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, rugs and decorations. To ensure that your lambskin retains its beauty and functionality for years to come, correct cleaning is essential.
In this article we will show you step by step how you can wash your lambskin gently and effectively. From preparation to suitable washing methods to proper drying and care - we give you valuable tips to ensure that your lambskin always looks and feels like new. Discover how proper care can extend the life of your lambskin while preserving its unique properties.
Preparing the lambskin
Before you start cleaning your lambskin, thorough preparation is essential to achieve the best results and not damage the fur. Here are the key steps you should follow:
Checking the label: Start by looking at your sheepskin's care label. The label contains valuable information and specific instructions from the manufacturer tailored to the individual requirements of the coat. Pay particular attention to recommended cleaning methods and temperatures to ensure you don't make care mistakes.
Select cleaning agent: Choose a mild, pH-neutral cleaning agent that is especially suitable for sensitive textiles. Avoid harsh detergents, bleach or enzymes as these attack the fur's natural oils and can 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 lambskin comfortably and without stress. A large, flat area that allows you to work on and dry the fur evenly is ideal. Avoid confined or inadequately ventilated spaces as this may affect the drying process.
By following these preparatory steps, you will 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 lambskin. While using a washing machine is often not recommended for sheepskins, hand washing is a gentle and effective way to thoroughly clean your fur. Here are the steps you should 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 fur and remove natural oils.
- Prepare cleaning solution: Mix a mild, pH-neutral cleaning agent with the water. If you are unsure, use a special cleaning agent for delicate textiles or lambskin. Gently stir the solution to ensure the detergent is evenly distributed.
- Gentle soaking: Carefully place the lambskin in the cleaning liquid and allow it to soak. Avoid rubbing or wringing vigorously to avoid damaging the fur. Leave it in the solution for about 10-15 minutes to allow dirt and stains to dissolve.
- Gentle Cleaning: Use a soft sponge or cloth to gently rub the fur. Work in small sections, always moving in the direction of the fur 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 any soap residue. Repeat the rinsing process if necessary until the water is clear and there are no more detergent residues.
- Gently squeeze: Gently squeeze the water out of the fur without wringing it. Gently roll the fur in a towel to absorb excess moisture. This helps to speed up drying and reduce the risk of deformation.
Drying and care after washing
After thoroughly hand washing your lambskin, proper drying and aftercare is crucial to maintaining the texture and quality of the fur. Here are the steps you should follow:
Proper drying:
- Air drying: Hang the lambskin in a well-ventilated area, 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.
- Drying flat (optional): Alternatively, you can spread the lambskin flat on a clean, dry towel. This can be particularly helpful if the fur is particularly sensitive or thick. Change the towel occasionally to speed up the drying process.
Combing the fur:
- Gentle Combing: Once the fur is completely dry, use a soft brush or comb to gently brush it. This helps restore the natural fluffiness and structure of the fur. Brush in the direction of the fur to avoid tangles and smooth the fur evenly.
- Preventing tangles: Be careful not to brush or pull the fur too hard, as this can cause tangles or damage. Work in small sections and be particularly careful with the more delicate areas of the fur.
Long-term care:
- Airing out regularly: To maintain the freshness and softness of the lambskin, you should air it out regularly. This helps prevent moisture and odors and keeps the coat in good condition.
- Careful brushing: Gently brush regularly to remove loose hair and dirt particles. This helps prevent matting and preserves the texture of the fur.
By following these drying and care practices, you can ensure that your lambskin stays not only clean, but also in optimal condition to continue to provide you with joy and comfort.
What to avoid
To ensure that your lambskin retains its natural beauty and longevity, it is important to avoid certain cleaning and care mistakes. Here are some important points to keep in mind:
Cleaning error:
- Water too hot: Never use hot water to clean your lambskin. High temperatures can damage the leather structure and strip the natural oils, which can lead to cracking and loss of suppleness. Always use cold or lukewarm water to gently clean the fur.
- Aggressive cleaning agents: Avoid using aggressive cleaning agents, bleaching agents or enzymes, as these can attack the sensitive fibers and the leather surface of the fur. Instead, use mild, pH-neutral cleaning agents that are specifically suitable for sensitive textiles.
- Machine drying: Never dry your lambskin in a dryer or by direct heat sources such as radiators. The strong heat and mechanical action of the dryer can deform the fur, dry it out and reduce its softness. Instead, allow the fur to 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.
- Moisture and extreme temperatures: Avoid exposing the lambskin to extreme temperatures and humidity. High humidity can lead to mold and odors, while extreme cold can make leather brittle. Be sure to store the fur in a temperate, dry room.
- Inadequate care: Do not neglect regular care of your lambskin. Regular brushing and airing are crucial to prevent matting and maintain the fur's natural fluffiness. Without this regular care, the coat can become unsightly and damaged.
Conclusion
The care and cleaning of real lambskin requires special attention and care to preserve the natural beauty and longevity of the fur. By following the hand washing steps described and using the correct drying and care methods, you will ensure that your lambskin remains in the best condition. Avoid common mistakes like using hot water, harsh detergents, and machine drying to prevent long-term damage.