Sheepskin & Ugg Boots Blog | Yellow Earth Australia

Products to Assist with Pressure Sores: What Really Works?

Many Australians—particularly elderly individuals or those with limited mobility—face the painful challenge of pressure sores. Also known as pressure ulcers or bedsores, these can develop quickly and are difficult to treat once they set in, however the good news is that it is relatively easy to prevent! That’s why the best approach is prevention—and the right products can make all the difference. At Yellow Earth, many customers find us while looking for natural ways to prevent pressure sores and see our CSIRO approved Medical Sheepskin range. But what exactly makes medical sheepskin different—and how does it help? What Causes Pressure Sores? Pressure sores—also known as pressure ulcers or bedsores—are injuries that occur when sustained pressure restricts blood flow to areas of the skin and underlying tissue. They commonly develop over bony areas like the heels, hips, tailbone, and shoulders, especially in individuals who are bedridden, use wheelchairs, or have limited mobility. People who have experienced significant weight loss or are naturally thin in certain areas may be more prone to developing sores, as there’s less cushioning between bone and skin. Early warning signs include: Red or discoloured patches of skin Areas that feel warmer or cooler than surrounding skin Tenderness or pain when touched Skin that doesn’t blanch (turn white) under light pressure If left unmanaged, these spots can quickly escalate to deeper wounds, potentially leading to infection or long-term tissue damage. That’s why early prevention is key—and the surfaces people sit or lie on play a big role. Certified medical sheepskin is one of the most effective and natural ways to help prevent pressure sores. Its dense wool fibres evenly distribute body weight, reduce pressure points, and allow airflow to the skin. In fact, CSIRO research shows that medical sheepskin can reduce pressure by over 50% compared to standard bedding, making it an excellent choice for those most at risk. Learn more from Better Health Victoria: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/pressure-sores Medical Sheepskin Rug Natural Shape Unlike regular sheepskin or long wool rugs, certified Australian medical sheepskin is specially tanned and tested to meet CSIRO standards (AS4480.1-1998) for pressure care and hygiene. It’s not just a soft surface—it’s a clinically backed support solution designed for people at risk of developing pressure sores. These products are: High-density (up to 6000 resilient wool fibres per cm²) to evenly distribute body weight Machine washable at 80°C and dryable at 60°C for medical-grade hygiene Naturally breathable and moisture-wicking, keeping the skin cool, dry, and comfortable CSIRO-approved and used in aged care facilities and hospitals across Australia A natural, reusable, and cost-effective alternative to synthetic overlays or disposable solutions But beyond the specs, the real difference is in comfort and quality of life. Many individuals at risk of pressure sores are routinely turned every 2 hours throughout the night to relieve pressure—an exhausting process for both the individual and their carers. Medical sheepskin helps reduce the need for constant repositioning by cushioning vulnerable areas and allowing the skin to breathe. It supports the body in a way that traditional surfaces can’t, meaning users may finally enjoy a more restful night’s sleep—undisturbed and comfortably supported. Imagine the difference: instead of being woken up every couple of hours, you're able to sleep through the night, with less pain and more peace of mind. For those with limited mobility, medical sheepskin can offer not just protection, but dignity and relief—making everyday comfort achievable again. Top Products That Help Prevent Pressure Sores Here are some of the most popular items from our Medical Sheepskin Collection:- 45 x 45cm Medical Sheepskin Mat- Full Medical Sheepskin Underlays- Sheepskin Booties & Foot Covers- Seat Pads and Armrest Covers We have a range of sizes from chair mats to bed underlays in various sizes. Not Sure What to Buy? We're Here to Help! We're a Melbourne-based team and regularly speak with elderly customers and caregivers. Call us on (03) 8635 1111—we’re happy to guide you. If you’re located in Melbourne, we operate a few retail stores in Melbourne who can assist you. Find our locations here. NDIS Supported Yes—we proudly support NDIS participants and can assist with orders using your NDIS funding. Contact us with an invoice quote request via email to support@yellowearth.com.au It is usually easiest to include the product link and who we need to invoice to, including delivery address details. Common Medical Sheepskin Questions (FAQ) + Does sheepskin help with pressure sores? Yes. Medical-grade sheepskin is widely used in pressure care. The natural wool fibres provide a cushioning, low-friction surface that helps redistribute pressure and reduce the risk of pressure injuries. Yellow Earth's medical sheepskin is CSIRO certified to Australian Standard AS4480.1. + What is medical grade sheepskin? Medical grade sheepskin meets specific standards for density, fibre length and moisture management. In Australia, the relevant standard is AS4480.1. Products meeting this standard have been independently tested and certified for use in pressure care and healthcare settings. + Where can I buy sheepskin for bedsores? Yellow Earth stocks CSIRO-certified medical sheepskin underlays specifically designed for bedsore prevention and pressure care. They are available online at yellowearth.com.au or in-store at our Melbourne locations. + Is sheepskin safe for elderly patients? Yes. Natural sheepskin is hypoallergenic, breathable and gentle on sensitive skin, making it well suited for elderly patients. Medical-grade sheepskin specifically is designed for extended contact use in pressure care and mobility support. + How do I care for medical sheepskin? Medical sheepskin can be hand or machine washed. Regular gentle washing preserves the wool's natural properties and maintains its effectiveness. Allow to dry in the shade on top of a clothes rack. Refer to our product page for detailed care instructions.