Do Sheepskins Keep You Cool in Summer?

When most people think of a sheepskin rug or throw, they picture cosy winter evenings, roaring fires and warm throws. But a common question we hear from customers is: ‘Do sheepskins keep you cool in summer?’ And ‘how can I style my home with a sheepskin during summer months?’

The answer may surprise you. A sheepskin rug or real sheepskin throw isn’t just a winter luxury – it can be a practical, breathable and ooze summer style during the warmer months too.

Do Sheepskins Keep You Cool in Summer?

Yes – sheepskin is cool in summer thanks to its unique natural structure.

Unlike synthetic materials, real sheepskin is made up of thousands of natural wool fibres that actively regulate temperature. Each fibre is hollow, allowing air to circulate freely. This creates a natural insulating layer that adapts to your body temperature and the surrounding environment.

In warmer weather, this means:

1.      Heat is dispersed rather than trapped

2.      Air can flow between the fibres, reducing sweating

3.      Moisture is absorbed and released, helping you feel comfortable

This is why sheepskin has been used for centuries in everything from bedding to clothing – long before central heating or air conditioning existed.

A real sheepskin throw placed on a chair, sofa or even a bed can feel cool and comfortable to sit or lie on, even during a British heatwave.

 

Why Real Sheepskin Beats Synthetic Alternatives

Not all sheepskins are created equal. Many mass-produced rugs labelled as “sheepskin” are actually synthetic or heavily processed, which removes the wool’s natural temperature-regulating properties.

A genuine, natural sheepskin rug offers benefits that artificial fibres simply can’t replicate such as:

·       Naturally breathable and moisture-wicking

·       Soft without feeling sticky in warm weather

·       Durable and resilient – it springs back rather than flattening

·       Hypoallergenic and naturally resistant to bacteria

      Choosing a real sheepskin throw like our collection here at Society House, ensures you experience these benefits all year round, including in summer.

 

How to Use Summer Sheepskin in Interior Design

Sheepskin can bring lightness, texture and understated luxury to summer interiors when styled thoughtfully. Here are some interior design tips for using summer sheepskin in your home:

1. Drape Over Dining or Accent Chairs

A sheepskin throw over a wooden or rattan chair adds comfort without heaviness. It’s ideal for dining rooms, home offices or reading corners, keeping you cool while softening hard surfaces.

2. Use Light and Natural Colours

For summer, opt for ivory, white or pale grey sheepskins. These shades reflect light, making rooms feel airy and fresh while still adding warmth visually.

3. Layer, Don’t Overload

Instead of heavy layering, let a single sheepskin rug shine. Place it beside the bed, under a coffee table, or at the foot of a lounge chair for subtle texture without visual clutter.

4. Perfect for Garden Rooms and Conservatories

Sheepskin works beautifully in conservatories, garden offices and summer houses. It adds comfort to wicker or metal furniture and feels cool to the touch on warm days.

5. Bedroom Comfort Without Overheating

In summer, swap thick blankets for a real sheepskin throw across the end of the bed. It provides breathable comfort for early mornings and cooler evenings without causing overheating.

 

Is Sheepskin Ethical and Sustainable?

When sourced responsibly, sheepskin is a sustainable and ethical material. High-quality sheepskins are typically a by-product of the food industry, meaning the hides would otherwise go to waste.

However, ethics depend heavily on where you buy from.

That’s why it’s important to purchase from a trusted tannery or specialist sheepskin retailer who can guarantee:

1.       Ethical sourcing and responsible farming practices

2.       Environmentally conscious tanning processes

3.       High animal welfare standards

4.       Long-lasting quality rather than fast-fashion production

 

A well-made sheepskin rug can last for decades, making it a far more sustainable choice than synthetic alternatives that wear out quickly and end up in landfill.

 

Quality That Stands the Test of Time

Buying a natural sheepskin isn’t just about comfort – it’s an investment in quality. Cheap, low-grade sheepskins often shed, flatten or discolour within a short period, especially when used year-round.

By choosing a premium real sheepskin throw from a reputable specialist, you benefit from:

·       Dense, resilient wool that retains its shape

·       Expert tanning that preserves softness and breathability

·       A timeless interior piece that works in every season

High-quality sheepskins adapt effortlessly from winter warmth to sheepskin cool in summer, making them one of the most versatile home accessories you can own.

 

Society House Sheepskins:

Our sheepskins are conveniently sourced from our next-door neighbours. Devonia here on the edge of Dartmoor, are the oldest established Tannery in Britain and have been tanning sheepskins in the traditional way since 1808. Being next to the Tannery means we are spoilt for choice, from locally sourced rare breed lambskins and goatskins to sheepskins from the Himalayas and beyond.  As a small team, we are so proud to be one the UK's largest stockist of real sheepskin rugs.