Sheepskin cleaning products

How to Clean Sheepskin Slippers Without Damaging Them

The ultimate guide to keeping your cosy favourites fresh, soft, and long-lasting.

Sheepskin slippers are the epitome of comfort. Soft, warm, breathable, and built to last. But if cleaned incorrectly, they can quickly lose their charm. Whether you've just purchased a new pair or you're trying to revive a well-worn favourite, this guide will show you exactly how to clean your sheepskin slippers without damaging them.

{Key Takeaways}

  • Sheepskin is naturally antibacterial, hypoallergenic, and moisture-wicking.
  • Avoid soaking, machine washing, or using heat to dry your slippers.
  • Spot-clean with cold water and a mild wool detergent or baby shampoo.
  • Use baking soda or the freezer trick to eliminate odours.
  • Air dry only—never use a tumble dryer or radiator.
  • Brush the lining and exterior regularly to keep them fluffy and fresh.
  • Apply leather conditioner to uppers and soles if needed.
  • Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
  • Faux sheepskin requires different care—real sheepskin won’t hold odour.
  • With proper care, sheepskin slippers can last for years.


Why Sheepskin Slippers Require Special Care

Unlike synthetic fibres, sheepskin is a natural material that’s both delicate and resilient. Thanks to the presence of lanolin, a natural oil found in sheep’s wool, sheepskin is:

  • Antibacterial and antimicrobial
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Moisture-wicking, which keeps your feet dry and odour-free

These qualities make sheepskin self-regulating and naturally resistant to bacteria, but they also mean aggressive cleaning methods can strip away its benefits.


When and How Often Should You Clean Sheepskin Slippers?

You don’t need to wash sheepskin slippers frequently. In fact, over-cleaning can damage them. Spot-cleaning and gentle maintenance are usually enough.

Look out for:

  • Noticeable odours
  • Visible stains
  • Matted or flattened wool
  • Loss of fluffiness

For everyday upkeep, a regular brush and airing out is often all that’s required.


Pre-Cleaning Essentials: What You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather these gentle tools:

  • A soft-bristled suede or sheepskin brush
  • Cold water
  • A clean, white cloth or sponge
  • Mild wool detergent or baby shampoo
  • Baking soda (for deodorising)
  • A clean towel
  • Optional: Leather conditioner

Avoid harsh detergents like: bleach, fabric softeners, or any form of heat (including tumble dryers and hairdryers).



Step-by-Step: How to Spot Clean Sheepskin Slippers

1. Remove surface dirt

Use a suede or sheepskin brush to gently lift away loose dirt and dust. Always brush in one direction to avoid damaging the nap.

2. Mix a gentle solution

Combine cold water with a teaspoon of wool & cashmere wash or baby shampoo. Don’t soak the slippers, damp is better than drenched.

3. Dab, don’t scrub!

Dip your cloth or sponge into the solution and gently blot the stained area. Work slowly and avoid spreading moisture too widely.

4. Rinse lightly

Use a fresh damp cloth with cold water to blot away any remaining soap.

5. Blot dry

Press a towel into the cleaned area to remove excess water—never wring or twist.

6. Reshape and air dry

Stuff the slippers with paper or a towel to help them hold their shape and leave them to air dry in a cool, shaded area. Never use heat.



Cleaning the Inside: Keeping Wool Linings Fresh

The wool lining inside sheepskin slippers can collect sweat and odours over time.

Baking Soda Method (Deodorising)

  • Sprinkle baking soda inside the slippers
  • Leave for 24 hours
  • Shake or vacuum it out the next day

Freezer Trick (For persistent odours)

Place your slippers in a sealed plastic bag and leave them in the freezer for 48 hours to kill bacteria and neutralise smells.

Light Shampoo Method (Gentle clean)

  • Mix cold water with baby shampoo
  • Lightly dampen a cloth and blot the wool lining
  • Press gently with a towel to lift moisture
  • Leave to air dry

Tip: Brushing the lining gently with a soft-bristle brush can help revive the fluffiness after drying.


Can You Machine Wash Sheepskin Slippers?

It’s strongly discouraged to machine wash or tumble dry sheepskin slippers, even if it has worked for someone else and we do not recommend it!

Only attempt this if the care label specifically allows it, and even then:

  • Use a sheepskin or wool-safe detergent in a laundry bag
  • Wash on a cold 30 °C wool cycle or delicate cycle
  • Very gentle spin but preferably no spin
  • Air dry only

It is best to stick with spot-cleaning and deodorising for best results.


How to Dry Sheepskin Slippers Properly

Do:

  • Blot with a towel to remove excess moisture
  • Air dry naturally in a cool, shaded area
  • Stuff slippers with a towel or paper to help maintain their shape

Don’t:

  • Use direct sunlight
  • Place near radiators, heaters, or in tumble dryers
  • Wring or twist the slippers

Heat can cause shrinking, hardening, or cracking of the leather.


Leather Uppers and Sole Maintenance

We use eco-tanned leather for all of our slippers which is a more environmentally responsible alternative to traditional methods. This aligns with our commitment to sustainable, ethical craftsmanship.

To keep your slippers looking their best and performing well:

  • Condition the leather a few times a year using a natural leather balm to maintain its softness and prevent drying or cracking.
  • If the soles feel slippery when new, gently scuff them on rough concrete to improve grip, especially under the heel.
  • If a thread comes loose, you can very carefully melt the end with a lighter to seal it (only if it’s safe to do so and the material allows).

Tip: Always test any conditioning product on a small hidden area first to ensure compatibility with your slippers.


Common Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Slippers

  • Soaking them in water
  • Machine washing without care label approval
  • Using bleach, harsh soap or fabric softeners
  • Drying with heat or direct sunlight
  • Ignoring the interior lining during cleaning
  • Assuming faux sheepskin behaves like genuine sheepskin, synthetics often retain odours and colours

Long-Term Care Tips

  • Regularly air out slippers between wears
  • Brush the exterior and lining weekly to prevent matting
  • Use a water and stain repellent suitable for sheepskin (test first)
  • Store in a dry, ventilated space away from heat sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use vinegar or household cleaners?
No. These can strip natural oils and damage the fibres.

My slippers got wet in the rain—what now?
Blot dry, stuff with paper, and naturally air dry slowly. Don’t apply heat.

Are sheepskin insoles replaceable?
In many slippers, yes—but ours are not designed with removable insoles.

How long do they last?
With proper care, high-quality sheepskin slippers like ours can last several years. However, keep in mind that daily wear and tear, especially with heavy use may naturally shorten their lifespan over time.


Bonus Tips from Sheepskin Fans

  • If a thread comes loose on the sole, carefully seal it with a lighter
  • Wearing them outdoors occasionally is fine, but avoid soggy conditions
  • Eco-tanned leather uppers are incredibly durable and it is highly recommended to occasionally condition them to keep them looking and feeling their best.

For even more tips on protecting and maintaining all types of sheepskin footwear, don’t miss The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Your Sheepskin Slippers & Footwear.


Treat Them Well, and They’ll Love You Back

Caring for sheepskin slippers doesn’t require fancy tools—just patience, gentle cleaning, and a bit of know-how. By avoiding harsh products and heat, and following these practical steps, your slippers will stay soft, fresh, and delightfully comfortable for years to come.

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