A sheepskin rug brings instant coziness, texture, and a touch of luxury to any room. However, it needs a bit of extra gentle care to keep it looking fresh and naturally soft. Over time, dust, spills, or even foot traffic can make the wool lose its shine and luster. But the good news is that you can clean easily! You just need to know the right steps for perfect cleaning of the rug.

In this article, let's learn how to clean a sheepskin rug safely and easily at home. From small spot fixing to fuller, deeper washes, these effortless, simple tips will help your rug stay fluffy, tidy, and charming for many years to come. 

Why Proper Cleaning of Sheepskin Rugs Matters?

Caring for a sheepskin rug isn’t about keeping it pretty, just. It’s all about protecting a natural fibre made to last. Naturally, the wool in your rug has lanolin: a gentle oil that helps fight dirt and bacteria while keeping the texture soft and springy. When you learn how to clean a sheepskin rug properly and follow it, your wool will stay clean, cozy, and strong for a prolonged period. 

Key Benefits of Natural Wool Fibres

Here are some perks of natural wood fibres:

• The elastic structure will help your rug keep its shape and soft bounce.
• The lanolin coating resists dirt and unwanted odors, naturally.
• It is breathable and hypoallergenic
• Safe for daily use.
• Feels soft and gentle underfoot every time.

But if you ignore the regular caring, the fibres can dry out, lose their luster, and trap bacteria inside them. Consistent sheepskin rug maintenance keeps its overall texture, color, and freshness intact for a long lifespan. 

You can learn more about the wool’s natural qualities in our Wool & Sheepskin Info guide.

How Dirt and Moisture Impact Your Rug?

Even though wool is strong, it can lose its charm, soft beauty when it isn’t cared for. The body oils, spills, and trapped dust can slowly break down the lanolin layer, making the fibres look dull and dry. Also, over time, dirt buildup can lead to matting, roughness, and even bacterial growth, especially in damp spaces.

Regular sheepskin rug maintenance helps the fibres stay clean, fluffy, and full of life. By cleaning your rug before dirt settles deep inside, you protect its natural texture, rich colour, and cozy comfort for years ahead.

Identify Your Rug Type Before Cleaning

Remember, not all rugs are the same. So, before you begin learning how to clean a sheepskin rug, first find out what type you have. Medical-grade sheepskins are made for washing and comfort use, while decorative ones need extra care. Always check the care label or certification mark before cleaning. 

For understanding quality and testing standards even better, you can visit our Wool & Sheepskin Testing guide.

Real vs Synthetic Sheepskin Rugs

Now, let’s read the focal differences between real and synthetic sheepskin rugs:

• Texture:

Real wool feels soft and springy, and fake ones feel smoother.

• Smell:

Genuine sheepskin has a mild, natural scent.

• Backing:

 Real rugs have a leather hide, while synthetic ones use fabric.

• Durability:

Wool fibres spring back easily, but synthetics flatten faster.

Real sheepskin should be washed with cool water and a wool-safe detergent. Synthetic rugs, on the other hand, can often handle regular cleaning methods. However, keep in mind, using the wrong methodology can harm the hide.

Suede Backed Sheepskin Rug Care

A suede-backed sheepskin rug requires gentle care when you clean it. The suede part underneath can get stiff or cracked if it gets too wet or hot. So, instead of washing the whole thing, you can focus on spot cleaning at first. For this, you can damp a cloth with a mild wool detergent and then clean the rug with it. This simple method is one of the best ways to clean a sheepskin rug safely without hurting the soft suede backing.

Tips For Cleaning Suede-Backed Sheepskins:

Follow these easy tips and tricks for suede-backed sheepskin rug care:

• Don’t soak the rug. 
• Only clean the wool side.
• Also, blot stains gently instead of rubbing harshly to keep the hide safe.
• Let it dry flat in the shade, away from the Sun or heaters.
• Once it’s totally dry, brush it with a sheepskin wool comb for fluffing it up.

Following these easy steps keeps both the wool and leather in good shape, helping your rug stay soft and attractive for years.

Supplies You’ll Need for Cleaning a Sheepskin Rug

Before learning how to clean a sheepskin rug, you have to get gentle and wool-safe supplies handy with you. Avoid harsh soaps or hot water, as they can harm the natural fibres. 

Best Detergent for Sheepskin Rug

Pick an enzyme-free wool wash, like Woolskin Sheepskin Shampoo & Conditioner. It cleans gently without removing lanolin and keeps the fibres soft.

Tips For Detergent Use:

Read these simple tips for learning the ideal use of detergent for cleaning:

• Choose enzyme-free, wool-safe, non-alkaline detergents.
• Skip the bleach, fabric softeners, and brighteners. They'll destroy rug fibres!
• Always use cool water when cleaning a sheepskin rug.

Other Essential Cleaning Tools

Nevertheless, using the right tools and materials with your wool-safe detergent makes cleaning a sheepskin rug easier and keeps it looking soft and fresh.  Also, they prevent harm to delicate fibres:

Recommended Cleaning Supplies:

• Wool brush or wool comb: Gently detangles and lifts the wool after drying.
• Cool water & non-metal basin: Protects fibres from damage or reactions with metal.
• Clean towel: Blot extra water carefully without rubbing.
• Vacuum sheepskin rug properly: Use suction only, skip roller brushes.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean a Sheepskin Rug?

At first, cleaning a sheepskin rug might feel tricky, but it’s actually pretty easy and satisfying. With just the proper steps, you can remove dust, spills, or stains while keeping the wool lustrous and bouncy. Follow this step-by-step guide on how to clean a sheepskin rug effortlessly at home to protect its natural oils and keep it looking flawless for a prolonged period. Let’s get started:

Step 1: Shake and Vacuum Regularly

Before you start washing, shake your rug outdoor to remove any loose dirt and dust trapped in the wool fibres. This rapid shaking will help you clean most of the rug dust.

• Vacuum Sheepskin Rug Properly: Use a handheld vacuum or a machine with a gentle suction setting. Also, avoid rotating brushes or beater bars. They pull on the fibres and cause damage over time!
• Lightly Brushing:  After vacuuming, only lightly brush with a wool comb to keep rug fibres soft and fluffy. It will significantly help lose any trapped dirt.

If your rug is in a busy area, repeat this process once or twice a week. Regular attention prevents dirt buildup, keeps the wool soft, and reduces the need for frequent deep washes. Moreover, this simplest routine keeps your sheepskin rug tidy-looking longer and lowers the need for washing it more often.

Step 2: Spot Clean Sheepskin Rug

For smaller spills or light stains, normally, the second step is spot cleaning. This keeps the wool and backing safe while removing the mess:

Here’s how to do it right:

• Blot right away: Press the spill gently with a clean, dry towel. Remember, don’t rub, or you might push the stain deeper.
• For Grease, use cornstarch: Sprinkle a little over oily spots and let it sit for a few hours to soak up the oil.
• Mild wool wash solution: Mix a tiny bit of enzyme-free detergent in cool water and lightly dab the stain with a damp cloth.
• Rinse and Dry: At last, splash cool water to rinse the spot and blot again with a towel.

Spot cleaning is really ideal for fast touch-ups and helps maintain your rug’s color and gentleness between deeper washes.

Step 3: Hand Wash a Sheepskin Rug

Washing a sheepskin rug is simple. In fact, it is the safest and gentlest way when people ask and search how to clean a sheepskin rug. 

• Prepare Water: Fill a non-metal basin with cool or lukewarm water (below 38°C) to protect the fibres.
• Add Detergent: Mix the recommended amount of wool-safe detergent, including Woolskin Shampoo, until it is blended evenly.
• Submerge Carefully: Place your rug in the water gently and squeeze it lightly. Never twist or wring it.
• Soak: Let it sit for 5–10 minutes so the water and detergent lift dirt and odors.
• Drainage: Drain the water and refill with clean water to rinse thoroughly.

This method will show how to clean a sheepskin rug entirely without harming the wool or suede backing. Remember, over-washing can over-strip the wool's natural oils, so it’s good to do a deep cleaning only once or twice a year, depending on rug usage.

Step 4: Rinse and Press Gently

Just as washing, rinsing is important too. If you leave detergent in the fibres, they can become stiff and rough. For this, you can follow these gentle steps:

• Rinse the rug a few times with cool water until all soap is gone.
• Gently press the rug against the basin to get rid of extra water. Avoid twisting or wringing it.
• Also, always place the rug flat on a towel and roll it up to soak up moisture.

That will keep the wool soft and help the rug retain its shape even while drying.

Step 5: Air Dry Sheepskin Rug Naturally

Drying is where most people make mistakes. So, if you want to know how to clean a sheepskin rug properly, avoid heat or direct sunlight, as UV rays can shrink the fibres and make the wool stiff, weaker. For better results:

• Lay the rug flat in a well-ventilated area, keeping it out of direct sunlight.
• Never use a tumble dryer or heater.  That can harm the wool and hide.
• Brush the sheepskin rug's wool comb every few hours to keep it fluffy.
• Let the rug air dry naturally for a day or two, depending on size and humidity.

For full care instructions, see our Washing & Drying Sheepskin Guide. It shows the right water temperatures and offers tips to dry your rug safely and keep it soft.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Sheepskin Rugs

While cleaning, even little mistakes can ruin your rug. But, knowing how to clean a sheepskin rug and following the tips and tricks mentioned in this blog will keep it safe and looking excellent:

• Avoid Tumble Drying Sheepskin

Heat can shrink or harden wool. So:

• Always air-dry dry sheepskin rug.
• Keep away from radiators and sunlight.

• Don’t Use Harsh Detergents

Bleach, enzymes, or softeners can ruin lanolin. Make sure you:

• Use enzyme-free wool wash only.
• Rinse well to remove any residue.

• Avoid Soaking Suede-Backed Rugs

Water can stiffen the leather backing. Therefore:

• Stick to spot cleaning with a damp cloth.
• Dry flat and gently brush the wool when done.

Post-Cleaning Care:  Keeping Your Sheepskin Soft & Fluffy

Once your sheepskin rug is tidy and dry, it’s time to restore its softness and bounce. Knowing how to clean a sheepskin rug properly and follow up with care keeps the fibres fluffy, maintains color and shape, and keeps that natural glow. Undoubtedly, with a few simple steps, your rug will stay soft, fresh, and looking lovely for years, just as the day you bought it:

Brush the Rug to Restore the Pile

After your rug is dry, it might look a bit flat. That’s okay! Just use a wool comb or a soft sheepskin brush to fluff up the fibres and make it look full again.

Brushing Tips:

You can follow these tips to brush your rug ideally:

• Use short, even strokes to bring back the rug’s natural fluff.
• Begin brushing from the edges toward the center to prevent tangles.
• If the wool feels dry, spray a little cool water before brushing.

That helps your sheepskin rug get its soft, fluffy feel back while keeping the fibres smooth and tender.

Store in a Cool, Dry Place

Storing your rug properly stops it from yellowing or losing colour. Wool naturally doesn’t like too much sun or damp, so keep it in a cool, dry place.

Storage Recommendations:

• Keep the rug in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated space.
• Avoid plastic bags. Use a thin cotton cover to allow airflow.
• Never store it while damp; ensure it’s completely dry first.

Use Woolskin Conditioner Occasionally

To keep your rug soft for a long time, just use a wool conditioner sometimes after washing. It brings back oils, adds shine, and keeps the fibres flexible. Additionally, products like Woolskin Shampoo & Conditioner make caring for your rug easy. Here are some key benefits of conditioning your rug:

• Keeps the wool soft and supple
• Reduces static and tangling
• Preserves the natural sheen and durability

Deodorizing with Baking Soda

If your sheepskin rug smells a bit, baking soda can really help. It will offer a quick, natural odor control fixing. Just sprinkle some over the rug, leave it for about 30 minutes, then shake or vacuum it gently.

Why it Works:

• Absorbs unnecessary moisture and gets rid of smells.
• Safer to use on natural wool fibres
• Leaves the rug tidy and soft without any harsh chemicals.

When to Seek Professional Help?

If your rug is too large, deeply stained, or colored, it’s safer to get professional help. Experts use detergents that keep lanolin perfect and control water temperature to keep the wool soft.

Seek expert help if:

• The rug is very dirty or stained with oils or pet mess
• Suede backing has shrunk or become stiff
• Smells or matting are not going away.

Besides, choose certified wool cleaners who know sheepskin rug care. Look for IWTO or Woolmark-recognized services.

How to Find a Reliable Wool Cleaner?

When picking a cleaning service, make sure they have experience with sheepskin rug care and use wool-safe products. Avoid hiring regular carpet cleaners, as their chemicals or hot water can damage the rug. 

Here are some tips for choosing a professional rug cleaning service:

• Check if cleaners are certified by groups like the International Wool Textile Organisation (IWTO) or Woolmark.
• Ask if they use lanolin-safe products in their cleaning process.
• Read reviews or see before-and-after photos for confidence.

Choosing experts who know how to handle and care for wool will help keep your rug soft, looking appealing, and lasting longer.

Final Thoughts: Extend the Life of Your Sheepskin Rug

In short, proper care keeps your sheepskin rug looking and feeling luxurious for years. Regular cleaning, gentle drying, and mindful storage protect its beauty and hygiene. Additionally, knowing how to clean a sheepskin rug the proper way can help keep its fibres always soft, shiny, fluffy, and long-lasting. 

You can explore our medical-grade Woolskin Shampoo and certified sheepskins at Medical Sheepskins. Indeed, a tidy, well-cared sheepskin rug can add warmth, comfort, and timeless charm to your room for several upcoming decades.