Ultimate Sheepskin Rug Buying Guide – Soft & Luxurious Rugs

Imagine sinking your toes into a cloud-like rug that’s decadently soft, warm, and inviting. A sheepskin rug is the epitome of cozy luxury – a natural decor piece that brings comfort and style to any room. Whether you’re a first-time buyer curious about what to look for, an interior designer aiming for that perfect plush accent, or a parent seeking a nursery-safe rug for your little one, this guide is here to help. We’ve blended our 25+ years of expertise with a warm, design-savvy approach to answer all your questions about finding a soft, high-quality sheepskin rug for your home.

At Cowhides Direct, we pride ourselves on offering only hand-selected Grade-A New Zealand sheepskin rugs and pillows. These premium rugs are ultra-thick, 100% real, luxuriously soft, and ethically sourced – truly the best of the best. But what exactly makes one sheepskin rug superior to another? And how can you ensure you’re choosing the right one for your needs? Read on for an in-depth look at sheepskin rug quality, selection tips, care advice, styling inspiration, and more. By the end of this guide, you’ll be confident in selecting a sheepskin rug that delights you from day one and for years to come.

Sheepskin rugs have been cherished for centuries – and for good reason. They bring a natural warmth and texture that synthetic rugs simply can’t match. Here are a few compelling benefits of choosing a sheepskin rug for your home:

• Unparalleled Softness: The first thing you’ll notice is how buttery soft a genuine sheepskin feels. It’s like walking on a fluffy cloud. High-quality sheepskin wool fibers are fine and silky, giving the rug a sumptuous feel underfoot or against your skin.

• Cozy Warmth (Year-Round Comfort): Sheepskin is nature’s insulator. Its wool fibers have insulating properties that keep you warm in winter and cool in summer. On chilly days, a sheepskin rug on the floor or draped over a chair adds instant snugness. Yet, because wool breathes, it also helps dissipate heat and moisture, so it’s comfortable even in warmer weather.

• Hypoallergenic & Hygienic: If you have allergies or sensitive skin, sheepskin can be a great choice. Natural sheepskin is hypoallergenic and resists dust mites and mold growth better than many synthetic materials. The wool fibers contain lanolin and other properties that naturally reduce bacteria and odors, helping to keep the environment fresh. (Fun fact: Research suggests babies exposed to sheepskin may have lower risks of asthma and allergies later in life)

• Durable & Long-Lasting: A good sheepskin rug is an investment that will pay off for years. Wool fibers are resilient and can bend thousands of times without breaking. Quality sheepskins are very durable and long-lasting, so you won’t have to replace your rug after a season or two. With proper care, it can stay in beautiful shape for decades.

• Natural Beauty & Versatility: From a design perspective, sheepskin rugs bring natural charm and elegance. Each hide has its own unique texture and shape, instantly adding character to a room. They complement a variety of décor styles – modern Scandinavian, rustic farmhouse, boho chic, or classic luxury. You can use a sheepskin as a small accent throw or a large statement rug. (We’ll explore styling ideas later in this guide.)

In short, a sheepskin rug offers the perfect blend of luxury and practicality : ultra-soft comfort, stylish looks, and low maintenance needs. Now, let’s dive into what distinguishes an exceptional sheepskin rug from an average one.

Not all sheepskin rugs are created equal. If you’ve ever felt a thin, rough faux-sheepskin or a low-grade sheepskin rug, you’ll immediately notice the difference compared to a premium sheepskin rug like those we offer. Here are the key quality factors to look for when shopping, so you know you’re getting the real deal:

The wool density of a sheepskin refers to how many fibers are packed per square inch of the rug. This is one of the most important indicators of quality. High-density wool means a thicker, fuller rug that provides more cushion and insulation. When you run your hand through a dense sheepskin, it feels lush and doesn’t easily part down to the backing.

Closely related is the loft of the wool – essentially how well the fibers stand upright and retain their height. Premium sheepskins have wool that stays lofty and doesn’t mat or flatten quickly. Lower-quality rugs might have wool that flops over, curls, or tangles after a little use. You want a rug that “bounces back” after being walked or sat on.

New Zealand sheepskins, in particular, are renowned for having among the highest wool density in the world. The specific sheep breeds and climate in New Zealand produce wool that is incredibly thick and uniform. In fact, Cowhides Direct sources Grade-A hides that boast the highest wool density per square inch , ensuring unparalleled plushness. That means when you sink your toes into one of our rugs, you’re sinking into deep pile wool, not sparse patches.

Tip: To gauge density when shopping (if you have the rug in person), part the wool with your fingers. In a high-quality sheepskin, you’ll see minimal bare leather – it should be all wool, densely packed. Also, give it a shake or run your hand across it, then feel if the fibers spring back up (good loft) or stay limp.

Another hallmark of a luxurious sheepskin is the wool length (often called the “pile height”). Premium sheepskin rugs typically have a generous wool length – usually at least 2+ inches (5-8 cm) or more. In fact, to meet premium grade standards , rugs often must have a minimum wool length around 65mm (about 2.5 inches). This long wool contributes to that sumptuous, shaggy look and feel that invites you to cuddle up.

However, length alone isn’t everything – it needs to be paired with density (as mentioned above) so the wool stands upright and doesn’t just lie flat. When you have both high density and ample length, the rug has a gorgeous full appearance and retains its fluffiness over time.

Equally important is the softness of the wool fibers. High-quality sheepskin comes from sheep with fine, silky wool (often younger sheep or specific breeds known for soft fleece). When you touch a top-grade rug, the wool should feel ultra-soft and silky, never coarse or wiry. You’ll notice a buttery or velvety texture that’s soothing to the touch. In contrast, lower-quality rugs might feel a bit dry, brittle, or scratchy.

Softness is also affected by the tanning and finishing process – premium tanneries (like those in New Zealand and Australia) take care to preserve the wool’s natural oils and suppleness. 

Here at Cowhides Direct, we often hear from customers that our rugs are “heaven under my feet… very thick, soft, and lovely” – a direct quote from one happy customer. We select only hides that meet our high standards for touchable softness.

Note: The softness test is simple – run your fingers through the rug. If you can easily imagine curling up on it or letting a baby crawl on it, that’s a good sign! Any hint of scratchiness, and it’s not top-tier.

When assessing sheepskin quality, don’t forget to check the underside of the rug – the leather (or pelt). A premium sheepskin rug not only has beautiful wool, but also a high-quality leather backing that is soft, supple, and strong. 

Here’s what to look for:

• Thickness & Strength: The leather should have a bit of thickness and weight to it (without being stiff). It should feel durable yet flexible , almost suede-like. Thin, flimsy leather can tear or crack over time. In top-grade rugs, you won’t be able to pull the layers of the leather apart; it feels solid and well-formed.

• No Defects or Odors: Examine the hide for any holes, rough patches, or inconsistencies. Higher-grade sheepskins will be free of holes, tears, or significant scars on the underside. Minor marks can occur (as these are natural products), but they shouldn’t affect durability. Also, take a sniff – a quality rug should not have a strong chemical smell or any unpleasant odor. If you detect a chemical or tanning odor, it might indicate cheaper processing. Ethically tanned sheepskins typically have only a mild leather smell or even a neutral scent.

• Tanning Process: The best sheepskin rugs are tanned using methods that preserve the wool and leather without harsh chemicals. New Zealand is famous for pioneering gentle, eco-friendly tanning techniques (like the Bowron tanning process ) that result in exceptionally soft, safe sheepskins. These methods avoid harmful substances (e.g., no formaldehyde or heavy metals in the finished rug), which is better for you and ensures the leather remains intact and odor-free. When shopping, look for mentions of “medical-grade” or “eco-friendly” tanning, especially if you plan to use the rug for babies or pets. Brands that tout OEKO-TEX® certification or similar standards indicate the rug was tested to be free of harmful chemicals (great for nursery use).

At Cowhides Direct, our rugs undergo a rigorous selection and tanning process. We hand-pick only Grade A sheepskins from New Zealand and have them tanned by experts who maintain the hide’s integrity and softness. The result is a suede-like leather backing that is soft but sturdy , with no flaky patches. You can trust that our rugs are built to last – the leather won’t crack or shed layers, even with everyday use.

In summary, a high-quality sheepskin rug will feel luxurious on both sides: silky wool on top and smooth, durable leather underneath. These factors – wool density, loft, length, softness, and pelt quality – are what make the difference between a rug that stays gorgeous for years and one that might not hold up.

For more on how we ensure top quality, you might browse our Sheepskin Rug Collection and read the descriptions – we list the grade and origin of our sheepskins so you know you’re getting the best.

Now that you know what to look for in terms of quality, it’s time to think about selecting the right sheepskin rug for your home and lifestyle. Sheepskin rugs come in various sizes, shapes, and colors – and the best choice depends on how and where you plan to use it. Below, we guide you through key considerations like size/shape, color, and placement so you can find your ideal match.

Sheepskin rugs come in different sizes and configurations , generally described by the number of pelts (individual sheepskins) sewn together:

• Single Pelt (Approx. 2’ x 3’): This is one whole sheepskin hide. Singles are wonderful as small accent rugs or throws. You can place a single-pelt rug on the floor beside your bed, drape it over the back of a chair, or even use it as a luxurious seat cover. They are also great for nurseries (lay it on the rocking chair or the floor during supervised tummy time).

• Double Pelt (Approx. 2’ x 6’): Two sheepskins end-to-end. These create a longer rug, perfect for running along the side of a bed, in a hallway, or as a runner in front of a couch. A double pelt can also be fabulous at the foot of a crib or twin bed, offering a soft place to land your feet.

• Quad Pelt (4 Pelts, often around 4’ x 6’): Four sheepskins combined, usually two by two, to form roughly a rectangle. Quad rugs make a plush small-area rug – ideal under a coffee table, in front of a fireplace, or in a reading nook. They provide a little more coverage while still showcasing the organic shape of the hides.

• Sexto Pelt (6 Pelts, e.g. 5’ x 6’ or similar) and beyond: Six or more pelts can be joined to create larger area rugs (we even carry huge 8-pelt rugs about 6’ x 7’ for maximum coverage). These larger rugs can anchor a living room or dining space, or serve as a statement piece in a bedroom. Despite being made of multiple hides, high-quality multi-pelt rugs are carefully matched and sewn to appear as one cohesive rug with consistent color and fur length.

When choosing size, measure your space and consider the rug’s purpose. As a rule of thumb, a rug should fit the space without looking lost or overwhelming it. For example, in a small bedroom, a single or double pelt by the bedside might be perfect. In a large living room, you might opt for a quad or eight-pelt rug in the seating area for impact.

Also, think about shape:

• Natural-shaped sheepskin rugs (even multi-pelt ones) will have an organic outline with gentle curves and maybe a defined neck or leg shape. This look brings a cozy, informal feel and can soften the lines of a room.

• Some sheepskin rugs are cut or arranged into rectangular shapes (especially 4’ x 6’ or larger sizes). These give a more traditional area-rug look but with the sheepskin texture. If your decor is more structured or you need the rug to align with furniture, a rectangular sheepskin rug can work nicely.

• There are also shaped options like octo (eight pelts in a more symmetric shape) or long runners. But the most common are those described above.

One thing to note: premium sheepskins tend to be larger and more symmetrically shaped than lower-grade ones. A Grade-A hide from New Zealand might be over 100 cm long and have a broad, well-rounded shape, whereas a cheaper hide might be shorter or narrower. At Cowhides Direct, for instance, our single rugs are quite sizable (~2ft x 3ft or more) because we source only full, mature pelts, not undersized ones.

Examples: If you’re looking for a versatile piece, our White Single Pelt Rug (2' x 3') is a customer favorite – it’s small enough to move around and use in different ways, but packs all the luxury of dense New Zealand wool. For those wanting a bigger splash, a 4-Pelt Rug (~4' x 6') in Cream can act as a stunning area rug in a study or nursery, and an 8-Pelt Rug (~6' x 7') in a rich Grey or Taupe can fill a large bedroom space with ease. Product Block: Imagine a beautiful 4-pelt sheepskin rug anchoring your living room, or two single pelts flanking your bed – these are the kinds of placements to consider.

When in doubt, bigger is better for that wow factor – a larger sheepskin rug truly makes a statement and allows multiple people (and pets) to enjoy it at once. But even a little sheepskin draped on a chair can elevate the coziness of a corner. Think about your room’s layout and how you want to experience the rug (stepping onto it, looking at it center-stage, etc.), and choose a size accordingly.

Sheepskin rugs come in a gorgeous array of colors , from the natural whites and browns to dyed shades like grey, pink, or black. Cowhides Direct offers a wide range of hues to suit any palette. Here’s how to approach choosing a color:

• Natural Ivory and Cream: The classic natural sheepskin color is an ivory off-white (often called natural, ivory, or cream). These undyed rugs have a timeless appeal and the wool’s natural shade. High-quality sheepskins in ivory will have a nice uniform tone with maybe slight variations – and importantly, no stains or discoloration. An ivory sheepskin fits into almost any decor, adding light and warmth. It’s perfect if you want that Scandinavian hyggevibe or a neutral, luxurious accent.

  
  

• Other Natural Tones: Some sheepskins come in shades like tan, beige, grey, or brown naturally (for instance, “Taupe” or “Umber” in our collection are often natural lambskin colors from the sheep’s wool). These earthy tones are great for complementing wood floors or adding contrast on a light carpet. A grey sheepskin rug can look ultra-modern, while a honey-brown one brings rustic warmth.

• Dyed Colors: Thanks to the very light base of New Zealand sheepskin (which is known to be one of the whitest wools), these rugs can be dyed in myriad colors without losing vibrancy. You’ll find soft pastels (like blush pink or baby blue) popular for nurseries, cool tones like steel grey or charcoal for contemporary spaces, and even bold colors like black or teal for a dramatic statement. When done with quality dyes and processes, dyed sheepskins should maintain an even color that’s colorfast (won’t bleed) and still feel as soft as undyed. For example, our Grey Mist or Dark Greyrugs are dyed but remain silky and rich in hue, passing strict quality checks.

  
  

• Tipped or Two-Tone: Some special sheepskins have a “tipped” effect, where the ends of the wool are a different color (often black-tipped or brown-tipped on a lighter base). This creates a lovely depth and visual interest in the rug’s appearance, almost like a frosted look. It can be a nice middle ground if you want a bit of pattern but still a natural feel.

When selecting color, consider your existing decor and the mood you want to set. Lighter colors (white, cream, light grey) tend to make a space feel open, airy, and elegant. They’re also very nursery-friendly and versatile. Darker colors (charcoal, black, chocolate brown) add drama and can be more forgiving with visible dirt or spills. They work well in high-traffic areas or ultra-modern designs. Fun hues (like a pastel pink sheepskin draped over a vanity stool, or a deep turquoise rug in a boho lounge) can act as an accent piece that shows off your personality.

Importantly, quality sheepskins will take dye evenly , so even a bright dyed rug should look plush and consistent (no patchiness). And the dye won’t rub off or fade quickly if properly done. All Cowhides Direct sheepskin rugs, whether natural or dyed, undergo processes to ensure the color is locked in and the wool stays soft. So feel free to choose with your heart – the rug will stay beautiful.

Style Tip: If you’re unsure, start with an ivory or grey, as these tend to complement most settings. You can’t go wrong with a classic ivory sheepskin thrown over a chair or beside the bed – it instantly lightens and cozies up the space. For a pop of color, maybe consider a pair of smaller sheepskins in a fun hue to drape over dining chairs or an ottoman.

One of the best things about sheepskin rugs is how versatile they are in use. There’s no one “right” way – you can get creative! Here are some ideas and popular ways to incorporate that soft, luxurious touch throughout your home:

• Living Room Luxury: In living spaces, a sheepskin rug can truly shine. Place a larger sheepskin rug in the center of your living room to anchor the seating area – it will make the whole room feel more inviting. Alternatively, drape a single-pelt sheepskin over the back of your sofa or on an accent chair for a layered, designer look. It breaks up leather or fabric upholstery with a touch of fluff. You can even layer a sheepskin on top of another rug (for example, over a flat-woven jute or a kilim rug) to add texture and warmth. This layered look is very on-trend and beloved by stylists for creating a cozy, curated vibe.

  
  

• Bedroom Bliss: There’s nothing like stepping out of bed onto a soft sheepskin. In bedrooms, try using sheepskin rugs as bedside mats – one on each side of the bed for symmetry. A 2’ x 6’ double pelt is perfect for this, running along the length of a queen/king bed. For a smaller room, a single 2’ x 3’ at the foot of the bed or in front of a dressing mirror is lovely. You can also drape a sheepskin across the foot of the bed or over a bench to add layered warmth (this is especially popular in winter chalet or Nordic-inspired decors). The rug will double as a throw for naps!

• Nursery & Kids’ Rooms: Parents adore sheepskin rugs for nurseries and children’s rooms because they are oh-so-soft and nursery-safe (as long as used properly). Lay a plush sheepskin on the nursery floor beside the crib or rocking chair – it creates a comfy spot for you during late-night feedings or for baby during supervised tummy time. The natural bacteria-resistant qualities of sheepskin make it a safe surface for babies to explore. Many moms use a sheepskin rug for baby’s play area since it’s gentle on delicate skin. Just remember, due to the long fibers, always supervise infantson a sheepskin to ensure they don’t nuzzle into the fur face-down. For older kids, a sheepskin thrown over a reading chair or as a small bedside rug adds a magical, comforting touch to their room.

• Entryway or Hallway: Welcome guests with a cloud of comfort! Placing a sheepskin in the entry hall instantly says “come on in and get cozy.” It softens what can be a hard, utilitarian space. A runner-shaped sheepskin (like a double pelt) works nicely in a hallway – imagine a fluffy path leading you indoors. In an entryway, you might lay a single sheepskin by a bench where people take off shoes; it’s practical and pretty (though keep very heavy foot-traffic off to preserve it, or use it more decoratively).

• Office or Studio: Add some personal luxury to your work area by using a sheepskin as an office chair cover or under your desk for your feet. It can make a sterile home office feel more inviting. Creative studios and boutiques also use sheepskins draped over seats or on the floor to create a relaxed, inspiring atmosphere.

• By the Fireplace: Place a large sheepskin rug in front of a fireplace for the ultimate cozy nook. It becomes the spot to curl up with a book and a cup of tea. (Just mind any flying sparks if it’s a wood fire – while wool is naturally flame-resistant to a degree, you wouldn’t want it too close to open flames.)

• On Chairs & Couches: Remember, you don’t have to only use sheepskins on the floor. A popular décor hack is to lay a sheepskin over the back of a couch or armchair . This adds a layer of texture and makes the seat extra inviting (and in winter, extra warm to lean back on!). Even dining chairs can be topped with small sheepskins to make long dinners extra comfortable – a trick often seen in Nordic homes.

• Layering Multiple Rugs: If you have several sheepskins, you can even layer them together in a cascade on the floor (great for bohemian styles), or scatter a few across a large sectional sofa for a decadent effect.

Get creative and don’t be afraid to move your sheepskin rug around until you find the perfect spot. These rugs are quite portable and flexible – you might use it as a rug in one season and as a furniture throw in another.

Once you’ve brought home your beautiful sheepskin rug, you’ll naturally want to keep it looking and feeling its best. The good news is that sheepskin rugs are surprisingly easy to care for. With just a bit of regular maintenance, you can preserve that fluffy, fresh look for years. Here are some essential care tips:

• Regular Shaking & Brushing: One of the simplest ways to keep your sheepskin clean is to take it outside and give it a good shake every so often. This helps dislodge dust and debris from the wool. Additionally, brush the wool occasionally with a metal-bristled sheepskin brush or wide-tooth comb. Brushing (when dry) fluffs up the fleece, detangles any knots, and keeps the loft. Gently brush in the direction of the fibers. This little bit of TLC will prevent matting and keep the pile airy.

• Avoid Direct Sunlight & Moisture: Find a spot for your rug that’s out of prolonged direct sun, as UV rays can fade the color and dry out the leather over time. Similarly, keep it away from damp areas (like constantly humid bathrooms or a wet basement floor) to avoid any mold. Dry conditions are ideal.

• Spot Clean Spills Immediately: Accidents happen – a drink spills or pet has an oops. The key is to blot spills right away . Use a clean, dry cloth or paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. If needed, lightly dampen a cloth with water and gently wipe the area (don’t rub harshly) in the direction of the fur. For any remaining residue, a very mild wool detergent solution can be used to spot clean. Always test a small area first for colorfastness. Avoid using any bleach, alkaline soaps, or common household cleaners on sheepskin, as these can damage the wool and the leather.

• Deep Cleaning (Occasional): In general, avoid fully submerging or machine washing a sheepskin rug if you can, as it can cause the hide to become stiff or misshapen. Most light soiling can be handled with brushing and spot cleaning. If your rug does need a thorough cleaning, the best options are either hand washing with a specialized wool wash or taking it to a professional fur/leather cleaner. For a hand wash: use cold water and a wool-safe detergent in a tub, gently swish the rug, don’t agitate too much, then rinse thoroughly. Air dry flat away from heat or sun and stretch it gently into shape as it dries. Never put a sheepskin in the dryer or use a blow dryer – high heat will shrink the leather and ruin the wool.

• Fluffing Up a Matted Rug: Over time, especially in high-traffic spots, you might notice your rug’s wool looking a little squashed. To revive it, just brush it out. You can also spritz very lightly with water , and use your fingers or a comb to re-fluff the wool. Another trick: after shaking, lay the rug fluffy-side down in clean snow (if you live in a snowy area) for a few minutes, then shake out – the cold helps freshen the fibers (an old trick from alpine regions).

• No Vacuum Beater Bar: If you choose to vacuum your sheepskin, do so gently. Use a plain suction vacuum attachment (no rotating brush, which can snag the fibers) and possibly place a sheet over the rug to lessen direct pull. Honestly, vacuuming isn’t usually necessary if you maintain with shaking and brushing, but it can be done carefully.

By following these simple steps, your sheepskin will maintain its luxurious look. The natural materials are quite forgiving – wool resists dirt and releases it readily when aired out. Many people are surprised at how well their rugs hold up with minimal effort.

For more detailed instructions, check out our dedicated Sheepskin Rug Care Guide which walks you through cleaning methods step by step (including how to wash and dry the rug properly, if needed). Taking care of your rug ensures it remains a beloved feature of your home for a long time.

To wrap up, let’s address some common questions about sheepskin rugs. We’ve gathered a few FAQs to clear up any remaining doubts and help you make an informed decision.

Hopefully, these FAQs clear up any lingering questions. If you’re still curious about something we haven’t covered, feel free to reach out – we love talking about our products and want you to have all the info you need!

By now, you’ve learned the ins and outs of selecting a luxurious sheepskin rug that you’ll love for years. We covered why sheepskin is such a treasured material – from its cloud-like softness and natural resilience to its hypoallergenic, family-friendly qualities. You also know the key quality markers like dense wool and supple leather (so you can shop savvy and avoid subpar imitations), and you’ve got tips on choosing the right size, shape, and color to fit your space perfectly. On top of that, we’ve shared style inspiration for every room and easy care tips that will keep your rug in tip-top shape.

All that’s left is to bring one of these amazing rugs into your home and experience it firsthand! Whether you’re aiming to create a warm reading nook, a lavish bedroom, or a chic living area, a premium sheepskin rug is the ultimate finishing touch that combines comfort with high-end style. Remember, it’s an investment not just in decoration, but in daily comfort – every time you step or lounge on it, you’ll be glad you chose the best.

Ready to find your perfect sheepskin rug? We invite you to explore our collection at Cowhides Direct, where every rug is hand-selected for quality. With a wide range of colors and sizes in stock (and fast shipping from Florida), you’re just a click away from cozy luxury.

Don’t miss out on adding this cozy staple to your decor. Browse our selection and feel free to reach out with any questions – our team is here to help you find the rug that matches your vision.

Thank you for reading The Ultimate Sheepskin Rug Buying Guide. We hope it’s been helpful and inspiring. Here’s to creating a home that’s not only beautiful, but also filled with warmth and comfort – one soft rug at a time!