Sheepskin slippers represent one of the finest investments you can make in your home comfort. Whether you own a pair of premium UGG boots, Australian-made sheepskin moccasins, or cosy EMU Australia slides, proper care ensures these natural fibre slippers will provide warmth and comfort for years to come. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about maintaining your sheepskin footwear.
Understanding Sheepskin as a Material
Before diving into care techniques, it helps to understand what makes sheepskin unique. Genuine sheepskin consists of tanned sheep leather with the wool still attached, creating a material that naturally regulates temperature, wicks moisture away from your feet, and provides exceptional insulation. The lanolin naturally present in wool gives sheepskin its soft, supple feel and provides some inherent water resistance.
This natural composition means sheepskin requires specific care different from synthetic materials. The wool fibres can mat and flatten without proper maintenance, while the leather backing can dry out and crack if neglected. Understanding this dual nature—wool and leather working together—is key to effective sheepskin care.
Quality sheepskin slippers can last 5-10 years with proper care, making them more economical than replacing cheap synthetic slippers every year.
Daily Care Habits
The best sheepskin care starts with simple daily habits that prevent dirt and moisture buildup. After wearing your slippers, allow them to air out in a well-ventilated area away from direct heat sources. This prevents the moisture your feet naturally produce from becoming trapped in the wool fibres, which can lead to odour and premature deterioration.
Consider rotating between two pairs of slippers if you wear them daily. This gives each pair time to fully dry between wears and significantly extends the lifespan of both. Additionally, avoid wearing sheepskin slippers outdoors on wet surfaces, as water can permanently damage the leather and cause the wool to mat.
Quick Refresh Between Deep Cleans
For light freshening between thorough cleanings, use a sheepskin brush or soft suede brush to gently work the wool fibres and restore their loft. Brush in the direction of the natural pile, using light, sweeping motions. This removes surface dust and helps prevent the wool from becoming compacted.
Deep Cleaning Your Sheepskin Slippers
Most sheepskin slippers benefit from a thorough cleaning every three to six months, depending on how frequently you wear them. The key is using products specifically designed for sheepskin or gentle, natural alternatives that won't strip the leather of its essential oils.
Never machine wash sheepskin slippers or submerge them fully in water. This can cause shrinkage, leather damage, and permanent wool matting.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
- Prepare your cleaning solution: Mix a small amount of sheepskin-specific cleaner or mild wool wash with cool water. Alternatively, create a gentle solution using a teaspoon of baby shampoo in a cup of cool water.
- Dampen a soft cloth: Dip a clean microfibre cloth or sponge into the solution and wring it out thoroughly. The cloth should be damp, not wet.
- Clean the exterior: Gently wipe down the outside of your slippers, working in circular motions. Pay extra attention to stained or heavily soiled areas, but avoid over-wetting any single spot.
- Address the interior: For the sheepskin lining, use the same damp cloth method, gently working the solution into any discoloured areas. The interior typically requires more attention as it absorbs foot oils and perspiration.
- Remove soap residue: Dampen a fresh cloth with plain cool water and wipe down all surfaces to remove any remaining cleaning solution.
- Shape and dry: Stuff your slippers loosely with white paper towels or clean, undyed cloths to help them maintain their shape. Allow them to dry at room temperature away from direct heat or sunlight.
Drying typically takes 24-48 hours. Never use a hairdryer, radiator, or direct sunlight to speed up drying—this can cause the leather to crack and shrink.
Treating Common Problems
Removing Stains
Different stains require different approaches. For water stains, dampen the entire outer surface evenly with a sponge, then allow the slippers to dry naturally. This prevents watermark rings from forming. For oil-based stains, sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder on the affected area, leave overnight to absorb the oil, then brush away with a soft brush.
Eliminating Odours
If your sheepskin slippers develop an unpleasant smell, sprinkle baking soda generously inside them and leave overnight. The baking soda absorbs odour-causing bacteria and moisture. Shake out the powder thoroughly before wearing. For persistent odours, consider placing your slippers in a sealed bag with cedar blocks for several days.
Restoring Flattened Wool
Over time, the wool lining can become compressed and less fluffy. After cleaning and while the slippers are still slightly damp, use a sheepskin brush to gently lift and fluff the fibres. Brush against the natural pile first to separate the fibres, then brush with the pile to smooth them. This technique restores much of the wool's original loft and insulating properties.
Conditioning the Leather
The leather exterior of sheepskin slippers benefits from occasional conditioning to remain supple and water-resistant. Every six months, or whenever the leather appears dry, apply a sheepskin conditioner or leather protector specifically designed for suede and sheepskin.
Apply conditioner sparingly with a soft cloth, working it into the leather in circular motions. Allow the product to absorb fully—usually several hours or overnight—before wearing. This treatment helps prevent cracking, maintains the leather's natural flexibility, and enhances water resistance.
- Air out slippers after each wear and avoid direct heat sources
- Use only sheepskin-specific or gentle wool-safe cleaners
- Never machine wash or fully submerge sheepskin in water
- Brush regularly to maintain wool loft and prevent matting
- Condition leather every six months to prevent drying and cracking
Storage Tips
When storing sheepskin slippers during warmer months, ensure they're thoroughly clean and completely dry first. Store them in a breathable cotton bag or wrapped loosely in tissue paper—never in plastic, which traps moisture and can encourage mould growth. Include cedar blocks or sachets of dried lavender to deter moths and keep them smelling fresh.
Avoid storing sheepskin in damp areas like basements or in locations with extreme temperature fluctuations. A cool, dry closet or wardrobe provides ideal conditions. Check stored slippers periodically for any signs of pest damage or mould, addressing any issues promptly.
When to Seek Professional Help
Some situations call for professional sheepskin cleaning services. Severe staining, mould growth, or significant structural damage to the leather may be beyond home treatment. Professional cleaners have specialised equipment and solutions that can restore heavily damaged sheepskin without causing further harm.
If your favourite sheepskin slippers have sentimental value or represent a significant investment, professional cleaning every year or two can extend their lifespan substantially. Many professional leather and suede cleaners offer sheepskin services—just ensure they have specific experience with this material.
With consistent care and attention, your sheepskin slippers will reward you with years of natural warmth and exceptional comfort. The investment of time in proper maintenance pays dividends in both the longevity of your footwear and the ongoing pleasure of slipping your feet into perfectly cared-for sheepskin.