Can You Put Sheepskin Slippers in the Washing Machine

Important Note: We do not advise, recommend, or state that any of our products are suitable for machine washing. Always follow the care instructions provided with your slippers, and when in doubt, stick to safe, gentle cleaning methods.

We’ve created this article to help answer a common questions we hear. While we don’t recommend machine washing, we understand some may still take the risk, so we want to make sure you’re fully informed and equipped with safer alternatives.

Is it Safe to Wash Sheepskin Slippers in a Machine?

Short answer? Only if you're also okay with turning your cosy clouds into cardboard cut-outs. Keep reading for safer, fluffier alternatives.

Why You Should Usually Avoid the Washing Machine

Sheepskin slippers are made from delicate, natural fibres that don’t hold up well to rough treatment. While tossing them in the machine might seem easy, it can actually shrink the slippers, cause the shape to warp, and ruin the cosy softness that makes them special.

What Happens if You Machine Wash Your Slippers?

Even one cycle can leave your slippers stiff, shrunken, or with damaged linings. Most sheepskin products are not made to withstand tumbling, spinning, or heat. If you’re ever tempted to give it a try, we strongly recommend reading the care label and even then, it’s best to play it safe with gentler methods.

A Better Way: Freshen Up Without the Machine

Machine washing isn’t your only option, there are easier, safer ways to keep your slippers feeling and smelling fresh.

For light refreshes, sprinkle a bit of baking soda inside the slippers and let it sit overnight before shaking it out. This helps absorb odours and moisture. You can also lightly mist the inside with Wool & Cashmere Spray to leave them smelling lovely between wears.

If you need a deeper clean, try spot cleaning. Dampen a clean cloth with cold water and add a drop of Wool & Cashmere Wash, then gently dab at any dirty areas. Don’t soak the fabric, just blot gently, then use a fresh damp cloth to wipe away residue. Let the slippers air dry naturally, away from sunlight and heat.

Preventative Care: Keep Slippers Cleaner for Longer

Wearing socks can help reduce the buildup of sweat and dirt. Let your slippers breathe after each use by placing them in a dry, well-ventilated space. Brushing the sheepskin gently from time to time also helps keep them soft and fluffed up.

If you’re dealing with serious staining, stubborn smells, or want a complete care routine from start to finish, take a look at our full guide: How to Clean Sheepskin Slippers Without Damaging Them.

What to Do If Your Sheepskin Slippers Shrink

So, you've taken the leap and tossed your slippers in the machine and now they look like they belong to your childhood self. Don’t panic just yet. While there’s no guaranteed fix, here are a few things you can try to gently stretch them back into shape:

Wear Them While Damp

After lightly dampening the slippers with cold water, wear them around the house with thick socks. Your body heat and movement may help stretch them back out slightly as they dry.

Use a Shoe Stretcher

Insert a shoe stretcher designed for soft materials and leave it in for several hours or overnight. This may help ease some of the tightness.

Gently Stretch by Hand

While the slippers are still slightly damp, gently tug and shape them with your hands. Don’t pull too hard, you’re aiming for gentle encouragement, not a wrestling match.

Condition the Leather

If your slippers have leather parts, using a leather conditioner can help restore some suppleness, making them easier to stretch.

 

Note: These methods are not proven and results may vary. Once sheepskin has shrunk, it can be difficult or impossible to return it to its original size. Prevention is always the best approach.

 

The fleece and fur of it

Can you put sheepskin slippers in the washing machine? Technically, maybe. But should you? Definitely not. With a few gentle tools and a little care, you can keep your slippers clean, fresh, and fluffy - no machine required.