Sheepskin rugs are a luxurious addition to any home, offering unmatched softness, warmth, and style. Whether you’ve placed one by your bedside for cosy mornings or in your living room to enhance a chic, natural aesthetic, these timeless pieces are as practical as they are beautiful. However, like any high-quality item, they require proper care to maintain their appearance and texture. With some regular attention, your sheepskin rug can remain a cherished feature of your home for many years. This guide will provide comprehensive tips on caring for your sheepskin rugs, including daily maintenance, cleaning techniques, and long-term preservation advice. Hide Rugs, a trusted name in luxury sheepskin products offers expert guidance to ensure your rug stays in pristine condition.

Daily Care for Sheepskin Rugs

The simplest way to maintain the beauty of your sheepskin rugs is through regular care. Sheepskin naturally resists dirt and odours, thanks to the lanolin in the wool, which has antibacterial properties. However, daily use can still lead to the accumulation of dust and debris. To keep your rug looking fresh, give it a good shake outdoors every few days. This helps to dislodge any particles that have settled within the fibres and restore the rug’s natural fluffiness.

Another essential part of daily care is brushing. Using a specialised sheepskin brush, gently comb through the wool to keep it tangle-free and maintain its soft, plush texture. Brushing helps prevent matting and revitalises the fibres, ensuring your rug retains its luxurious appearance. Hide Rugs offers sheepskin brushes explicitly designed for this purpose, making incorporating this step into your routine easy.

Spot Cleaning for Spills and Stains

Accidents happen; when they do, it’s essential to act quickly to minimise damage. Sheepskin rugs are naturally stain-resistant, but prompt action prevents spills from setting into the fibres. If a liquid spill occurs, blot the area immediately with a clean, dry cloth to absorb as much moisture as possible. Avoid rubbing the stain, which can push it deeper into the wool.

For tougher stains, a mild detergent or sheepskin-specific cleaner can be used. Mix a small amount of detergent with cold water and dampen a clean cloth in the solution. Gently dab the stained area, working from the outside to avoid spreading the stain. Rinse the cloth with clean water and blot the area again to remove any soap residue. Allow the rug to air dry naturally, away from direct heat or sunlight. Once dry, gently shake the carpet and brush the fibres to restore their texture.

For grease stains, sprinkling cornstarch or talcum powder on the affected area can help absorb the oil. Let it sit for a few hours before brushing off the powder and cleaning the area with a mild detergent solution. With patience and gentle care, most stains can be effectively removed without compromising the quality of the rug.

Deep Cleaning for Long-Term Maintenance

While regular brushing and spot cleaning are sufficient for day-to-day upkeep, occasional deep cleaning is necessary to remove embedded dirt and refresh the rug. Hand washing is the recommended method for deep cleaning sheepskin rugs, as machine washing can damage the fibres and leather backing. Here’s how to do it:

1. Fill a basin or bathtub with lukewarm water and add a small amount of wool-specific detergent.
2. Gently submerge and agitate the rug to release dirt trapped in the fibres.
3. Allow the rug to soak for 5–10 minutes, but avoid leaving it in the water for too long, as this can weaken the leather backing.
4. Rinse the rug thoroughly with clean water to remove all detergent residues.
5. Press out excess water gently by hand, but do not wring or twist the rug, as this can cause the leather to stretch or crack.

After washing, lay the rug flat on a clean towel and reshape it while it’s still damp. Allow it to air dry naturally, away from direct sunlight or heat sources, as excessive heat can damage the leather. Once the rug is completely dry, shake it well and brush the wool to restore its fluffiness.

Professional Cleaning Services

Professional cleaning is an excellent option for heavily soiled rugs or those that require special attention. Hide Rugs offers professional cleaning services tailored explicitly for sheepskin rugs, ensuring that your rug is treated with the utmost care. Professional cleaners have the expertise and equipment to handle stubborn stains and odours while preserving the integrity of the rug’s fibres and leather backing. Opting for a professional cleaning every one to two years can help extend the life of your rug and keep it looking its best.

Seasonal Cleaning and Storage

Sheepskin rugs often see heavier use during the colder months, making seasonal cleaning an essential part of their care. At the end of winter, thoroughly clean your rug to remove any accumulated dirt or debris. This ensures the carpet is fresh and ready for storage or lighter use during the warmer months.

If you plan to store your sheepskin rug, take precautions to protect it from moisture, pests, and sunlight. Use a breathable cotton storage bag to prevent mould and mildew, and store the rug in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid using plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and cause damage to the leather. Before storing, ensure the rug is clean and completely dry to prevent any unpleasant odours or damage during storage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure the longevity of your sheepskin rugs, it’s essential to avoid common mistakes that can cause damage. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Avoid Machine Washing and Drying: While tossing your rug into the washing machine may be tempting, the agitation and heat can damage the fibres and leather backing. Always hand wash or seek professional cleaning services.
• Do Not Use Harsh Chemicals: Bleach, fabric softeners, and other harsh cleaning agents can strip the wool of its natural oils and damage the fibres. Stick to wool-specific detergents or cleaners recommended by Hide Rugs.
• Protect from Sunlight and Heat: Prolonged exposure to sunlight or heat can cause the leather to dry out and the wool to lose its softness. Always air-dry your rug in a shaded area and avoid heat sources.

Conclusion

Sheepskin rugs are an investment in comfort, style, and luxury, but they require proper care to keep them looking and feeling their best. With regular maintenance, prompt attention to spills, and occasional deep cleaning, your sheepskin rugs can remain a stunning feature in your home for many years. Hide Rugs offers the expertise, products, and services you need to care for your rug confidently. Whether you’re a long-time sheepskin owner or new to the charm of these natural rugs, these care tips will help you enjoy the lasting beauty and comfort of your sheepskin rugs.