So, you've got a shearling leather jacket, also known as a sherpa leather jacket, as one of the coziest and most stylish pieces in your wardrobe. Let’s be honest, it is not the easiest thing to clean. One wrong move, and you could end up damaging that soft lambskin or flattening the plush shearling inside.
If you’ve been wondering how to clean a shearling jacket without messing it up, you're in the right spot. We’re going to walk you through it in a simple, real-talk way. No confusing terms. No fancy tools. Just stuff that works and keeps your jacket looking good for years.
What Is Shearling Material?
If you’re new to this and want to know what shearling leather is. Here's what you need to know. Shearling material is sheepskin where the wool is still attached to the hide. Think of it like nature’s built-in insulation system, leather on the outside, fur on the inside. It's super warm, soft, and kind of luxurious without being flashy.
This isn’t the same as faux shearling or some fuzzy lining stitched inside a coat. Real shearling leather jackets have a weight and feel that make them special. And that’s why it deserves the right kind of care.
How to Clean a Shearling Jacket Step-by-Step
Below is a simple step-by-step guide to help you clean your shearling jacket at home and make it last for years.
Step 1: Gently Brush Away Surface Dirt
Before using any product or water, start by gently brushing the jacket. A soft shearling brush is your best friend here. Go with the grain of the fur and avoid brushing too hard. This loosens up any dirt, lint, or surface dust without damaging the fibers. If your jacket is looking a little dull, this step alone can already bring back some life.
Step 2: Spot Clean with a Damp Cloth
Now it’s time to deal with any small stains. Mix a little lukewarm water with a mild detergent (make sure it's safe for leather and wool). Lightly dip a clean cloth into the solution and dab the stained area. Don’t soak the jacket as excess water can mess with the wool. Be gentle and avoid scrubbing. A blotting motion works best.
Step 3: Deep Clean in Sections (If Needed)
For more noticeable dirt or if your lambskin fur jacket hasn’t been cleaned in a while, you can go for a deeper clean. Dip a soft sponge in a mixture of lukewarm water and shearling-safe soap. Clean one small area at a time. Make sure you don’t overdo it because wet patches can stretch the material or harden the leather.
Step 4: Rinse and Remove Soap Residue
After cleaning, wipe down each section with a clean damp cloth to remove any leftover soap. Again, avoid drenching the jacket. You don’t want any soap to sit on the leather or shearling, as it can cause drying or cracking over time.
Step 5: Blot and Let It Air Dry
Once done, gently blot the cleaned areas with a dry towel to soak up moisture. Don’t twist or wring the jacket, it’ll lose its shape fast. Lay it flat on a clean towel in a well-ventilated area to dry. Avoid direct sunlight, radiators, or hairdryers. Heat will ruin the leather and dry out the wool.
Step 6: Fluff and Condition the Wool
Once the jacket is fully dry, use your shearling brush again to fluff up the wool. If it feels stiff, you may be wondering how to soften shearling fur. Here’s the trick: use a small amount of Shearling Leather conditioner or one of the best shearling conditioners designed for lambskin. This will hydrate the material and bring back that cozy softness.
Step 7: Always Store It the Right Way
Cleaning your jacket is one thing. Keeping it looking good between wears is another. Don’t fold it. Hang it on a wide, padded hanger. Keep it away from direct heat or sunlight. It can dry out the leather and fade the color. Use a breathable garment bag. Plastic traps moisture, which is bad for both leather and wool.
Quick Tips to Keep Your Shearling Jacket Looking New
Avoid these points to keep your shearling leather jacket new and fresh for years.
- Never wash your shearling in the washing machine.
- Always use a specialized shearling conditioner to maintain the leather and wool.
- Use a breathable garment bag when storing.
- Avoid direct heat and moisture.
- Brush regularly with a proper shearling brush to avoid matting.
If you’re really into styling, check out this read on shearling jacket outfit ideas for women, or dive into how to wear men’s shearling jackets for more inspiration.
How to Soften Shearling Fur That’s Gone Crunchy
If you’ve stored your lambskin fur jacket poorly or just worn it too much without a break, you might notice the fur inside getting stiff or flat. It happens.
- Let it hang in a well-ventilated room for a day to freshen up.
- Use a shearling brush to gently revive the fluff.
- You can also lightly mist the inside with water and fluff it up with your fingers, just don’t overdo it.
