How to wash a sheepskin rug

I receive a lot of queries about whether or not you can wash a sheepskin rug - it is a very common question - so in today's article I thought I would address this topic.
In reality, nature did not design the sheep's skin to be washed on the inside and out, but with some care and a little knowledge it is possible (although not advisable on a frequent basis). Sheepskins are also self-cleaning by nature. They retain a natural oil called lanolin, and frequent washing can strip the lanolin from the fleece, disabling its self cleaning function.
Can you wash a sheepskin rug?
So, you have a sheepskin that you want to wash - can you? Well, yes, in theory, you can wash it. However, I would first advise contacting the seller of your sheepskin for their recommendations. They may have different ways of cleaning specific to their brand products, so always check first.
Also, do remember that sheepskin is naturally anti-bacterial and has self cleaning powers by retaining a natural oil called lanolin, which resists dirt and grease. Of wool’s three layers, the second has tiny overlapping scales that rub against each other to push off the dirt. The third layer is a protective filmy skin that helps to resist water. Washing sheepskin on a frequent basis can strip away the natural lanolin oil, disabling its self cleaning properties and leaving the fleece a little dull and prone to matting.
Still, for times when your sheepskin does need a little bit of attention, there are different ways to clean it, from machine and hand washing to spot cleaning, vacuuming and brushing.
Washing a sheepskin rug: your options
Machine Washing
So when would you wash your sheepskin? I would advise only after soiling of some kind whether it be via a pet or on a medical skin where the skin needs to be returned to a hygienic state.
Use a wool wash delicate detergent, or our woolskin shampoo and use a cool wool/delicates cycle in your washing machine. Do note that a chemical reaction can cause the skin to harden, so we would always recommend using proper wool shampoo, as these don't contain any harmful enzymes that could damage the fleece. You only need to use a small amount each time.
Some people also swear by adding a tablespoon or glycerine or lanolin to the fabric conditioner drawer to help keep the back nice and supple.
When washing in a machine, you should be careful on the spin cycle; larger fleeces when wet are very heavy, and the force of a fast spin may cause the skin to tear - so in these cases I would use a laundry bag to guard against tearing.
Reshape the sheepskin while wet, remembering that heat in the drying process can also set the skin, so the very best way to dry the sheepskin is outside on the line, preferable on a dry day with a light wind. (Over an aga or heat source may also set the skin).
For smaller mishaps there are others ways to brighten your fleece.
Hand Washing
Hand washing is an option if you are nervous about using the machine. You can do this in a bathtub using the woolskin shampoo and plenty of water to rinse through the pelt. Rolling in an old towel will help remove the excess water before the skin is hung out on a line to drip dry.
As long as you are confident that your machine runs at the correct temperature (not hotter than the dial) I personally prefer to machine wash, as hand washing can be very messy and is not as effective at cleaning a soiled rug.
Spot Cleaning
Spot cleaning is just tackling the spoiled spot and not saturating the whole fleece. This is really useful for small spillages, of food or drink, for example.
To do this, remove any solids first and then use a little tepid water and woolskin wool wash to just treat the soiled area directly with a sponge or cloth. There should be no need to reshape the skin after spot cleaning but the same drying rules apply, keeping the sheepskin away from any direct heat source as this will damage the affected area.
Once dry you can then use a sheepskin brush to brush out this area of the fleece and return it to its fluffy glory.
How often should you wash a sheepskin rug?
You should wash a sheepskin rug as little as possible. Washing is rarely necessary, and not really the key to keeping your sheepskin in tip top condition.
Keeping your sheepskin rug clean without washing
There are other alternatives to keeping your fleece fluffy, which will maintain its look for longer in a much better way than washing it. These are things like vaccuuming, brushing, and shaking it outside.
Vacuuming
Sheepskins are quite happy to be vacuumed if you have an upholstery setting on your vacuum cleaner. Start in the centre of the skin, working your way out to the edges to lift the pile and any dust that is deep in the fleece, then end by giving it a vigorous shake to re-fluff.
Brushing
Sheepskins like to be brushed! Use a special sheepskin brush such as our Sheepskin Slicker Brush to do this.
Start in the centre of the sheepskin and be methodical, using firm strokes towards the edge of the fleece. You can use quite a lot of pressure here, some fleece fluff may appear on the brush but don't worry, a sheepskin is a very dense pelt and this will do no harm. Just remove the fluff from the brush and keep brushing until the fleece is revived.
The brush will not only separate the wool fibres, bringing them back to life, but will also dislodge the deep dust, bringing it up to the surface - so to finish, I would suggest a good sharp shake outside.
Shaking
Finally, don't discount a regular shake of your sheepskin for keeping it looking fresher for longer. A sharp shake in the fresh air is really sometimes all that will be required.
If you're looking for sheepskin cleaning products or even a new rug for your home, browse our selection of sheepskins and related products on our website, or get in touch if I can help.