How to Brush a Sheepskin Rug: The Complete Step-by-Step Guide for Fluffy, Beautiful Results

Introduction

Are you struggling to keep your sheepskin rug looking soft, fluffy, and fresh? Learning how to brush a sheepskin rug the right way is the secret to preserving its natural beauty and extending its lifespan. Many sheepskin owners don’t realize that proper brushing not only removes dirt and tangles but also revives the luxurious texture of the wool fibers. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover expert tips and step-by-step methods on how to brush a sheepskin rug safely and effectively, ensuring your rug remains a cozy, stylish centerpiece in your home for years to come.

Why Is Brushing Essential for Your Sheepskin Rug?

Gently brushing your sheepskin helps maintain its plush feel and natural volume. Without regular brushing, the fibers can mat together, become compacted, and lose their natural elasticity and fluffiness. Proper brushing:

• Removes accumulated dirt, dust, and debris trapped in fibers
• Fluffs up matted or flattened wool, restoring volume
• Helps avoid fiber matting and protects the fragile wool strands from harm
• Helps redistribute natural oils (lanolin) essential for softness
• Extends the lifespan of your rug by keeping fibers in prime condition

1. Understanding Your Sheepskin Rug’s Structure

A sheepskin rug consists of two main parts:

• Natural Wool Fibers: The plush, dense fleece that you see and feel
• Leather Backing: The soft tanned hide that provides structure and durability

These two components require careful, gentle care to avoid damage. Excessive brushing or rough treatment can damage the leather backing or cause wool fibers to come loose.This makes learning the correct brushing techniques crucial.

2. Choosing the Best Brush for Sheepskin Rugs

Using the right brush is essential to brush your sheepskin rug effectively without damaging it. Here are the top brushes:

2.1 Carding Brush (Slicker Brush)

• Features fine metal pins close together
• Designed to gently detangle and lift wool fibers
• Perfect for thick or curly sheepskin rugs
• Prevents static buildup and removes light dirt

2.2 Wire Pet Brush

• Has longer metal teeth, spaced for separating matted areas
• Excellent for medium to high-pile sheepskin rugs
• Use gently to prevent scratching leather backing

2.3 Soft-Bristle Upholstery Brush

• Made for delicate or short-pile sheepskin rugs
• Uses soft fibers that brush the wool surface without pulling
• Useful for routine fluffing without aggressive detangling

3. Step-by-Step Guide on How to Brush a Sheepskin Rug by Hand

Step 1: Prepare Your Rug

The rug should be laid flat on a clean, smooth surface with the wool side facing up. Shake or vacuum (without rotating brushes) to remove dust and loose dirt.

Step 2: Stabilize the Rug

Hold an edge of the rug firmly with one hand. This prevents movement during brushing and protects the leather backing.

Step 3: Start Brushing

• Use your chosen brush to begin at the outer edges and work your way toward the center
• Position your brush lightly at an angle and softly lift the fibers to loosen and detangle them.
• Move the brush in the direction of the wool, following the natural lay of the fleece

Step 4: Brush in Multiple Directions

Brushing in various directions helps to thoroughly loosen compacted fibers and evenly bring back the rug’s fullness. Rotate your brush and change direction after brushing each section.

Step 5: Mist if Needed

For very dry or brittle wool, lightly spray with water or a wool conditioner spray before brushing. This softens fibers and reduces static and breakage. Do not soak or saturate.

Step 6: Repeat Periodically

Regular brushing after each use—or at least once every 1-2 weeks—helps maintain your rug’s softness and prevents stubborn matting.

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4. How to Brush a Sheepskin Rug Without Causing Damage

• Always brush gently; avoid gliding the brush forcefully or pressing down hard
• Do not brush dry, brittle, or dirt-caked fibers—spray lightly before brushing
• Refrain from using strong chemical cleaners or bleach on your rug
• Never use brushes with plastic or stiff synthetic bristles
• Avoid brushing the leather backing—it is delicate and can be scratched by metal pins

5. Cleaning Your Sheepskin Rug: When and How

Brushing complements cleaning but does not replace it. Depending on usage and dirt accumulation, deep cleaning is occasionally necessary.

5.1 Spot Cleaning a Sheepskin Rug

• Immediately blot stains with a clean dry cloth
• Use cold water dampened cloth with wool-safe detergent in small amounts
• Lightly press the spot until the stain begins to fade, then rinse with clean water and allow it to air dry

5.2 Washing by Hand

• Fill basin with lukewarm water (<30°C) and wool detergent
• Submerge sheepskin and gently agitate—no scrubbing
• Rinse thoroughly
• Press out excess water carefully; avoid wringing
• Dry flat, leather side up, away from direct heat and sunlight
• Brush while damp to restore fluff

5.3 Washing in a Machine (If Label Permits)

• Use wool/delicate cycle with cold water
• Use only suitable wool detergent
• Skip high-speed spinning to protect fiber and leather
• Place the rug flat to dry, brushing it gently from time to time as it dries

6. How to Make a Sheepskin Rug Fluffy Again After Washing

• After drying, use a slicker or carding brush to lift fibers
• Brush in all directions for a fuller look
• Gently beat or shake the leather backing gently with a wooden object or broom handle to loosen fibers
• Optionally, use a handheld steamer from a safe distance to gently loosen the fibers, then follow up with brushing

7. Dry Cleaning and Professional Care

• Dry cleaning is recommended for stubborn stains, fragile rugs, or when specified by the manufacturer
• Prices range approximately from $30-$70 depending on size and region
• Always check rug label before dry cleaning

8. Expert Tips for Long-Term Sheepskin Rug Care

• Vacuum weekly with plain suction only
• Brush regularly to prevent matting
• Spot clean immediately to prevent stains from setting
• Avoid overwashing; once or twice per year maximum
• Use only wool-safe detergents and conditioners
• Never place near radiators or heaters
• Store in breathable cotton bags to prevent moisture buildup

9.Recommended Sheepskin Rugs for Easy Brushing and Maintenance

1. IKEA LEO Sheepskin Rug
   • Quality: Natural tanned sheepskin, soft wool
   • Size: Various sizes available
   • Why recommended: Naturally dense wool pile which is easy to brush with a slicker or carding brush. Widely available and cost-effective.
   • Care tip: Machine washable on delicate cycle; brush regularly to keep it fluffy.
2. Fellhof Genuine Sheepskin Rug
   • Quality: Premium genuine lambskin, handmade
   • Size: Small to large sizes
   • Why recommended: Very soft wool fibers, mat-resistant due to natural lanolin content. Brushing with a carding brush is simple and keeps fibers upright easily.
   • Care tip: Spot clean and occasionally hand wash; dry flat and brush when damp.
3. JYSK Norsta Sheepskin Rug
   • Quality: Natural sheepskin with dense wool
   • Size: Multiple sizes suitable for different spaces
   • Why recommended: Wool quality is medium-long pile, easy to maintain and brush regularly. Affordable and durable.
   • Care tip: Vacuum gently and brush weekly for best results.
4. Auskin Premium Australian Sheepskin Rug
   • Quality: 100% natural Australian sheepskin
   • Size: Various luxurious sizes
   • Why recommended: Very plush fiber with strong crimp, brushes back to fluffy texture easily with slicker brush. Very durable.
   • Care tip: Hand wash when necessary; use dedicated sheepskin brush for fluff restoration.
5. Driftsun Genuine Sheepskin Rug
   • Quality: Genuine full fleece, soft wool
   • Size: Various sizes from small to large
   • Why recommended: High-quality fleece naturally resists matting; brushing is very effective with carding brushes.
   • Care tip: Spot cleaning and gentle brushing maintain the plush texture.

Brush Recommendations for Above Rugs

Always brush gently in the direction of the wool fibers and do so regularly (weekly or bi-weekly) to keep rugs looking fresh.Use a Slicker or Carding Brush: Fine metal pins gently detangle and fluff wool without damaging it.For any slightly matted areas, a Wire Pet Brush (with carefully spaced teeth) is helpful.

FAQs

Conclusion

Proper care of your sheepskin rug ensures it remains soft, fluffy, and long-lasting. Mastering how to brush a sheepskin rug is essential to maintain its natural loft, prevent matting, and keep the wool fibers healthy. Regular brushing with the right tools, such as a slicker or carding brush, combined with careful cleaning methods like spot cleaning, hand washing, or gentle machine washing (if permitted), preserves both the wool and leather backing. By brushing in the direction of the wool fibers and avoiding harsh chemicals, your rug stays luxurious and inviting for years.

Affiliate Disclaimer
Some product recommendations in this guide may include affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase through these links. I only recommend products I trust and believe will help you care for your sheepskin rug effectively.