Introduction
How To Wash A Sheepskin Rug: A sheepskin rug can add warmth, comfort, and a touch of natural luxury to any space. However, to maintain its plush texture and keep it looking its best, it’s crucial to know how to wash and care for it properly. Whether you have a genuine sheepskin or a synthetic one, the right cleaning routine can help extend its lifespan and preserve its beauty.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of washing a sheepskin rug. We’ll cover both general cleaning tips applicable to most types of sheepskin rugs and specific instructions tailored to genuine and synthetic options.
From preparing your rug for washing to choosing the right cleaning products and techniques, we’ll provide you with the knowledge you need to tackle stains, refresh the texture, and maintain the softness of your sheepskin rug. By the end of this guide, you’ll have the confidence to clean your sheepskin rug effectively, ensuring it continues to be a cozy and inviting addition to your home decor.
Can you wash a real sheepskin rug?
Sheepskin rugs have either a leather pelt backing or a suede backing. If your rug has a suede backing, then dry clean only. You definitely do not want to put suede through the washing machine. If your rug has a leather pelt backing, then technically you can machine wash.
Yes, you can wash a real sheepskin rug, but it requires special care to maintain its quality and appearance. Here’s how to do it:
Materials Needed:
Mild detergent or sheepskin-specific cleaner
Lukewarm water
Soft sponge or cloth
Large tub or basin
Towels
Sheepskin brush
Steps:
Prepare a Bath: Fill a large tub or basin with lukewarm water. Avoid using hot or cold water, as extreme temperatures can damage the sheepskin.
Add Detergent: Add a small amount of mild detergent or a sheepskin-specific cleaner to the water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach.
Submerge the Rug: Gently submerge the sheepskin rug in the water, ensuring it’s fully soaked. Gently agitate the water with your hands to distribute the detergent.
Hand Wash: Using a soft sponge or cloth, lightly clean the rug’s surface by gently rubbing in the direction of the hair growth. Avoid excessive scrubbing or twisting, as this can damage the fibers.
Rinse Thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill the tub with clean lukewarm water. Rinse the rug by gently agitating it in the water until all soap residues are gone.
Remove Excess Water: Carefully lift the rug out of the water and squeeze it gently to remove excess water. Do not wring or twist the rug.
Dry Properly: Lay the rug flat on towels to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources, as they can cause the leather to become stiff or brittle. Allow the rug to dry naturally, which may take several days.
Brush When Dry: Once the rug is completely dry, use a sheepskin brush to fluff and restore the wool fibers to their original texture.
Can you wash 100% sheepskin?
If you feel your sheepskin product still needs further cleaning consider having it dry cleaned. Washing a sheepskin at home using water will have positive results on the wool fibres, however it will make the suede on the back harden and overtime can become misshapen.
Washing a 100% sheepskin product, such as a sheepskin coat or rug, can be risky and is generally not recommended unless you are prepared for potential changes in texture and appearance. Sheepskin is a natural material with delicate fibers, and improper washing can lead to damage or irreparable changes. However, if you decide to proceed, here are some guidelines to follow:
Check the Care Label: Always start by checking the care label or manufacturer’s instructions. Some sheepskin products may come with specific cleaning recommendations.
Spot Clean First: Before attempting a full wash, spot clean any stains or soiled areas using a damp cloth and a mild detergent specifically designed for sheepskin or leather. Test in an inconspicuous area first.
Hand Wash with Care: If you must wash the entire item, do it by hand in cold water with a mild sheepskin cleaner or a specialized leather cleaner. Gently agitate the water to clean the sheepskin without rubbing or scrubbing vigorously.
Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the item in cold water until all soap residues are gone. Never wring or twist the sheepskin; instead, gently squeeze out excess water.
Dry Properly: Lay the item flat on a clean towel to air dry, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Allow it to dry naturally, which may take some time.
Brush When Dry: After it’s completely dry, use a sheepskin brush to fluff and restore the fibers.
Why is my sheepskin rug so hard after washing?
Using too much soap (even “wool approved” detergents) – too much will make the skin hard and cardboard-like. Use less soap – it will still clean your sheepskin!
If your sheepskin rug has become hard after washing, it’s likely due to improper cleaning methods or drying techniques. Sheepskin is a delicate material, and mishandling during the cleaning process can lead to unwanted changes in texture. Here are some reasons why your sheepskin rug may have become hard:
Heat Exposure: Exposing the sheepskin rug to high temperatures during the drying process, such as direct sunlight or a heater, can cause the natural oils in the sheepskin to evaporate, leading to stiffness.
Aggressive Cleaning: Scrubbing or rubbing the sheepskin vigorously during cleaning can damage the delicate fibers and leather backing, causing them to become stiff.
Using the Wrong Detergent: Harsh or unsuitable detergents can strip the natural oils from the sheepskin, resulting in a loss of softness.
Improper Drying: Sheepskin should be dried flat, away from heat sources, and with adequate airflow. Hanging it or using a tumble dryer can lead to stiffness.
Overwetting: Submerging the rug for an extended period or using excessive water during cleaning can saturate the sheepskin, making it harder as it dries.
Can you wash a sheepskin rug by hand?
At Rugs Direct, we would always recommend hand washing as the most recommended method of cleaning, as it is less harsh on the natural oils, fibres and hide that make up your sheepskin rug. But if you’d prefer to wash your sheepskin rug in the washing machine, you can.
Yes, you can wash a sheepskin rug by hand, but it requires special care to ensure you don’t damage the delicate fibers and leather backing. Here’s how to hand wash a sheepskin rug:
Materials Needed:
Lukewarm water
Mild sheepskin or leather cleaner
Soft sponge or cloth
Large basin or bathtub
Towels
Sheepskin brush
Steps:
Prepare a Bath: Fill a large basin or bathtub with lukewarm water. Avoid using hot or cold water, as extreme temperatures can damage the sheepskin.
Add Cleaner: Add a small amount of mild sheepskin or leather cleaner to the water. Ensure the cleaner is suitable for sheepskin.
Submerge the Rug: Gently submerge the sheepskin rug in the water, ensuring it’s fully soaked. Gently agitate the water with your hands to distribute the cleaner.
Hand Wash: Using a soft sponge or cloth, lightly clean the rug’s surface by gently rubbing in the direction of the hair growth. Avoid excessive scrubbing or twisting, as this can damage the fibers.
Rinse Thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean lukewarm water. Rinse the rug by gently agitating it in the water until all soap residues are gone.
Remove Excess Water: Carefully lift the rug out of the water and squeeze it gently to remove excess water. Do not wring or twist the rug.
Dry Properly: Lay the rug flat on towels to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources, as they can cause the leather to become stiff or brittle. Allow the rug to dry naturally, which may take several days.
Brush When Dry: Once the rug is completely dry, use a sheepskin brush to fluff and restore the wool fibers to their original texture.
What are the essential steps for preparing a sheepskin rug for washing?
Preparing a sheepskin rug for washing is a crucial step in ensuring a successful and safe cleaning process. Here are the essential steps to follow:
Check the Care Label: Begin by checking the care label or manufacturer’s instructions on your sheepskin rug, if available. These labels often provide specific cleaning guidelines that should be followed.
Shake and Brush: Take the rug outdoors and give it a good shake to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris. Next, use a soft-bristle brush or a sheepskin-specific brush to gently brush the fibers in the direction of the hair growth. This helps loosen and remove surface dirt.
Spot Clean Stains: Examine the rug for any visible stains or spills. Address these spots by blotting them with a clean, dry cloth or sponge. Avoid using excessive water or harsh chemicals, as this can damage the sheepskin.
Ventilate the Area: Ensure proper ventilation in the cleaning area, whether indoors or outdoors. Adequate airflow helps with the drying process and prevents odors.
Prepare Cleaning Solution: If your sheepskin rug requires more thorough cleaning, prepare a mild detergent solution. Use a detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics or sheepskin. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals.
Test in an Inconspicuous Area: Before applying the cleaning solution to the entire rug, test it in a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t cause any adverse reactions or color fading.
Proceed with Washing: Depending on the care label instructions and your test results, you can either handwash or machine wash the rug as directed. Use cold water and the appropriate cleaning method for your specific sheepskin type.
Can I machine wash a sheepskin rug, or is handwashing the only option?
Whether you can machine wash a sheepskin rug or if handwashing is the better option largely depends on the type of sheepskin and its care label instructions. Here’s what you need to know:
Genuine Sheepskin Rugs:
Handwashing: Handwashing is generally recommended for genuine sheepskin rugs, especially those made from delicate or premium sheepskins. Handwashing allows you to have better control over the cleaning process, ensuring that the rug is not exposed to excessive agitation, heat, or chemicals that can harm the natural fibers. Use a gentle detergent and cold water, and follow the care label instructions.
Machine Washing: Some genuine sheepskin rugs may have care labels that permit machine washing. However, only use a front-loading washing machine, set to a delicate or wool cycle with cold water. Avoid top-loading machines with agitators, as they can damage the rug.
Synthetic or Faux Sheepskin Rugs:
Machine Washing: Many synthetic or faux sheepskin rugs are designed to withstand machine washing. Check the care label for specific instructions, but generally, you can wash them in a front-loading machine on a gentle cycle with cold water. Use a mild detergent.
How do I handle and treat specific stains or spills on my sheepskin rug?
Handling and treating specific stains or spills on your sheepskin rug requires a gentle and targeted approach to prevent damage. Here’s how to deal with common stains:
Liquid Stains (e.g., Wine or Coffee):
Blot the stain immediately with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible.
Mix a mild detergent with cold water to create a soapy solution.
Dampen a clean cloth with the soapy water and gently blot the stained area, moving from the outside of the stain toward the center.
Rinse the cloth thoroughly and use it to blot the area with plain cold water to remove soap residue.
Blot the area with a dry cloth to remove excess moisture.
Allow the rug to air dry naturally.
Solid Stains (e.g., Food or Mud):
Allow solid stains to dry completely before attempting removal. Once dry, gently scrape off any excess solid material with a dull knife or spoon.
Follow the same steps as for liquid stains, starting with blotting and then using a soapy water solution.
Grease or Oil Stains:
Place a clean paper towel or cloth over the stain and apply a low-heat iron (no steam) to the cloth. This can help lift the grease or oil from the fibers and into the cloth.
Follow up with the soapy water solution and blotting as described above.
Ink Stains:
Ink stains are notoriously difficult to remove from sheepskin. It’s best to consult a professional cleaner for these types of stains.
What cleaning products and solutions are safe and effective for sheepskin rugs?
Cleaning products and solutions for sheepskin rugs should be gentle to avoid damage to the delicate fibers. Here are some safe and effective options:
Mild Liquid Detergent: A mild liquid detergent that is pH-balanced and free from harsh chemicals is a safe choice. Ensure that it doesn’t contain bleach or enzymes.
Wool and Sheepskin Shampoo: Specialized wool and sheepskin shampoos are designed for cleaning these types of fibers. They are formulated to be gentle and effective.
White Vinegar: White vinegar diluted with water (1:1 ratio) can be used for spot cleaning and deodorizing. Test it on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t discolor the rug.
Cold Water: Cold water is a crucial component of any cleaning solution for sheepskin rugs. Hot water can damage the fibers, causing them to shrink or become matted.
Mild Baby Shampoo: A mild baby shampoo, diluted with water, can be used for gentle cleaning. Again, test it in an inconspicuous area first.
Sheepskin Brush: A sheepskin brush with soft bristles is a helpful tool for gently agitating the fibers during cleaning.
Avoid using bleach, harsh detergents, or products with enzymes, as they can damage the natural fibers of the sheepskin. When using any cleaning solution, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dilution and application.
Conclusion
Washing a sheepskin rug, whether by hand or using a gentle machine wash, can help restore its beauty and maintain its cleanliness. However, it’s crucial to approach the task with care to preserve the rug’s softness, texture, and overall quality.
The key to successful sheepskin rug washing lies in selecting the right cleaning products, temperature, and technique. Whether you choose to hand wash or machine wash, always use mild sheepskin or leather-specific detergents, lukewarm water, and avoid harsh chemicals. Take care not to scrub, wring, or expose the rug to excessive heat during the drying process, as these actions can lead to stiffness and damage.
Once the rug is clean, proper drying is equally vital. Lay it flat on towels and allow it to air dry naturally, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. When dry, gently fluff the wool fibers with a sheepskin brush to restore their plushness.
The correct washing and drying procedures, you can maintain the softness and appearance of your sheepskin rug while ensuring it remains a cherished and cozy addition to your home decor for years to come. Regular care and attention to detail will help you enjoy the luxurious comfort and beauty that sheepskin rugs offer.
