How to Clean Shearling: Easy Steps for Fresh Look

When it comes to keeping your shearling jacket looking fresh, knowing the right cleaning techniques is crucial. So how to clean shearling? You can maintain the softness and appearance of your shearling by gently patting and hanging it properly. Start by shaking your jacket to remove loose dirt, and use a soft brush to sweep away surface dust.

Sometimes, faux shearling can be cleaned easily at home. For a real shearling, it’s important to carefully follow instructions, using recommended products and methods. Check out tips on cleaning shearling coats at home to save yourself time and keep your jacket in top condition.

Cleaning a shearling jacket requires a delicate approach to maintain its luxurious feel and longevity. When you invest in a high-quality leather jacket, particularly one from our custom fit collection, it’s essential to know the best care practices. Begin by using a soft cloth to gently wipe away surface dirt and debris from your leather outerwear. For any wet coat spots, promptly dab with a paper towel to absorb moisture.

It’s crucial to understand the difference between spot treating versus submersion; always opt for the former to avoid damaging the leather or shearling. For more persistent marks, a suede brush can be employed to lift away a stubborn stain without harming the material. Additionally, incorporating wool dryer balls during the drying process can help maintain the shearling’s fluffiness by distributing natural oils evenly. When not in use, store your leather jackets on a sturdy hanger to preserve their shape and prevent any creases. Following these tips ensures that your leather jacket remains a timeless addition to your wardrobe.

Understanding Shearling

Shearling is a unique material that combines warmth, style, and versatility. It offers several benefits, making it a popular choice for coats, jackets, and other items. Let’s explore what shearling is, its benefits, and where you might commonly find it used.

What Is Shearling?

Shearling is made from sheepskin or lambskin with the wool still attached. The leather side is usually suede, while the wool side is fluffy and soft. This natural material is obtained by tanning the hide of a sheep and processing it to maintain the wool’s luxurious texture.

Shearling shouldn’t be confused with faux shearling, which is a synthetic material designed to imitate real shearling. Real shearling is breathable and offers better insulation.

Benefits of Shearling

One of the main benefits of shearling is its incredible insulation. It keeps you warm by trapping heat, making it an excellent choice for winter wear. Shearling is also naturally water-resistant, which helps protect you in wet weather.

It’s a breathable material, allowing air to circulate and preventing overheating. This quality makes it comfortable to wear even for extended periods. Shearling is also durable and can maintain its appearance and functionality for years with proper care.

Common Uses for Shearling

Shearling is commonly used in garments like jackets, coats, and vests due to its warmth and style. It’s also popular in accessories such as gloves, hats, and boots. The material’s soft texture provides added comfort and luxury.

Apart from clothing, you can find shearling in home décor items like cushions and blankets. These items add a cozy and stylish touch to your living spaces. Shearling rugs are popular as well, providing both aesthetic appeal and practical warmth.

Before You Start Cleaning

Before cleaning your shearling items, it’s important to check the label for care instructions and gather all necessary supplies. This ensures you treat your shearling the right way and avoid damaging it.

Check the Label On Your Shearling Jacket

Before doing anything, take a look at the care label on your shearling item. This tag is usually found inside the garment or on a small tag on blankets and rugs. The label gives you crucial information about what cleaning methods are safe.

The label might indicate whether the shearling can be washed at home or if it requires professional cleaning. Look for any symbols or specific instructions that mention the water temperature, detergents to use, or if you should avoid certain cleaning agents.

Following the label’s instructions will help keep your shearling looking good and lasting longer. Don’t ignore these guidelines, as failing to follow them could ruin your item.

Gather Supplies

Once you know what the label says, gather the supplies you’ll need. Essential items usually include a gentle detergent or castile soap and a soft-bristled brush. You might also need a large bath towel for absorbing moisture and a sponge or cloth for spot cleaning.

If the label allows for more thorough cleaning, consider preparing a clean, flat surface where you can lay the shearling item flat to dry. Avoid using harsh chemicals or rough brushes that can damage the delicate fibers.

Having all necessary supplies ready ahead of time makes the cleaning process smoother and more efficient. Make sure you’re using the right products to protect the softness and quality of your shearling.

Spot Cleaning Shearling Coats

Spot cleaning is the best way to handle small spills and stains on shearling to keep it looking fresh. Using minimal water and mild cleaners helps avoid damage.

Addressing Spills

Quickly addressing spills prevents stains from setting. If you spill something on your shearling, act fast. Use a clean, damp piece of cloth to gently blot the area. Avoid rubbing as it can push the liquid deeper into the material.

Keep some mild soap or castile soap handy. Mix a small amount with lukewarm water and use it to treat the spill. Dampen the cloth with the soapy water and dab the spill gently. Try to lift the spill without soaking the shearling.

After blotting, use a dry towel to pat the area dry. If the spill is greasy, sprinkle cornstarch or baby powder to absorb it before blotting. Let it sit for a few hours and then brush it off with a soft-bristled brush.

Treating Stains

Keep things simple. Start by spot testing a small, unseen area with the cleaning solution to ensure it won’t damage the shearling. If it’s safe, dampen a cloth with water and mild soap.

Gently blot the stain using a circular motion. Rinse the cloth and blot with clean water to remove soap residue. If the stain persists, consider professional cleaning to avoid worsening it.

Avoid direct heat sources when drying. Instead, let it air dry and use a padded hanger to maintain its shape.

Your shearling will thank you for the gentle care!

Deep Cleaning Shearling

When deep cleaning a shearling item, it’s important to use gentle techniques to keep the material in good shape. Proper hand washing, machine washing with care, and drying techniques will ensure your shearling looks great for years.

Hand Washing Techniques

Hand washing is the safest way to clean shearling. Start by shaking out the item to remove any loose dirt. Prepare a basin with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild detergent or castile soap. Submerge the item and gently agitate it with your hands.

Avoid scrubbing or wringing the shearling. Instead, lightly squeeze out the water. Place the item on a clean towel and roll it up to remove excess moisture. Important: Never twist or wring the shearling, as this can damage the fibers.

Lay the item flat on a second dry towel and reshape it gently. Let it air dry naturally away from direct heat or sunlight. Once dry, use a soft brush to gently fluff the shearling.

Machine Washing Tips

Machine washing a shearling piece is risky and should only be done if stated safe by the manufacturer. If you choose to proceed, use a front-loading washing machine, as they are gentler. Set the machine to a gentle cycle with cold water.

Add a small amount of gentle detergent. Place the shearling jacket in a mesh laundry bag to provide an extra layer of protection. Caution: Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners; they can ruin the shearling.

After the cycle is complete, do not wring out the item. Remove it from the bag and carefully squeeze out excess water. Use a towel to blot out additional moisture, and follow the same air-drying steps as for hand washing.

Drying Shearling Properly

Drying shearling correctly is crucial to maintaining its shape and softness. After blotting out excess water with a towel, lay your shearling jacket flat on a dry towel. Reshape the item to its original form. Avoid hanging it up, as this can distort the shape.

Allow the shearling to dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sources of heat sources like radiators or sunlight. This process can take a while, so patience is key. Once the shearling is thoroughly dry, you can fluff it with a soft brush.

For any stubborn wrinkles or matted areas, lightly steam using a handheld steamer, keeping a safe distance to avoid damage.

Maintaining Shearling

Keeping your shearling in top condition involves regular care and proper storage. These practices help maintain the softness and durability of the material.

Regular Care Tips

To keep your shearling coat or jacket clean, shake off dust after each use. This simple step prevents buildup and reduces the need for deep cleaning. When spot cleaning, use a damp cloth with mild detergent to tackle dirt.

Brush the shearling regularly. This keeps the wool fluffy and free from matting. Use a wire brush designed for garments to gently comb out the fibers.

Rotate your shearling coats. Avoid wearing them every day to give the material time to rest and recover, which helps maintain its shape and feel.

Professional cleaning is recommended once a year. Find a service experienced in handling shearling jacket to ensure your coat or jacket receives expert care.

Proper Storage Solutions

When storing shearling, keep it in a cool, dry place. Avoid areas with high humidity or direct sunlight, which can damage the material. Using a cloth garment bag will protect your shearling while still allowing it to breathe.

Hang your shearling jacket or jacket on a wide, padded hanger. This supports the shoulders and helps retain its shape. Avoid plastic or wire hangers, as they can cause deformities.

Store shearling away from sharp objects. This prevents nicks and tears in the fabric. Make sure to keep it in a well-ventilated space to prevent mustiness and mildew.

By following these steps, you can ensure your shearling stays in excellent condition for many years.

Professional Cleaning and Repair

For tough stains or deep cleaning, professional services are your best bet. These services ensure your shearling stays in top condition without damage. Here’s how to determine when to use them and how to pick a good service.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your shearling jacket or jacket has tough spots or needs a deep clean, it’s time to call in the pros. DIY methods may not be enough for heavy soil or stubborn marks. Also, if your shearling has any rips, tears, or damage, professional repair services can help. They have the expertise and tools to fix these issues without causing further harm. Finally, consider professional cleaning every few years to keep your piece looking fresh and feeling soft.

Choosing the Right Service

Finding a reputable cleaner is key. Look for a dry cleaner with experience in cleaning leather and shearling coats. Check online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends. Once you find a cleaner, ask questions about their methods and the products they use. Make sure they use gentle, non-toxic solutions to avoid damage to your shearling. Also, inquire about their repair services if your garment needs fixing. It’s always a good idea to get a quote before proceeding.

Other options include specialized shearling and leather cleaning services available online. They may offer mail-in options, which can be convenient. Just make sure to read their terms and customer feedback carefully.

Preventing Damage

Taking steps to prevent damage to your shearling jacket will keep it looking great for a long time. Focus on avoiding common hazards and protecting it from moths and insects.

Avoiding Common Hazards

To keep your shearling item in top shape, avoid using water or water-based cleaners on it. Shearling can get damaged by water, so stick to dry cleaning methods.

Don’t expose your coat to direct sunlight for long periods. Sunlight can cause fading and weaken the material.

Avoid storing your shearling jacket in plastic bags. Plastic doesn’t allow the shearling to breathe and can trap moisture, leading to mildew.

Regularly brush your coat using a soft-bristle brush. This keeps the fibers fluffy or debris.

Safeguarding Against Moths and Insects

Moths and insects can be a big problem for shearling pieces. Store your coat with cedar blocks or lavender sachets. These natural repellents help keep bugs away without damaging your coat.

Before storing your coat for a long time, make sure it’s clean. Insects are more attracted to dirty fabrics.

Use breathable garment covers. Storing your shearling in a breathable cover prevents pests from getting to it while allowing air to circulate.

Check your coat regularly for any signs of insect damage. Address any issues immediately to prevent further damage. Regular inspections can help you catch problems early and keep your item in perfect condition.

Maintaining the pristine condition of your shearling leather jackets is crucial to ensuring they remain a stylish and durable part of your wardrobe. Spot treating is often the best method to address minor stains, focusing on the affected area without compromising the integrity of the entire jacket. When cleaning your shearling jacket, after it has been gently washed, use a steel comb to carefully groom the fibers without needing to rub harshly, preserving the jacket’s softness and structure.

When it comes to more extensive cleaning, it’s important to wash your sheepskin and suede with care, using gentle techniques to avoid damage. Remember, the material should never be aggressively rubbed; instead, a light touch is key to preserving its natural beauty. Proper care not only enhances the look of your jacket but also prolongs its lifespan, allowing you to enjoy wearing your custom fit leather jackets for years to come. By understanding the specific needs of sheepskin and suede, you can ensure that your leather pieces remains in top condition, ready to be worn and admired on any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cleaning shearling can be tricky, but with the right methods, you can keep your items looking great. Here are some common questions and useful tips.

What’s the best way to freshen up a shearling coat?

Use a soft brush or cloth to remove surface dirt. For stains, spot clean with a damp piece of cloth and mild soap. Make sure to rinse and air dry the coat away from heat sources.

Can you give me tips for cleaning a shearling collar without damage?

Spot clean with a damp cloth and mild soap. Pat it gently and avoid rubbing harshly. Let it air dry, and use a brush to keep the texture nice and fluffy.

Any advice on caring for shearling-lined furniture?

Regularly vacuum the shearling to get rid of dust and crumbs. For spills, blot the area and spot clean with mild soap and water. Always let it air dry naturally.

Is it cool to wash a faux shearling jacket at home?

For faux shearling, you can often hand or machine wash on a gentle cycle with cold water. Always check the care label first. Lay flat to dry, away from direct sources of heat.

Can you really put shearling items in a washing machine?

It’s generally not recommended to machine wash genuine shearling. Hand wash gently or seek professional cleaning services to avoid damaging the material.