How to Clean a Sheepskin or Lambskin Rug (Wash, Brush & Care)

A sheepskin or lambskin rug is one of those pieces that can completely change the feeling of a room. It softens hard flooring, adds warmth beside the bed, makes a reading corner feel more inviting, and brings that natural, cosy texture you do not really get from ordinary rugs.

But when it gets dirty, the panic is understandable.

Can you wash it? Will the wool go flat? Will the backing shrink? Can you brush it? Is it safe to put it in the washing machine? And most importantly, how do you clean a sheepskin rug without ruining the softness that made you love it in the first place?

The honest answer is this: most sheepskin and lambskin rugs do not need heavy washing very often. In fact, washing too quickly is one of the easiest ways to damage them. A good shake, fresh air, careful brushing and gentle spot cleaning will usually do more good than throwing the whole rug into water.

This guide explains how to clean a sheepskin or lambskin rug safely at home, when washing is worth the risk, what to avoid, and how to keep the wool soft, fluffy and beautiful for longer.

At beUNIQ, we believe a rug should not only look beautiful when it first arrives. It should keep adding warmth, comfort and character to your home over time — and proper care is a big part of that.

Quick Answer: The Safest Way to Clean a Sheepskin Rug

The safest way to clean a sheepskin or lambskin rug is to start gently. Shake the rug outdoors to remove loose dust and debris, then brush the wool carefully with a suitable sheepskin brush, wool comb or soft slicker brush. For small marks, blot the area with cool water and a wool-safe detergent. Only hand wash or machine wash the rug if the care label clearly says it is safe to do so. After cleaning, let it air dry naturally, away from radiators, tumble dryers, direct sunlight and strong heat.

The most important rule is simple: do not over-clean it. Sheepskin is a natural material, and the more aggressively you treat it, the more likely you are to damage the wool fibres or the leather backing.

If your rug is a premium natural piece, such as a genuine New Zealand natural sheepskin rug, always follow the product’s own care instructions first. Some natural sheepskin rugs are best professionally cleaned rather than washed at home.

Can You Wash a Sheepskin or Lambskin Rug?

Yes, some sheepskin rugs can be washed, but not every sheepskin rug should be washed. This is where many people go wrong.

A sheepskin rug is not just wool. The soft fleece is attached to a leather or suede backing, and that backing can react badly to water, heat and harsh detergents. If it shrinks or hardens, the rug may never feel the same again.

Before doing anything, check the care label. If the label says the rug is washable, you can usually clean it carefully using a low temperature and a wool-safe detergent. If the label says dry clean only, professional clean only, spot clean only, or does not give clear washing instructions, it is safer not to soak the whole rug.

If there is no care label at all, treat the rug as delicate. That means shaking, airing, brushing and spot cleaning should be your first options. Full washing should be the last resort.

This is especially important for older rugs, white sheepskin rugs, rugs with a stiff backing, or rugs that already look slightly cracked or fragile underneath.

Why Sheepskin Rugs Need Gentle Care

A sheepskin rug feels wonderfully soft because it is made from natural wool fibres. Those fibres can hold warmth, texture and volume beautifully, but they can also become matted if they are treated too roughly.

The backing is even more sensitive. Hot water, harsh detergent or direct heat can cause it to shrink, stiffen or lose flexibility. That is why people often say their sheepskin rug went “hard” after washing. In many cases, the problem was not simply that the rug was cleaned, but that it was cleaned with the wrong temperature, the wrong detergent or the wrong drying method.

Think of sheepskin rug care as closer to caring for a wool jumper than cleaning a synthetic bath mat. You can clean it, but you need to respect the material.

If you are looking after a premium rug, the goal is not just to remove dirt. The goal is to protect the softness, shape, texture and natural feel of the rug.

This same idea applies across many softer rug styles. Natural fibres, hand-woven textures and wool-rich pieces can bring a more refined feeling into a room, which is why collections such as natural material rugs and handmade rugs deserve more thoughtful care than cheap, throwaway floor coverings.

Start by Shaking and Airing the Rug

Before using water or detergent, take the rug outside and give it a proper shake. This sounds basic, but it is one of the most effective things you can do.

Dust, crumbs, grit, pet hair and small bits of debris can sit deep in the wool. If you wash the rug before removing them, they may become harder to lift. A strong shake helps loosen everything before you move on to brushing or spot cleaning.

If the rug is small, hold it firmly from one side and shake it outdoors. If it is larger, drape it over a clean railing or washing line and gently pat the back. Do not beat it aggressively, especially if the leather backing feels old or dry.

Airing also helps with mild odours. In many UK homes, rugs can absorb everyday smells from pets, cooking, damp weather or closed rooms. Leaving a sheepskin rug outside in fresh air, in the shade, can help refresh it naturally without using sprays.

Avoid leaving it in strong direct sunlight for hours. A little fresh air is helpful. Too much sun can dry the backing and may affect the colour of the wool.

Brush the Wool Before You Think About Washing

Brushing is one of the best ways to bring a sheepskin rug back to life. A rug that looks tired, flat or slightly matted may not actually be dirty. It may simply need the wool fibres separated again.

Use a sheepskin brush, wool comb or gentle pet slicker brush. Start slowly and work in small sections. Brush in the direction of the wool rather than dragging against it. If you find a knot or compacted patch, do not force the brush through. Work gently and patiently.

This is particularly useful for rugs placed beside a bed, under a dressing table, near a reading chair or in a favourite corner of the living room. These are the areas where the wool gets pressed down over time.

A freshly brushed sheepskin rug often looks much fuller, softer and more luxurious. In some cases, brushing alone may be enough to make the rug feel refreshed.

If you love that cosy, soft-underfoot feeling, this is also why softer rug styles work so well in bedroom rugs and relaxed lounge spaces. They add comfort in a way that feels immediate and tactile — you notice it the moment your feet touch the floor.

How to Revive a Matted Sheepskin Rug

A matted sheepskin rug needs patience more than force.

Start by shaking it outdoors. Then place it on a clean, dry surface and brush the wool gently. If the matting is light, dry brushing may be enough. If the wool is badly compacted, work through the rug in small sections instead of trying to fix the whole thing at once.

Some care advice suggests brushing sheepskin while it is slightly damp, while other advice warns against brushing wet wool. The reason for this difference is that not all sheepskins are tanned and finished in the same way. Some can handle a little damp brushing, while others may stretch, pull or become weaker.

If you are unsure, take the safer route: let the rug dry fully first, then brush gently. It may take longer, but it reduces the risk of damaging the fibres.

If the rug still looks flat after brushing, it may have been crushed for too long or damaged by previous washing. You may improve it, but you may not fully restore it to its original softness.

Spot Clean Small Stains First

For small stains, spot cleaning is usually much safer than washing the whole rug.

If something spills on the rug, act quickly. Use a clean, dry white cloth and blot the area gently. Do not rub. Rubbing can push the stain deeper into the wool and make the fibres look flat or fuzzy.

Once you have absorbed as much of the spill as possible, dampen another clean cloth with cool water. Add a very small amount of wool-safe detergent if needed, then gently dab the stained area. Keep the moisture controlled. You are not trying to soak the backing; you are only cleaning the affected wool.

After that, use a fresh damp cloth to remove any detergent residue. Then blot with a dry towel and allow the area to air dry naturally.

This method works well for small food marks, light dirt, makeup smudges and minor spills. For pet accidents, strong odours or deep staining, professional cleaning may be safer, especially if the liquid has reached the backing.

What Detergent Should You Use on a Sheepskin Rug?

Use a mild wool-safe detergent or a specialist sheepskin detergent. This matters more than people think.

Normal laundry detergent can be too harsh for natural wool. Biological detergents and enzyme-based cleaners may affect the fibres. Bleach can ruin the colour and weaken the wool. Fabric conditioner can coat the fibres and change the texture.

You should also avoid strong stain removers, carpet shampoos and heavily perfumed sprays. Perfume may cover a smell temporarily, but it does not properly clean the rug. In some cases, it can make the wool feel sticky or attract more dirt.

For white sheepskin rugs, avoid whitening products unless the care label specifically allows them. Strong brighteners can damage the wool and leave the rug looking patchy rather than clean.

The safest choice is always a gentle detergent designed for wool or sheepskin.

How to Hand Wash a Sheepskin Rug

Only hand wash a sheepskin rug if the care label says this is safe. If the label says professional clean only, dry clean only or spot clean only, do not hand wash it at home.

If hand washing is allowed, this is usually a better option than machine washing because you have more control.

Fill a bath or large basin with cool or lukewarm water. Add a small amount of wool-safe detergent and mix it into the water before placing the rug inside. Do not pour detergent directly onto the wool.

Place the rug into the water and gently move it around with your hands. Do not scrub it. Do not twist it. Do not wring it. Sheepskin needs slow, gentle movement rather than force.

Once the rug has been cleaned, drain the water and rinse with clean cool water until the detergent is removed. This step matters because leftover detergent can make the wool feel dull or slightly sticky.

When the rug is rinsed, press out excess water using towels. Again, do not wring it. Pressing is safer because it removes water without stretching the leather backing.

Hand washing takes longer, but it is the gentler method if your rug is genuinely washable.

Can You Machine Wash a Sheepskin Rug?

You can machine wash a sheepskin rug only if the care label clearly says machine washing is allowed. If the label does not say this, do not guess.

If machine washing is allowed, use a wool cycle, delicate cycle or hand-wash cycle. Keep the temperature low, usually cool to 30°C, depending on the label. Use wool-safe detergent and avoid high spin settings.

The rug should also have enough space in the machine. If it is crammed into the drum, it may not wash or rinse evenly, and the backing may crease.

Do not use hot water, bleach, biological detergent, fabric conditioner or normal washing powder. Do not wash it with coloured clothing or towels. Do not use a strong spin cycle. And definitely do not machine wash a sheepskin rug just because it feels convenient.

A washing machine can be useful, but only for the right rug, with the right settings.

How to Dry a Sheepskin Rug Properly

Drying is probably the most important part of the whole process.

After washing, place the rug flat on a clean towel and gently reshape it while damp. Let it dry naturally in a well-ventilated room. Keep it away from radiators, tumble dryers, fires, direct sunlight and strong heat.

This is where people often ruin the rug. A radiator may seem like a quick fix, especially in colder UK weather, but direct heat can shrink or harden the leather backing. Once the backing goes stiff, it can be very difficult to soften again.

As the rug dries, you can gently flex the backing with your hands from time to time. This may help it stay more supple. Do not pull it out of shape, and do not brush aggressively while it is wet.

Depending on the size of the rug and the weather, drying can take one to three days. In damp British homes, it may take longer. Do not rush it. The wool may feel dry before the backing is fully dry, so give it enough time.

Once the rug is completely dry, shake it again and brush the wool gently to restore softness.

How to Keep a Sheepskin Rug Soft and Fluffy

The best way to keep a sheepskin rug soft is to care for it little and often.

Shake it outside regularly so dust does not settle deep into the wool. Brush it gently when the fibres start to flatten. Keep it away from damp corners, wet floors and heavy furniture. If it sits in the same position all the time, rotate it occasionally so one area does not take all the wear.

Placement also matters. Sheepskin rugs are beautiful beside beds, near accent chairs, in nurseries, dressing areas and cosy corners. They are less suitable for muddy entrances, busy hallways or dining areas where spills are likely.

If you want a soft rug for a busier space, a wool-rich, textured or lower-pile rug may be easier to maintain. You still get warmth and comfort, but with a construction that may be better suited to everyday use.

This is where choosing the right rug for the right room makes a real difference. A delicate natural rug can be perfect in a bedroom, while a more durable living room rug may be better for family spaces.

Sheepskin Rug Care Mistakes to Avoid

The biggest mistake is washing too soon. A lot of sheepskin rugs only need shaking, airing and brushing. Full washing should be saved for when it is genuinely needed — and only when the care label allows it.

Another common mistake is using hot water. Heat can damage the backing and change the feel of the rug. The same applies to drying it on a radiator or putting it in a tumble dryer. It may dry faster, but the rug may come out stiff, shrunken or misshapen.

Using the wrong detergent is another problem. Normal laundry detergent, bleach, biological detergent and strong stain removers are too aggressive for natural wool. They can strip softness, affect colour and damage the fibres.

Rubbing stains is also risky. It feels natural to scrub when something spills, but with sheepskin, blotting is safer. Rubbing can spread the stain and flatten the wool.

Finally, avoid over-brushing. Brushing helps restore fluffiness, but pulling too hard can loosen fibres and create thinning areas.

The safest mindset is gentle care, not deep cleaning.

Is Lambskin Rug Care Different from Sheepskin Rug Care?

Lambskin and sheepskin rug care is very similar. Both need gentle brushing, careful spot cleaning, low-temperature washing only when allowed, and natural air drying away from heat.

The main difference is that lambskin can feel finer and more delicate. Because of that, it is better to treat a lambskin rug with even more care. Use lighter brushing, avoid soaking unless the label allows it, and be extra careful with stains and drying.

If you are not sure whether your rug is lambskin or sheepskin, follow the gentler care method. You are unlikely to damage the rug by being too careful. You are far more likely to damage it by being too aggressive.

What If Your Sheepskin Rug Still Smells?

If the rug has a mild smell, airing it outside in the shade may help. You can also gently brush the wool and let the fibres breathe.

If the smell is caused by damp, check whether the backing has fully dried. A rug that is dry on the surface may still hold moisture underneath. In that case, place it in a well-ventilated area and allow more drying time.

If the smell is from pet urine, mildew or something that has soaked into the backing, home cleaning may not be enough. Avoid soaking it repeatedly, as this can make the backing worse. A professional cleaner may be the safest option.

Do not rely on perfume sprays. They may make the rug smell better for a few hours, but they do not solve the problem.

When Is It Better to Replace the Rug?

Sometimes a rug has simply reached the point where cleaning will not bring it back properly.

If the backing has gone stiff, cracked or misshapen, washing it again is unlikely to fix the problem. If the wool has bald patches, heavy matting, permanent staining or a smell that does not improve after airing, it may be time to replace it.

This is especially true if the rug has already been damaged by hot water, a tumble dryer or radiator drying. You may be able to improve the appearance slightly, but the original softness may not fully return.

A replacement does not have to mean choosing exactly the same style again. If you loved the softness of sheepskin but want something easier for everyday use, you might prefer a softer bedroom rug, a textured lounge rug, a luxury rug, or a more practical contemporary rug with a finish that suits your home better.

The aim is the same: warmth, comfort and texture. The right rug should make the room feel more complete, not become something you are afraid to use.

Choosing the Right Soft Rug for the Right Room

Sheepskin is beautiful, but it is not always the best answer for every space. In quieter rooms, it can feel luxurious and comforting. In busier parts of the home, a different rug construction may make more sense.

For a bedroom, softness is usually the priority. A small natural rug beside the bed can make cold mornings feel gentler, while a larger bedroom rug can help the whole room feel calmer and more finished. If that is the feeling you want, browse bedroom rugs or small rugs depending on the size of the space.

For a lounge, the rug has to do more work. It needs to soften the floor, connect the sofa and furniture, and cope with regular use. In that case, living room rugs, large rugs, or contemporary rugs may be better starting points.

For a more refined or investment-style interior, a luxury rug can bring the same sense of quality and comfort, but with a design that works across a wider room setting.

And if you are drawn to craft, wool, hand-woven texture and natural materials, the handmade rugs and natural material rugs collections are strong places to explore next.

Shop Soft, Cosy Rugs for a Warmer Home

A well-cared-for rug can stay beautiful for longer. But if your current rug has lost its softness, shape or comfort, refreshing the room with a new piece can make a big difference.

At beUNIQ, our rugs are chosen for homes that value texture, warmth and design. Whether you are looking for a soft rug beside the bed, a cosy rug for the living room, a premium wool-rich design or a statement piece with timeless character, the right rug can change how the whole room feels.

Explore premium rugs from beUNIQ and find a piece that feels as good as it looks.

For the closest natural option, browse the Origins Genuine New Zealand Natural Sheepskin Rug or the Origins Luxury Grey Genuine New Zealand Natural Sheepskin Rug. For a broader soft, warm and textured look, explore bedroom rugs, living room rugs, natural material rugs, and luxury rugs.

FAQs About Cleaning Sheepskin and Lambskin Rugs

Can you wash a sheepskin rug in the washing machine?

Yes, but only if the care label says it is machine washable. Use a wool cycle or delicate cycle, a low temperature and a wool-safe detergent. If there is no care label, spot cleaning or professional cleaning is usually safer.

How do you make a sheepskin rug fluffy again?

Shake the rug outdoors, let it fully dry if it is damp, then brush the wool gently with a sheepskin brush, wool comb or soft slicker brush. Work slowly and avoid pulling too hard, as this can loosen the fibres.

Can you dry a sheepskin rug on a radiator?

No. A radiator can shrink, stiffen or harden the leather backing. Always air dry a sheepskin rug naturally, away from direct heat, tumble dryers and strong sunlight.

What detergent should you use on a sheepskin rug?

Use a mild wool-safe detergent or specialist sheepskin detergent. Avoid bleach, biological detergent, enzyme-based cleaners, fabric conditioner and harsh laundry powders.

How do you clean a white sheepskin rug?

Start by shaking and brushing the rug. For small stains, blot gently with cool water and wool-safe detergent. Do not use bleach or whitening products unless the care label clearly says they are safe.

Is lambskin rug care different from sheepskin rug care?

The care method is mostly the same, but lambskin can be softer and more delicate. Use gentle brushing, careful spot cleaning and low-temperature washing only if the care label allows it.

How often should you wash a sheepskin rug?

As rarely as possible. Regular shaking, airing, brushing and quick spot cleaning are usually enough. Full washing should only be done when necessary and only if the care label says it is safe.

Can you vacuum a sheepskin rug?

You can use gentle suction, but avoid rotating brush bars or aggressive vacuum heads. Shaking and brushing are usually safer for regular sheepskin rug care.