How to Clean a Sheepskin Rug Yourself at Home: The Complete Care Guide
A sheepskin rug is one of the softest, coziest pieces you can add to your home. But many homeowners hesitate before buying one because of a simple concern:
How do you actually clean it at home?
The good news? Sheepskin is surprisingly low maintenance — if you know what you’re doing. This guide will walk you through exactly how to care for your sheepskin rug yourself so it stays soft, fluffy, and beautiful for years.
Why Sheepskin Needs Special Care
Unlike synthetic rugs, genuine sheepskin is a natural material. It contains:
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Wool fibres
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A leather hide backing
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Natural lanolin (which keeps wool soft)
Because of this, harsh chemicals, heat, and excessive water can damage it. The goal is simple: clean gently and dry naturally.
If you’ve invested in premium sheepskin rugs, proper care protects that investment long term.
Everyday Maintenance (The Easy Part)
1️⃣ Shake It Out Weekly
Take your rug outside and give it a firm shake. This removes dust and prevents dirt from settling deep into the fibres.
In Wellington and other windy areas, even a quick outdoor shake makes a big difference.
2️⃣ Brush to Keep It Fluffy
Use a wire wool brush or a pet slicker brush (gentle strokes only).
Brushing:
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Restores fluff
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Prevents matting
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Keeps fibres separated
Always brush in the direction of the wool, not against it.
3️⃣ Light Vacuuming (Optional)
If needed, use a vacuum without a rotating brush head. Strong beater bars can pull fibres.
Low suction + nozzle attachment only.
How to Spot Clean a Sheepskin Rug
Spills happen. Especially in living rooms, bedrooms, or nurseries.
Step-by-step spot cleaning:
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Blot immediately with a dry towel (do not rub).
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Mix lukewarm water with a small amount of wool-safe detergent.
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Dampen a cloth and gently dab the area.
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Blot with a clean towel.
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Allow to air dry naturally.
Avoid soaking the leather backing.
Can You Wash a Sheepskin Rug in the Washing Machine?
This is one of the most searched questions in New Zealand.
Short answer: Sometimes — but only carefully.
Machine washing is possible if:
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The rug is small (single pelt)
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Your machine has a wool or delicate cycle
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Cold water only
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Mild wool detergent
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No fabric softener
However, hand washing is always safer.
For larger double or quad sheepskin rugs, professional cleaning is recommended.
How to Hand Wash a Sheepskin Rug
If your rug needs a deeper clean:
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Fill a bathtub with cold or lukewarm water.
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Add wool-safe detergent.
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Submerge and gently squeeze (do not scrub).
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Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
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Press out excess water — never wring.
The key is gentle handling.
How to Dry a Sheepskin Rug Properly
Drying is the most important step.
Never:
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Use a tumble dryer
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Place on a heater
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Leave in direct sunlight
Instead:
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Lay flat on a towel
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Stretch gently back into shape
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Air dry naturally in shade
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Brush once fully dry
In humid NZ regions like Auckland, ensure good airflow to prevent damp smells.
How to Restore a Flattened Sheepskin Rug
Over time, heavy foot traffic can flatten fibres.
To revive:
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Lightly mist with water
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Gently brush
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Shake it out
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Let it fully dry
If heavily compacted, a professional wool cleaner may help.
Does Sheepskin Smell After Washing?
A slight natural wool scent can appear while drying. This fades completely once dry.
If strong odour remains, it usually means:
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It wasn’t rinsed properly
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It dried too slowly
Good ventilation is essential.
How Often Should You Clean a Sheepskin Rug?
For most NZ homes:
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Weekly shake & brush
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Spot clean when needed
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Deep clean once every 6–12 months
Compared to large wool rugs or cowhide rugs, sheepskin actually requires less frequent full washing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Using hot water
❌ Harsh detergents
❌ Machine drying
❌ Scrubbing aggressively
❌ Leaving it in direct sun
These are the main reasons sheepskin rugs become stiff or dry.
Can Professional Cleaning Help?
Yes — especially for:
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Large double or quad pelts
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Heavy stains
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Older rugs needing refresh
Look for a cleaner experienced with wool or natural hides. If you're still considering buying one, read our full breakdown: Is a Sheepskin Rug Worth It in NZ homes?
Final Thoughts: Caring for Sheepskin Is Easier Than You Think
Many people avoid buying sheepskin because they assume it’s high maintenance. In reality, it’s one of the easiest natural materials to maintain when treated gently.
With simple weekly care and proper drying, your sheepskin rug can stay soft and luxurious for many years in New Zealand homes.
And the comfort it provides? Absolutely worth it.