DIY Guide: How to Clean Lambskin Rug Like a Pro

Let’s face it lambskin rugs are gorgeous, but they can be a bit tricky to keep clean. Whether you’ve just invested in your first lambskin rug or you’re a long-time owner looking for better care tips, you’re in the right place.

Did you know that humans have been using lambskin rugs for thousands of years? These cozy wool floor coverings aren’t just beautiful – they’re also incredibly durable when cared for properly. Some well-maintained lambskin rugs have been known to last for generations, becoming family heirlooms passed down through the years.

 In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about keeping your lambskin rug looking fantastic, from everyday care to tackling those dreaded wine spills (we’ve all been there!).

Understanding Your Lambskin Rug

Before we dive into cleaning methods, let’s talk about what makes your lambskin rug so unique. 

What Makes Lambskin Rugs Special?

Unlike synthetic rugs, lambskin rugs are natural products with amazing properties. These rugs are special because: 

They’re naturally hypoallergenic, so allergy sufferers should not need to be worried. They regulate temperature, which means that they remain warm in winter and cool in summer. If cared for properly, they are incredibly durable. 

They are flame-resistant and echo-friendly. 

But here’s something many people don’t know: lambskin rugs actually get softer and more beautiful with age, kind of like a good leather jacket. The key is proper care and that’s exactly what we’re here to learn about.

Types of Lambskin Rugs

Not all lambskin rugs are created equal. Let’s break down the main types you might see:

Natural (undyed)

They are the most common sheepskin rugs. They come in a wide range of colors, from cream to light brown. The biggest benefit of them is that they are easy to clean.

Dyed

They are available in various colors and require extra care to keep them safe from color bleeding. You can use special products for them. 

Single pelt

Single-pelt sheepskin rugs are made from one sheep’s wool. They are smaller and more uniform in appearance. 

Multiple pelts

They are created by joining several pelts. They are large and can be the best fit for room-sized rugs. They may have visible seams. 

Fun Fact: The world’s largest lambskin rug, created in New Zealand in 2018, used 256 pelts and took over 3 months to make!

Regular Maintenance for Lambskin Rugs 

Think of your lambskin rug like a pet – it needs regular attention, but it’s not as high-maintenance as you might fear.

Daily Care: It’s Easier Than You Think!

Here’s what you should do:

Give it a good shake

Take your rug outside if possible and give it a gentle shake. This gets rid of dust, crumbs, and other bits that can be on the wool. If you live in an apartment, hanging it over a balcony works too but just make sure it’s secure.

Also Read: Living Room Colors with brown couch Ideas: Transform Your Space

Quick visual check 

Look for any new stains or spots that might need attention. Getting to know about problems early makes work easier to deal with. 

Gentle brushing 

Use a specialized wool brush, a slicker brush works great to keep the fibers from matting. Think of it like brushing your hair a few gentle strokes in the direction of the wool are all you need.

Weekly Maintenance: Your Sunday Routine

Let’s expand on our maintenance schedule with some practical tips:

Task	How Often	Time Needed	Why It’s Important
Vacuuming	1-2 times/week	5 minutes	Removes deep-set dirt before it can damage fibers
Thorough brushing	2-3 times/week	10 minutes	Prevents matting and keeps wool fluffy
Rotation	Once/week	1 minute	Ensures even wear
Airing out	Once/week	30 minutes	Keeps rug fresh and odor-free

Pro Tip: When vacuuming, always use the brush attachment and go against the direction of the wool first, then with it. This helps lift out more dirt while being gentle on the fibers.

Monthly Maintenance: Going the Extra Mile

Once a month, try to spend extra time brushing, focusing on high-traffic areas. The little pests love wool, so early detection is better. Look for any loose stitching or damage that might need repair. 

Spot Cleaning Techniques

Accidents happen that’s just life! The key is knowing how to handle them when they do. Let’s break down spot cleaning by type of stain: 

Water-Based Stains (juice, wine, coffee)

Dealing quickly with stains increases the chances of removing them completely. Take a clean cloth and blot the stain. Rubbing can work the stain deeper into the fibers and potentially damage them. 

If just water doesn’t do work, try a cleaner made specifically for wool. Here’s a simple DIY solution you can make at home: 

Take one cup of lukewarm water, add an equal amount of white vinegar and one teaspoon wool-specific detergent. Mix these ingredients in a spray bottle and do a patch test on the invisible corner. 

Oil-Based Stains (food, grease)

Spread cornstarch, baking soda or talcum powder on the stain and let it sit for few hours or overnight. Now use your brush attachment to vacuum up the powder. Repeat as necessary because some stubborn stains might need a few treatments.

Deep Cleaning Your Lambskin Rug

Deep cleaning once or twice a year is necessary. Let’s explore some tips: 

When Is It Time for a Deep Clean?

You might be struggling with “How do I know when my sheepskin rug needs deep clean?” Here are a few signs: 

• The wool looks flat, even after brushing
• There’s a noticeable change in color, usually due to dirt
• You can smell a bad odor when you get close to the rug
• It’s been more than a year since the last deep clean

Regular deep cleaning not only keeps your rug looking great but also extends its life. 

DIY Deep Cleaning: A Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s break this down into manageable steps. Trust me, it’s not as tough as it might seem!

What You’ll Need:

• Wool-specific shampoo 
• A large basin or bathtub
• Several clean, white towels
• A wool brush
• A fan or air dryer

Before You Start: Test if your rug bleeds the color. Do a patch test on the invisible area. If any color transfers to the cloth, your rug needs professional cleaning. 

Preparation (15 minutes)

Choose a clean space at your home, then bring out your rug and vacuum it on both sides. Now fill your tub or basin with water and a mild shampoo of wool-specific detergent in it. 

Washing (20-30 minutes)

Now put your rug in the tub and gently rub it with water by using your hands. 

DON’T:

• Scrub vigorously
• Use hot water
• Wring or twist the rug

Rinsing (15-20 minutes)

Drain the water of soap and rinse your rug with clean, simple water. Repeat rinsing the clean water until the rug gets clean completely. You can use the handle shower for this as well. 

Drying (24-48 hours)

Press out the excess water by lying the rug flat. You can lay your rug in the soft sunshine or in the room under the roof fan. Brush gently every few hours as it dries to prevent matting

Troubleshooting Common Deep Cleaning Issues

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
The rug feels stiff after drying	Soap residue	Rinse again thoroughly
Wool looks matted	Not enough brushing while drying	Dampen slightly and brush again
Unpleasant odor remains	Didn’t dry completely	Ensure thorough drying, consider sun exposure
Color bleeding	Dye instability	Stop washing, consult a professional

Professional Cleaning vs. DIY

Honestly speaking, sometimes DIY isn’t the best option. Here’s a frank look at when to call in the pros:

When to Choose Professional Cleaning

1. Valuable or Antique Rugs If your rug is a family heirloom or particularly valuable, the extra cost of professional cleaning is worth the peace of mind.
2. Severe Stains or Odors Some challenges are best left to the experts. Professional cleaners have access to specialized products and techniques that can tackle tough problems without damaging your rug.
3. Size Matters Wrestling with a large, heavy sheepskin rug in your bathtub isn’t just difficult, it can be dangerous! Professionals have the equipment and space to handle rugs of all sizes.

Finding a Good Professional Cleaner

Not all carpet cleaners know how to handle lambskin rugs. Here’s how to find a trustworthy professional:

Also Read: How to Fix a Rug That Is Unraveling: Expert DIY Guide (2024)

Ask the right questions:

• How long have you been cleaning lambskin rugs?
• What cleaning method do you use?
• Do you have references from other lambskin rug owners?

Check credentials:

• Look for certification from recognized organizations
• Read online reviews, but be wise
• Ask for before and after photos of previous work

Cost Comparison: Breaking It Down

Let’s look at the real costs involved:

Aspect	DIY Cleaning	Professional Cleaning
Monetary Cost	$10-$30 for supplies	$50-$200 depending on size
Time Investment	3-4 hours + drying time	15 minutes (drop-off)
Risk Level	Moderate	Low
Results	Variable	Consistent
Equipment Needed	Several items	None

Common Mistakes to Avoid

We all learn from mistakes, but wouldn’t it be nice to learn from others’ mistakes instead of your own? Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Using Harsh Chemicals 

Most people use regular carpet cleaners, bleach, or strong detergents. These can take away natural oils, damage fibers, and cause discoloration. Instead of these products, Stick to wool-specific products or gentle, natural cleaners. 

2. Aggressive Cleaning Techniques

Scrubbing harshly and using stiff brushes can damage the wool. It can cause matting on the rug as well.  So always use gentle motions and soft brushes

3. Improper Drying Methods 

It is the big mistake of hanging the rug to dry, using direct heat. It can stretch the hide, cause shrinkage, or create a breeding ground for mildew. Dry flat, away from direct heat, with good air. 

Storing Your Lambskin Rug

Maybe you’re moving, maybe you’re switching up your decor for the season, or maybe you just need to put your lambskin rug away for a while. Whatever the reason, proper storage is key to making sure your rug stays in tip-top shape until you’re ready to use it again.

Getting Your Rug Storage-Ready

First things first – never store a dirty rug! Trust me, future you will thank present you for taking the time to prep your rug properly. Clean your rug and let it dry completely. Look for any sign of moths, if you find any treat it quickly. 

The Art of Rolling

Now, here’s where people often go wrong – they fold their lambskin rug. Big mistake! Folding can create permanent creases and damage the hide. Instead:

1. Roll your rug wool-side out
   • This prevents the wool from getting crushed
   • Start slowly and keep it even
2. Use a tube if possible
   • A cardboard tube (like from a carpet roll) is ideal
   • If you can’t find one, roll around a pool noodle – weird, but it works!

Choosing the Perfect Storage Place

Your storage location can make or break your rug’s survival. Here’s what to look for:

The Ideal Storage Space:

Cool temperatures around 18°C, low humidity, and good circulation of air are good elements for your rug. Also, keep it away from sunlight. 

Avoid These Storage Disasters:

Damp basements, hot attics, and garages are not good places for storing the rug. 

Wrapping It Up

Once you’ve got your rug rolled, you need to cover it. But be careful – plastic is not your friend here. You can use cotton sheets cotton bags and acid-free paper for it. 

FAQs

Conclusion

Whew! We’ve covered a lot of ground, haven’t we? From daily care to deep cleaning, and storage to problem solving, you’re now able to keep your lambskin rug looking fantastic for years to come.

Remember, a lambskin rug isn’t just a floor covering – it’s an investment in your home’s comfort and style. With the right care, it’ll keep looking beautiful and feeling luxurious for generations.

And most importantly, don’t stress too much! Your lambskin rug is more flexible than you might think. With a little love and care, it’ll stay gorgeous for years to come.