Expert Tips to Refresh Your Sheepskin Coat at Home

Restoring your sheepskin coat to its pristine condition is entirely possible without costly trips to the dry cleaner or expensive specialty products.

Cleaning Genuine Sheepskin Coats

Sheepskin coats are crafted from sheep, karakul, or goat hides treated with special tanning agents. Most furs, except karakul, are sheared or clipped. Chrome tanning produces velvet-like fur, while fat tanning results in suede.

Coats with protective coatings are impregnated with natural resins, making them more durable and moisture-resistant. For these, simply wiping with a damp cloth usually suffices to remove dirt.

Uncoated genuine sheepskin requires more delicate care.

Dry Cleaning Genuine Sheepskin

Since suede and velvet are sensitive to moisture, dry cleaning is preferred.

Fresh dirt can be brushed off using a firm rubber brush or a pencil eraser by gently rubbing the stain and then shaking off debris. Softening the nap with steam for 2-3 minutes over a boiling kettle can speed up the process.

If stains are stubborn, try one of these methods:

1. Use semolina or cornstarch: Sprinkle on the stain and gently rub with a soft cloth in circular motions. Once the powder stops darkening, the stain has been absorbed.
2. Use bread: A method dating back to Peter the Great’s era involves rubbing dried bread crust over the stain like a brush. Alternatively, roll bread crumbs over the spot.

For greasy stains, apply tooth powder with an old toothbrush, brush it in, then remove residue with a rubber brush or eraser.

Wet Cleaning Genuine Sheepskin

Areas like collars, cuffs, and pockets often accumulate heavy dirt that dry cleaning can’t fully remove. In such cases, carefully use liquid solutions, but avoid soaking the coat to prevent deformation.

Always test any liquid cleaner on a small hidden area first. If yellowing or white residue appears, professional cleaning is recommended.

For dark-colored coats, follow these steps:

1. Mix water and ammonia in a 4:1 ratio. Dampen a sponge, wring it out thoroughly, and gently clean the stain.
2. Next, dilute 1 tablespoon of vinegar in 1 liter of water and wipe the surface again with a well-wrung sponge to restore shine.
3. Pat the cleaned area dry with paper towels and air dry naturally. Avoid hair dryers or heat sources.

Light-colored coats can be cleaned with a mixture of warm milk and baking soda. Apply gently to stains, then follow with the vinegar solution and dry with paper towels.

Maintaining Sheepskin Fur

Care for the fur on genuine sheepskin coats just like any other fur garment. Proper brushing and storage will keep it soft and fluffy.

Cleaning Faux Sheepskin Coats

Faux sheepskin coats have fabric exteriors and polyester or acrylic fur linings. Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions closely.

Check the garment label and research cleaning methods specific to your brand.

Some faux coats can be hand washed using gentle detergents designed for synthetic leather or mild soaps, avoiding harsh powders.

Discover engaging topics and analytical content in DIY as of 29-05-2021. The article titled " Expert Tips to Refresh Your Sheepskin Coat at Home " provides new insights and practical guidance in the DIY field. Each topic is meticulously analyzed to deliver actionable information to readers.

The topic " Expert Tips to Refresh Your Sheepskin Coat at Home " helps you make smarter decisions within the DIY category. All topics on our website are unique and offer valuable content for our audience.