When it comes to luxury, there is nothing quite as soft and comfortable as a set of sheepskin seat covers for cars for seat protection. When you know how to clean sheepskin, you can keep it looking brand new.
What Makes Sheepskin Materials Different?
Not only is sheepskin luxurious to sit on, but it's also a natural insulator for warmth in the winter and coolness in the summer due to the air pockets between the fibers that regulate temperatures. It is soft, plush, and breathable, allowing air to circulate between you and your seat while driving in the heat.
Sheepskin seat covers for cars are moisture-wicking and durable. In addition, it is naturally hypoallergenic so even people that are allergic to wool will not have any concerns.
Pre-Cleaning Preparations
Get ready to clean your seat covers by doing the following:
- Remove seat covers from vehicle
- Remove all hooks
- Brush seat covers with a soft wire brush (like a pet brush). This allows the fibers to untangle and any dirt or debris to rinse out.
Tools and Materials Needed
Here are the tools you'll need:
- Mild sheepskin or leather cleaner designed for sheepskin
- Clean, soft, white cloth or sponge
- Lukewarm water
- Dry towel for blotting
- Soft bristle sheepskin brush
- Mild detergent (optional)
Preliminary Checks - Identifying the Areas That Need Cleaning
Take the seat covers into good lighting before you get started.
Visual examination – Look over the surface of your seat covers, looking for any area or spot that appears discolored, stained, or dirty.
Feel the texture – By running your hands over the surface of the seats, you'll be able to feel areas that may look clean but feel different.
Check common problem areas – Stains are likely to occur in specific places on the seats like:
- Seating area
- Armrests
- Seatbelt contact points
- Edges and seams
White cloth – Gently press it and rub on the cover and look for transfer dirt.
Mark the spots – Mark specific areas with masking tape that you know are dirty.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Sheepskin Seat Covers
Before cleaning your sheepskin car seat covers, always do a test spot with your cleaner in an inconspicuous area.
Follow these steps to get your sheepskin car seat covers looking like new again:
Brushing the Sheepskin
Before brushing, gently shake out the skin to remove loose dirt and debris.
- Start with a soft wire pet brush and gently brush the fibers.
- Use light pressure and brush in long strokes in the direction of the natural nap to untangle fibers
- Begin at the top and work your way down.
Brushing the sheepskin loosens debris and fluffs up the fibers to its original look and feel.
Spot Cleaning for Minor Stains
Follow these steps to spot-clean your sheepskin:
1. Mix the sheepskin cleaner in lukewarm water per directions – if the stain is stubborn, add a drop of mild detergent. See your Sheepskin brand/company information on detergents.
2. Dampen a cloth or sponge by dipping it into the solution; squeeze out excess moisture.
3. Blot the stain by pressing and lifting and scrub the stained area if needed.
4. Work from the outside in to prevent spreading the stain.
5. Repeat as needed until the stain is gone.
6. Rinse and blot by dampening a clean cloth in lukewarm water and blot to remove any residual cleaning solution.
7. Dry by patting it with a clean, dry towel to absorb excess moisture.
8. Once the Sheepskin car seat cover is completely dry brush the area to fluff up and bring to its original appearance.
Deep Cleaning the Sheepskin
Here are the instructions for how to wash sheepskin if they need a thorough cleaning:
1. Remove all hooks
2. Prepare your cleaning solution in a large tub of lukewarm water.
3. Submerge the seat cover in the water and gently swirl them around to distribute the cleaner evenly, especially around stained, and dirty spots.
4. Soak for 10-15 minutes; oversoaking can damage the covers.
Rinsing and Removing Excess Water
Once you've thoroughly washed the sheepskin seat covers, lift them from the wash water and squeeze out the excess the moisture.
1. Fill a clean tub with lukewarm water.
2. Place the covers in the water and swirl the water around.
3. Rinse them until you no longer see soap residue in the water,
4. Remove and carefully squeeze the covers to remove excess water; do not twist or wring as it may damage the leather.
Please note: Washing the Sheepskin seat covers one at a time will be easier than trying to do them together.
Drying the Sheepskin Properly
Properly drying your sheepskin seat covers for cars will help
protect them.
1. Lay them evenly and flat
on a clean, dry towel in a clean, cool, dry area.
2.Air dry naturally only
(no dryer), which may take 24 hours.
3. Flip them and gently
fluff them with the brush as they dry.
4. Make sure they are
completely dry before installing them back on your seats.
If the seat covers aren't completely dry, they can damage or color transfer onto your seats.
Tips to Maintain Sheepskin Seat Covers in Between Cleanings
Regular care between cleanings includes the following:
- Shake them out periodically
- Brush them to fluff them up
- Vacuum regularly to remove dust and dirt
- Spot cleaning
- Keep them out of direct sunlight
- Rotate them, from driver to passenger seat if possible
- Put a clean towel down if your clothing is dirty
- Make sure there are no sharp objects on the seats
- Follow the sellers’ recommendations for regular care
If you don't feel you can properly clean them, consider professional cleaning and always store them properly by placing them in a breathable bag in a cool, dry area.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistakes can ruin a set of sheepskin covers, so avoid the following:
- Using harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia
- Machine drying that can distort and shrink the covers
- Direct heat and sunlight dry can fade the fibers, and make them stiff
- Over soaking
- Wringing and twisting
- Aggressive brushing or using a stiff wire brush
- Not doing a test clean
- Neglecting regular maintenance
- Storing them damp
- Ignoring the manufacturer's suggested care instructions
Following these instructions will give you years of use from your seat covers.
Why Choose ShearComfort Sheepskin Seat Covers
When you choose ShearComfort Sheepskin Seat Covers, you will get a seat cover with up to one inch of Genuine Sheepskin fleece that will last you for many years. Our covers are highly customized for fit, so they will accommodate side airbags, if needed, and are designed to be a proper fit based on your Year, Make, and Model.
We also offer:
- Free shipping over $150 to Mainland USA and Canadian Provinces
- 100% Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed
- 1-Year Risk-Free Warranty against defects in materials or workmanship. Some exclusions apply.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to clean sheepskin seat covers, you can keep them looking brand new and enjoy them for many years to come!
