How to Wash Sheep Skin Rugs

Sheep skin rugs are naturally warm and water resistant.

Use soft, warm sheep skin rugs in family rooms, bedrooms or even nurseries. Sheep skin rugs seldom need washing because the lanolin in the skins tends to repel dirt. But when your rugs do need washing, the process is simple. Protect the leather backing by using mild, enzyme free detergents and no chlorine bleach. With a little basic care, your sheep skin rug will last for years.

Things You'll Need

• Enzyme-free mild detergent (hand dish washing soap, mild laundry detergent or soap made for cleaning sheep skin)

Instructions

Machine Wash Sheep Skin Rugs

1. Pour 1/2 cup detergent or soap in the washer. Turn on the washer on a regular warm cycle and add the sheep skin rugs.

2. Dry the sheep skin rug using a warm (not hot) tumble dry cycle.

3. Remove the sheep skin while still slightly damp and stretch to restore its original shape.

Hand Wash Your Sheep Skin Rug

1. Fill a large sink or bucket with warm water and 1/2 cup detergent.

2. Submerge the sheep skin rug completely in the sink by pushing down on it with your hand.

3. Soak the sheep skin rug for 20 minutes, occasionally turning it with your hand.

4. Drain the water and run warm water over the sheep skin to remove all detergent.

5. Spin the sheep skin for 5 minutes in the washing machine's spin cycle or wring out the water by hand. Hang the sheep skin or lay it on a towel to dry out of direct sunlight.

Tips & Warnings

• Never use chlorine bleach on a sheep skin rug. Also avoid using soaps that contain enzymes, including many soaps made for wool. They harden the leather backing. Rub the end of a wooden spoon firmly over the leather to soften it if it seems hard after washing.

• Don't dry clean your sheep skin rugs. Doing so will strip them of their natural oils.

References

• Kiwi Sheepskins: Sheepskin Products Care and Washing
• Oriental Rug Cleaners: Sheepskin Care

Resources

• Diaper Pin: Why Use Wool For Diaper Covers