often.

Spot Cleaning Techniques for Minor Spills and Stains

When accidents happen, quick action can prevent permanent staining on your sheepskin rug. The key to effective spot cleaning is addressing spills immediately before they have a chance to set into the fibers or soak through to the backing.

Immediate Response to Spills

As soon as a spill occurs:

Blot (don’t rub) liquid spills immediately with clean paper towels or a white cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible
For solid spills, gently scrape off the excess with a spoon or dull knife
Work from the outside of the spill toward the center to prevent spreading

After removing the bulk of the spill, you can begin the spot cleaning process:

Liquid Stains (Water-Based)

For water-based stains like juice, wine, or coffee:

Mix a small amount of wool shampoo or specialized sheepskin cleaner with lukewarm water
Dampen a clean cloth with the solution (the cloth should be damp, not soaking wet)
Gently blot the stained area, being careful not to saturate the backing
Blot with a clean, damp cloth to remove soap residue
Blot with a dry towel to absorb excess moisture
Allow the area to air dry completely, then gently brush to restore fluffiness

Oil-Based Stains

For oil-based stains like food grease or makeup:

Sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder on the stain and let it sit for several hours to absorb the oil
Gently brush or vacuum away the powder
If the stain persists, follow up with the wool shampoo method described above

Stubborn Stains

For more stubborn stains that don’t respond to basic spot cleaning, you might need to try specialized techniques:

For protein-based stains (like blood or food), use cold water rather than warm, as heat can set these stains
For ink stains, dab very gently with a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol, being extremely careful not to oversaturate
For chewing gum, place ice cubes in a plastic bag on the gum until it hardens, then carefully break it off

Always test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of your rug first to ensure it won’t cause discoloration or damage. And remember that some stains may require professional cleaning if home methods aren’t successful.

How to Hand Wash a Sheepskin Rug

Hand washing is generally the safest method for cleaning a sheepskin rug, especially for valuable or delicate pieces. While it requires more time and effort than machine washing, it gives you greater control over the cleaning process and helps preserve the integrity of both the wool fibers and leather backing.

Step-by-Step Hand Washing Process

Prepare your cleaning area: Choose a large tub, basin, or clean bathtub. Make sure the space is large enough to submerge your rug fully while still allowing room to move it around gently.
Fill with lukewarm water: The water should be lukewarm (around 100°F/38°C)—never hot, as heat can damage the leather backing and cause shrinkage. Add the recommended amount of wool or sheepskin shampoo according to the product instructions.
Pre-test your detergent: Before submerging the entire rug, test your cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous corner to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration.
Submerge and soak: Gently place your sheepskin rug in the water, wool side down first, then turn it over to fully saturate both sides. Allow it to soak for about 5-10 minutes—no longer, as excessive soaking can damage the leather backing.
Clean with gentle movements: Using your hands, make gentle squeezing motions through the wool fibers to work the cleaning solution through. Avoid rubbing, wringing, or scrubbing, which can damage the fibers and backing.
Focus on soiled areas: Pay special attention to visibly soiled areas, using slightly more pressure but still maintaining gentle movements.
Rinse thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill with clean, lukewarm water. Rinse the rug thoroughly, changing the water as needed until it runs clear and no soap bubbles remain. Incomplete rinsing can leave soap residue that attracts dirt and can cause the wool to feel stiff.
Remove excess water: Gently press (don’t wring) the rug between clean towels to remove excess water. You can also lay the rug flat on several thick towels and roll them together to absorb moisture.

If you’re dealing with a particularly large sheepskin rug that won’t fit in your tub, you can use a similar process with a garden hose outside on a clean surface, being careful not to oversaturate the rug. Just make sure to choose a mild day with no direct sunlight for this option.

For those looking for more detailed guidance, comprehensive sheepskin cleaning tutorials can provide additional tips for specific situations.

Can You Machine Wash a Sheepskin Rug?

One of the most common questions about sheepskin rug care is whether machine washing is safe. The answer depends on several factors, including the size of your rug, its age, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. While hand washing is generally safer, some modern sheepskin rugs can withstand gentle machine washing with proper precautions.

When Machine Washing Is Possible

Machine washing may be appropriate for:

Smaller sheepskin rugs (single pelt size)
Modern, commercially produced sheepskin rugs labeled as machine washable
Sheepskin rugs from IKEA, which often come with machine wash instructions
Synthetic sheepskin rugs

Always check the care label first. If it explicitly states “dry clean only” or doesn’t mention machine washing, stick to hand washing or professional cleaning.

Machine Washing Instructions

If your rug can be machine washed, follow these steps:

Pre-treat any stains using the spot cleaning techniques described earlier.
Place the rug in a mesh laundry bag if available, to provide additional protection during the wash cycle.
Use a front-loading washing machine if possible, as the agitator in top-loading machines can damage the wool fibers and potentially tear the backing.
Select the wool or delicate cycle with cold or lukewarm water (never hot).
Use a specialized wool detergent in the amount recommended for delicate items (usually less than standard laundry loads).
Skip the spin cycle or select the gentlest spin option to prevent stretching or distortion of the leather backing.
Remove promptly when the cycle completes to begin the drying process.

Important Cautions for Machine Washing

Machine washing comes with risks, even for rugs labeled as machine washable:

The agitation can cause the wool fibers to mat or felt
The leather backing can become stiff, stretched, or damaged
Shrinkage is possible, especially if the water is too warm
Colors may fade or bleed
The rug may lose some of its natural lanolin, which gives sheepskin its soft, water-resistant qualities

For these reasons, many sheepskin rug experts recommend limiting machine washing to once or twice a year at most, even for rugs labeled as machine washable. If you’re unsure, you can find more guidance on how to clean a sheepskin rug without washing to explore alternative methods.

Drying and Restoring Your Sheepskin Rug

Proper drying is crucial after cleaning your sheepskin rug—perhaps even more important than the washing process itself. Incorrect drying can lead to a stiff leather backing, matted wool, or even mildew and odor problems.

Drying Process

Remove excess moisture first: After washing, gently press (never wring) the rug between clean towels to absorb as much water as possible. For larger rugs, you might need to change the towels several times.
Lay flat to dry: Place the rug wool-side up on a clean, dry towel in a well-ventilated area. Make sure the rug is fully spread out without any folds or creases.
Choose the right location: Select a drying spot away from direct sunlight, radiators, heaters, or other direct heat sources. High heat can cause the leather to crack and the wool to become brittle.
Maintain good air circulation: If possible, place the rug where air can circulate freely around it. A fan set on low can help speed up the drying process without applying direct heat.
Flip occasionally: Every few hours, flip the rug over to ensure even drying of both the wool and leather sides.
Be patient: Complete drying can take 24-48 hours depending on the size of the rug and the humidity in your environment. Never rush the process by using hairdryers, heaters, or clothes dryers.

Restoring Fluffiness

As your sheepskin rug dries, you’ll need to prevent matting and restore its natural fluffiness:

Brush gently while damp: When the rug is about half-dry (still slightly damp), begin gently brushing the wool with a wide-toothed wool comb or slicker brush. This helps prevent the fibers from clumping together as they dry.
Use the correct brushing technique: Brush in the direction of the natural wool growth, using long, gentle strokes. Start at the base and work your way out to the tips of the fibers.
Focus on problem areas: Pay special attention to high-traffic areas or spots that tend to matt more easily, such as where people frequently sit.
Continue brushing as it dries: Brush the wool several times throughout the drying process and once more when completely dry.
Shake it out: Once fully dry, give the rug a good shake to help the wool fibers separate and regain their natural loft.

If your sheepskin rug has become severely matted, you might need to use more intensive restoration techniques. For severely matted areas, try using a wider-toothed comb first, then gradually work your way to finer combs as the fibers begin to separate. You can find detailed guidance on how to restore a matted sheepskin rug for more difficult cases.

Professional Cleaning vs. DIY: When to Call the Experts

While many sheepskin rugs can be successfully cleaned at home, there are situations when professional cleaning is the better choice. Understanding when to attempt DIY cleaning and when to seek professional help can save you time, money, and potentially save your rug from damage.

When to Consider Professional Cleaning

Professional cleaning is recommended for:

Valuable or antique sheepskin rugs: If your rug is an heirloom piece or particularly valuable, the extra cost of professional cleaning is worth the peace of mind.
Severely soiled rugs: If your rug has extensive staining, odors, or has never been cleaned before, professionals have stronger cleaning agents and equipment to tackle tough problems.
Large sheepskin rugs: Rugs that are too large to handle in a home setting may be better suited for professional cleaning facilities with appropriate equipment.
Rugs with special dyes or treatments: If your sheepskin has been dyed unusual colors or received special treatments, professionals can better preserve these features.
After flood or water damage: If your rug has been subjected to flooding or extensive water exposure, professionals can better address potential mildew issues.

What to Expect from Professional Cleaning

Professional sheepskin cleaning typically involves:

An initial assessment of your rug’s condition
Gentle cleaning methods appropriate for the specific type of sheepskin
Specialized equipment for thorough rinsing and water extraction
Controlled drying environments
Professional restoration of the wool’s texture
Treatment for persistent odors if necessary

Cost Considerations

The cost to dry clean a sheepskin rug typically ranges from $30-$100 for smaller rugs and can exceed $200 for larger or multiple-pelt rugs. While this represents a significant investment compared to DIY cleaning, it may be worthwhile for valuable pieces or when dealing with difficult cleaning situations.

When selecting a professional cleaner, look for specialists with experience in natural fiber rugs or specifically sheepskin cleaning. Ordinary carpet cleaners or general dry cleaners may not have the specialized knowledge needed to properly care for sheepskin. Ask about their process and experience with sheepskin specifically before entrusting them with your rug.

For those who prefer to handle routine maintenance themselves but want occasional deep cleaning, establishing a relationship with a good professional cleaner for annual service can be an excellent compromise. You can learn more about maintaining other natural fiber rugs to extend the time between professional cleanings.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sheepskin Rug Care

How do you clean a sheepskin rug at home?

For routine cleaning, shake out dust and brush gently with a wool comb. For deeper cleaning, hand wash with lukewarm water and wool-specific detergent, focusing on soiled areas with gentle pressure. Rinse thoroughly, press out excess water with towels, and lay flat to dry away from direct heat. Brush while drying to prevent matting.

Can you put a sheepskin rug in the washing machine?

Some modern sheepskin rugs can be machine washed on a wool/delicate cycle with cold water and wool-specific detergent. Always check the care label first and use a front-loading machine if possible. Place the rug in a mesh laundry bag, skip the spin cycle, and remove promptly for proper drying to minimize potential damage.

How do I make my sheepskin rug fluffy again?

To restore fluffiness to a matted sheepskin rug, brush it with a wide-toothed wool comb or slicker brush while slightly damp after cleaning. Brush in the direction of wool growth, working from base to tips. For severe matting, start with a wider-toothed comb and gradually progress to finer combs as fibers separate.

Are sheepskin rugs hard to keep clean?

With proper care, sheepskin rugs aren’t difficult to maintain. Regular shaking and brushing prevents dirt buildup, while prompt attention to spills prevents staining. The naturally soil-resistant properties of wool help repel dirt and liquids initially. Most sheepskin rugs only need deep cleaning once or twice annually with proper routine maintenance.

How often should I clean my sheepskin rug?

For routine maintenance, shake and brush your sheepskin rug weekly. Deep cleaning should only be done when the rug is visibly soiled or developing odors, typically once or twice a year for normal household use. Over-cleaning can damage the leather backing and strip natural oils from the wool.

Can you use regular detergent on a sheepskin rug?

Never use regular laundry detergent, dish soap, or fabric softeners on sheepskin rugs. These products can strip the natural oils, damage the leather backing, and cause wool fibers to become brittle. Always use pH-balanced wool shampoo or specialized sheepskin cleaners designed to preserve the natural properties of the wool and hide.

How do I remove pet hair from my sheepskin rug?

For pet hair removal, first shake the rug vigorously outdoors. Then use a vacuum with a brush attachment on the lowest suction setting, or try a rubber pet hair removal brush. For stubborn pet hair, lightly mist the rug with water and wipe with a rubber glove – the friction will help collect the hair.

Final Words

Properly caring for your sheepskin rug doesn’t have to be complicated. With regular maintenance and the right cleaning techniques, your luxurious sheepskin can remain soft, fluffy, and beautiful for many years to come. The key is being proactive with routine care—regular shaking and brushing—and addressing spills immediately before they become set-in stains.

When deeper cleaning becomes necessary, always opt for the gentlest effective method, whether that’s spot cleaning, hand washing, or carefully supervised machine washing for suitable rugs. Remember that the drying process is just as crucial as the washing itself, requiring patience and attention to restore the wool’s natural texture.

For valuable or antique pieces, or when dealing with serious soiling or damage, don’t hesitate to consult professional cleaners with sheepskin expertise. The investment in professional cleaning can be well worth it to preserve your rug’s beauty and extend its lifespan.

By following the guidelines in this comprehensive guide to how to clean a sheepskin rug, you’ll be able to enjoy the warmth, comfort, and natural beauty of your sheepskin rug for many years to come.