DIY Sheepskin Coat Restoration: Remove Stains & Restore Softness

Sheepskin coats are timeless, rugged and luxurious—but like all things valuable, they require proper care and attention to last. Whether it’s cracking leather, matted wool or mystery stains from last winter’s storm, even the most premium sheepskin jacket can start to look tired if not properly maintained.

In this guide you’ll learn how to fix worn out Women and Men's Sheepskin Coat, remove stains without damaging the hide and restore the soft, cozy feel of shearling wool. We’ll also go over do-it-yourself (DIY) methods, when to seek professional help and share smart storage tips to keep your coat looking brand new for years.

Let’s get into restoring sheepskin back to life, section by section—with real product examples to show how care truly extends their wear.

1. Why Sheepskin Coat Care Matters

A sheepskin coat is more than just a fashion statement—it’s a long-term investment. Made from natural lamb or sheep hide with the wool still attached, these coats offer thermal insulation, breathability and water resistance. However, over time, improper use or poor storage can lead to:

·         Cracked leather

·         Dry or stiff exterior

·         Flattened or matted wool lining

·         Color fading and surface stains

By learning to care for your sheepskin, you preserve not only its looks but also its function.

Product Spotlight: The Men’s Long Hooded Sheepskin Leather Winter Coat is a durable and luxurious coat that deserves the best restoration practices to preserve its shape, texture and protective qualities.

2. Spotting the Signs of Damage

Before you can fix your coat, you need to diagnose the damage. Look for the following wear indicators:

·         Leather Discoloration: Often caused by sunlight or water exposure

·         Cracking and Dryness: Indicates loss of natural oils like lanolin

·         Wool Flattening: Compression over time removes the plush feel

·         Loose Seams or Lining Detachment

Use your hands to feel for rough textures, stiffness or uneven thickness. Any sharp creases or hardened sections may signal that the leather has started to deteriorate.

Tip: Always inspect high-friction areas like elbows, cuffs and collars—these wear out the fastest.

3. Cleaning Sheepskin the Right Way

Cleaning sheepskin requires delicacy. One wrong move—like soaking it in water or using harsh chemicals—and you could damage the natural hide structure or wool softness.

Recommended Steps for Cleaning:

1.      Shake off Dust & Debris: Use a suede brush or lint roller to gently remove surface dirt.

2.      Spot Cleaning: For light stains, mix a few drops of wool-safe detergent with cold water. Apply with a damp sponge using a blotting motion—not rubbing.

3.      Tackle Oil & Grease Stains: Sprinkle cornstarch or talc powder on the area, leave for 24 hours, then brush off gently.

4.      Avoid Soaking: Never fully submerge a sheepskin coat. Water saturation ruins the leather.

5.      Rinse with Minimal Moisture: If necessary, dab with a damp cloth, then pat dry with a clean towel.

Mentioned Product: The Hooded Men’s Waxed Sheepskin Fur Coat resists stains better thanks to its wax finish, but still needs spot cleaning using these methods.

4. Fixing Cracks and Surface Damage

Over time dry air and heat can suck out the natural lanolin from your sheepskin and cause cracks, brittleness and peeling.

How to Repair Worn Leather:

·         Apply Leather Conditioner: Use products for unfinished or suede leather to avoid clogging pores.

·         Use Leather Filler for Deep Cracks: Fill gently, then buff.

·         Buff with a Soft Cloth: Revive texture and shine with circular motions.

For a smooth finish repeat conditioning every few months especially in winter.

Pro Tip: Test any product on a small area first to avoid discoloration.

Featured Product: The Slim Fit Sheepskin Shearling Aviator Trench Coat for Men has a smooth finish that needs conditioning to stay supple and crack free.

5. Bringing Back Wool Softness

Wool linings are what make shearling coats so warm and plush, but over time they can become flat, scratchy or stiff.

Wool Restoration Guide:

·         Use a Wool Brush or Pet Brush: Lightly brush in all directions to fluff matted areas.

·         Spray with Lanolin & Water Mix: Restores lost moisture.

·         Use a Wool Revitalizer Spray: Commercial sprays are designed to restore elasticity and softness.

If wool gets wet during cleaning allow it to air dry naturally on a flat surface.

Coat Highlight: The inner lining of the Slim Fit Aviator Trench Coat becomes so soft again with proper wool maintenance.

6. Drying Without Damage

Drying is just as important as cleaning. Wrong drying techniques can cause shrinkage, stiffness or permanent cracking.

Best Drying Practices:

·         No Direct Heat: Avoid radiators, hair dryers and sunlight.

·         Flat Drying is Best: Lay the coat flat on a towel in a well-ventilated room.

·         Gently Blot Excess Moisture: Use a microfiber towel and press softly.

·         Shape as It Dries: Restore shape to the collar and cuffs to prevent curling.

Did You Know? Sheepskin adjusts to humidity so drying it too fast breaks that balance.

7. DIY Fixes for Minor Wear and Tear

Small issues like loose seams, torn wool or minor holes don’t always need professional repair. With a few tools you can extend the life of your coat at home.

Easy At-Home Repairs:

·         Fabric Glue: Fix wool lining or patches on the inside.

·         Sew Minor Rips: Use a curved leather needle and thick thread.

·         Apply Patches: Match similar leather tones with a leather patch kit.

·         Secure the Lining: Reattach edges that come away with hand stitching.

Product in Context: The Men’s Brown Hooded Sheepskin Shearling Winter Coat has a sturdy build but even it can benefit from seam reinforcement over time.

8. When to Call a Pro

Some damage requires expert help—especially when coats have bad cracking, color loss or structural issues.

Signs You Need a Pro:

·         Tears in the outer hide

·         Burn or chemical stains

·         Hard as a rock leather

·         Lining detached or warped

Most professional restoration services offer:

·         Color matching

·         Patch blending

·         Wool replacement

·         Moisturizing and sealing

Cost: $80 to $250 depending on coat and issue.

Tip: Look for a restoration service that specializes in natural leather garments, not synthetic.

9. Storing Sheepskin for Longevity

Proper storage is your coat’s first line of defense against mold, odor and shape distortion.

Smart Storage Tips:

·         Breathable Garment Bags: Plastic bags trap moisture.

·         Padded Hangers: Prevents shoulder sag.

·         Cedar Wood or Lavender Pouches: Natural moth repellents.

·         Cool, Dry Areas: Avoid basements or heated attics.

·         Loosen Tight Buttons or Zippers: Reduces pressure on fabric.

Mentioned Product: The Men’s Black Sheepskin Shearling Car Coat holds its shape well during off-seasons with these storage methods.

10. Final FAQs on Sheepskin Restoration

Let’s wrap up with some frequently asked questions about restoring and repairing sheepskin coats:

Q: Can I wash a sheepskin coat in the washing machine?

A: No. Machine washing destroys the leather and compresses the wool. Always spot clean or hand-clean using gentle methods.

Q: How long does a sheepskin coat last?

A: With regular care and restoration, a high quality sheepskin coat can last 15-20 years or more.

Q: Is it worth restoring an old sheepskin coat?

A: Absolutely. Restoration is almost always more cost effective than replacement—and helps retain the coat’s sentimental or vintage value.

Q: How often should I condition the leather?

A: Apply leather conditioner every 4-6 months, especially after exposure to rain or snow.

Q: What brush is best for fluffing shearling wool?

A: A soft-bristled wool brush, suede brush or pet brush. Avoid hard bristles that can damage the fibers.

Conclusion

Taking care of a sheepskin coat is an art and science—but it’s also very rewarding. Whether you’re brushing life back into a vintage piece or fixing a crack in a modern design, restoration gives your coat a second chance to shine. And remember maintenance saves money in the long run and keeps your coat looking elegant for many seasons to come.

All of our featured coats from the Men’s Long Hooded Sheepskin Coat to the Men’s Black Car Coat deserve this kind of attention. By following these tips you’ll get the most out of your investment in quality outerwear.