Sheepskins - What are people using them for?

Sheepskins are one of the most versatile items, whether you use them as a beautiful accent or as a functional household item for comfort. Many people buy a sheepskin to use as a rug beside their bed or fireplace, only to discover it’s so much more than just a rug! Before long, they find themselves needing another hide for their favorite chair — and let’s not forget the household pets and children! They often end up with their own pelt, since the original sheepskin keeps getting ‘borrowed.’ Beyond rugs, sheepskins can also serve as throws on sofas, adding a touch of warmth and elegance, or be draped over a chair to create a cozy reading nook. Additionally, they can be used as a stylish addition to a picnic setup, providing a soft surface to sit on while enjoying the outdoors.

Sheepskins are a staple in Scandinavian Decor and Hygge Homes. They add effortless style to Boho and Rustic Farmhouse interiors. For homes with a Minimalist theme, a carefully placed pelt will blend seamlessly, while Industrial Modern spaces will find sheepskin softens hard industrial surfaces. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, sheepskins are also durable and long-lasting, making them a practical choice for high-traffic areas. Their natural insulating properties help regulate temperature, keeping spaces warm in winter and cool in summer. This makes them an ideal choice for various settings, from nurseries to living rooms.

Below showcases a small sampling of our customer’s photos and how they’re using their sheepskins.

In our community, we love to hear how you utilize your sheepskins. Share your creative uses and inspire others! Whether it’s for home decor or practical applications, your ideas could spark something new for someone else.

Many customers have found innovative ways to incorporate sheepskins into their lives. For instance, using them as a soft landing pad for children during playtime can enhance safety and comfort. Some have even used them for yoga or meditation, providing a warm and inviting surface that enhances the practice. The versatility of sheepskins means they can be used in creative ways, such as art projects or as unique gifts for friends and family. The possibilities are truly endless!

Want to contribute to this page and the natural living revolution? Send photos to noryageur@gmail.com

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

Brown sheepskins used in dining room on chairs

brown and white sheepskin hide shown on a concrete bench.

Gotland sheepskin rug draped over a sofa being used as a cozy throw.

Long hair Icelandic sheepskin chair pads shown on bar stools at the counter.

White decorative genuine Icelandic sheepskin fur wool chair pad cushions shown on kitchen island seating, 16" x 16"

thick white sheepskin shown on a chair and ottoman in a living room

curly short wool sheepskin draped over the back of a rocking chair

brown lambskin draped over the back of a rocking chair in the living room.

gray sheepskin shown on rustic dining bench in kitchen

Thick sheepskin chair pads shown on a set of chairs in a dining room.

Van life Nomads using a sheepskin traveling on the road for comfort and warmth

Dog using a sheepskin as a soft resting spot in front of the window in a living room

Rare Giant Sheepskin becomes a dogs favorite spot on the floor

How to decorate with a sheepskin?

Cozy rocking chair with sheepskin blanket.

Use as a rug: Place a sheepskin rug in living rooms, bedrooms, or entryways for warmth and texture.
Layer with other rugs: Combine with other area rugs for added depth and style.
Upholster furniture: Cover chairs or stools with sheepskin for a cozy, inviting look.
Add to bedding: Incorporate a sheepskin throw on your bed for a luxurious touch.
Drape over furniture: Use it as a throw on sofas or armchairs for a relaxed vibe.
Create a focal point: Hang a sheepskin on the wall as a unique piece of art.
Use in baby nurseries: Place it in a crib or play area for softness and comfort.
Enhance outdoor spaces: Use it on patio chairs for added comfort and style.

Are sheepskin rugs still in style?

Sheepskin draped over arm and seat of wooden rocking chair

Yes, sheepskin rugs are still in style.

Is sheepskin good for arthritis?

Medical tanned sheepskin shown on floor and one on the sofa with a female sitting on sofa in a living room

Sheepskin can provide comfort and support for people with arthritis due to its softness and cushioning properties.

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.

Do real sheepskin rugs help with allergies

Yes, natural wool is naturally hypoallergenic and inherently resistant to dust mites, making sheepskin rugs a great choice for allergy sufferers.

That said, any rug left uncared for will accumulate dust over time, so regular brushing and maintenance is still important to keep your sheepskin fresh and allergy-friendly.

Sheepskin also has a clear advantage over synthetic rugs, which can:

Shed microplastics into your home environment

Off-gas chemicals from synthetic materials

Contain flame retardants that are not present in natural sheepskin

Choosing a real sheepskin rug is not just better for allergy sufferers, it’s a healthier choice for your home overall.

Find Your 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.