Care & Cleaning
Natural sheepskin is durable, but it also benefits from a little care. A few simple habits will help keep your rug or sheepskin piece looking and feeling its best for years.
Everyday Care
Give your rug, pelt, cushion or sheepskin throw a gentle shake or air it out from time to time. This helps release dust and keeps the fibers fresh.
For regular cleaning, use a vacuum cleaner on a gentle setting. Always vacuum in the direction of the fibers and avoid aggressive brushing or high suction.
Natural sheepskin can also change slightly with use. The pile may settle in areas where it is walked on or used more often. This is normal and can usually be refreshed by gently shaking or brushing the fibers.
Throws, blankets and cushions can also benefit from being aired occasionally. This simple routine helps keep them fresh without the need for frequent cleaning.
Spills & Small Accidents
If something is spilled on your sheepskin, don’t panic and don’t rub it.
Gently blot the area with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Work from the outside of the spill toward the center to avoid spreading it.
Sheepskin can handle normal contact with water and moisture. The important thing is not to leave the piece soaking wet for an extended period.
Allow the area to dry naturally. Do not use a hair dryer, radiator or other direct source of intense heat to speed up the drying process.
Once dry, gently loosen the fibers with your fingers or a soft brush if needed.
Deeper Cleaning
Sheepskin is a natural material and should not be treated like an ordinary fabric.
Unless the care instructions for your specific product say otherwise, we recommend professional cleaning for deeper cleaning or larger stains. Avoid washing your sheepskin in a washing machine unless the product’s care instructions specifically allow it.
Bleach, harsh chemicals and strong stain removers should be avoided. Mild cleaning products, such as suitable rug foams, can be used when appropriate, provided they are suitable for the material and used according to their instructions.
If you’re unsure about how to treat a particular stain or situation, contact us before cleaning it.
Cushions, Throws & Blankets
Sheepskin cushions, throws and blankets are generally easy to care for with regular airing and gentle handling.
Shake them out occasionally and allow them to air naturally. For light surface dust, gentle vacuuming may be suitable depending on the construction of the product.
Avoid pulling, stretching or aggressively brushing the fibers. If the pile becomes flattened or slightly disturbed through use, gently brushing or combing the fibers can often help restore the appearance.
For products with removable covers or specific washing instructions, follow the care instructions supplied with the product.
What to Avoid
To keep your sheepskin in good condition, avoid:
- Bleach and harsh chemicals
- Strong stain removers that are not suitable for the material
- Aggressive brushing or combing
- Machine washing unless specifically stated in the product’s care instructions
- Prolonged exposure to strong, direct sunlight
Placement
Where you place your sheepskin can also affect how it ages.
Try to avoid prolonged exposure to strong, direct sunlight, as natural colors can gradually change over time. If possible, rotate your rug occasionally so that areas receiving more foot traffic wear evenly.
For rugs placed on smooth floors, we also recommend using a suitable rug pad to help prevent movement and provide additional protection.
Storage
If you are putting a sheepskin, throw, blanket or cushion away for a longer period, make sure it is clean and completely dry before storing it.
Store it somewhere cool and dry, away from prolonged direct sunlight and sources of intense heat. Avoid keeping natural sheepskin tightly compressed for long periods, as this can flatten the pile.
Allowing the piece some space while stored will help it keep its natural shape and texture.
A Natural Material
Every sheepskin is different. Small changes in color, texture, pile and shape are part of the natural character of the material.
With normal use, your piece may develop its own character over time. We see this as part of owning something made from a natural material, rather than something to be prevented.
The same applies to natural variations between individual pelts. No two pieces are exactly alike, and slight differences are part of what makes each one unique.
Need Help?
If you have a question about cleaning your Norkley piece or you’re unsure how to deal with a particular stain, we’re happy to help.
Contact us
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Douglas Cohen (verified owner) –
Incredibly soft and well-made cushions! Arrived in NY very fast, beautifully packaged with a sweet extra gift inside. Excellent quality and service.