Sheepskins - What are people using them for?

Sheepskins are wonderfully versatile, whether used as beautiful decorative accents or as everyday comforts throughout the home.

Many people first purchase a genuine sheepskin rug for a bedroom or favorite sitting area, only to discover how many other ways they can enjoy it. Before long, another sheepskin finds its way onto a favorite armchair, across a sofa, or into a cozy reading nook. Even household pets have a way of claiming the softest spot for themselves!

Beyond traditional floor rugs, genuine sheepskins make inviting chair covers, decorative throws, and distinctive accents for benches and other furniture. They can even accompany you outdoors for an occasional picnic or afternoon on a covered patio, provided they’re protected from moisture and prolonged sunlight.

Sheepskins have long been appreciated in Scandinavian and Hygge-inspired interiors, but their natural beauty complements many decorating styles. They bring warmth and texture to Bohemian and Rustic Farmhouse spaces, soften the clean lines of Minimalist interiors, and provide an inviting contrast to the harder surfaces often found in Industrial Modern homes.

Each sheepskin has its own character, from long, flowing Icelandic wool to dense, plush fleece and beautifully defined natural curls. Their insulating wool, individual markings, and distinctive textures make them appealing additions to living rooms, bedrooms, and other thoughtfully decorated spaces.

Below, we’re sharing a selection of customer photographs showing the many creative ways genuine sheepskins have found a place in their homes.

We love seeing how our customers make their sheepskins their own. Whether draped over a treasured piece of furniture, displayed as a decorative accent, or enjoyed by a four-legged companion, each photograph offers inspiration for bringing natural texture into everyday living.

Have a photograph you’d like to share? We’d love to see it! Send your sheepskin photos to noryageur@gmail.com and help inspire others with your creative decorating ideas.

modern makeup vanity with an Icelandic sheepskin chair pad on the chair to add style. — Sheepskin chair pad

Brown sheepskins used on seating — Sheepskin chair pad

How to decorate with a sheepskin?

Cozy rocking chair with sheepskin blanket.

Use as an accent rug: Place a genuine sheepskin rug in living rooms, bedrooms, or beside a favorite chair for natural warmth and texture.
Layer with other rugs: Combine sheepskins with larger area rugs for added depth, softness, and visual interest.
Soften furniture: Place a sheepskin over a chair, stool, or bench for an inviting, comfortable accent.
Add to bedding: Drape a sheepskin throw across the foot of an adult bed for a luxurious finishing touch.
Drape over furniture: Use genuine sheepskin on sofas or armchairs to introduce natural texture and relaxed elegance.
Create a focal point: Display a distinctive sheepskin on the wall as a unique decorative accent.
Decorate baby nurseries: Drape a sheepskin over an adult nursery chair as a decorative accent, keeping it out of cribs, bassinets, and infant sleep areas.
Enhance covered outdoor spaces: Add a sheepskin to a protected patio chair for occasional use, bringing it indoors afterward to avoid moisture and prolonged sunlight exposure.

Are sheepskin rugs still in style?

Sheepskin draped over arm and seat of wooden rocking chair

Yes! Genuine sheepskin rugs remain a timeless choice for adding natural texture, softness, and character to interiors. Their versatility makes them particularly appealing in Scandinavian, Rustic Farmhouse, Modern, and Minimalist homes. Whether draped over a favorite chair, layered with another rug, or placed beside a bed, genuine sheepskins offer a distinctive decorative accent that transcends changing trends.

How often should you wash a sheepskin rug?

The short answer: never. Sheepskin rugs should not be machine or hand washed, as water and agitation can damage the natural fibers, suede backing, cause severe shrinkage, and ruin the soft texture by stripping the natural lanolin from the wool.

Instead, regular care should include:

Shaking the rug outdoors to remove loose dirt and debris

Brushing with a wire sheepskin brush to keep the fibers fluffy and tangle-free

Spot cleaning any stains promptly using a sheepskin-specific detergent and a damp cloth

For severe soiling that cannot be spot cleaned, we recommend taking your rug to a professional fur or sheepskin specialist for dry cleaning. This should only be considered in extreme cases.

Find The Perfect Sheepskin for Your Space

Choosing the right sheepskin for your space involves considering both aesthetics and functionality. Look for colors and textures that complement your existing decor. For instance, a white or cream sheepskin can brighten up a dark space, while darker shades can add depth and richness. Additionally, consider the size of the pelt in relation to your furniture. A larger sheepskin can serve as a statement piece in a room, while smaller sizes can be used to accent specific areas. Explore different ways to arrange your sheepskin to create a harmonious look throughout your home.