How to Safely Dry Wet Sheepskin Slippers

Why Drying Sheepskin the Right Way Matters

There’s nothing worse than that sinking feeling when your favourite sheepskin slippers get wet. Whether it’s a spill, a damp floor, or a sudden dash into the garden.
But before you reach for the radiator or tumble dryer, stop right there!

Sheepskin is naturally soft, breathable, and full of lanolin (a natural oil that keeps it supple). Drying it incorrectly can cause stiffness, shrinkage, or damage to the delicate wool fibres. The good news? With the right care and a little patience, your slippers will bounce back beautifully.

Note: Jacobs & Dalton slippers aren’t designed for machine washing. These steps are for safely drying slippers that are lightly damp or surface-cleaned.

 

What Happens When Sheepskin Gets Wet

Sheepskin works wonders at regulating temperature and wicking away moisture, but too much water can overwhelm the fibres. When saturated, the leather side can lose shape and the wool can clump together. Heat and direct sunlight only make things worse, drawing out the oils that keep sheepskin soft and flexible.

So, when it comes to drying sheepskin, slow and gentle is always the best approach.

 

How to Dry Wet Sheepskin Slippers - Step by Step

1. Remove Excess Moisture Gently

Start by blotting away surface water with a clean, absorbent towel.
Avoid rubbing or wringing, this can stretch or roughen the surface of the suede or leather.

2. Stuff to Keep Their Shape

To help your slippers dry evenly and keep their lovely shape, stuff them loosely with paper towels or plain white tissue.
Avoid newspaper (the ink can transfer) and don’t pack them too tightly, you want the air to circulate.

3. Air Dry Naturally

Place your slippers in a cool, dry spot away from direct heat or sunlight.
Don’t be tempted by radiators, heaters, or hairdryers. These will cause the leather to harden and the wool to lose its bounce.

4. Be Patient

Sheepskin can take a while to dry fully, depending on how wet it is. It’s worth the wait, rushing the process is what leads to stiff, misshapen slippers.

5. Revive Their Soft Touch

Once they’re completely dry, bring back that soft, velvety feel with a gentle brush.
A Suede & Nubuck Brush works perfectly for this, helping to lift the nap and revive the original texture.

 

What Not to Do When Drying Sheepskin

To keep your slippers looking and feeling their best, avoid these common drying mistakes:

• Never tumble dry
• Don’t leave near open fires, radiators, or heaters
• Avoid wringing or twisting
• Skip direct sunlight and hairdryers

For a full guide to cleaning and maintaining your slippers, see The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Your Sheepskin Slippers & Footwear.

 

Speeding Up the Drying Process (Safely!)

If you’re short on time, you can help things along safely by:

• Placing slippers in a warm, well-ventilated room
• Using a fan to increase airflow
• Adding silica gel packs or a clean, dry towel nearby to absorb moisture

Avoid anything that blows hot air directly onto your slippers. The goal is steady, even drying, not speed-drying.

 

How to Fluff, Soften, and Freshen After Drying

Once your slippers are fully dry, they might look a little flat, don’t worry!
Simply give them a quick brush and, for an extra touch of freshness, lightly mist the inside with Wool & Cashmere Spray.

It not only leaves a gentle scent but helps maintain the softness of the natural fibres.
If you want to go one step further, our guide on Deodorising and Freshening Sheepskin Footwear has a few extra tricks.

 

Preventing Wet Slippers in Future

• Use a sheepskin-safe protector spray before first wear to help repel moisture.
• Keep slippers for indoor use only (save the garden strolls for your wellies!).
• Store them in a dry, airy spot when not in use and never in a damp cupboard or plastic bag.

Proper prevention means fewer drying sessions and longer-lasting comfort.

 

Keep Them Soft, Cosy, and Dry

Sheepskin is wonderfully resilient when treated with care. A gentle dry, a little patience, and a quick brush are all it takes to bring your slippers back to life.
Treat them kindly, and they’ll keep your feet snug for years to come.

Need the right tools for the job? Find our full range of sheepskin care essentials on the collections page