Treat these hides with care and they will last for a very long time, although some hair may be shed from the hide over a period of time. Care should be taken when cleaning. Simply vacuum or give rugs, bags and cushions a shake outside to remove dust and small dry particles of dirt. Rotate your bag or rug from time to time so that it wears evenly.
If using a damp cloth, wipe with the hair and not against it. You can wipe smoothly in the direction of the hair with a damp (but not wet) cloth with mild soap and water. Do not soak the hide or get it wet. Do not wash in a machine. Dry using a towel running along the nap. Avoid vigorous rubbing, do not use saddle soaps, or leather creams as these may do more harm than good. Protect from direct sunlight and avoid sharp objects and excessive heat.
For spills like wine, food, etc - soak them with a paper towel or sponge immediately. Remove solid matter with the blunt edge of knife by scraping gently in the direction of the hair. Wipe with a damp (but not wet) sponge or cloth using mild soapy solution. Finally clean with a damp cloth using a diluted 1% white vinegar and 99% water solution. Alternatively to clean spills, use a very small amount of shampoo on a damp sponge. Sponge along the nap repeatedly. Rinse the sponge to remove the shampoo and dirt and repeat until the hide is cleaned.
For fat, grease, lipstick, tar and chewing gum - Remove solid matter with the blunt edge of knife by scraping gently. Apply dry cleaning fluid to the affected area on a soft cloth by dabbing gently. Wipe with a damp (but not wet) sponge or cloth using a mild soapy solution.
NOTE - Cowhides never like to be damp or wet.
Hand washing
Hand wash using warm water (not hot), and use a teaspoon of mild, non-biological detergent. Gently squeeze out excess water, carefully pull the bag or rug back into shape, then hang to dry away from direct heat. Flexing the sheepskin as it dries will help to maintain its suppleness.
Machine wash
Single fleeces fit comfortably in standard washing machines, small bags may fit into larger machines. Use the coolest 'woollens' settings - an absolute maximum temperature of 40, preferably 30 degrees - and add a teaspoon of mild, non-biological detergent. Lightly spin the rug and then allow to dry naturally, away from direct heat.
We can not guarantee cleaning methods, but these are the best methods of trying. This is done at your own risk.
Initially the hide will moult, however on receipt of the hide we recommend that you vacuum it on the lowest suction setting using a fabric nozzle (as used for curtains, upholstery). Shake it and vacuum again. You may need to do this a few times in the first couple of months or so.
The hide will then settle down and will need a good shake and possibly a vacuum every couple of months.
They can be used indoors and outside however we do not recommend that they are left permanently outside and they should not be forced dried if wet. Leave them to dry naturally and then give them a light brush (vacuum) and they will back to normal.
Try to avoid leaving them permanently in front of a roaring fire or next to a radiator as they will dry out more quickly with inevitable hair shedding consequences.
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