From By-Product to Beautiful, The Story Behind Our Sheepskin

At Jacobs & Dalton, we believe in honouring natural resources and celebrating sustainable craftsmanship. Our beautiful sheepskin products, from cosy slippers to soft baby pram liners, begin their journey in a way that many people don’t expect: as a by-product of an entirely different industry.

In the UK, abattoirs are strictly regulated and must safely remove and dispose of animal by-products in accordance with government guidelines. In fact, facilities are not permitted to operate unless these materials are handled in a compliant, ethical, and hygienic manner. That’s where we come in.

As an APHA (Animal and Plant Health Agency) regulated business, Jacobs & Dalton is able to work directly with trusted British abattoirs to source these by-products, specifically sheep and lamb hides, which would otherwise be destroyed via landfill or incineration. Instead of allowing these natural materials to go to waste, we carefully select, preserve, and transform them into something truly special.

Why Sheepskin?

Sheepskin is not just a luxurious material, it’s nature’s own high-performance fabric. Its benefits are both practical and therapeutic:

• Temperature-Regulating: Sheepskin naturally adjusts to your body temperature, keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer.
• Breathable & Moisture-Wicking: It allows airflow, which helps reduce sweating and keeps your skin dry.
• Hypoallergenic: Especially in its medical-grade form, sheepskin is gentle on sensitive skin, ideal for babies and those with skin conditions.
• Pressure-Relieving: Its soft, cushioning texture has long been used in healthcare settings to prevent bedsores and improve comfort for people with limited mobility.

Each hide is tanned using an eco-tanning process, a modern and environmentally conscious method that uses Natural Tannins rather than harsh chemicals. This gentle process helps preserve the natural qualities of the hide while being kinder to the environment.

Real vs Faux: The Sustainable Choice

We understand the appeal of faux fur and synthetic alternatives, but it’s important to consider what goes into their production. Most faux products are made from plastics and petroleum-based materials that require high energy consumption and long, chemically intensive processes. Unlike real sheepskin, these items do not biodegrade and often contribute to long-term environmental waste.

By contrast, our products are created using a material that already exists, a natural by-product of an essential process, and would otherwise go unused. We’re not creating demand for more animals; we’re simply ensuring that no part of what’s already there is wasted.

So, when you choose Jacobs & Dalton, you’re not just choosing comfort. You’re supporting British craftsmanship, responsible sourcing, and a more sustainable way of living.

Thank you for helping us make a difference, one sheepskin at a time 🤍