Sheepskin can be used for a variety of decorative functions around the home. During it’s use, it is not unknown for it to be sat upon, stepped on and even used as a blanket on rare occasions. All of this usage can cause the skin to build up an odor and require cleaning treatment to deodorize.
Before running off to the dry cleaners, you can try a variety of household solution the have success in freshening the skin so you can put it back within use. By following the below solutions, you can be sure that your sheepskin will be smelling great in no time.
Sheepskin Smell Removal Solutions
1 Step 1: Draw Cold Bath
Sheepskin is rather sensitive and requires specific environmental needs during cleaning and deodorizing. As the first step, you will want to fill the bath tub with approximately 3-4 inches of cold water. Cold water is important as warm or hot water can be excessively harsh on the natural fiber.
2 Step 2: Mix in Baking Soda
Next, you will want to add in a 1/2 cup of baking soda within the bath tub. After making the addition, you will want to make sure that you give the water a healthy stir to ensure that the baking soda gets diffused within the water. It especially important for the next step, that no visible baking soda residues are resting on the floor of the bathtub.
3 Step 3: Light Hand Scrub
Gently place the sheepskin within the bathtub mixture face down so that fur is facing downwards. Once completed, reach under the sheepskin and work the solution into the fibers. During this process, you will want any loose debris to fall clear of the hid while allowing the baking soda mixed waters access to the most smelly areas of the rug. Once you have hand scrubbed the bottom side of the entire rug, slowly lift the rub out of the bath tub. At this point you will want to squeeze as much moisture from it as possible.
4 Comb + Hang Dry Outdoors
The next step is to comb all of the hair in one direction with a large gap bristle comb. This will ensure that no unwanted tangling occurs and that it will dry in a fashion that you will be pleased with. Once this has been done, hang the sheepskin outdoors for proper air drying. Make sure that the sheepskin receives several hours of direct sunlight during the day and that the heavy fur is properly secured while hanging.
5 Final Comb & Baking Soda Sprinkle
Once the entire sheepskin have dried outside, it can be brought indoor for a final combing to get it fluffy and presentable for home decor. As a final step, two teaspoons of baking soda can be disbursed over the sheepskin’s fur to maintain freshness and ward off future odors. After a few seconds of rubbing, the powder will find it’s way into the fiber and will no longer be visible.
Photo Credit: D. Sharon Pruitt
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