How to Wash a Sheepskin Rug or Throw: Expert Tips for Care and Longevity

A sheepskin rug or real sheepskin throw instantly brings warmth, texture, and luxury to any room. Whether draped over a sofa or layered at the bedside, these natural pieces add timeless charm to your home. But to keep your sheepskin looking soft and fresh, the right care is essential.

Here we’ve put together our expert tips on how to wash, clean, and maintain your sheepskin — and why choosing a natural, real sheepskin rug from a trusted tannery or specialist makes all the difference.

Why Buy a Natural Sheepskin from a Trusted Source?

Not all sheepskins are created equal. Ethically sourced, real sheepskins from reputable UK tanneries or sheepskin specialists not only ensure animal welfare standards but also guarantee superior durability. A well-tanned sheepskin will:

• Maintain its softness and structure over time
  
  

• Be easier to clean without matting or hardening
  
  

• Age beautifully, giving you years of comfort and style
  
  

When investing in a sheepskin rug, throw, or pouffe, always look for a trusted supplier who works with natural sheepskins and follows responsible sourcing practices.

How to Wash a Sheepskin Rug or Throw: Step-by-Step

1. Shake and Brush Regularly

Dust and debris naturally settle into the fibres. Take your sheepskin outside and give it a good shake every week or two. Use a wire sheepskin brush to gently tease out tangles and restore the fluffy pile.

2. Spot Clean Spills Quickly

For small spills, dab the area immediately with a clean, damp cloth. Avoid soaking through to the leather backing. Use lukewarm water and a drop of wool-safe detergent if needed.

3. Hand Wash for Deeper Cleans

If your sheepskin rug or real sheepskin throw needs a proper wash:

• Fill a bath or large sink with cool water (never hot).
  
  

• Add a specialist wool/sheepskin detergent (ordinary detergents can damage the fibres).
  
  

• Gently submerge the sheepskin, lightly agitating by hand.
  
  

• Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.
  
  

⚠️ Avoid twisting, wringing, or scrubbing harshly, as this can damage both the wool and leather.

4. Drying Your Sheepskin

Lay the sheepskin flat on a towel in a well-ventilated space, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. While damp, gently brush the wool to prevent matting. Allow it to dry slowly and naturally — tumble dryers and radiators can cause the leather to shrink or harden.

5. Professional Cleaning for Large Sheepskin Rugs

For oversized rugs or if you’re unsure, professional sheepskin cleaning services are a safe option. Trusted sheepskin specialists understand the tanning process and use the right methods to protect your rug’s natural qualities.

Caring for Sheepskin Furniture Pieces

While sheepskins are traditionally used as rugs and throws, here at Society House HQ in Dartmoor, we’re lucky enough to have the UK’s oldest tannery and one of the UK's oldest businesses, which has been running for over 200 years as our neighbours. This means we always have access to a huge collection of specialist real sheepskin rugs, plus footstools, beanbags and sheepskin pouffes. 

When it comes to caring for sheepskin furniture pieces, we recommend: 

• Rotating them regularly to avoid uneven wear.
  
  

• Brush and shake out fibres every couple of weeks.
  
  

• Spot clean spills immediately, following the same care as with rugs.
  
  

A sheepskin rug or real sheepskin throw is more than a decorative touch — it’s a luxury piece of timeless comfort. By choosing a natural sheepskin from a trusted tannery or specialist, you’re ensuring it’s ethically sourced, beautifully soft, and made to last.

With the right care — regular brushing, gentle washing, and mindful drying — your sheepskin rug, pouffe, or footstool will stay plush, cosy, and stylish for years to come.