How do you care for your sheepskin rug? Sheepskin rugs are known for their luxurious softness and natural warmth, and with proper care, they can remain beautiful and comfortable for many years. Caring for your sheepskin rug is quite straightforward: it’s beneficial to shake it out weekly to remove dust and loose debris, give it a gentle brush with a wire-type pet brush—this helps maintain its fluffy, soft texture—and air it outside on a sunny day to refresh its appearance and scent. It’s important to avoid getting the sheepskin wet, as excess moisture can damage the natural fibers and compromise its integrity. The key to keeping your sheepskin looking and feeling its best is regular maintenance with these simple steps, which preserve its natural qualities and extend its lifespan.
Our sheepskins are carefully sourced from tanneries that avoid the use of harmful chemicals like chromium, which is notorious for its environmental and health hazards. Chromium tanning can leave residues that are not only detrimental to the environment but also to the people handling the leather and the end user. We also ensure that formaldehyde, often used in traditional tanning processes to preserve leather, is not part of our sheepskins. This commitment ensures that our sheepskins remain safe and non-toxic, providing peace of mind and a healthier environment for your home. Since these sheepskins are not washable in the conventional sense, we offer a specialized cleaning kit designed specifically for cleaning the wool surface, allowing you to refresh and maintain the plushness without exposing the back to water or chemicals. It’s important to note that the leather backing of the sheepskin should never be soaked or submerged, as it could lose its structural integrity over time.
What if you accidentally spill something on your sheepskin rug? First, resist the temptation to immediately wash or scrub the spill with water or liquids, as this can cause the stain to set or damage the fibers. Instead, a more effective approach involves using cornstarch. Generously sprinkle cornstarch onto the wet or stained area, allowing it to sit and absorb the liquid. After giving the cornstarch some time—typically a few hours or overnight—gently shake out the sheepskin and brush it thoroughly. This process helps lift the stain and restore the rug’s softness. For lingering odors or stubborn smells, applying baking soda after the cornstarch treatment can neutralize unwanted scents; leave the baking soda on the sheepskin overnight before shaking or vacuuming it off. If the stain proves particularly difficult or if you're concerned about damage, consulting a professional dry cleaner experienced in handling sheepskin and natural hides is a safe and effective option.
The same gentle approach applies if a spill occurs on a cowhide. Vacuuming the cowhide with a non-rotating attachment can help remove dirt and debris without damaging the leather surface. These methods aim to preserve the natural beauty and longevity of your animal hide, ensuring it remains a timeless and stylish addition to your home. Proper care not only maintains its aesthetic appeal but also prolongs the life of your investment, allowing you to enjoy the comfort and elegance of your sheepskin or cowhide for many years to come.