The Ultimate Sheepskin Rug Care Guide
We want to help you keep your gorgeous Hyde & Hare sheepskin rug looking luscious and new for many years to come. Here's our ultimate rug care guide for every day care, deep cleans, and everything in between.
Regular Maintenance: A preventative approach
Adopting regular maintenance is one major factor in preserving the beauty of your sheepskin rug. This essential preventive approach will sure keep your rug not only clean but will make it look fresh as well plus it reduces the need for deep cleaning. Check out these steps that will guide you through it.
1. Shake it out: Simply take your sheepskin rug outside and give it a good shake. This action helps remove dust and debris that accumulate over time. Do this at least once a week, or more frequently if the rug is in a high-traffic area.
2. Brush it gently: Use a soft-bristle brush to gently comb through the wool. Brushing not only removes surface dirt but also helps maintain the fluffy texture of the rug. Be sure to brush in the direction of the natural fibres to avoid damaging them.
3. Rotate it: To ensure even wear and tear, occasionally rotate your sheepskin rug. This helps prevent one area from becoming more flattened or discoloured than the others.
Spot Cleaning for every day mishaps
Life happens, and sometimes your sheepskin rug might fall victim to an accidental spill or stain. The key to spot cleaning is swift action. Here's how to handle common spills:
Liquid Stains: Blot the stain gently with a clean, white cloth to absorb as much of the liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the stain deeper into the rug. If necessary, rinse the affected area with cool water, and blot again. Let it air dry.
Solid Stains: For solids like chocolate or chewing gum, allow them to harden first. Then, carefully scrape off the residue with a blunt knife. After that, proceed with blotting and rinsing if needed.
Oily Stains: For oil-based stains, sprinkle a small amount of cornstarch or talcum powder onto the stain and let it sit for a few hours to absorb the grease. Then, gently brush the powder away.
Deep cleaning your sheepskin rug
You can keep your sheepskin rug in great shape with giving it a regular maintenance and spot cleaning. Depending on the level of use, aim to deep clean your rug every six to twelve months. Here's how:
Vacuum: Begin by thoroughly vacuuming your rug. Use the upholstery attachment or a brush nozzle with soft bristles to avoid damaging the wool. This step helps remove any loose dirt, dust, and debris.
Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Mix a mild, wool-safe detergent with lukewarm water. Avoid using harsh detergents or hot water, as they can damage the wool.
Test a Hidden Area: Before proceeding, test the cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the rug to ensure it won't cause discolouration or damage.
Clean the Rug: In a soapy water, dampen a clean sponge in it and gently blot the rug’s surface. Excessive moisture can lead to damage so it’s a no no to scrub it vigorously or immersing the rug entirely, so make sure to avoid these. Work in small sections, moving methodically across the rug.
Rinse and Dry: Rinse the rug thoroughly with clean, cool water to remove any soap residue. Gently squeeze out excess water without wringing or twisting the rug. Lay it flat on a clean, dry towel to air dry. Ensure it's positioned away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as excessive heat can cause the wool to become stiff and brittle.
Brush and Restore: Once the rug is completely dry, gently brush the wool with a soft-bristle brush. This will help fluff up the fibres and restore the rug's natural texture.
Special care tips for white sheepskin rugs
In Scandinavian design, white sheepskin rugs are particularly popular but they require extra care to maintain their pristine appearance. Here are some specific cleaning tips for white sheepskin rugs:
Preventive Measures: If possible, use your white sheepskin rug in a low-traffic area to minimise the risk of stains. Implement a "no shoes" policy on the rug, and keep it away from areas where food and beverages are consumed.
Frequent Shaking and Brushing: Given their susceptibility to stains, white sheepskin rugs require more frequent shaking and brushing to keep them looking clean. Daily or weekly maintenance can go a long way.
Spot Clean Promptly: Acting quickly matters a lot as soon as a stain occurs. Blot and clean the area according to the earlier spot cleaning instructions. For white rugs, it's essential to prevent stains from setting in.
Whitening Solutions: In case your white sheepskin rug develops yellowing or discolouration over time, you can try a specialised wool whitening product. Follow the product instructions carefully and test on a hidden area first.
Sunlight Exposure: Occasionally, allowing your white sheepskin rug to bask in indirect sunlight can help brighten and refresh its appearance. However, be cautious not to overexpose it, as excessive sunlight can cause fading.