H1 | Caring for a Sheepskin Rug
H2 | A genuine sheepskin rug is naturally resilient, but it should be cared for gently.
P2 | Wool carries lanolin, a natural protective layer that helps repel dirt and moisture while keeping the fibers soft, open, and alive.
With regular care, your sheepskin rug can remain beautiful, tactile, and full of character for years.
Simple care for everyday living.
Because sheepskin is naturally protective, it rarely needs washing. Most care is simple, gentle, and preventative.
Shake it out regularly
Take the piece outside and shake it gently to remove loose dust and surface dirt.
Brush with a sheepskin rug brush
Use a wool comb or sheepskin rug brush occasionally to keep the fibers soft, open, and fluffy.
Air it outdoors
Hang the sheepskin outside on a foggy or humid day, protected from direct rain. The moisture in the air can help refresh the wool and reactivate the lanolin.
Dab stains immediately
If something spills, dab the stain right away with a slightly damp cloth. Don’t rub, since rubbing can push dirt deeper into the fibers.
Avoid harsh detergents
Standard laundry detergents can be too aggressive for wool and leather. Avoid bleach, enzymes, heavy agitation, and hot water.
Recommended gentle wool wash for deeper care.
For occasional cleaning, Sabine recommends a natural wool wash formulated for sheepskin and wool fibers.
Eucalan Wool Wash is a widely available option in the U.S. and Europe. It’s designed for wool, contains lanolin, and doesn’t require rinsing, which helps reduce agitation and protect the fleece.
Why it works well for sheepskin:
Contains lanolin to help nourish the wool fibers
Free from harsh enzymes and bleach
No-rinse formula helps avoid unnecessary soaking or agitation
Widely available in the United States and Europe
Alternative option: Kookaburra Wool Wash is another wool-friendly choice often used for sheepskin care.
H2 | Wool is naturally protective.
P2 Sheepskin is naturally dirt-repellent because of lanolin, the wool’s own protective wax. This invisible layer helps prevent dust, dirt, liquids, and bacteria from settling deeply into the fleece.
That’s part of what makes wool such an intelligent material for the home. It’s soft and luxurious, but also practical, durable, and made to live with.
Key benefits:
Lanolin helps keep dirt on the surface, so it doesn’t move deeper into the fibers to cause staining
Wool fibers have a natural resilience
Sheepskin can refresh beautifully with air and humidity
The material helps resist dust, stains, and odor
With proper care, wool maintains its softness and texture over time
Spot cleaning for small spills and stains.
For small spills, act quickly and gently. This is the best first step when you’re learning how to clean a sheepskin rug without damaging the wool or leather backing.
First, blot the area with a clean, slightly damp cloth. Avoid rubbing. For greasy stains, sprinkle cornstarch over the area and allow it to sit overnight before gently brushing or vacuuming it away.
For deeper cleaning, we recommend using a wool-specific wash that’s gentle, lanolin-friendly, and made for natural fibers.
What to avoid to protect the natural beauty of the wool.
Avoid:
Rubbing spills into the fleece
Hot water
Harsh detergents
Bleach
Enzyme-based laundry products
Machine washing unless specifically advised
Direct heat from radiators, dryers, or strong sunlight
Soaking the leather backing
Heavy vacuum suction or rotating brush heads
When in doubt, ask before cleaning.
Every piece is one-of-a-kind, and natural sheepskin can vary in texture, density, color, and backing. If your piece has a significant stain or you’re unsure how to care for it, please contact us before attempting a deeper clean.
We’ll help you determine the best approach for preserving the softness, texture, and natural character of your piece.
Made to live beautifully.
The Wol Society* creates artist-made sheepskin rugs designed to bring warmth, texture, and atmosphere into the home.
With gentle care, your rug can continue to soften, ground, and enrich your interior for years.