Real lambskin is not only a luxurious accessory that adds warmth and style to your home, but also a delicate natural product that requires special care. Its soft, fluffy texture and unique properties make it a popular choice for furniture, carpets and decorations. To ensure that your lambskin retains its beauty and functionality for years to come, proper cleaning is essential.
In this article, we'll show you step by step how to wash your lambskin gently and effectively. From preparation to suitable washing methods to proper drying and care - we'll give you valuable tips to ensure your lambskin always looks and feels like new. Discover how you can extend the life of your lambskin while preserving its unique properties by taking proper care of it.
Preparing the Lambskin
Before you start cleaning your lambskin, thorough preparation is essential to achieve the best results and avoid damaging the fur. Here are the most important steps to follow:
Checking the label: Start by looking at the care label on your sheepskin. The label contains valuable information and specific instructions from the manufacturer, tailored to the individual needs of the fur. Pay particular attention to notes on recommended cleaning methods and temperatures to ensure you don't make any mistakes when caring for it.
Select cleaning products: Choose a mild, pH-neutral cleaning product that is specifically designed for delicate fabrics. Avoid aggressive detergents, bleaches or enzymes as these can attack the fur's natural oils and damage the leather. If in doubt, you can also use special products designed for cleaning lambskin.
Make sure you have enough space: Provide a suitable washing area that offers enough space to clean the sheepskin comfortably and without stress. A large, flat area that allows you to work and dry the fur evenly is ideal. Avoid tight or poorly ventilated spaces as this can affect the drying process.
By following these preparatory steps, you create the best conditions for gentle and effective cleaning of your lambskin. This ensures that the fur retains its quality and shape and is optimally cared for.
washing methods
The correct washing method is crucial to maintaining the beauty and quality of your sheepskin. While using a washing machine is often not recommended for sheepskin, hand washing is a gentle and effective way to thoroughly clean your fur. Here are the steps to follow:
Hand wash:
- Water preparation: Fill a large basin or bathtub with cold or lukewarm water. Avoid hot water as it can damage the structure of the coat and remove the natural oils.
- Prepare cleaning solution: Mix a mild, pH-neutral detergent with the water. If you are unsure, use a special detergent for delicate fabrics or sheepskins. Stir the solution gently to ensure that the detergent is evenly distributed.
- Gentle soaking: Carefully place the sheepskin in the cleaning liquid and allow it to soak. Avoid vigorous rubbing or wringing to avoid damaging the fur. Leave it in the solution for about 10-15 minutes to allow dirt and stains to dissolve.
- Gentle cleansing: Use a soft sponge or cloth to gently rub the fur. Work in small sections and always move in the direction of the hairs to avoid matting. Be careful not to rub too hard.
- Thorough rinsing: Empty the basin and refill it with clean, cold water. Rinse the lambskin thoroughly to remove all soap residue. Repeat the rinsing process if necessary until the water runs clear and there is no detergent residue.
- Gentle expression: Gently squeeze the water out of the fur without wringing it. Gently roll the fur in a towel to absorb excess moisture. This will help speed up drying and reduce the risk of deformation.
Drying and care after washing
After thoroughly hand washing your sheepskin, proper drying and aftercare is crucial to maintain the texture and quality of the coat. Here are the steps to follow:
Proper drying:
- Air drying: Hang the lambskin in a well-ventilated place, ideally in a room with fresh air circulation. Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources such as radiators or fan heaters, as these can dry out the fur and damage the leather structure. The fur should hang in its natural shape to avoid deformation.
- Flat drying (optional): Alternatively, you can lay the sheepskin flat on a clean, dry towel. This can be particularly helpful if the fur is particularly delicate or thick. Change the towel occasionally to speed up the drying process.
Combing the fur:
- Gentle combing: Once the coat is completely dry, use a soft brush or comb to gently brush it. This will help restore the coat's natural fluffiness and texture. Brush in the direction of the coat to avoid matting and to smooth the coat evenly.
- Avoiding matting: Be careful not to brush or pull the coat too hard as this can cause matting or damage. Work in small sections and be especially careful around the more delicate areas of the coat.
Long-term care:
- Regular airing: To maintain the freshness and softness of the lambskin, you should air it regularly. This will help prevent moisture and odors and keep the fur in good condition.
- Careful brushing: Regularly brush gently to remove loose hair and debris. This will help prevent matting and maintain the texture of the coat.
By following these drying and care practices, you can ensure that your sheepskin not only stays clean, but also remains in optimal condition to continue to provide you with enjoyment and comfort.
What to avoid
To ensure your lambskin retains its natural beauty and longevity, it is important to avoid certain mistakes when cleaning and caring for it. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Cleaning errors:
- Water too hot: Never use hot water to clean your lambskin. High temperatures can damage the leather structure and remove the natural oils, which can lead to cracking and a loss of suppleness. Always use cold or lukewarm water to gently clean the fur.
- Aggressive cleaning agents: Avoid using aggressive cleaning agents, bleach or enzymes as these can damage the delicate fibres and leather surface of the fur. Instead, use mild, pH-neutral cleaning agents that are specifically designed for delicate textiles.
- Machine drying: Never dry your lambskin in a dryer or by direct heat sources such as radiators. The intense heat and mechanical action of the dryer can deform the fur, dry it out and affect its softness. Instead, let the fur air dry to preserve its structure and quality.
Long-term damage:
- Direct sunlight: Protect your lambskin from direct sunlight. UV rays can dry out the leather and cause the color to fade. Therefore, store the fur in a shady, well-ventilated place to avoid damage from sunlight.
- Humidity and extreme temperatures: Avoid exposing the lambskin to extreme temperatures and humidity. High humidity can lead to the formation of mold and odors, while extreme cold can make the leather brittle. Make sure to store the fur in a temperate, dry room.
- Inadequate care: Don't neglect regular care of your lambskin. Regular brushing and airing are crucial to prevent matting and to maintain the natural fluffiness of the coat. Without this regular care, the coat can become unsightly and damaged.
Conclusion
Caring for and cleaning genuine lambskin requires special attention and care to preserve the natural beauty and longevity of the fur. By following the steps outlined for hand washing and using the correct methods for drying and care, you will ensure that your lambskin stays in the best condition. Avoid common mistakes such as using hot water, harsh detergents and machine drying to prevent long-term damage.