Understanding this amazing little fibre
Sheepskin has a quality that no other fibre can claim and that is that it has natural self-cleaning capabilities! The natural, antibacterial properties that sheepskins fibres offer, make it body odor resistant! I’ve read that if you were to wear a wool sweater for 40 days in a row, it would not smell! How amazing is that?
The fibre itself is made up of many different layers, but the outside has these tiny scales that when rubbed together, they brush away dirt, and repel water. Then inside the fibre is this amazing wick that absorbs moisture but doesn’t retain any, it releases it out into the air. When the wool fibre does this, it can let out a small amount of lanolin, (the oil that’s found in the wool) and that lanolin then acts like a little soap washing, which clean the sheepskin.
The fibre is mold and mildew resistant, simply because there is no moisture retained and therefore can’t grow. Same for dust mites, they want a humid and moist condition to thrive in. This is perhaps the best reason to use wool products; you get to create a natural, healthy environment that reduces allergies and asthma incidents. Now, it’s not that you never have to do any maintenance with your sheepskin products, but as you can see, not allot or at least not often. Here are some simple guidelines to maintain the beauty of your sheepskin products;
For Baby & Medical Sheepskin Rugs
Due to the natural lanolin in the wool, genuine sheepskin tends to be self-cleaning.
Daily airing will keep your rug fresh and help maintain its self-cleaning properties.
Small, soiled areas can be sponged off.
Hand or machine wash once a month, ideally using a mild detergent that is enzyme-free with no bleaches. (Such as Euclan Wool Wash).
Wool fibres are resilient and easily bounce back to their original springy appearance. A vigorous shake will help restore the soft, fluffy appearance of the wool.
For Sheepskin Rugs
Only use a mild detergent that is enzyme-free with no bleaches. (Such as Eucalan Wool Wash ).
Only wash in cold or lukewarm water (up to 40 C/108 F).
For rugs stretch to shape while they are still damp.
Hang out to dry away from direct sunlight.
Brush when damp and then again when dry. (Use a Sheepskin Brush)
For Sheepskin Footwear and Mittens
Light stains can be removed using a damp cloth to prevent excessive soiling.
Hand wash in cool or lukewarm water, using a mild detergent, such as Eucalan Wool Wash(as mentioned above). This detergent is formulated especially for sheepskin products and doesn’t contain chemicals found in regular detergents that may harm the sheepskin leather & wool.
Do NOT put sheepskin footwear or mittens in the washing machine.
Wash separately from other items and rinse in cold water.
After washing, remove excess water using paper towels, and if required reshape.
Allow to dry naturally and slowly.
Do NOT dry in sunlight or direct heat.
Following these simple tips, will help you enjoy long, lasting pleasure of your sheepskin products.
