How to Clean and Care for a Sheepskin Jacket

Sheepskin Jacket Care Guide

Sheepskin jackets are crafted from genuine shearling, where the suede leather exterior and the insulating wool interior come from the same natural sheepskin hide. This natural construction makes shearling exceptionally warm, breathable and durable.

Unlike synthetic winter garments, shearling is designed by nature to regulate temperature while remaining comfortable in a wide range of conditions. With proper care, a quality sheepskin jacket can last for many years and continue to develop character over time.

This guide explains how to properly care for your sheepskin garment so it remains soft, comfortable and looking its best.

Understanding Shearling

Genuine shearling garments are made from double-faced sheepskin, meaning the leather exterior and the natural wool lining are both part of the same hide.

This structure provides several benefits:

  • excellent natural insulation
  • breathability and temperature regulation
  • long-lasting durability
  • soft and comfortable lining

Because shearling is a natural material, every jacket will have slight variations in grain, texture and colour. These natural characteristics are part of the beauty of genuine sheepskin.

General Care for Sheepskin Jackets

Simple everyday habits will help maintain the condition of your jacket.

  • Hang your jacket on a wide, sturdy hanger to support the shoulders.
  • Allow the garment to air out after wearing.
  • Store the jacket in a cool, dry environment.
  • Avoid storing sheepskin in plastic garment bags, as the material needs to breathe.
  • Keep the jacket away from direct heat sources such as heaters or radiators.

When storing for longer periods, a breathable garment bag is recommended.

Can Sheepskin Jackets Get Wet?

Sheepskin can tolerate light moisture, but heavy rain should be avoided whenever possible.

If your jacket becomes wet:

  1. Gently shake off excess water.
  2. Hang the jacket on a wide hanger.
  3. Allow it to air dry naturally at room temperature.

Avoid using heaters, hair dryers or direct heat to speed up the drying process, as excessive heat can damage the leather.

Once the jacket is dry, lightly brush the wool interior to restore its softness.

How to Clean a Shearling Jacket

Minor dirt or marks can usually be handled with simple care.

  • Allow mud or dirt to dry completely before cleaning.
  • Use a soft suede brush to gently remove surface dirt from the leather side.
  • Brush lightly to avoid damaging the suede finish.

Avoid household cleaning products, detergents or harsh chemicals as these may affect the natural leather and wool fibres.

For deeper stains or significant cleaning, professional care is recommended.

Caring for the Natural Sheepskin Wool

The wool lining provides natural insulation and helps regulate temperature.

If the wool becomes flattened after wear:

  • Lightly shake the jacket to restore the loft of the fibres.
  • A soft brush can be used to gently lift the wool if necessary.

This helps maintain the softness and insulating properties of the shearling.

How to Store a Sheepskin Jacket

Proper storage is important to maintain the shape and longevity of your garment.

When storing your jacket:

  • Use a broad hanger to support the shoulders.
  • Store in a cool, dry place.
  • Avoid tightly packed wardrobes so air can circulate.
  • If storing long term, use a breathable garment bag rather than plastic.

Good airflow helps preserve both the leather and the natural wool.

Professional Cleaning

Sheepskin jackets should not be machine washed or standard dry cleaned.

For deep cleaning or stubborn stains, we recommend using a professional cleaner experienced with leather or shearling garments.

Specialist cleaning helps preserve the natural oils in the leather and protects the structure of the sheepskin.

A Natural Material Designed to Last

Shearling garments have been worn for generations because of their warmth, durability and comfort. With proper care, a genuine sheepskin jacket can remain a reliable and stylish winter garment for many years.

Over time, the leather exterior may soften and develop a subtle patina that enhances the natural character of the jacket.

By following these simple care guidelines, your Yellow Earth shearling garment will continue to provide warmth, comfort and timeless style season after season.

Explore our collection of genuine sheepskin jackets.