Sheepskin Care & Cleaning Guide

Sheepskin Facts

An easy-care natural material

Made to last with proper care

Wool naturally resists dirt and odours

Genuine Sheepskin Care Guide

Air your sheepskin outdoors when needed and shake it gently to remove loose dust.
Store your sheepskin in a dry place and avoid getting the leather side wet.
Care for and refresh your sheepskin with lanolin.
Gently brush the wool when needed using a wide-toothed brush.
Treat stains locally and as soon as possible. Use care and cleaning products specifically formulated for wool.
Oh Sheep - Had a Little Accident? See below for solutions to common mishaps.

Care & Use

Airing Refreshes Sheepskin

Air your sheepskin instead of washing it whenever possible. Take it outdoors and place it in a sheltered, shaded area with good airflow. Avoid direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure may affect the properties of both the wool and the leather. Wool’s natural properties help resist dirt and odours, so airing is often enough to refresh your sheepskin without washing it.

Maintaining Wool Loft

Refresh your sheepskin by gently shaking it outdoors when needed. This helps release dust and loose particles trapped in the wool, keeping the surface fresh and naturally airy. Gentle shaking also allows the wool fibres to loosen after everyday use, helping maintain their natural loft and softness. Handle your sheepskin gently. Avoiding vigorous movements or pulling at the wool to preserve its natural texture and appearance.

Gentle Vacuuming for Dust Removal

Remove dust and loose particles from your sheepskin by gently vacuuming the wool.
Use a soft upholstery attachment or vacuum without an attachment, keeping the nozzle slightly above the wool.
Always vacuum in the direction of the wool.
Do not use a rotating brush or beater bar, as these can pull or damage the wool fibres.
Use low suction to remove loose particles without unnecessarily pulling at the wool.

Care for Your Sheepskin with Gentle Brushing

Tangled or matted wool can be gently brushed to help restore its natural structure.
Use a metal wide-toothed wool comb or pet brush.
Brush the wool gently and avoid pulling or tugging.
Regular brushing can help maintain the wool’s natural loft and airy structure.
Avoid brushing curly-wool sheepskins if you want to preserve their natural curls.

Explore our sheepskin care tips below.

Sheepskin Care Tips

Regularly shake out and air your sheepskin outdoors in fresh air.
Use a brush suitable for wool and gently fluff the wool with your fingers to help restore its natural loft.
Care for and protect the wool with lanolin.
For curly-wool sheepskins, lightly mist the wool with water if you want to help define the natural curls. Gently shape the curls with your fingers and allow the sheepskin to dry naturally.
Avoid brushing curly-wool sheepskins if you want to preserve their natural curls.

For detailed washing instructions, see our sheepskin washing guide below.

Lanolin - An Important Part of Wool Care

Lanolin is a natural wax found in sheep’s wool that helps condition the fibres and contributes to their softness and natural feel. During wool processing, much of the lanolin is removed during washing. Lanolin-based care products can be used to condition the wool, helping maintain its softness and appearance.

Benefits of Lanolin

Conditions and protects wool. Lanolin helps maintain the soft feel of wool while supporting its natural resistance to dirt and odours.

Supports the longevity of wool. Gentle, appropriate care helps maintain the wool’s appearance and feel over time.

Naturally derived. Lanolin is a naturally occurring substance obtained from sheep’s wool.

How to Use BääBää Lanolin Spray

Spray a light, even layer of lanolin spray onto the surface of the wool.
Allow the treatment to absorb naturally.
If desired, gently brush the wool after applying the treatment.

Discover the easy-to-use BääBää Lanolin Care Spray.

Store Your Sheepskin in a Dry Place

Store your sheepskin in a clean, dry place.
Avoid storing genuine sheepskin in plastic for extended periods.
Choose a well-ventilated storage space and protect the sheepskin from moisture.
Air your sheepskin when needed to refresh it and keep it smelling fresh.
Fold your sheepskin loosely if storing it folded. Avoid sharp creases and prolonged compression to help prevent the wool from becoming unnecessarily flattened.
A breathable fabric bag is a good option for storing or transporting your sheepskin.

BääBää Sheepskins in Interiors & Design

A versatile material. BääBää sheepskins lend themselves to considered interiors, design and bespoke projects.

A refined part of everyday living. Our sheepskins bring depth, warmth and softness to thoughtfully curated spaces.

As a layer of warmth and comfort on a bed, sofa, chair or floor - or as a soft resting place for pets.

As a tactile design detail that introduces texture and character to private residences and other distinctive spaces.

As a material for design. Sheepskins offer a distinctive starting point for nature-inspired design, upholstery, craftsmanship and bespoke creations.

What to Avoid with Your Sheepskin

Do not wash the entire sheepskin with water unless the product-specific care instructions explicitly allow it. Washing can cause the leather to shrink and harden, and may alter the structure of the wool.

Avoid bleach and harsh detergents. Do not use enzyme-based detergents either. When local cleaning is necessary, choose a mild cleaning product specifically formulated for wool.

Do not rub, wring or handle the wool roughly. Excessive mechanical handling can damage the wool fibres and alter their structure.

Avoid soaking the leather side or exposing it to unnecessary moisture. Excess moisture can affect the leather’s structure and cause it to become stiff as it dries.

Do not use a rotating brush attachment when vacuuming. It can catch on the wool fibres and damage them.

Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture. Persistent dampness and poor ventilation can affect the condition of the leather and contribute to unpleasant odours.

Discover BääBää Care Spray

Washing, Drying & Stain Removal

Washing Genuine Sheepskin

Genuine sheepskin usually does not require washing due to the natural properties of wool. Airing and regular care are often sufficient unless the sheepskin becomes heavily soiled.

If local washing is necessary, clean only the affected area by hand and handle the sheepskin gently.

Use lukewarm water at a maximum of 30 °C and a mild detergent specifically formulated for wool.

Remove detergent residue gently with clean water or a clean, damp cloth.

Avoid soaking the sheepskin or wetting the leather side. Excess moisture can cause the leather to stiffen, shrink or change shape as it dries.

If the entire sheepskin requires professional cleaning, we recommend consulting a professional cleaner experienced in cleaning sheepskin and leather.

See our stain removal tips below.

Cleaning Your Sheepskin with Snow

Clean, dry powder snow can be used to gently refresh the wool side of a sheepskin. This method is suitable only when the snow remains dry and will not melt into the sheepskin.

Use only clean, dry powder snow. Do not treat your sheepskin in wet snow or during thawing conditions.

Place the sheepskin on clean snow with the wool side facing down and press it gently into the snow. Avoid vigorous rubbing.

Remove the snow by gently shaking the sheepskin. Do not allow the snow to melt into the wool or reach the leather side.

If the sheepskin becomes wet, stop the process and follow the drying instructions below.

Professional Cleaning

For a more thorough clean, we recommend entrusting your sheepskin to a qualified specialist. Choose a professional with experience in the care and cleaning of sheepskins, leather and fur products. The appropriate cleaning method helps preserve the wool’s natural character and minimise the risk of damage to both the wool and leather. Always follow the care instructions provided for your specific sheepskin.

Stain Removal from Sheepskin

Act quickly. The sooner a stain is treated, the easier it is to remove. Avoid wetting the leather side and clean only the affected area whenever possible. Use a mild detergent specifically formulated for wool. Apply it with a clean, damp cloth and gently dab the stain rather than rubbing it. Remove any detergent residue with a clean, damp cloth and avoid over-wetting the sheepskin.

Liquid stains, such as coffee or juice
Blot up excess liquid immediately with a clean cloth or paper towel. Do not rub. Apply a small amount of mild wool detergent to a damp cloth and gently dab the affected area in the direction of the wool. Remove any detergent residue with a clean, damp cloth and allow the sheepskin to dry flat with the wool side facing upwards.

Grease stains, such as butter or cooking oil
Gently blot any excess grease with a clean, dry cloth. Apply a small amount of mild wool detergent to a damp cloth and gently dab the affected area. Remove any detergent residue with a clean, damp cloth and allow the sheepskin to dry naturally.

Dried or hardened stains, such as mud
Allow the stain to dry completely, then gently brush away loose dirt in the direction of the wool. If necessary, dab the affected area with a clean, damp cloth and a small amount of mild wool detergent. Remove any detergent residue with a clean, damp cloth and allow the sheepskin to dry naturally.

Difficult stains, such as make-up or red wine
Treat the stain as soon as possible. Gently dab the affected area with a clean, damp cloth and a small amount of mild wool detergent. Avoid rubbing and excessive moisture. Remove any detergent residue with a clean, damp cloth and allow the sheepskin to dry naturally. For persistent or extensive stains, we recommend professional cleaning by a specialist experienced in sheepskin and leather.

Choosing a Detergent for Sheepskin

Choose a gentle detergent formulated for wool and suitable for your sheepskin.

Avoid bleach, harsh detergents and enzyme-based products that may affect the wool fibres.

Avoid conventional all-purpose detergents that are not designed for wool.

Opt for lanolin-based care products where appropriate and follow the product instructions.

Care note: Avoid soaking the sheepskin or wetting the leather side. Excess moisture may cause the leather to stiffen or lose its shape.

Discover BääBää Lanolin Spray

How to Dry Your Sheepskin Properly

Place the sheepskin on a clean, flat surface in a well-ventilated area.

Good airflow is more important than heat.

Allow the sheepskin to dry at room temperature, in the shade and away from radiators, heaters and other direct heat sources.

Let the sheepskin dry slowly and naturally. Do not place it on a heated floor or use a hairdryer or other direct heat source. Do not use a tumble dryer.

Drying time varies depending on the amount of moisture, room temperature, humidity and airflow. Drying may take anywhere from several hours to a couple of days.

Washable Sheepskins

Most genuine sheepskins are not suitable for washing with water.

A sheepskin must undergo specific tanning and finishing processes to make it suitable for washing. Always check the individual product’s care instructions before washing.

If you are unsure whether your sheepskin is washable, do not wash it until you have checked the care instructions or confirmed with the supplier that washing is permitted. Washing an unsuitable sheepskin can cause the leather side to stiffen, shrink or lose its shape during drying.

We recommend hand washing washable sheepskins whenever possible. Hand washing is gentler on the wool and leather and helps preserve the sheepskin’s natural feel and appearance.

Machine washing is generally harsher than hand washing and may cause the wool to felt or change in texture. If machine washing is explicitly permitted for your sheepskin, use a wool or delicate cycle, a maximum temperature of 30°C and a mild detergent formulated for wool.

Oh Sheep - Common Mishaps & Solutions

Restoring Sheepskin Wool’s Natural Loft

Sheepskin wool can be maintained and its natural loft restored through gentle care. Start by shaking the sheepskin outdoors to remove loose dust and allow the wool to regain its natural fullness. If the wool has become compressed or tangled, gently separate the fibres with your fingers and brush the wool in the direction of its growth using a suitable brush. Work on small sections at a time and avoid vigorous brushing or pulling on the wool. Air the sheepskin in a well-ventilated area when needed, and avoid direct heat and excessive moisture, as the leather side can be damaged if it becomes wet.

To preserve the natural curls of curly-wool sheepskins, avoid brushing and gently loosen any tangles with your fingers. If the wool has become heavily felted or its structure has changed permanently, its original loft may not be fully restored.

When needed, treat the wool with BääBää Lanolin Spray to help maintain its softness, lustre and natural feel.

Removing Moisture from Your Sheepskin

Sheepskin can tolerate occasional light moisture, but excessive wetting should be avoided. If liquid spills onto your sheepskin or it becomes damp, gently blot away the excess moisture with a clean, dry cloth. Do not rub the wool or wring the sheepskin. Place it on a clean, flat surface in a well-ventilated area and allow it to dry naturally at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, radiators and other heat sources. Do not brush the wool while it is wet or damp, as handling can damage the fibres and alter their structure. Take particular care to avoid excessive moisture on the leather side, as it may stiffen or lose its shape as it dries.

Drying A Wet Sheepskin

If your sheepskin gets wet, handle it carefully and avoid unnecessary stress. Gently blot away excess moisture with a clean, dry towel. Do not rub, wring or squeeze the sheepskin forcefully.

Place the sheepskin on a clean, flat surface in a well-ventilated area and allow it to dry naturally at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, radiators and other heat sources. While the sheepskin is drying, gently reshape it by hand to help it retain its original form. Handle the leather side with care and avoid excessive stretching or bending. Ensure that air can circulate around the sheepskin and replace the damp surface underneath with a dry one if necessary.

Do not use a tumble dryer or hairdryer, and never place the sheepskin on a heated floor. Avoid brushing the wool while it is wet. Once the sheepskin is completely dry, gently shake it and, if needed, carefully loosen the wool with a suitable brush.

If the sheepskin becomes thoroughly soaked or the leather side feels hard or stiff after drying, consult a professional experienced in sheepskin and leather care. Always follow the product-specific care instructions.

Stiff Sheepskin

The leather side of a sheepskin can become stiff, for example, after getting wet and drying. If the sheepskin is still slightly damp, gently reshape it by hand to help it retain its original form, without stretching or bending it forcefully. Allow it to dry on a flat surface in a well-ventilated area at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. If the leather side is already completely dry and feels hard or stiff, avoid forcefully bending it or applying water, oils or other treatments without professional advice. Lanolin spray is intended for wool care and does not soften the leather side. For a severely stiffened sheepskin, we recommend consulting a professional who specialises in sheepskin and leather care. The leather may not always return to its original softness, so gentle handling is essential.

Pet Accidents on Sheepskin

If your pet soils your sheepskin, treat the affected area as soon as possible. Carefully remove any solid matter and blot up liquid with a clean, dry cloth. Do not rub the stain or saturate the sheepskin with water, as moisture can penetrate the leather side and cause damage. If necessary, gently clean the affected area with a slightly damp cloth and a mild cleaner suitable for sheepskin, provided the product’s care instructions allow it. Avoid harsh detergents and ammonia-based cleaners. Enzyme cleaners designed for pet urine should only be used if they are explicitly suitable for the specific wool and leather. Always test the cleaner on an inconspicuous area first and allow it to dry before assessing the result. Let the sheepskin dry naturally on a flat surface in a well-ventilated area, away from direct heat. If the stain or odour persists, urine has penetrated the leather side, or the affected area is extensive, we recommend professional cleaning by a specialist experienced in sheepskin and leather care.