Buzz
Sheepskin is renowned for its exceptional softness and luxury. Image courtesy of Boris SV / Getty ImagesFew materials rival the luxurious softness of sheepskin. The fleece from sheep is incredibly gentle, warm, and offers outstanding insulation. Sheepskin provides comfort in any weather and is often used in products like footwear and car seat coverings. Thanks to its breathable fibers, sheepskin ensures comfort year-round [source: Partridge]. Here are some key benefits of sheepskin:
- It doesn't lose fibers.
- It resists wrinkles and damage.
- It maintains its original shape.
- It remains warm, even in wet conditions.
- It repels water.
- It is washable.
- It’s durable and strong [source: Sheepskin].
Understanding how to clean sheepskin is crucial since improper washing can harm the leather side. While machine washing is possible for sheepskin, it's essential to follow these basic cleaning guidelines:
- Only use mild detergents that don't contain enzymes, as many wool detergents do. Always check the label before applying any product to sheepskin.
- Never use bleach to clean sheepskin.
- For smaller items, hand wash using a gentle dishwashing liquid.
- When machine washing, wash sheepskin separately to avoid color bleeding.
- Wash sheepskin in cold or lukewarm water, up to 108°F (40°C).
- Air dry sheepskin in the shade, and avoid tumble drying or ironing it.
- Lay sheepskin rugs flat or hang them to dry. Stretch them while they are still damp.
- After drying, brush long-haired wool items to restore their texture [source: Kiwi Sheepskin].
