How to Care for Your Sheepskin Mattress Topper (and Make It Last Years)

A Topper Worth Taking Care Of

A premium sheepskin mattress topper is an investment in your sleep — and like any quality natural product, it rewards proper care with years of performance. The good news? Caring for sheepskin is simpler than most people expect.

Follow this guide and your topper will stay fresh, fluffy, and functional for years to come.

How Often Should You Clean a Sheepskin Topper?

Sheepskin is naturally self-cleaning to a degree — wool fibres resist odour and moisture absorption better than synthetic materials. That said, a regular care routine keeps it performing at its best:

  • Air it out: Monthly, or whenever possible. Hang it outside in fresh air (out of direct sunlight) for a few hours.
  • Spot clean: As needed for spills or stains.
  • Full wash: Every 3–6 months, or seasonally.

How to Wash a Sheepskin Mattress Topper

Machine Washing (if care label permits)

  1. Check the care label first — always follow the manufacturer's instructions
  2. Use a wool-specific or gentle detergent — never standard laundry detergent, which strips natural lanolin
  3. Select a wool or delicate cycle with cold water
  4. Use a low spin speed to prevent felting
  5. Do not use fabric softener — wool doesn't need it and softeners can damage fibres

Hand Washing

  1. Fill a bathtub or large basin with cool water
  2. Add a small amount of wool wash
  3. Gently submerge and squeeze the topper — do not wring or twist
  4. Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear
  5. Press out excess water gently — never wring

How to Dry a Sheepskin Topper

Drying is the most critical step. Incorrect drying is the most common cause of sheepskin damage.

  • Lay flat to dry — never hang, as the weight of wet wool can distort the shape
  • Dry in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight — UV exposure can yellow and damage wool fibres
  • Avoid tumble drying unless the care label explicitly permits it (and if so, use the lowest heat setting)
  • Reshape while damp — gently pull back into shape before it fully dries
  • Allow to dry completely before putting back on the bed — this may take 24–48 hours

Restoring Fluffiness

After washing, wool fibres can flatten slightly. Once fully dry:

  • Gently brush with a soft-bristled brush or wool carding brush in one direction
  • Give it a gentle shake to redistribute fibres
  • Allow it to air for a few hours before use

Everyday Care Tips

  • Use a mattress protector over your topper to reduce how often it needs washing
  • Rotate regularly — flip or rotate head-to-foot every few months for even wear
  • Store correctly — if storing seasonally, fold loosely and store in a breathable cotton bag (not plastic)
  • Keep away from moths — use natural cedar or lavender sachets in storage

What to Avoid

  • ❌ Hot water — causes shrinkage and felting
  • ❌ Bleach or harsh detergents — destroys natural fibres
  • ❌ Tumble drying on high heat
  • ❌ Wringing or twisting when wet
  • ❌ Direct sunlight for extended periods

Worth Every Bit of Care

A well-maintained sheepskin topper doesn't just last longer — it continues to perform better than synthetic alternatives that degrade within a couple of years. The natural lanolin in merino wool actually helps the fibres self-repair and maintain their structure over time.

Our Cloud Sheepskin Pad is crafted from premium merino wool and built to last — making it well worth the care.

Shop the Cloud Sheepskin Pad →