How to Restore Matted or Flattened Sheepskin in Slippers

There’s nothing quite like slipping your feet into soft, fluffy sheepskin slippers, until one day, that plush comfort feels a little… flat. Don’t worry, it happens to everyone. Over time, sheepskin fibres naturally compress, especially in high-wear areas. The good news? With a bit of gentle care, your slippers can feel like new again.

Why Sheepskin Loses Its Fluff

The nature of sheepskin and wool fibres

Sheepskin is a natural material with fine wool fibres attached to a soft leather base. Each fibre acts like a spring, providing cushioning and breathability. These fibres are coated in lanolin, a natural oil that keeps them silky and soft.

Common causes of matting and flattening

Matting usually occurs when moisture, heat, and pressure meet — think warm feet, daily wear, and the occasional damp patch. Sweat, natural oils, and dirt can all weigh down the fibres, making them clump together and lose their bounce.

Is it normal for sheepskin to flatten over time?

Absolutely. Like any natural material, sheepskin will settle and compress with use. The trick is to revive those fibres regularly so they stay soft, springy, and cloud-like for longer.

Quick Ways to Revive Sheepskin Slippers

Shake, air, and brush

Start by giving your slippers a good shake to loosen compacted fibres. Then, let them air in a dry, ventilated space for a few hours. Once aired, use a Suede & Nubuck Brush to gently lift the nap.

Use gentle steam for light matting

A light waft of steam (from a clothes steamer or steam from a kettle — at a safe distance!) helps loosen up matted fibres. Keep the steam indirect and minimal, and never soak the sheepskin.

Avoid heat sources and harsh rubbing

No hairdryers, radiators, or direct sunlight — these can stiffen and shrink the hide. Always handle sheepskin gently; over-brushing or aggressive rubbing can do more harm than good.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Restore Matted Sheepskin

What You’ll Need

You don’t need anything fancy, just a few essentials:

Suede & Nubuck Brush to lift and separate fibres

Wool & Cashmere Spray to freshen and condition

A soft towel or cloth

Spray bottle with cool water

Optional: a gentle clothes steamer

Step 1 – Gently Brush the Fibres

Start with dry slippers. Use your Suede & Nubuck Brush to lightly stroke the sheepskin in multiple directions. Focus on the flattened areas, using short, soft strokes. This helps lift trapped fibres and releases some of the compression. Take your time — gentle brushing is the secret to restoring that fluffy texture.

Step 2 – Refresh with Light Moisture or Steam

If brushing alone doesn’t do the trick, lightly mist the matted area with cool water or expose it briefly to indirect steam. The aim is to relax the fibres, not drench them. Avoid soaking — damp sheepskin can harden if over-wet.

(Tip: If you’ve had a spill or your slippers have become wet, follow our full guide on How to Safely Dry Wet Sheepskin Slippers.)

Step 3 – Air Dry Naturally

After adding light moisture, reshape your slippers and let them air dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area. No heaters, no direct sunlight, and definitely no tumble dryers. Patience pays off — natural drying keeps the leather supple and the wool soft.

Step 4 – Re-Brush to Restore the Nap

Once fully dry, brush again using gentle upward strokes to separate and fluff the fibres. This brings back the soft, airy texture that makes sheepskin feel so luxurious. If desired, a light spritz of Wool & Cashmere Spray will refresh the scent and help condition the fibres.

Step 5 – Optional: Condition or Deodorise

To keep things extra fresh, consider a light treatment using Wool & Cashmere Spray. It helps neutralise odours while nourishing the natural lanolin in the wool. For more ways to keep your slippers smelling clean, see our guide on Deodorising and Freshening Sheepskin Footwear.

Tips to Prevent Sheepskin From Matting Again

Rotate your slippers if you wear them daily to allow them to rest and recover.

Avoid wearing them barefoot if your feet are damp — moisture compresses fibres quickly.

Brush weekly to maintain fluff and prevent deep matting.

Air them out regularly to keep the sheepskin dry and springy.

Store properly in a cool, dry spot away from heat and sunlight.

These little habits go a long way in keeping your slippers feeling as soft and cosy as the day you bought them.

When the Damage Is Beyond Repair

If the wool has hardened, clumped, or lost its softness completely, it might be time to replace the insoles or treat yourself to a new pair. Some matting is simply due to natural wear. Explore our full range of beautiful sheepskin slippers on the Jacobs & Dalton homepage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you wash matted sheepskin to make it fluffy again?

You can, but with extreme caution — water can damage the leather if overdone. Always hand-clean gently and air dry. Avoid full submersion unless the product specifically states it’s washable.

Will brushing alone restore flattened sheepskin?

In most cases, yes! Regular brushing is often enough to lift the fibres back to life.

What’s the best brush or product for restoring sheepskin?

Our Suede & Nubuck Brush is perfect for gently lifting fibres without damage. Pair it with Wool & Cashmere Spray for freshness and softness.

Can I use a hairdryer or heat to fluff sheepskin?

No! High heat can shrink the hide and harden the fibres. Always air dry naturally.

Keep Your Sheepskin Soft and Cosy

With a little care and attention, your sheepskin slippers can stay fluffy, warm, and beautiful for years to come. Make brushing and airing part of your routine, and you’ll never have to settle for flat or lifeless slippers again.

For more helpful tips, read our full Sheepskin Slipper Care Guide, your go-to for cleaning, drying, and long-term sheepskin care.