Deodorising and Freshening Sheepskin Footwear

Why Freshness Matters for Sheepskin Footwear

There’s nothing better than slipping your feet into cosy sheepskin slippers or boots at the end of a long day. But as wonderfully breathable as sheepskin is, daily wear can still lead to odours. Because the fibres naturally wick away moisture, they can absorb sweat and smells if not aired out properly. The good news? With the right care, you can keep your sheepskin footwear smelling fresh and feeling as luxurious as the day you bought them.

 

Why Do Sheepskin Slippers and Boots Develop Odours?

Sheepskin is naturally antibacterial and moisture-wicking, which helps prevent odour in the first place. But over time, daily wear builds up:

• Moisture and sweat can become trapped in the fibres.
• Bacteria thrive in warm, damp environments, causing unpleasant smells.
• Seasonal changes (like wearing them barefoot in summer or constantly in winter) can speed up odour build-up.

The key to freshness isn’t just cleaning (we cover that in our slipper cleaning guide), but regular little habits that prevent odours before they settle in.

 

Everyday Habits to Keep Footwear Fresher for Longer

Simple, daily actions can go a long way:

• Air them out after wearing — don’t kick them straight into a cupboard. Letting them breathe helps moisture evaporate.
• Rotate pairs if you have more than one, so they get time to freshen between wears.
• Avoid airtight storage — sheepskin needs airflow, so steer clear of plastic boxes or sealed bags.
• Wear socks when warm — in hotter weather, thin socks can reduce sweat absorption.

These small steps create the perfect foundation for keeping slippers and boots odour-free.

 

Freshening Sprays and Products (Sheepskin-Friendly Options)

If you want to go beyond DIY, there are products designed to freshen without damage:

• Wool & Cashmere Spray – a gentle way to deodorise sheepskin footwear while leaving a light, fresh scent.
• Homemade sprays – if you prefer DIY, use a mix of water and a few drops of mild essential oil (like lavender or eucalyptus). Always dilute heavily and test first.
• Avoid harsh sprays – alcohol-heavy or perfumed sprays can dry out sheepskin and leave residue.

For a full clean, pair sprays with Wool & Cashmere Wash and a gentle hand wash, as explained in our how to clean sheepskin slippers guide.

 

Natural Ways to Deodorise Sheepskin Footwear

If your slippers are starting to smell a little “lived in,” these natural fixes work wonders:

• Baking soda – sprinkle lightly inside, leave overnight, then shake it out in the morning.
• Activated charcoal bags – these little pouches are excellent odour absorbers.
• Talc or cornstarch – helps absorb moisture (great if your slippers feel damp).
• Vinegar in the air – placing a small bowl of vinegar nearby can neutralise odours in the room (just don’t pour it directly on your slippers).

These methods are safe for the delicate balance of wool and hide, and they’re all budget-friendly options.

 

Tackling Persistent Odours (When Smells Won’t Go Away)

Sometimes, a little sprinkle or spray isn’t enough. If odours linger:

• Try a gentle hand wash with Wool & Cashmere Wash to lift deeper smells.
• Brush the lining with a Sheepskin Rug Brush to fluff fibres and improve airflow.
• If slippers have removable insoles (ours don’t), replace them for a fresh start.
• And if your beloved pair has truly reached the end of its life, sometimes it’s best to treat yourself to a brand-new cosy pair.

 

Seasonal Freshening & Storage Tips

If you’re packing your slippers away for summer, or bringing them back out for winter, here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Deodorise before storage so smells don’t set in.
• Add lavender sachets or cedarwood balls inside to keep them smelling lovely.
• Store in a breathable cotton bag — never plastic.
• When you take them out again, give them a shake, brush, and a quick spritz of Wool & Cashmere Spray.

For more on long-term storage, check out our off-season sheepskin storage guide.

 

FAQs

Can I use Febreze on sheepskin?
We don’t recommend it. Many sprays contain chemicals that can damage the fibres or leave residues. Stick to wool-friendly sprays.

Do sheepskin slippers make feet sweat more?
Not really — sheepskin is breathable and temperature-regulating. If your feet are sweating, it’s likely the environment (or wearing them without socks in heat).

How often should I deodorise them?
Whenever you notice odour or at least once every few weeks if you wear them daily.

Will deodorising affect the softness of the wool?
Not if you use natural methods or wool-safe sprays. In fact, brushing after deodorising can make the lining fluffier!

 

Freshening Your Sheepskin Footwear Made Simple

Sheepskin slippers and boots are built to last, but keeping them fresh is just as important as keeping them clean. With regular airing, a sprinkle of baking soda, or a spritz of Wool & Cashmere Spray, you can keep odours at bay and enjoy that “new slipper feeling” for years.

For a deeper dive into cleaning, take a look at our guides on how to clean sheepskin slippers and whether you can wash them in a machine.