Keeping a sheepskin footmuff clean is far easier than most parents expect. Thanks to the amazing natural properties of merino sheepskin, a full wash is very rarely needed. Most of the time a quick brush is all it takes. Here's everything you need to know.
Sheepskin is great at looking after itself
One of the great things about a sheepskin footmuff is how little fuss and maintenance it needs. The lanolin in the fibres is naturally antibacterial, so the lining resists the build-up that synthetic footmuffs are prone to and stays fresher for far longer. The windproof, waterproof outer wipes clean of most spills and mud.
A footmuff very rarely needs a full wash. A regular shake and brush, with the occasional spot clean, is all most ever need.
Everyday care - shake and brush
Give the footmuff a good shake to lift the fleece and shed dust and crumbs. Then brush the sheepskin lining with a wire sheepskin brush to keep the fibres soft and fluffy.
If something has been trodden in or you have some stains, let it dry first. Dried dirt lifts out of the fibres far more easily than wet, and a brush will usually take it straight out. Just be gentle if anything sticky has dried in, and avoid pulling the hair away from the fleece.
Spot cleaning the sheepskin
For any major stains, marks or spills, we recommend spot cleaning your sheepskin footmuff with lukewarm water and specialist lanolin shampoo. Mix a little specialist sheepskin shampoo with lukewarm water and work it gently into the marked area of the fleece. Always use a lanolin-containing shampoo rather than ordinary detergent, as the lanolin keeps the leather supple and the fibres soft. Let it air dry naturally, away from any heat.
A sheepskin care set has the shampoo and brush together in one place, covering everyday brushing and spot cleaning.
Cleaning the outer part of the footmuff
The waterproof outer of the footmuff is the easy part. It's a windproof, waterproof fabric finished with BIONIC-FINISH ECO, which repels water and dirt without harsh chemicals, so most mess wipes straight off. Sponge it clean with a cloth.
Check the manufacturers label for machine washing - this is always on a cold wash and with a low spin speed.
Drying the footmuff
Whenever any part of the footmuff has been cleaned, always air dry it in a cool, well-ventilated room, away from direct heat and sunlight. Never use a radiator, direct sun or a tumble dryer, as heat is the most common cause of shrinkage. Reshape the sheepskin while damp and allow plenty of time to dry fully.
The simple routine
- Shake and brush the lining when needed.
- Spot clean marks with lanolin shampoo and lukewarm water.
- Sponge the outer clean with a cloth and water if needed.
- Never use hot water and never dry near heat or sunlight.
Our sheepskin care set has everything you need in one place. If you're ever unsure, get in touch - we're always happy to help.
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